From Highway 36, the trail may be accessed from the Convention and Visitors Bureau parking area or from the Cherokee Draw Day Use area.

From Highway 34, the trail may be accessed from the Visitor Center parking area, down Lake Front Drive to Fisherman's Nook, or from the Lake Estes Marina.

Lake Estes Use Fees
Lake Estes Rules & Regulations
Map of Lake Estes Trail

Rent a bike or surrey-topped pedal cart at the Lake Estes Marina to pedal around the paved 3.75-mile lake trail. 

Fish from several easily-accessible spots along the trail, including a handicap fishing pier near Fisherman’s Nook. 

Bait, tackle, and fishing licenses are available at the Marina Store.

Wildlife abounds along the trail throughout the year. The Matthews-Reeser Bird Sanctuary is located along the lake Estes Trail. 

Please be aware that the elk are wild animals and should not be approached. View elk from a safe distance and keep dogs away from them.

There are several picnic areas located around the Lake Trail – at the Marina, Wapiti Meadows, and Cherokee Draw. Picnic tables are on a first-come, first-served basis and these areas are subject to a day-use fee.