Residents of Estes Park go to great lengths to minimize their impact on wildlife. Animals have been known to meander through downtown, but don't sit in the town your whole vacation waiting for them. Whether seeking out one of the 282 species of birds or hundreds of other species of animals, the Rocky Mountain National Park website has information on getting a glimpse of the local wildlife.

The Queen's Staircase, located in the proximity of Fort Fincastle and the Water Tower, was built to honor Queen Victoria and carved by hand. Walk up the impressive stairs lying in the shade and escape the heat.

Built between 527 and 565 AD at the foot of Mount Sinai for Emperor Justinian, this monastery later took its name from St Catherine of Alexandria, whose remains are said to rest here. It’s more fortress than church, with thick stone walls guarding the Church of the Transfiguration, the chapel of the Burning Bush, and a monks-only library packed with ancient manuscripts. Inside, you’ll find mosaics, religious ornaments, and some of the oldest illuminated manuscripts in the world on display. Outside, don’t miss Moses’ Well and the garden with centuries of history. The place is open most mornings but closed on Fridays, Sundays, and Orthodox feast days. Still active today, the monastery holds importance across Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, and continues its Greek Orthodox traditions uninterrupted.

In Bispham, take a walk along the North Blackpool Pond Trail rich in bird life. One is guaranteed to see at least some of the bird residents of the area - these include ducks, geese, herons, and even elegant white swans. The pond trail is maintained by the effort of a dedicated volunteer group.