The Hive at Estes Park Brewery

About

When you've worked up an appetite and thirst hiking the Rocky Mountain National Park, head to The Hive at Estes Park Brewery to refuel.

Our story dates back to 1993 when Gordon Knight founded High Country Brewery in Boulder, Colorado. That same year, Ed Grueff opened the Event Center in Estes Park. In 1994, the two joined forces to create the Estes Park Brewery.

At the start, the brewery operated with a small 4 1/4-barrel brewhouse and offered just four beers: Estes Park Porter, Estes Park Renegade, Longs Peak Raspberry Wheat, and Estes Park Pale Ale.

The brewery continued to grow, with Tyler Lemirande and Eric Bratrud taking ownership in 2003. By 2013, Tyler Lemirande became the sole owner, leading the brewery into a new era.

Part of that regrowth included rebranding and opening The Hive in 2025. The menu showcases creative handhelds, pizzas, appetizers, and entree specialties that pair with its beers and full bar offerings.

The Hive at Estes Park Brewery blends decades of brewing expertise with flavorful food, making it an Estes Park hotspot.

Vibe

The exterior's rustic, wooden facade blends with Colorado's natural beauty. It sets the tone for what lies ahead: a tasty meal and cold beverages.

Inside, the decor combines industrial touches with a cozy, laid-back feel. Exposed wooden beams, warm lighting, and a mix of high-top tables and booths create a space that feels both stylish and comfortable.

Dining options will suit a variety of preferences. Sit at the bar for a more social experience or choose the spacious dining room for a family-friendly vibe. Some spots offer views into the brewing area, connecting you visually with its delightful brews!

During the warmer months, the outdoor patio offers al fresco dining with stunning mountain views.

The ambiance is a perfect match for a Colorado vacation, offering a mix of comfort, style, and brew hall vibe.

The Hive at Estes Park Brewery: Menu & Drinks

The hearty appetizers could be combined to make a meal! From a crab-stuffed mushroom to the Brewmaster's Brat Sampler, the choices are unique and filling.

Speaking of the Brewmaster's Brat Sampler, this carnivore showcases three brats—elk, bison, and beer brat. It comes with homemade pickles, tangy mustard, and sweet fig jam.

After considering a starter, hop to the other dining options. The pizzas are baked in an oven, featuring Roman-style Pinsa crust and Bacio cheese. The Truffle Mushroom Pizza is a winner with truffle oil, mushrooms, creamy garlic Alfredo, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

For sandwich lovers, the Classic Reuben with fries is a hit. This handheld features corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on toasted rye.

The burgers are unique, mouth-watering, and juicy, and made with Brave Heart Black Angus beef. The Sasquatch is a massive burger with two patties, bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and stout BBQ sauce. All burgers come with fries and offer elk as a substitute for a modest upcharge.

After exploring River Walk Park, celebrate with one of the entrees in the Specialties menu section. Enjoy a twist on a comfort classic with the Brewmaster Mac & Cheese or the Brewmaster Lager Fish & Chips. Steaks rule at The Hive, with the Timberline Craft Filet showcasing an 8-oz filet mignon.

Toast your sightseeing at Estes Park Aerial Tramway and Lake Estes Trail with any of the craft beer offerings. The Longs Peak Raspberry Wheat is a refreshing option with a hint of fruitiness that pairs well with many dishes. The full bar ensures a craft cocktail is available for those who don't care for beer.

A visit to The Hive at Estes Park Brewery offers delicious food, handcrafted drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot on an Estes Park vacation.

Local Tips

Join the VIP Program for discounts and updates.
Check the schedule for live music nights.
Grab some beers in the carry-out section to enjoy back in your rental.
Book your special event or milestone celebration at The Hive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Estes Park?

Estes Park is located about 1½ hours northwest of Denver International Airport (DIA) and close to neighboring Front Range communities such as Loveland and Fort Collins. When driving to Estes Park from cities east of the Rockies, or if renting a car after flying into Denver, there are no major mountain passes to cross.

Where is Estes Park in relation to Rocky Mountain National Park?

Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) surrounds Estes Park on three sides. The main entrances to the park are approximately 10 minutes west of town.

What are the hours and costs for entering Rocky Mountain National Park?

As one of the most visited national parks in the country, RMNP has implemented various strategies to welcome over 4 million yearly visitors.

RMNP is open 24/7, year-round. A valid park entrance fee or park pass is required. Standard passes can range from $15 (individual/no vehicle) to $30 per vehicle for a day pass or $35 for a 7 day vehicle pass (covering up to 6 people)
Timed-Entry permit reservation system: In effect from mid to late May thru mid-October – requires timed entry permit plus a park pass or entry fee. More info on Timed Entry permits here: Timed Entry Rocky Mountain National Park

What are the most popular hiking trails around Estes Park?

When in Estes Park itself, be sure to visit the Lake Estes Trail to experience the town’s charm. This nearly 4 mile paved trail is accessible for all in your crew and offers stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park, including the Lumpy Ridge rock formations to the north. The Estes Park Visitors Center is also located along the Lake Estes Trail.

Within the Rocky Mountain National Park, there are over 300 hiking trails so you really can’t go wrong when heading out over the majestic landscape. There are hikes for all skill levels, so be sure to plan ahead. For example, some popular moderate hikes include Kruger Rock Trail, Emerald Lake Trail, Lake Haiyaha, Nymph Lake Trail, and Gem Lake Trail. Among harder hikes at RMNP: Sky Pond via the Glacier Gorge Trail, offering some of the best views in RMNP, Lion Gulch Trail (aka Homestead Meadows Trail), and Donner Pass & Lookout Mountain trail.

When is the busiest time in Estes Park?

Summer is definitely the busiest time in Estes Park and visitors will need reserved entry-times for visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. This tourist destination has plenty of outdoor activities for adventurers of all ages. The busy season in Estes Park continues into fall, through the leaves changing and wildlife emerging.

The slowest time in Estes Park is from about December through April, though this is a great time to visit the Rockies for a winter escape. Plus, the Rocky Mountain National Park is open all year!

What else makes Estes Park unique?

Don’t blink, you may just see elk roaming through your Estes Park vacation plans. That’s pretty unique! Also, in addition to serving as gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is home to the iconic Stanley Hotel that served as inspiration for Steven King’s “The Shining.” Curiously, the Stanley Hotel is now host to the annual “Frozen Dead Guy Days” festival.

For a unique shopping experience in Estes Park, head to Elkhorn Avenue. With over 200 shops, and lined with Victorian-era buildings, shopping along Elkhorn Avenue provides for a perfect full day of exploration. Don’t miss the rock shops, photo galleries, and a surprising amount of ice-cream, candy (including taffy) and chocolate shops. This pedestrian-friendly shopping area includes some intersections where people can cross every which way at a red light.