River walk park

About

The Riverwalk is the short path along the Big Thompson and Fall River right behind the shops. It's where you go to get your feet near cold water after an hour of fudge and T-shirts. Easy, flat, and busy in summer.

The Riverwalk follows the Big Thompson River and Fall River through downtown. The paved path begins near the Estes Park Visitor Center and ends at the George Hix Riverside Plaza, where the two rivers meet. Along the way you'll pass trees, flower beds, benches, a plaza, and a couple of playgrounds. Tregent Park and Children's Park are both on it. The town describes it as a short, quarter-mile stroll, so don't expect a hike. Plenty of restaurants and shops open right onto it.

Honestly, it's best for a slow loop with a coffee. I'd go early in the morning or around dinner, when the crowds thin and the light gets good on the water. In July, midday on a weekend, it's elbow to elbow.

Keep an eye on small kids near the river. It looks gentle, but the current is cold and quick in spring runoff. And be kind to the flower beds. People sit on everything.