February | 2023 | Littleboys, Big World

When you think of the YMCA you probably think of a workout class or a pick up game of basketball. But did you know that the YMCA owns a stunning 800+ acre facility at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Let me introduce you to the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado.

The YMCA of the Rockies is a facility that offers lodging along with daily activities and sporting amenities. I compare it to summer camp but for families! During our weekend stay we were able to participate in classes teaching us about bears, wolves and how to start a fire without matches. We also played basketball, rollerskating, swimming, sledding, ice skating and archery.

There were so many activities that we were busy the whole weekend without any need to leave the facility grounds.

The activities are rotated throughout the seasons so every visit can be unique. We’re already thinking about coming back for axe throwing and horseback riding in the warmer months.

Most activities are included with your stay but some activities like archery and the climbing wall are an additional $10 per person.

If all these activities aren’t for you, don’t worry. The lodge is also located right next to Rocky Mountain National Park. So you can spend your day hiking and taking in the views of this stunning park and rest your head at the YMCA in the evening. The town of Estes Park also offers a wide variety of shopping and entertainment, just watch out for those Elk 🙂

Things to Know

There is a wide variety of lodging options on the property. There are hotel rooms, cabins and there are some areas set up for large family reunions or group lodging. Check out the website for all the details.

If you don’t want to stay the night, the YMCA also offers day passes. You can spend the day participating in all the activities and using the amenities such as the pool.

If staying in lodging, the activities signup will open up online 2 weeks before your stay. Most activities are free and have no participant limit. However, things like archery, the climbing wall, axe throwing, etc. do have a limit and a $10 fee per person. If you want to participate in these activities I would recommend signing up as soon as available.

The Y also provides lots of equipment rentals (typically for free). This includes kids life vests at the pool, hiking boots, ice skates, sleds, mobility strollers, hiking poles and much more. This makes it very convenient for people who are arriving via plane. You can pack light knowing that the rest will be provided there.

Overall, we had a great experience. This is the perfect spot for families to spend quality time together while enjoying those stunning Rocky Mountain views. Happy Travels!

Finding an indoor pool in Southern Colorado can be a bit difficult. Unless you have a gym membership, your options are to fork out big money for Great Wolf or pay for a day pass at the YMCA. But don’t worry! I’m here to give you another option…. Woodland Aquatic Center.

Woodland Aquatic Center in Woodland Park is the perfect family-friendly indoor pool. It has a lovely zero entry portion with a small kids splash area.

It also has a lazy river, fountains, jetted seats, a large slide and a regular pool area. In addition to these features in the main pool, there is a second pool designated just for lap swimming. There is something for everyone.

The center offers large family changing rooms and locker rooms. They even have a party room if you’re thinking about hosting a swim party but want to keep the cake and gifts dry. They offer extended hours during the school holidays so check out their Facebook page to get the latest updates.

Since you have already made the drive up to Woodland Park, you can combine the aquatic center with a trip over to the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Research Center and maybe grab a donut at the Donut Mill. The aquatic center also happens to be on the way to/from Rampart Reservoir, which boasts some great fishing and hiking. Make a day of it. Happy Swimming!