Nestled in the pines on the banks of the Fall River, the Ponderosa Lodge is a place set apart. You feel it as soon as you turn down the drive, a one-lane road that winds through the pines and along the river. There is no hustle and bustle at the Ponderosa, just quiet relaxation with the river always murmuring at your doorstep. At night colored lights, a longstanding tradition at the lodge, transform the property into an enchanting home away from home.

Cupped between rocky Castle Mountain and pine-covered Deer Mountain, the lodge also is host to deer, elk, raccoons, ground squirrels and a variety of mountain birds who visit daily to feed and to delight our guests. Occasionally coyotes and black bears wander across the property as well.

A part of Estes Park since the mid-50's, the new Ponderosa Lodge was built in 1982 after the waters of the Lawn Lake flood completely destroyed the original buildings. Today the Ponderosa offers warm, individually decorated rooms, lots of summer flowers, and the cooling breezes of the Ponderosa pines for which the lodge is named. A riverside picnic area and a patio with gas and charcoal grills allow you to enjoy the outdoors at mealtime. Our playground, located away from the riverbank, provides safe exercise for our younger guests.

In the winter, the Ponderosa offers a warm respite after a day exploring Rocky Mountain National Park on foot, on snowshoes or on cross country skis. Only an hour's drive from Eldora Mountain ski area, the Ponderosa Lodge and the town of Estes Park serve as home base for downhill, telemark and cross country skiers. Throughout the winter, the Ponderosa is the perfect place for a romantic weekends, or just a quiet get-away from the Denver metropolitan area.

The Ponderosa Lodge is a family operation, and each member of our family and carefully selected staff will go out of the way to make your vacation memorable. We will help you locate the best in dining, shopping, hiking, and entertainment while you are with us. Each morning, over free coffee and conversation in the lobby area, we offer an update on the local weather and on special events in town.

• In Room

• Cable TV
• In Room Movies

Customizable Directions