17th Annual Elk Fest in Estes Park October 3-4

Have you ever heard the high-pitched bugle of an elk? Well now is your chance! For a fun, fall escape, head up to Estes Park this weekend to experience the 17th Annual Elk Fest, and hear the unique sounds up close and personal, as the peak of the elk rut is also taking place.

As if taking in the scenic beauty of Estes Park in autumn, as well as seeing hundreds of bugling elk isn't enough, the two-day festival is completely free, with activities for all ages. There will be dozens of vendors onsite featuring handmade elk jewelry, artwork, and distinctive elk cuisine. Plus, there will also be bugling contests, a beer garden, an archery range, educational seminars provided by wildlife experts, and arts and crafts for children. The Rocky Mountain Raptor Program will have a few of their magnificent, rescued birds present for visitors to view up close. Native Americans have a very strong connection to elk, or what they call "wapiti," and will also be celebrating at the festival with storytelling, dancing, and music. Enjoy live rock and bluegrass music on Saturday afternoon from Fort Collins locals, the Matt Skinner Band, and from Reintarnation on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Estes Park News invites festival-goers to stop by the Town Hall to watch their 20 minute video that shares the history of elk in Estes Park and how they adapt to each season. The video contains footage of Estes Park elk that has been included in worldwide programming for National Geographic and the BBC. Stick around afterwards with staff from Colorado Parks and Wildlife for a question and answer opportunity.

For a small fee, visitors are able to take part in a self-guided elk tour where they can explore these bugling beasts in their natural habitat. With the leaves changing colors to such beautiful golds and reds, there isn't a better time to be out in nature, witnessing such a unique show being put on by its inhabitants. However, don't get too close to the elk while you're watching, they can be dangerous and have been known to charge!

Below is a complete schedule of events:

Saturday, October 3rd:

9 a.m.: Rut Run 5K

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: Festival Open & Wallowing Hole Beer Garden Open

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.: Kids Corral

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Elk in Estes Park movie showing, located in Town Hall - adjacent to Elk Fest

12:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.: Matt Skinner Band

Sunday, October 4th:

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Festival Open & Wallowing Hole Beer Garden Open

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.: Kids Corral

11 a.m. - 3 p.m.: Elk in Estes Park movie showing, located in Town Hall - adjacent to Elk Fest

12:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.: Reintarnation Bluegrass