Reopening Estes Park and RMNP 2020

www. eptrai l. com

R e o p e n i n g E s t e s P a r k a n d R M N P S u m m e r 2 0 2 0

ORIGINAL LOCATION

LONGMONT LYONS CENTENNIAL DENVER ESTES PARK GOLF COURSE 1940 KEN PRATT BLVD. 228 MAIN STREET 7685 E ARAPAHOE RD 1551 CORTEZ ST 1480 GOLF COURSE ROAD LONGMONT, COLORADO LYONS, COLORADO CENTENNIAL, COLORADO DENVER, COLORADO ESTES PARK, COLORADO 303-923-7427 (RIBS) 303-823-7427 (RIBS) (720) 728-5769 303-430-7427 (RIBS) 970-586-8146 (EXT. 3)

2 • June 26, 2020•

Did you know that we reach over 125,000 readers every month?

• The Trail-Gazette has been the newspaper of record in Estes Park and continues to reach over 90% of our residents and visitors who visit here year round via our newspaper and readership online at www.eptrail.com.

Wendy Rigby / estes Park Trail-Gazette

Wildlife abounds in estes Park and Rocky Mountain national Park.

In this issue

Welcome Letter ............................................... 4 Message from the Mayor .................................. 4 Estes Park reopening ....................................... 5 RMNP information ........................................... 6 Chamber of Commerce ..................................... 7 Lodging ......................................................... 11 Stanley Hotel ................................................. 14 Where to eat ................................................. 15 Visit Estes Park ............................................. 16 YMCA of the Rockies ..................................... 17 Recreation and Park District .......................... 18 Estes Valley Public Library ............................. 19 Farmers Market ............................................. 20 Artisans Market ............................................ 21 Art Center ..................................................... 22 4th of July ..................................................... 24

• Our website - www.eptrail.com is updated an average of 10 times a day with breaking news that we write on the things we cover in Estes Park, such as Town Hall, all taxing district meetings, Planning commission meetings, coverage of RMNP, to name a few, and anything else that you need to know to live well in Estes Park!

• We have published over 100 articles on the Coronavirus and its impact on Estes Park, Larimer County, and throughout the state.

• Our print product is invited into the home via our over 1500 paid subscribers that receive our paper via the USPS and over 200 who buy in racks and dealerships in our community. Our newspaper is paid for, therefore, increasing the likelihood that ads and articles are read.

• We also post our articles on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/eptrail where we have 23K followers who often share our articles with friends, groups, etc.

Traffic Source Channels

Our ad packages include both print & digital ads for total market coverage!

Wendy Rigby / estes Park Trail-Gazette

Flowers, like these Columbine, are reopening for the season, too.

Contact us to reach our audience:

Daniel Sewell - sewelld@eptrail.com or 970-586-6684 Mike Romero - romerom@eptrail.com or 970-586-3357

•June 26, 2020 • 3

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Estes a great place to be 6 feet apart!

S

ummer is upon us!

While we are still in uncharted territory with a global pandemic, Estes Park is enjoying the glorious beauty of the season.

The good news is that our beautiful town is an excellent place to enjoy nature and hospitality while still staying six feet apart!

Many of the restaurants in town are open for business.

Besides take-out, you can now be seated for service. Inside tables are eight feet apart and outside tables are six feet apart. Some local eateries have even expanded their patios to help take good care of customers during the virus outbreak.

While the restaurants are operating at 50 percent capacity (or less), many locals and visitors are enjoying the chance to enjoy dining after eating so many meals they have cooked themselves.

If you visit a local business, you will be asked to wear a face mask. However, if you are walking on the street and

Rocky Mountain National Park is open with a reservation system in place to keep the number of visitors down to a manageable level. If you plan ahead, the system is easy to navigate and will not hold you back from visiting this majestic place.

We have been lucky in Estes Park so far. At this writing, the town has only had nine positive COVID-19 cases. Two elderly people died of the Wendy Rigby / Estes Park Trail-Gazettevirus. While we are not out of Lily Lake in Rocky Mountain Park is a beautiful place to hike with the woods by any means, our amazing views of Longs Peak. community has done very well so far in comparison with other parts of the state and maintaining social distance, fishermen are taking advanyou are not required to cover tage of the wonderful weather the country.

While some people have your face. to try and catch their prey.

If you walk down Elkhorn You can take your dog to the had to change their plans and not come to Estes Park this Ave., you can enjoy the famil- Estes Valley Dog Park or try iar scene of young tourists eat- your hand at golf at one of the summer, many others are finding a way to get here. We ing ice cream on the sidewalk, EVRPD’s two lovely courses. a welcome sight.

Estes Valley Library is open want everyone to know that our town is open for business Many of the hiking trails with some restrictions. that are in Estes Park and surWhile the local lodging busi- and hoping they will follow the rounding areas are seeing a nesses are having to limit the rules when they get here to surge in visitors. The Estes number of visitors, they have enjoy our mountain home.

Wendy Rigby, Park Marina is renting out taken on extra cleaning to Managing Editor equipment so you can get out make certain their guests are Mike Romero, Publisher on the water. And, of course, as safe as possible.

A message from Mayor Wendy Koenig

By Wendy Koenig, Mayor of Estes Park

community special is far more than our ello! I’m so glad stunning natuyou’ve decided to read ral environthis special publicament… tion by the Estes Park Trail Estes Park is Gazette. Whether you’re a a full-service community. resident, a guest or you’re a Whether this is your home, friend of Estes Park reading your business location or this from afar, I’d like to thank you’re here to enjoy some rest you for supporting our comand relaxation, you will find munity. With dramatic sceneverything you need in our ery and neighboring Rocky businesses, our beautiful Mountain National Park, downtown and our pristine Estes Park is truly a magical open spaces. And of course, place. But what makes our we are all thrilled that we can

H

4 • June 26, 2020•

begin to enjoy Rocky Mountain National Park again.

You’ll find more information on that in this publication.

Estes Park’s economy has always been rooted in tourism. As we cautiously adapt to life during a pandemic, our lodges, stores, restaurants, and services are reopening with particular caution and care. One thing is clear now more than ever, we rely on everyone’s support of our local businesses.They and their employees have struggled to remain here for us

through the pandemic. We hope you will support them as much as possible. If you’re a resident, consider buying locally when you would otherwise look elsewhere. If you’re a lover of Estes Park reading this from afar, consider supporting your favorite local businesses by purchasing a gift card or ordering products to be shipped.

Honoring public health orders from our county and state, we ask you to care for Estes Park residents and See Koenig, pg. 23

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Estes Park open, businesses at 50 percent, welcome levels 100 percent

By Tim Mosier Trail-Gazette

reopening would happen safely and responsibly and that is exactly what has happened in eginning on May 23, Estes Park.

Larimer County and “We are pleased that the Estes Park received Colorado Department of Pubapproval from the State of lic Health & Environment has Colorado to being a phased approved these requests and reopening process that allows that our community can confor economic responsibility tinue taking a measured and physical health. approach to reopening. We’ve The announcement came in appreciated the opportunity the form of the approval by to work with local businesses the state of a variance request to find innovative and creative allowing Larimer County to ways to resume services operate somewhat autonocarefully,” says Tom Gonzamously and not under the les, Public Health Director umbrella of state orders. for Larimer County. “The This variance was granted health department will conTim Mosier / estes Park Trail-Gazette with the expectation that See businesses, pg. 23 estes Park is open and ready for visitors.

B

WE’RE HERE FOR THE ONES WHO GET THEIR BOOTS DIRT Y These are the ones who define the Colorado spirit, and we’re proud to be the community bank that helps them live that way. Because we’re not just a bank in Colorado, we’re Bank of Colorado. Discover community banking at BankOfColorado.com ESTES PARK 533 Big Thompson Ave., 970.586.8185

•June 26, 2020 • 5

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

RMNP reopens with reservations

By Tim Mosier Trail-Gazette

A

fter opening its doors to visitors on May 27, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) implemented a timed entry permit system starting on Thursday, June 4 that will run through the summer months.

“It has gone relatively smoothly,” RMNP Public Affairs Officer Kyle Patterson said. “Approximately 70 percent of park visitors have had their reservations prior to coming to the park’s entrance stations.”

For the first weekend of a brand new program in early June, it seems like 70 percent compliance is a great start.

That still leaves 30 percent of visitors who showed up with no reservation, slowing down the process for others and, in some cases, being turned away.

“On June 4 and June 5, there were still time slots available so we were able to assist visitors who had not made reservations ahead of time. On Saturday, June 6, we had numerous blocks of times that were sold out in advance,” Patterson said. “On June 7, the reservations were sold out from 6 am to 2 pm.

Bear Lake Road restrictions were in place from 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.”

The park has placed staff members around key entry points to assist those who show up without a reservation.

“We have had staff and volunteers at a variety of locations (in front of visitor centers, at outlying trailheads etc.) to help those who did not get a reservation prior to their visit. We continue to 6 • June 26, 2020•

Tim Mosier / Estes Park Trail-Gazette

Looking back at Rocky Mountain National Park heading west on Old Fall River Road.

work with numerous partners who are assisting visitors in making reservations as well,” said Patterson.

Driving a long distance just to be turned away or waiting in a long line can be extremely frustrating but Patterson says most guests are educated on the reservation system and understand the need for some of the unfamiliar restrictions guests are experiencing.

“We have found that most visitors are supportive and understand why we are implementing a timed entry permit system to increase park access while providing the public a reasonable opportunity to comply with COVID-19 public health guidelines,” said Patterson.

“The timed entry permit system is a proactive measure to avoid scenarios where a reopening visitation surge results in stakeholders inside and outside the park demanding the park to reclose.”

In regards to a potential surge of cases due to visitation and large crowds, park employees are trying to pro-

mote the best possible physical distancing, a task that can be nearly impossible with such large numbers of people.

“Many visitors had masks but few were adhering to 6 foot social distancing,” Patterson said. “Rocky’s system will more safely manage the pace and flow of visitor use, reduce crowding, and provide an improved visitor experience commensurate with the park’s safe operational capacity.”

As of June 22, there had been 97,378 vehicles through the gates of RMNP in the month of June alone. That is approx. 272,658.4 visitors during that time period.

When you add the estimated 12,659 visitors in late May, the total number of people who have entered the park between it’s opening on May 27, and June 22 is estimated at 285,317.

Since RMNP opened there have been three confirmed COVID-19 cases, for a total of 10 in the Town.

To avoid the large crowds, it is important to remember that anyone can visit prior to

6 a.m. or after 5 p.m. without a reservation.

“One of the reasons we are implementing a timed entry permit system is because the park’s surrounding communities have an older high-risk population with many retirees, and limited critical resources,” Patterson said.

While the opening weekend went very well, all things considered, there were still a few glitches in the reservation system that are being monitored and corrected as quickly as possible.

“As to be expected with a system that is developed so quickly, there are a few glitches that we are continuing to resolve with recreation.gov,” Patterson said.

“This will be a time of compromise for all of us, including local residents, seniors, and park visitors from across the country.”

I think one thing everyone can agree on when it comes to the awe-inspiring park that sits in our backyard is we would rather have it open with restrictions and reservations than to miss out on its beauty entirely.

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Welcome from Chamber of Commerce

By Donna Carlson, Estes Chamber Executive Director For the Trail-Gazette

S

ince Rocky Mountain National Park was founded in 1915, the tiny town of Estes Park, nestled in the verdant Estes Valley, has served millions of visitors as the northern gateway to this majestic work of nature. It’s not so tiny anymore.

A little less than half of the 6,300 residents who fell in love with our wandering elk and rolling rivers discovered the Estes Valley on vacation and decided to call it home.

The rest of us are the infrastructure of this community, the people who live, work

and play here, making it possible for residents and millions of visitors to enjoy this slice of para-

dise.

This community has weathered many storms, floods and fires, but the past few months sheltering at home have presented a unique challenge to our way of life. For some families, it’s the limited wi-fi bandwidth with five family members accessing classes and working at the same time. For others, the greatest challenge has been working with the kids at home. For a laugh, one friend sent me a picture of her working at the

kitchen table with the kids duct-taped to the floor! The ones not laughing are up late at night trying to decide whether to leave their employees at the mercy of unemployment or apply for the PPP. When we started to open doors again, it felt like the sun came out for the first time in a while. Then when Rocky Mountain National Park reopened, it seemed all was right again in the world.

Recovery felt possible. Hope started to flicker. But not for all of us. Fear set in. Many of our beloved residents began to second guess their decision to make their home in a resort town. They had started to grow fond of the quiet, empty streets and thought it

sounded logical to just keep it closed. It’s a lovely notion, but not logical at all.

Unless Rocky Mountain National Park decides to shut the front door (not gonna happen), we are locked in as stewards of this gateway with a privilege to protect.

That’s why the Town of Estes Park, the Chamber, the EDC and Visit Estes Park have banded together with other leading organizations for the Estes Valley Resiliency Collaborative to care for that privilege.

Resiliency is the operative word. The economic recovery from this crisis, economists say, might take up to ten years. In a small town where 40% of our economy See Chamber, pg. 23

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REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Estes Chamber of Commerce members

AdEstes Group Inc DBA Rocky Mountain Health Club (210) 254-0781 Rmhclub.com

Airbits

(970) 586-7522 Airbits.com

Alissa Anderson & New Roots Real Estate

(970) 481-2152 NewRootsRealEstate.com

Allnutt Funeral Service (970) 586-3101 Allnuttestespark.com

Alpha Omega Property Management

(970) 412-2746 Vacationrentalsestespark.com

Alpine Pegasus LLC DBA Ziggis Coffee 303-257-0138 Ziggiscoffee.com

Anderson Realty & Management

(970) 586-2950 KeyToEstesPark.com

Annie’s Mountain Retreat (970) 577-9380 Anniesmountainretreat.com

Art Center of Estes Park (970) 586-5882 Artcenterofestes.com.

Ascent Escrow & Title Inc. (970) 586-4406 Ascenttitle.com

Aspen and Evergreen

(970) 586-4355 AspenandEvergreen.com

Aspen Brook Vacation Homes (970) 586-3748

Aspen Eyecare

(970) 586-4418 Aspen-eyecare.com

Avant Garde Aleworks LLC (970) 591-2700

Award Alliance

(970) 351-6398

8 • June 26, 2020•

Awardalliance.com

Awesome Shirtworks of Estes Park (970) 586-5017

Bank of Colorado (970) 586-1040

Bank of Estes Park

(970) 586-4485 Bankofestespark.com

Bestway Painting

(970) 518-4001 Bestway-painting.com

BioLynceus, LLC (970) 586-3391 Biolynceus.com

Bird & Jim

(970) 227-3321 Birdandjim.com

Blue Door Inn

(970) 586-4421 Bluedoorinnestes.com

Breeyan Edwards, REALTOR®

(970) 646-6555 Breeyanedwards.realtor

Brownfield’s

(970) 586-3275 Shopbrownfields.com

Bruce and Sheryl Benbrook/Benbrook Plaza (580) 256-3314

Butler Power Law PC (574) 849-0263

Cabintique, Inc

(970) 586-5750 Cabintique.com

Caramel Corn

970-577-1216 Epcaramelcorn.com

Chelitos Mexican Restaurant

(970) 577-1109 Chelitos-restaurant.com

Claire’s

(970) 586-9564 Clairesrestaurantandbar.com

Coldwell Banker Estes Village Properties

(970) 586-4425 Estesparkrealestate.com

Craftsman Built Homes and Remodels (970) 231-1964 Craftsman-built.com

Craftsmen in Leather (970) 586-2400

Creativity Cabin

(970) 591-2559 Createinestes.com

Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park 970-577-0610 CrossroadsEP.org

Elkhornlawestes.com

Elkins Distilling Co. (970) 480-1848 Elkinsdistilling.com

Ellwood Mangement (970) 590-0923

EnviroPest

(970) 586-1879 Enviropest.com

EOS Holdings LLC dba Park Flooring (970) 577-9855 Parkflooring.com

Estes Legal Services LLC (970) 586-2874

CS & CS LLC dba Coffee On Esteslegalservices.com The Rocks Estes Park Bed (719) 569-0453 and Breakfast (970) 586-1142 Danielle D Arnold Agency Estesparkbb.com Inc. - American Family Insurance Estes Park Brewery (970) 586-8420 Agent.amfam.com/daniellearnold

Darling Enterprise

(970) 586-1047 Darlingenterprise.com

David Batey

(970) 586-9806

Davis Hill Historic House (703) 869-8775 Davishillhistorichouse.com

Dickey Business Consulting

(970) 217-2533 Dickeyconsulting.com

Dripping Springs Resort (970) 586-3406 Drippingsprings.com

Earthwood Collections

(970) 577-8100 Earthwoodcollections.com

(970) 586-5421 Epbrewery.com

Estes Park Health (970) 577-4470 EPH.org

Estes Park Homes

(970) 586-2181 Estesparkhomes.com

Estes Park Local Marketing District

970-586-0500, ext. 1231 Visitestespark.com

Estes Park News, Inc. (970) 586-5800

Estes Park Nonprofit Resource Center (970) 480-7805 Epnonprofit.org

Estes Park Running Club (970) 214-4128 Estesparkrunning.org

Edward Jones - Derek Vinge Estes Park Sugar Shack (970) 586-9078

Edward Jones - Mark Purdy (970) 586-9969 Edwardjones.com/mark-purdy

Elkhorn Law Office, LLC (970) 480-5668

(970) 480-5565

Estes Park Team Realty (970) 586-3838 EstesParkTeamRealty.com

See members, pg. 9

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Members from page 8 Estes Taqueria dba Peppers Mexican Grill (970) 577-0032 Peppersmex.com

Estes Valley Crisis Advocates (970) 577-9781 Crisisadvocates.org

Estes Valley Investment in Childhood Success (970) 586-3055 evics.org

Estes Valley Public Library District

(970) 586-8116, ext. 811 estesvalleylibrary.org

Fall River Jewelry Inc (970) 573-2438 Fallriverjewelry.com

Fall River Village, LLC (970) 370-9143 Fallrivervillage.com

Frames Games & Things

Unnamed

(970) 586-3685 Fgandtu.com

GuestGuide Publications

(970) 887-0776 Guestguidepublications.com

H&R Block of Estes Park (970) 586-6106

H3 Construction and Design (970) 515-2264 H3-ltd.com

Heidi Riedesel - RE/MAX Mountain Brokers (970) 691-7083 Inestes.com

Hi-C’s LLC dba Nicky’s Resort (970) 586-5377 nickysresort.com

High Plains Healthy Vending (720) 339-4641

Hobert Office Services (970) 586-9519 Hobertltd.com

Images of Rocky Mountain National Park (970) 586-4352 ImagesofRMnP.com

Inspired Artisan Market & Studio

(970) 685-8818 Inspiredartexperiences.com

James Frank Photography (970) 586-3418 Jamesfrank.com

John Howell

(202) 460-8055

(970) 586-2798 Highcountrykitchen.com/

Keller Williams 1st Realty (720) 339-4641 Highplainsrealestate.co

Keller Williams, Mike Nelson Team

(303) 776-3200 Deb.searchnortherncohomes. com

Key Bank of Estes Park 970-586-2364 Key.com

Kind Coffee

(970) 586-5206 Kindcoffee.com

Joshua Enterprises LLC dba LegalShield / ID Shield (720) 840-3492 Brynwood on the River (970) 586-3475 Brynwood.com/

JWC Stanley Holding, LLC (The Stanley Hotel) (970) 577-4000 Stanleyhotel.com/

K&CU Inc.

Ratsch.wearelegalshield.com

Lithium

(970) 577-1800

Little Current Consulting (970) 274-8844 Trouthavenresorts.com

See members, pg. 10

•June 26, 2020 • 9

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Members from page 9

Simply Christmas

Lonigan’s Bar & Grill

Sitting Elk Hospitality

(970) 586-4346 Lonigans.com

LR Taylor Cabins

(785) 249-2212 LRTaylorCabins.com

Macdonald Book Shop

(970) 586-3450 Macdonaldbookshop.com

Marys Lake Lodge (970) 290-8323

McGregor Mountain Management

(970) 577-0258 Castlemountainlodge.com

Mile Hi Realty Inc (970) 420-4040 Milehirealtors.com

MJ Aldrich Builders (970) 586-5796

Mortgage Solutions Financial

(970) 577-9200 RockyMountainLender.com

Mountain Sage Consulting (970) 443-7744 Mountainsageconsulting.com

Mountaintop Childcare (970) 586-6489

Mueller Pye & Associates CPA

(970) 667-1070 Muellerpyecpa.com

Munchin House

(970) 586-8483 Themunchinhouse.com

Murphy’s River Lodge (970) 480-5081 Murphysriverlodge.com

Niche Design House

(970) 586-5655 Nich-designhouse.com

Nick Molle’ Productions/ Rocky Mountain Channel (970) 586-6399 Nickmolle.com

OmniBus

(970) 586-5523

Premier Members 10 • June 26, 2020•

Credit Union

(970) 301-8662

Property Pruners LLC (970) 966-5113 Eppruners.com

Quality Inn

(970) 586-2358 Qualityinnestespark.com

Renewable Confidence, LLC (704) 305-0872

River Spruce Cottages (970) 586-4543 Riverspruce.com

Robert H Foster LLC (303) 901-9611 Roberthfosterlaw.com

Rock Cut Brewing Company

(970) 586-7300 Rockcutbrewing.com

Rocky Mountain Discount Liquors (970) 586-4314

Rocky Mountain Maintenance

(303) 435-0110 Rockymountainmaintenance.com

Safe On Site Sanitization (720) 442-2511 Safeonsitesanitization.com

Safeway Store

(970) 568-2328

Sarah Metz, Realtor (352) 424-1000

Scott Thompson, Trusted Real Estate Advisor

(970) 590-9941 Myestesparkrealestate.com

Seasoned - An American Bistro (970) 586-9000 Seasonedbistro.com

Shell Gas & Car Wash (970) 290-2828

Shotts, Merryman & Company (970) 586-9999

(970) 586-8990 Simply-Christmas.com

(970) 586-8493 Rusticrivercabins.com

SK Horses, Ltd

(970) 586-5890 Skhorses.com

SkyRun Vacation Rentals (970) 235-5550 Estespark.skyrun.com

Sleeping Dragon Local

(970) 235-1089 Sleepingdragonlocal.com

Smith Sign Studio

(970) 586-4546 SmithSignStudio.com

Snowy Peaks Winery

(970) 586-2099 nowypeakswinery.com/home

Snyder’s Appliance LLC (970) 586-2557

Solitude Cabins

(970) 577-7777 Solitudecabins.com

SpaceIntoPlace Architecture and Design (303) 731-3751 SpaceIntoPlace.com

Stein & Associates, CPA PC (970) 586-5400

Streamside on Fall River (970) 586-6464 Streamsideonfallriver.com

Summit Church

(970) 577-1158 Estesparkchurch.org

Swiftcurrent Lodge & Cottages on the River (970) 586-3720 Swiftcurrentlodge.com

T.W. Beck Architects (970) 586-3913 Twbeckarchitects.com

TDS

(844) 322-8832 Hellotds.com

The Abel Team - Keller Williams Realty Northern Colorado (719) 494-3389

Theabelteam.com

The Barrel, LLC

(970) 616-2090 Thebarrel.beer

The Gold Mine

(970) 586-9300

The Highland Bard

(970) 235-0048 Thehighlandbard.com

The Old Fashion Candy Store (970) 586-3623

The Ore Cart Rock Shop (970) 586-3577 Orecart.com

The Ridgeline Hotel Estes Park (970) 586-2332 Ridgelinehotel.com/

The Sandwich Mafia (970) 591-2400

The Spruce House Inc (970) 586-2882 Sprucehouse.com

The Taffy Shop

(970) 586-4548 Originaltaffyshop.com/

The Weathervane of Estes Park

(970) 480-5454 Theweathervaneofestespark.com

Thirty Below Leather Inc (970) 586-2211 Thirtybelowleather.com

Upslope Ventures Ltd (970) 227-8898

Van Horn Engineering & Surveying

(970) 586-9388 Vanhornengineering.com

Via Mobility Services (303) 447-2882 Viacolorado.org

Wear Me Out Tees (970) 586-2433

Wendell Walker & Associates CPA

(303) 449-1386 Wendellwalkercpa.com

Westover Construction Inc

See members, pg. 11

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Members Lodging offers something for all from page 10 (970) 586-9342 WestoverConstruction.com

Wild Spirits

(970) 586-4392 Wildspiritsgalleryestespark.c om

Wishes Fulfilled/ Gifts ‘N Things

(970) 586-5255 estesparkaudiology.com

Wynbrier Home

(970) 586-3294 Wynbrierhome.com

Black Canyon Inn

4 Seasons Inn

Blue Door Inn

Evergreens on Fall River

Amberwood

Boulder Brook on Fall River

(970) 586-5693

(970) 586-4385 (855) 5864385

(970) 586-3748

Workman Hearing and Balance Inc dba Community Hearing Center

(877) 586-2198 Workshirelodge.com

Blackhawk Cabins

(970) 577-4000

Aspen Brook Vacation Homes

(970) 586-4530 WishesFulfilled.com

Workshire Lodge

The Stanley Hotel

Aspen Winds

(800) 399-6010 (970) 5866010

Bear Paw Suites & River Stone Resorts (970) 586-4005

Best Western PLUS Silver Saddle Inn (970) 586-4476

Black Canyon Inn (970) 586-8113

(970) 586-6100

(970) 586-8113

(970) 586-4421 (970) 586-0910

Brynwood on the River (970) 586-3475

Castle Mountain Lodge (970) 586-3664

(888) 686-3393 (970) 5779786

Fawn Valley Inn

(970) 443-7086

Fawn Valley Inn

(970) 586-2388

Idlewilde by the River (970) 586-3864

Colorado Cottages

Jane Livingston (VRBO)

(970) 586-4637

(612) 991-4000

Deer Crest Resort

(800) 331-2324 (970) 5862324

Jewel on the Green (VRBO)

Della Terra Mountain Chateau

Lazy R Cottages

(970) 586-2501

(800) 367-9927

(970) 586-3708

Machins Cottages in the Pines

Estes Park Condos (970) 577-0068

(970) 586-4276

Estes Park Condos and

See lodging, pg. 14

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•June 26, 2020 • 11

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TOP RESTAURANTS & FINE DINING IN ESTES PARK PATIO

HISTORIC SPIRIT

BOUTIQUE FEEL

PERFECT FOR GROUPS

MODERN COMFORT

CASCADES RESTAURANT THE WHISKEY BAR

Discover the historic charm of our spirited primary hotel building first opened in 1909.

Elegance meets boutiqe at The Lodge for a more intimate style stay.

Reserve one of our fullyequipped condo residences for your upcoming group getaway.

Stylish rooms and apartment-like suites with air conditioning, and full kitchens.

Experience classic American cuisine with innovative dishes, local flair, and sustainable ingredients.

DESTINATION WEDDING VENUE IN COLORADO

THE MAIN HOTEL

The original main hotel features historically decorated spaces that can accommodate up to 200 guests for banquets. If you would like to hold your event outdoors, we recommend the Front Lawn of the main hotel, which offers breathtaking views of Longs Peak and Lake Estes.

THE PAVILION

Set against the striking backdrop of Long’s Peak and RMNP on the grounds of the Stanley Hotel, The Pavilion builds on F.O. Stanley’s architectural heritage with cuttingedge design, technology and innovation.

The Pavilion features a 250 seat glassdoor auditorium and over 8,000 sq. ft. of banquet space on a private pond.

12 • June 26, 2020•

Previously known as the Manor House, the 40-room Lodge at The Stanley is a newly-remodeled building ideal for smaller weddings and entire group buyouts. Key features of this building include dog-friendly accommodations, myriads of smaller spaces for intimate get togethers, and updated furnishings.

POST BREWING CO.

Coming soon! The Historic Carriage House will be re-opening as the newest location of the Lafayette-based Post Brewing Company!

THINGS TO DO IN ESTES PARK & STANLEY HOTEL

STARS, STORIES, S’MORES

CONCERT HALL

The Concert Hall offers a more secluded setting, seating up to 150 guests for your wedding reception or up to 200 guests for your ceremony. The spectacular hall boasts dramatic high ceilings, large windows and a private veranda with panoramic mountain views.

The Patio is a unique new dining option at The Stanley focused on fresh seasonal ingredients with a nod to traditional Colorado cuisine.

CHRYSALIS GIFT SHOP

In the main hotel your can shop for souviengers for anyone, from The Shining lore to RMNP and everything in-between!

KMAC GUIDES

Great for the whole family! On a clear night you may be able to see Jupiter, its moons, and identify many constellations. Hear stories about the constellations and the mythology behind them as you roast s’mores around one of our fire pits!

Since 1987 KMAC has been offerfing rock climbing and mountaineering instruction for individuals and groups of all ages.

All guides are AMGA certified.

Whether a first-timer or advanced adventurer get ready to create an unforgettable trip.

MEETING VENUES AT THE STANLEY

THE MUSIC ROOM

Featuring arched Palladian windows framing dramatic mountain views, a historic Steinway piano, fireplace and French doors leading to a private veranda, the Music Room is the ideal venue for intimate receptions of up to 70 guests or for stunning ceremonies of up to 130 guests.

THE LODGE

Our fine wines, cocktails, single malt scotches, and the largest collection of whisky in Colorado for all to enjoy.

THE PATIO

MACGREGOR ROOM

As the Stanley’s largest event space, the MacGregor Ballroom offers majestic views of the Rocky Mountains, richly detailed woodwork, a large stage and dance floor and seating for up to 200 guests.

PINON/BILLIARD ROOMS

The Pinon and Billiard Rooms combine to accommodate up to 80 guests for your wedding reception. Full of historic charm, this romantic setting offers beautiful pinon woodwork and access to the east veranda overlooking the valley and Lake Estes.

LIBRARY ROOM

The Library Room, located in the Lodge at The Stanley Hotel, offers a warm and cozy ambiance for up to 50 guests for a wedding reception, featuring mountain views, bookcases and a romantic fireplace. The Library has access to an east veranda overlooking the valley and Lake Estes.

PINON/BILLIARD ROOMS

Accommodates up to 130 guests between both two rooms. 1,360 sq. ft.

MACGREGOR ROOM

Accommodates up to 300 guests in an array of floor plans. 5,200 square feet.

LIBRARY ROOM

Warm and cozy for up to 90 guests.

1,089 square feet with private veranda.

DUNRAVEN BOARDROOM

Sophisticated conference style configuration for 8-10 people with private veranda.

•June 26, 2020 • 13

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Stanley Hotel open, welcoming guests

By Tim Mosier Trail-Gazette

T

he Stanley Hotel is world famous for its old world charm, and has stood tall over Estes Park for over a century. It offers four different accommodation experiences including historic rooms, modern apartment-style residences for extended stays and expansive condominiums on the legendary grounds overlooking the Town and Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP).

A new restaurant, The Carriage House, is scheduled to open in late September at The Stanley, where the famous Stanley Steamer vehicles used to be stored. Built as a garage in 1905, the approximately 5,000 squarefoot building was also briefly used as a 26-room motel in the 1960’s.

It has been used as a storage shed ever since then.

The Carriage House is the last Stanley building left to be fully renovated and preserved since owner, John Cullen, bought the hotel 25years ago.

The Stanley Hotel has partnered with The Post Brewery to run the restaurant in The Carriage House. Owner, Dave Query said he was very

File photo / Estes Park Trail-Gazette

The Stanley Hotel has more than 14,000 square feet of sophisticated meeting and event space equipped with modern amenities and several stunning indoor and outdoor wedding venues.

excited, “It’s been really fun working with him,” Query said of Cullen. Query described Cullen as a very passionate and “head-first kind of guy.”

“I think that it’s really great for communities to have people who are as passionate as John Cullen is,” he said, “He’s really trying to make the Stanley something incredible,” adding that what he was doing was going to be great for Estes Park, with a long-term vision in mind.

Currently all of the Stanley’s lodging options including The Stanley Hotel, The

Lodge, and Aspire are open in compliance with Larimer County health guidelines.

Also, all of the Stanley’s dining options including The Cascade Restaurant, Whiskey Bar, and brand new Carriage House.

The Lodge is a boutique Estes Park hotel at The Stanley, coupling boutique and historic experience under one roof. Featuring updated historic-style accommodations, The Lodge offers a more intimate and unique experience at The Stanley.

Aspire is a separate building at the Stanley that offers

modern accommodations and apartment-like extended stay hotel in Estes Park.

Aspire offers large rooms perfectly equipped for adventure seekers and National Park Visitors offering a modern, quiet, and comfortable place to stay near RMNP. The Cascades Restaurant is a classic American restaurant and steakhouse featuring fresh, innovative dishes with a local flair and a focus on sustainable ingredients.

Seasonally and weather permitting, Cascades also offers an outdoor covered patio with views of the cascades waterfall.

The Whiskey Bar and Lounge features lunch and dinner as well as fine beverage selections, a historic cocktail menu and Colorado’s largest selection of whiskeys and single malt scotches. The wine selection is extensive, and the Stanley Select Old Fashioned, 291 Sm’oaked Old Fashion and Redrum Punch are perennial favorites.

The only amenities not currently offered are the events that are impossible to hold in a safe way. The wildly popular concert series and ghost tours will return when it is responsible to do so. Check with The Stanley for the latest on events and tours.

Lodging from page 11 McGregor Mountain Lodge

Ponderosa Lodge

Riverview Pines

Misty Mountain Lodge

Quality Inn

Romantic RiverSong Bed & Breakfast Inn

Nicky’s Resort

Ram’s Horn Village Resort

Peak to Peak Lodge

River Spruce Cabins

(970) 586-3457

(855) 441-4100 (970) 586-5377

(970) 586-4451

14 • June 26, 2020•

(970) 586-4233

(970) 586-2358 (970) 586-4338

(970) 586-4543

(970) 586-3627

(720) 244-0137

Rustic River Cabins (970) 586-8493

Saddle and Surrey Motel

(970) 586-3326

Shelley Powers

(970) 586-4543

Solitude Cabins (970) 577-7777

StoneBrook Resort on Fall River

See Lodging, pg. 16

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Where to eat in Estes Park

Editor’s note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, hours and mode of operation are subject to change throughout the season.

American Food

Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ Original Location: every day: 11am-8pm (Delivery: 3pm-7pm) 970-577-7427 Hangar @ 18-Holf Golf: every day: 9am-1pm 970-586-8146 ex. 3 Big Horn Restaurant Mon-Wed: 8am-6pm |Thur-Sat: 8am-8pm 970-586-2792 Bird & Jim Tue-Sun: 11am-8pm 970-586-9832 Burgers & Gyros on Moraine Ave. every day: 11am-8pm 970-586-3137 Cinnamon’s Bakery *Pre-order w/VM

Thu-Sun: 7:30am-10am 970-480-1501 Claire’s on the Park every day: 8am-7pm 970-586-9564 Dairy Queen Thu-Tue: 12pm-6pm 970-586-4939 Egg of Estes every day: 7am-2pm 970-586-1173 Fresh Burger Stop Mon-Sat: 7am-7pm | Sun: 8am-3pm 970-480-1492 Grubsteak Restaurant Thu-Mon: 11am-4pm 970-586-8838 Hunter’s Chophouse Thu-Tue: 3pm-8pm 970-586-6962 Local’s Grill every day: 11am-4pm 970-586-6900 Lonigans Irish Pub every day: 11am-7pm

970-586-4346 McDonald’s every day: 6am-10pm 970-586-3434 Mountain Home Café every day: 7am-2:30pm 970-586-6624 Nicky’s Steakhouse Tue-Sun: 11am-8pm 970-586-5376 Notchtop Bakery & Café every day: 7am-3pm 970-586-0272 Penelope’s Burgers every day: 11am-7pm 970-586-2277 Rocky Mountain Deli every day: 10am-5:30pm 970-586-4791 Scratch Deli every day: 7am-4pm 970-586-8383 Seasoned American Bistro Sunday Brunch: 10am-2pm Lunch: Fri-Sat | 11am-2pm Dinner: Tue-Sat | 5pm-9pm

970-586-9000 Subway Stanley Village: Mon-Fri: 9am-9pm |Sat: 7am10pm |Sun: 8am-9pm 970-577-7744 Downtown: M-Th: 10am-5pm | Fri: 8am -9pm | Sat/Sun: 8am-8pm 970-586-5023 The Rock Inn every day: 4pm-9pm 970-586-4116 The Sandwich Mafia *Delivery Available Mon-Thu: 11am-8pm | Fri-Sun: 11am-11pm 970-591-2400 Wapiti Colorado Pub every day: 12pm-7pm 970-568-5056 Wayfinder Restaurant Mon-Thu: 8am-3pm | Fri-Sun: 8am-8pm 970-586-3098

See Eat, pg. 18

Which Mortgage Program Is The Best One For You? From your first home to your lifelong home, Bank of Estes Park can assist with all your mortgage needs. Contact us today!

• Conventional Mortgages • Jumbo Mortgages • VA Mortgages • FHA Mortgages • USDA Mortgages • Reverse Mortgages • Low Credit Score and Sub-Prime Options

Main Bank 255 Park Lane Estes Park, CO 80517 (970) 586-4485

St. Vrain Branch 501 S. St. Vrain, Suite 100 Estes Park, CO 80517 (970) 577-1234

Niwot Branch 7980 Niwot Road Niwot, CO 80503 (303) 652-8082

This material is not from HUD or FHA and the document is not approved by the Department of HUD or any Government Agency. HUD does not approve the material presented. This material/ presentation is intended as educational and informational only. This does not constitute an offer to lend or to recommend available products. Bank of Estes Park is not endorsed by nor acting on behalf of or at the direction of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Federal Housing Administration, the US Department of Agriculture or the Federal Government. Copyright© 2019 Bank of Estes Park NMLS #784809. CA: Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, License #4130289; IL: Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee LMB #0005759.; KS: Kansas Licensed Mortgage Company, License SL-0000472; MN: This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Any such offer may only be made in accordance with Minn. Stat. 47.206(3) & (4); NV: NV Mortgage Banker License #4195, NV Mortgage Broker License #4196; OR: License Number ML-4807. To check the license status of your mortgage broker, visit www.nmlsconsumeraccess.

•June 26, 2020 • 15

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Visit Estes Park welcomes visitors back

By Visit Estes Park For the Trail-Gazette

A

s the Town of Estes Park continues on its thoughtful path toward safely reopening businesses for the community and our guests, Visit Estes Park is implementing a robust digital marketing campaign to get the word out: Estes Park is open and grateful to be able to safely welcome visitors back.

Discouraging visitation to Estes Park at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic was one of the most difficult moments in our organization’s history. Estes Park was founded on tourism – there was no gold in these hills, but plenty of opportunity for fresh air and outdoor adventure – visitors have been traveling to the area to experience all the town and surrounding forests have to offer for over 100 years. Today, the Estes Park community relies on our valued guests so that we all can continue to live, work and play in this incredible area. To once again be able to safely and reasonably invite travelers to share in what Estes Park has to offer is a wonderful thing.

Courtesy photo, VEP Our campaign will leverage search engine marketing,

where Visit Estes Park blogs helpful to the drive market will be promoted; on Outside.com, where a broad outdoor audience will be reminded that Estes Park is a safe destination with a wide variety of outdoor activities; on Hulu, where Visit Estes Park brand videos run as commercials; and on Dwell.com, which will highlight lodging opportunities in the area – just to name Visit Estes Park / Courtesy photo a few.

Visitors have been traveling to Estes Park to experience all the In addition, the next generatown and surrounding forests have to offer for more than 100 tion of Athletes in Residence, years. a first of its kind program that invites influential athletes to adventure in Estes and live social media, and sponsored Daily Travel Index is beginlike a local, will soon visit and owned content, and will ning to show an increase in be amplified by communicadrive market travel compared Estes Park, creating organic tions efforts targeting local to just prior to the outbreak of content shared on their social media sites. And eventually, and national media outlets.

COVID-19. Given this, the Messaging will be inspiration- campaign will target local and carefully vetted media and al and educational, highlight- regional drive markets, which influencer press trips will return, garnering more expoing activities that allow for nat- fortunately, happens to align sure for Estes Park. ural physical distancing in the with where the bulk of Estes Visit Estes Park is working Estes area, information on the Park’s visitors travel from. latest phase of increased serThis digital approach target- closely with the Town of Estes Park, Larimer County vices at Rocky Mountain ing drive markets will allow National Park, and will the team at Visit Estes Park to and other community organiencourage guests to follow be responsive to demand and zations to ensure the safe and responsible promotion of health and safety guidelines adjust tactics quickly when as well as promote destination and if needed, given the ever- Estes Park, as well as on initiatives to allow for the safety sustainability. evolving nature of the panof the community and our As vehicles provide a way to demic. travel while physically disVisit Estes Park content will guests while in town so that tanced from other travelers, appear on TripAdvisor, where we, our community and our drive markets are predicted to content will be served to trav- guests can enjoy the splendor of all the Estes Park area has resume traveling prior to air elers researching trips to to offer. travel. Indeed, Arrivalist’s US Estes Park; on Facebook,

Lodging from page 14 (970) 586-4629

Stoney River Lodge (970) 663-5532

Streamside on Fall River (970) 586-6464

Sunnyside Knoll (970) 586-5759

Sunshine Mountain Lodge (303) 747-2840

16 • June 26, 2020•

Swiftcurrent Lodge (970) 586-3720

The Estes Park Resort (970) 577-6400

The Historic Crags Lodge (970) 586-6066

The Ridgeline Hotel (970) 480-0110

Timber Creek Chalets (970) 586-8803

(970) 586-2181

Trout Haven Resorts

Wolf Vacation Rentals (VRBO)

Valhalla Resort

Workshire Lodge

(970) 577-0202 (970) 586-3284

Wildwood Inn

(970) 586-7804

Windcliff Properties

(847) 705-1530

(970) 586-2198 (877) 5862198

YMCA of the Rockies (970) 586-3341

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

From adversity comes renewal at YMCA of the Rockies

By Association Historian, Karen Lloyd D’Onofrio For the Trail-Gazette

W

ith more than 110 years of history, YMCA of the Rockies has faced adversity more than once. As the world copes with a global pandemic and our nation also struggles with economic and racial inequalities, it is natural for us to look back at our shared histories for clues to what we should do to protect the health of our communities and ourselves, or how to address the inequalities experienced by some in our communities. Over the past three months I’ve been researching the archives to find out how YMCA of the Rockies has survived challenging times in the past and what effects they have had on our abilities to continue our mission of serving all people in spirit, mind, and body.

When William Sweet and Bruno Hobbs, searching for a permanent home for YMCA training conferences, arrived at the Wind River Lodge in the Estes Valley, they and their group were certain they had found the right place. Since that time, YMCA of the Rockies has continued to serve as a conference center for all people and as a place for renewal of spirit and relationships for families. The path to where the Association is today, however, has not always been a smooth or an easy one.

While the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918 devastated many communities through-

YMCA of the Rockies / Courtesy photo

The YMCA has set new health and safety procedures to ensure staff, local communities, and guests are as safe as possible.

out world, it does not appear to have impacted the 1919 summer season at the Association camp. Indeed, there was an increase in the number of people attending the YMCA camp, suggesting perhaps that, as today, guests were eager to finally escape their homes and head for the mountains where they could enjoy fresh, clean air and participate in outdoor activities while attending the various conferences held that season. The Great Depression of the 1930s, however, created economic woes that many could not escape; the YMCA camp was not immune to the effects of the financial collapse. As more and more people cancelled their conferences and family trips to the camp, it was clear the Association was struggling to survive; some even suggested selling the property to pay

off the camp’s debts, while others believed there was another solution to the financial problem. The camp’s survival came as a result of financial help from board members. Their generosity saved the camp from bankruptcy, and coupled with sound financial planning, the Association was able to go on and expand operations during the Post WWII period. In 1967, YMCA of the Rockies purchased another property in Granby enabling them to better serve conferences, family reunions, and families in our local communities.

During the 1980s, inflation, out of control interest rates, and a stock market crash led to another period of uncertainty for YMCA of the Rockies. With a focus on operational adjustments, new programming ideas, and a re-organization of finances,

the Association slowly, but steadily returned to the black on the balance sheet. The 2008 recession witnessed even more creativity from the board and staff with expenditure reduction and revenue generation, all while remaining focused on longterm growth and service to others. As they did in the Great Depression, board members stepped in to provide additional funding to stabilize the Association. Today, we have a new set of challenges to face.

I find reassurance hidden in the Association archives.

They show that we’ve faced adversity many times before and survived, but they also provide us with an opportunity for self-reflection. What can we do better? Our mission to help others in spirit, mind, and body is as strong as it was 110 years ago.

•June 26, 2020 • 17

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

What it was like to reopen EVRPD

By Lisa VonBargen, EVRPD Community Engagement Manager For the Trail-Gazette

flying a 757 as endless boredom interspersed by moments of terror. Re-opening reminded me of that at times! Now, I’ll let my colleagues at EVRPD describe remember the day in March we got the notice their experiences.

From Robin Fallon, HR to close the Rec; it was Friday the 13th.Those of us Manager, EVRPD: “We had a fairly smooth transition. in the Admin hallway had We hired over 30 seasonal plenty to do with upcoming openings for our other prop- employees, and converted erties, and were fortunate to most of the new hire paperwork to electronic e-signabe able to keep working remotely or in a socially dis- tures for efficiency as well as limiting in-person interactant manner. The 18-Hole Golf Course and the Marina tion to protect employees.

We only had a few employwere the first to open, then ees who were not comfortthe 9-Hole and Disc Golf able returning to a publicCourse, finally CampEVRPD / Courtesy photo grounds and the Rec. I have facing position, but due to the phased re-opening, this You can see the EVRPD employees like Javier Bernal with an uncle who is a retired See EVRPD, pg. 19 smiling eyes above their face masks. pilot, and he once described

I

Eat from page 15 You Need Pie Diner & Bakery Every day: 8am-4pm 970-577-7437

Asian Food

Cafe De Pho Thai Every day: 11am-8pm 970-577-0682 China Garden Every day: 11am-7:30pm 970-586-2488 Himalayan Curry & Kebob Every day: 11am-8pm 970-586-6226 Nepal’s Café Every day: 11am-8:30pm 970-577-7035 Thai Kitchen Every day: 11:30am-8pm 970-577-7112

Craft Beverages

Avant Garde Aleworks Every day: 12pm-6pm 970-591-2700 Coffee on the Rocks Every day: 7am-4pm 970-586-5181 Elkins Distilling Co. Mon-Thu: 2pm-6pm | Fri-Sun:

18 • June 26, 2020•

11am-5pm 970-480-1848 Estes Park Brewery Every day: 11am-8pm 970-586-5421 Inkwell & Brew Mon-Fri: 7am-1pm 970-342-1297 Kind Coffee Every day: 6am-4pm 970-586-5206 Lumpy Ridge Brewing Mon-Fri: 3pm-8pm | Sat-Sun: 1pm-8pm 970-235-1752 Mile High Coffee House Every day: 8am-5pm 970-586-2222 Raven’s Roast Coffee Lounge Every day: 8am-5pm 970-586-4326 Rock Cut Brewing Pickup: 1pm-7pm 970-878-8298 Snowy Peaks Winery *Live Music Friday: 4:30pm6:30pm Sat-Thu: 11am-6pm | Fri: 11am7pm

970-586-2099 Vino Giú Saturday: 2pm-4pm 970-591-2528 Ziggi’s Coffee Every day: 6am-6pm 970-591-2532

Italian Food

Antonio’s Real NY Pizza Every day: 12pm-8pm 970-586-7275 Bob and Tony’s Pizza Fri-Sun: 11am-7pm | Mon-Thu: 11am-4pm 970-586-2044 Cousin Pat’s Pub & Grill Every day: 6pm-11pm 970-586-7287 Domino’s Pizza Mon-Thu: 10am-11pm | Fri-Sun: 10am-12am 970-586-8181 Mama Rose’s Every day: 4:30pm-7pm 970-586-3330 Poppy’s Pizza & Grill Every day: 11:30am-7pm (Delivery: 4:30pm-7pm) 970-586-8282

Sweet Basilico Tue-Sun: 12pm-9pm 970-586-3899

Mexican Food

Casa Grande & Cantina Every day: 11am-8pm 970-577-0799 Chelito’s Fri-Mon: 11am-7pm 970-586-0886 Ed’s Cantina Mon-Sat: 12pm-7:30pm (Happy Hour 3pm-5pm) 970-586-2919 El Mex-Kal Daily: 11am-9pm 970-586-4377 La Cabaña Mexican Bar & Grill Tue/Wed/Wed/Sun: 11am-8pm | Fri/Sat: 11am-9pm 970-586-1156 La Cocina de Mama Every day: 11am-8pm 970-586-9001 Peppers Fast & Fresh Mexican Grill Mon-Sat: 11am-8pm | Sun: 11am-6pm 970-577-0032

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Library reopening offers many options for service

By Kurtis Kelly For the Trail-Gazette

L

ocal businesses, government, nonprofits, and the residents of our mountain valley have together been on a shared journey over recent months: the path to re-opening. It has been a process of re-opening, re-activating, and re-imagining. The Library is pleased to be part of that journey.

Our phased reopening is underway, and will continue in the weeks ahead.

The Library’s hours and services can be found on our current “Welcome Menu”, as well as at estesvalleylibrary.org.

Or call us seven days a week at (970) 586-8116.

EVRPD from page 18 did not impact our ability to open all our properties. We have a Workamper program at our campgrounds where commitments for summer were made before COVID-19. We did not have any fallout from that group, and actually picked up a few extra part-time campground maintenance workers as some Workampers needed to bring an adult child with them. Every one of our departments has done a great job of putting the necessary protocols in place to be able to serve the public in a safe manner.”

From Austin Logan, PGA, Golf Operations Manager: “Fortunately, golf is inherently a socially distanced activity. We are pleased to see the increase in people’s interest for golf and are excited for what the future holds.”

From Miguel Bernal, Guest Services: “Along with members, we are also getting accustomed to all the new and contingent policies and procedures we have to follow. The re-opening has been an experience after being closed for quite a while; however, it is nice to see members coming back to the Rec. Although I wish I were able to see everybody’s beautiful smile, for now, I am happy to see their smiling eyes above their face masks!”

Make the Estes Park Museum your Destination.

Touch the past with hands-on exhibits.

Museum Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Free Admission 200 Fourth St. Estes Park, CO 80517 • 970-586-6256 • www.estes.org/museum •June 26, 2020 • 19

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Estes Park Farmers Market open with safety measures

By Wendy Rigby Trail-Gazette

T

he 2020 season of the Estes Park Farmers Market is underway to the delight of locals and visitors alike.

The event used to be held in Bond Park. This year the new located is the Estes Park Visitor Center parking lot.

With the health concerns created by the COVID-19 pandemic, you will notice a different look and flow at the farmers market.

The route through the many booth is one way. Vendors are wearing masks.

Some sport gloves. The majority of the customers were wearing masks, too.

There are hand-washing stations and hand sanitizer sprinkled at locations throughout the venue.

Visitor Edith Gonzalez of Loveland, the daughter of the people who own Casa Grande Mexican food restaurant in Estes Park, we delighted to get out and about.

As she bought coffee from one of the stands, she commented “We’re just roaming around. We’ve been stuck in quarantine for so long. We’re kind of stretching out legs out now.”

At a booth for Croft Family Farm in Kersey, Colo., the workers were having to bag the patrons’ choices for them.

“That just means that we have to have more people in the booth to help customers because they are not able to help themselves,” said Hannah Cockroft. “We have separate people to touch produce

20 • June 26, 2020•

The route through the many booth is one way.

Jan Rigby / Courtesy photo

“We had a screen printing company for a while doing shirts and then when everything took effect, this is kind of how we transitioned to stay essential but also keep our employees going,” said T.J. Golden.

“We’ve taken the Mask Mobile to a few different parking lots in Denver,” he added, “but this is the first time we ventured out and our first farmers market. We’re selling Jan Rigby / Courtesy photo some masks. Everybody Visitors can buy fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh bread and seems thankful, so it’s good.” pastries, flower, plants and herbs, cheese, honey and more.

The farmers market takes place every Thursday and to do the cash and the “Today has actually been real- through September 24 at the money and they don’t mix. ly good, better than I expectEstes Park Visitor Center, 500 We have to wear masks and ed.”

Big Thompson Ave. gloves.”

In a sign of the times, Artist Visitors can buy fresh fruits Cockroft was pleased with Proof Collective out of Denver and vegetables, fresh bread the crowd that showed up for brought their Mask Mobile to and pastries, flower, plants the first day of the 2020 Estes sell custom-printed face covand herbs, cheese, honey and Park Farmers Market, adding erings. more.

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Artisans Market in fifth year

By Wendy Rigby Trail-Gazette

W

hen Mary Crone wanted to find a place to sell her handmade ceramics, she tried the Estes Park Farmers Market. That group had no new spaces for artists at that time, so the Glen Haven resident and her husband started the Monday Artisans Market at Riverside Plaza in Estes Park with the tag line “Buy local. Buy art.”

“Creative people believe this is a wonderful way to make a living, to create their artwork and sell it,” Crone said. “So this is a dream of ours.”

Each booth offers items

Jan Rigby / Courtesy photo

Shoppers can browse items ranging from photographs and eatherwork to hand-sewn clothes, paintings and jewelry.

made by hand by local artists from the Estes Park area, Loveland and Denver. In normal years, the market fea-

tures up to 28 different booths. With COVID restrictions, this year the market has about 15 or 16 booths.

FREE BEER!

Crone calls Riverside Plaza “the most beautiful place in Estes Park. It’s just wonderful having the coffee shop, the bookstore and all these nice businesses. It was a space that was not being used and I said ‘this is the space for us.’ It’s a beautiful setting with the river running through it.”

A good mix of locals and visitors come to the market which runs each Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout June, July and August.

Shoppers can browse items ranging from photographs and eatherwork to handsewn clothes, paintings and jewelry.

See artisans, pg. 22

553 W EST E LKHORN

970-586-2833

4 Free 3 oz Samples at our Samples Bar

WWW . THEMAXWELLINN . COM

A BEER LOVER’S DREAM COME TRUE!

• Short Walk to Downtown

• Smoke and Pet Free Property

• 3.5 miles from RMNP

Full-Bar, Restaurant, & Retail Store

• Hot Tub | Gas Fire-Pit | Wi-Fi • Free Continental Breakfast

Delicious food for the entire familyy.

Pool tables and video games.

Spectacular deck with mountain vviews.

12 hand-crafted beers brewed on site.

Estes Park Brewery 470 Prospect Village Drive epbrewery.com • 970-586-5421 •June 26, 2020 • 21

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

The Art Center of Estes Park is a haven for the creative Mentor Program

By Art Center of Estes Park For the Trail-Gazette

This is an exciting and popular Art Center program and he Art Center of Estes an important way for Art Park was established Center artists to share their in 1987 and offers an passion for the arts directly extensive collection of fine with members of the commuart including painting, phonity. tography, jewelry, ceramics, Mentors are matched with glass, fiber, and woodworkapproximately 40 local Colomentees, of all ages, who ing. In addition, we present rado artists in a broad selecwant to learn a new medium, opportunities for education in tion of media. Whether you’re and have the chance to work the visual arts, and act as an searching for a large piece of with an experienced artist advocate and partner for fine art or photography to who shows their work in our community arts developenhance your home, or the lovely, professional gallery. ment. perfect gift of jewelry, fiber, The annual Mentor/StuThis was the vision of sevpottery, or a notecard for a dent show in February is the eral local artists, many of friend, we have it. highlight of the year, giving whom are still participating We feature a new exhibit mentees the opportunity to members. The Art Center approximately every five see their own creations on is dedicated to education and weeks. display in the Art Center Galexcellence in the visual arts, The Art Center is presently lery and to learn something and is operated through artist open Friday through Monday about the “art biz” (appropriand community volunteers, from noon – 4 p.m. The ate framing, pricing, greeting membership, sales, and dona- Exhibit Schedule for the rest the public, etc) along the tions. Our mission is to proof 2020: way. vide a facility that supports June 26 – Aug, 9 “Jewel Best of all, this program and promotes regional artTones and Gen Stones,” and the big opening recepists; to present opportunities Diana Wade and Alice tion, in particular, give us a for education in the visual League fabulous opportunity to welarts, and to act as an advocate Aug, 14 – Sept 20 “It’s All come lots of new faces to the and partner for community About the Details,” Jim Art Center! arts development.

Sneary Application forms may be The Center now represents Sept. 25 – Nov. 1 “Celepicked up in the gallery local and regional artists brate Nature,” Carol Gregory Education Classes from across the Rocky MounNov 6 – Dec. 22 “Planes, The Art Center offers adult tain area. We feature the Trains and Animals,” Dan classes in a variety of media high-quality artwork of Marshall

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throughout the year, primarily in the summer months.

These are taught by wellknown artists from the area and beyond, as well as by Art Center artists. Intergenerational and youth classes are provided as well. Check our website for updated schedule.

First Friday

The Art Center participates in the First Friday Art Groove, sponsored by the Estes Arts District. We offer a Door Prize for this event.

Membership

The Art Center of Estes Park, a nonprofit corporation, is funded by annual memberships, donations, annual fundraisers, and member artist sales.

All contributions are tax deductible. Contributions provided by members and donors are an essential part of the Art Center operating budget to provide a gallery and visual art education programming for the community of Estes Park.

Address: 517 Big Thompson Ave. Unit 245, Estes Park, CO 80517 Phone: 970-596-5882 artcenterofestes.com

Artisans from page 21

Michale Duncan of Estes Park sells Celtic jewelry made of sterling silver and hand-cut stones. He has manned a booth at the Monday Artisans Market since day one.

“My family was predominantly Scottish,” Duncan 22 • June 26, 2020•

explained. “Growing up like most young people, I was enamored with Native American culture. But I didn’t want to rob somebody else’s art. I did my first Celtic show and never looked back.”

Most of Duncan’s jewelry is sterling. He also crafts

multi-metal pieces that include sterling, pure silver and 23 carat gold. He also creates leather bands featuring square sterling beads.

As for the impact of the pandemic on the market, Duncan said “Most people seem to be being responsible.

They’re wearing masks. I’m cleaning my hands regularly.”

The market is taking all necessary precautions to guard against the spread of COVID-19 with signage about spacing and hand sanitizing stations sprinkled throughout.

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Businesses from page 5

1. Groups larger than ten, except those all from the same household are not pertinue to collaborate with our between diners from different mitted. hospitals daily to monitor parties.

No contact capacity triggers and are con30 percent of the total maxi- recreational activities fident that we can slowly mum occupancy of the estabRental of outdoor recrereopen business ahead of the lishment may be provided as ational equipment is permitstatewide safer at home indoor seating with a maxited if the equipment can be restrictions.” mum of 175 patrons. Up to cleaned and sanitized Rocky Mountain National 60% of maximum occupancy between uses. Kayaks, boats, Park opened their gates on may be provided if the addibicycles, and golf clubs may May 27, with the newly imple- tional seating is in an un-enbe rented if procedures are in mented reservation system closed outdoor space. No place to clean and disinfect rolled out on June 4. more than 60% of the maxithe item after every use.

With so much still up in the mum occupancy may be proair, and information constant- vided. All indoor and outdoor Movie theaters and ly changing, these are the seating must be placed with 6 bowling alleys Movie theaters and bowling rules Estes Park is currently feet spacing, table to table. operating under.

Alternatively, all 60 percent allies can open once they have completed a reopening of seating may be outdoors, Restaurants checklist. The Historic Park or a combination of indoor In each confined indoor Theatre in Estes Park is open, space, in order to achieve six and outdoor seating where no showing classic movies and more than 30 pecent is feet social distancing, there fan favorites all week long. indoors, and no more than 60 are two choices. All restaupercent total.

Personal Services rants must select one and No restaurant may operate Salons, Spas, and other simindicate which on the posted checklist. Those choices are: dine-in service until they can ilar personal services must continue to operate with 50 percent of the total post- meet and maintain all the occupancy restrictions ed occupancy of the establish- applicable requirements in the re-opening checklist, intended to provide adequate ment may be provided as which many in Estes Park physical/social distancing. indoor seating with a maxihave.

Those resuming operation mum of 50 patrons. Patrons with an occupancy above the in different parties must be a Vacation rentals limit of 10 (clients plus minimum of 6 feet apart. The Short term rentals can employees) must submit a spacing of tables may need to open up for operation with a be 6 feet or more to ensure plan to monitor and follow the plan to Larimer County proper physical distancing new guidance beginning June Health Department to dem-

onstrate compliance with the specific criteria outlined.

Indoor malls

Retailers in indoor malls with a separate exterior entrance may operate per the requirements for non-critical retail in Appendix A, Section II. Retailers with no exterior entrance may open provided mall management submits a plan to Larimer County Health Department to address the specific criteria outlined in the variance plan.

In all industries, employees must wear masks while customers are encourage but not required to. All of these actions have been and will continue to be taken in efforts to promote a safe return to business operations.

As part of this process, early warning indicators have been developed to help monitor the health of the hospital systems related to COVID-19.

As restrictions continue to be lifted, early warning indicators will be closely monitored to make sure reopening businesses is not causing a strain on local hospital systems.

As of the end of June, none of the indicators were pointing anywhere near a risky level.

Koenig from page 4

Chamber from page 7

workers by staying six feet from other groups and wearing your mask in businesses — and even outside if you’re in crowded spaces. Wash and sanitize your hands at every opportunity. No matter your beliefs, this will help us all navigate the pandemic more safely. Together, we can protect our neighbors and carefully resume some of the wonderful aspects of daily life.

We want everyone to know that our businesses have stepped up to implement safety measures for distancing

depends on the sales that take place June through September, Estes Park doesn’t have ten years to recover. Our recovery will depend on the resiliency of our working community to weather uncertainty. It will depend on the resiliency of all our residents to weather fear. And it will depend on you, Colorado.

Travel experts are saying most vacations this summer will take place a few hundred miles from home. My family has vacationed in

and masks. Your safety is our priority. Business employees are required to wear masks, and customers are required in most circumstances unless the business has implemented extra distancing precautions.

Finally, Estes Park is a perfect place to rest and relax. I think we can all agree that 2020 has been a most challenging year. We hope our special community provides some much-needed restoration for you. Thank you for choosing to spend your time here.

Estes Park for 25 years and we have many memories (along with a few hilarious pictures). I know you do too. That’s why I’m asking you to post your favorite pics or a video on Facebook or Instagram along with #WeLoveEstes. And after you do check out VisitEstesPark.com and book a few days in the mountains for your family. We can’t wait to have you back.

Got plans for the 4th of July? We do! Check out the article on the back cover.

•June 26, 2020 • 23

REOPENING OF ESTES PARK AND RMNP

Our town is a safe and healthy place to vacation this summer over the 4th of July or anytime.

Unsplash.com / Courtesy photo

Spend the Fourth in Estes Park

By Donna Carlson, Estes drop into town, where we Chamber Executive Director have a photo scavenger hunt going on and 16 destinations For the Trail-Gazette

brating the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park as well as the heritage of the for sweet treats.

Estes Valley. Our local artiYou can enjoy American sans produce amazing glasshere is nothing so flags decorating Elkhorn ware, jewelry and original American as our national parks,” in Ave. and the musical remind- paintings you must explore! er of our country’s freedom The Mobile Village Band the words of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. If you piped throughout town. Pick will be staging three perforare considering new plans for up a Historic West End walk- mances throughout the day, ing tour map at The Taffy which you can enjoy on your the 4th of July or reschedulShop, in business here since way to an antique car show in ing that family vacation, 1935!

Bond Park, along with a there’s a slice of American On a walk down Elkhorn small craft fair. When you are paradise waiting for you in Ave., it’s evident that there is ready to rest, enjoy a meal at Estes Park, the gateway to no shortage of candy, taffy one of our 67 one-of-a-kind Rocky Mountain National Park. What better way to cel- and ice cream in Estes Park. restaurants or catch a quick ebrate our nation’s freedom? What’s more American than food truck snack at one of six that? You want Elk Duds or a craft beverage joints in town.

A tour of the park is your t-shirt talking about what Too full to drive home? first stop! The reservation bears serve at cocktail parEstes Park has 108 lodges, system at recreation.gov is B&Bs and small hotels for easy. It takes about two min- ties? We have it. Did you know that we also have over your family to relax and utes. By the time you’re 15 artisan galleries where unplug. We have an amazing done, you might be thirsty you can find original are cele- selection of romantic get(does ice cream count?), so

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aways for two if you are looking for something more intimate. Did you know that this is one of the top wedding locations in Colorado? Come out on a scouting mission and we’ll show you…

Estes Park has been a vacation destination as long as it’s been a town. We love our guests and we can’t wait to see you again. If you need help selecting a hotel, check out www.VisitEstesPark.com or contact VisitorServices@estes.org. Need to connect with the business community? Contact The Estes Chamber of Commerce at info@esteschamber.org. We have made our town a safe and healthy place to vacation this summer over the 4th of July or anytime. Come see us!