The Elks of Estes

Estes Park is a little mountain town about 1-1 1/2 hours northwest of us. It has become quite the tourist attraction for many reasons. It is home to the Stanley Hotel, built in 1903 by the founder of the Stanley Steamer cars, F.O., Stanley. The hotel has become famous for being one of the most haunted hotels in America, as well as for being a beautiful and luxurious hotel from the bygone past.

Larry is posing with F.O. Stanley in front of the hotel.

Estes Park is also full of unique specialty shops that attract many tourists from the world over. But I think some of the main tourist attractions of the area are the magnificent mountain views, and of course, the many many elk that take over the town, especially during rooting season, which is now.

We were channeling the elks to come pay us a visit.

We took our guests up to Estes Park in hopes of seeing all of the above, and that we did, in abundance. Most of the elk we saw were hanging out at the golf course today, although some were a bit more shy, and preferred to be communing more with nature under the shade of the hilled trees just above. As beautiful and spectacular as the Stanley Hotel is, we were all far more excited about seeing the elk.

They were not phased in the slightest by the throngs of spectators watching them.

All of these beautiful does and calves were under the watchful protection of one HUGE big 12-point bull.

For the most part, he was watching from a safe distance, allowing them them to have their space. However, he got closer and closer, especially as soon as sensed a bit of danger, as well as a competitor in another bull. The other bull was much smaller, but he was younger. The big guy started getting a little testy and was actually getting a bit aggressive with some of the spectators. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but it was definitely a warning for us to stay back and to keep our distance, especially since the two bulls were staring each other down and we all sensed a fight was brewing.

Had it come to blows, I think the large bull would have easily won, but the smaller bull was still testing the waters a bit.

We definitely had a great elk show. Everyone was awed and amazed. We even heard the big bull bugling a few times. He was letting everyone know he was in charge and he was the boss. Who am I to argue? He certainly had a commanding presence.

Stay safe, especially when communing with nature and wild animals, and stay well Everyone. ‘Til next time.