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The most “Rock Inn” place in Estes Park

Posted 6/19/23

I’ve been distraught after a series of unfortunate events. I’ve found it challenging to look for silver linings. Not because I don’t know they’re there, but because I’m human, and there

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The most “Rock Inn” place in Estes Park

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I’ve been distraught after a series of unfortunate events. I’ve found it challenging to look for silver linings. Not because I don’t know they’re there, but because I’m human, and there comes a point where depletion sets in.

Luckily, my down moments are short-lived. All I need to do is allow myself to be fully human and for my friends (all three) to let me process, without judgment, concern, or interrogation. Fortunately, they do.

Struggling to find a release, I turned to one of my favorite places in Estes Park, The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern, built in 1937. The Rock Inn was originally a sandwich shop until an expansion in 1943 included a dance hall. Today, The Rock Inn is an even more incredible place! Upon walking in, you might think you’re inside someone’s private log cabin. Two woodburning stoves, one near the entrance and one at the end of the bar, create a cozy atmosphere during the winter months.

I love sitting at the end of the bar near the wood stove. It offers a great view of the tavern, where I can chat with my favorite bartender, Theresa. An outdoor patio with seating, a cocktail area, and breathtaking views of the Continental Divide make this the perfect summer dining destination.

Recommending what to order is difficult with “hand-crafted, hearty comfort food with a focus on health and sustainability,” I’d say order one of each or visit enough times to try everything on the evolving menu.

One of my top three favorite things about The Rock Inn is the array of live music, like the musical stylings of the duo Random and True, which you can read about in my Discover Colorado column in the May 4, 2023 edition of The Mountain- Ear.

For the owners and staff, the tavern may be a business or a place of work, but for many of its guests, it’s where one can find peace, relaxation, beauty, and comfort all in one location. It’s no surprise that this mountain tavern is always busy. It’s the most “Rock Inn” place in Estes Park.

The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern is located at 1675 CO-66, Estes Park. You can find them on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/RockInnEstes or check out their website at https://www.rockinnestes.com/. You can give them a call at 970-586-4116.