The Estes Park Bank opened in 1908 and  was the first brick building contsructed in the town. It cost $,1,627 to build, including the cost of the vault. This was at a time when a bank employee earned about 75 cents a day. The photo is dated 1909.

The Manford Hotel also opened in 1908 and was located directly across the street from the Bank. It is seen here in a 1920 photo. Today the building contains various shops.

The Craigs Hotel opened on July 4, 1914, and was named for the rocky outcrops on the mountain side where it was built. It’s owner was Joe Mills who, along with his brother Enos, were largely responsible for the establishment of Rocky Mountain National Park. The hotel is seen here in a 1916 photo.

Once referred to as “the jewel of Estes Park,” the Stanley Hotel opened its doors in June 1909. It was originally painted a mustard yellow color. The picture shows the building just before completion in 1908. (See also the Hotel category for more info.)

Adjacent to Rocky Mountain National Park is the gateway community of Estes Park. It is accessed primarily from the east via Rt 36 and from the south by Rt. 7. The first picture shows a souvenir shop east of Estes Park. Note the sign on the store’s addition just above the car in the latter shot (click to enlarge).  The third photo shows the arrival of some early toursits from the southern route.

The first church in Estes Park is seen here in a ca. 1910 photo. The congregation moved in 1959 and the building converted to mercantile occpuants.

This vintage photo brings new meaning to the term “rush hour.”