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Pikas in the Park statue

Estes Park Scavenger Hunt – Can You Find All the Pikas in the Park?

A scavenger hunt is a fun family activity and a great way to explore a new area. When in Downtown Estes Park, Colorado, I have a fun scavenger hunt for you. It’s called Pikas in the Park.

This free scavenger hunt has participants search for 12 bronze statues hidden around the downtown area. It is a fun way to explore the downtown area, learn a little history, and keep the kids entertained as we browsed the shops along Elkhorn Avenue.

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On your next visit to Estes Park, be sure to try this fun scavenger hunt and all the places you’ll discover along the way.

What’s a Pika?

A Pika is cute, furry animal related to the rabbit. They are usually about 6 inches long when full grown and they live in alpine regions above 8,200 feet.

Pika
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

I think they look a little like a really fat mouse or a cross between a hamster and a rabbit. If you go to Rocky Mountain National Park’s Alpine Visitor Center and hike up the Alpine Ridge Trail, also known as Huffer’s Hill”, you may get to see a real-life Pika along the rocks or alpine meadow.

Pikas in the Park Scavenger Hunt

Pika staute in Estes Park

Hidden throughout the downtown area are 12 bronze Pika statues. These are small sculptures commissioned by local artist, Mike Dwyer. Each statue is unique and after you find all 12 statues you can unlock a secret surprise from the Estes Park Visitors Center.

All 12 pikas - Pikas in the Park

How to Participate in The Pikas in the Park Scavenger Hunt

First, pick up a Pikas in the Park Activity Guide at the Estes Park Visitors Center or download the activity guide here. The guide will help you identify the general locations where you’ll find each pika statue and clues about its identity.

I’d recommend you start your scavenger hunt with Freelan who is in need of his caffeine fix.

Pika staute and KIND coffee

Freelan is located outside the KIND Coffee Shop. Here is the clue shown in the activity guide. As you can see, there is a fun fact and a clue to help you find him.

Pikas in the Park clue to find Freela

The highest concentration of pikas is located between Big Thompson River and the shops on Elkhorn Avenue. The walkway between the two along the rive is beautiful. I highly recommend you take the time to walk back there and stop to enjoy the river.

Pikas in the Park is a scavenger hunt in Estes Park, Colorado. Follow the clues to find 12 pika statutes and great local finds

If you didn’t get coffee at KIND, then stop at the local Inkwell & Brew bookstore and coffeeshop.

Inkwell and Brew

At Inkwell, you can grab a cup of java or tea, shop for stationary or journals, or head upstairs and play a game or two before heading back to search for more pikas.  Wherever you go, you’ll find a friendly face and something to make your day brighter.

You can also take your cup of coffee or tea and head across the way to Macdonald Book Shop. You won’t find any pikas inside the shop, but this independent bookstore is a historic treasure in Estes Park. It’s been owned by the same family for 4 generations. Check out their great selection of books from local authors, camp cooking, and guides on nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.

Downtown Estes Park

If you are looking for a sweet treat for the family while searching for Pikas, you’ll find a few salt water taffy shops and ice cream shops along Elkhorn Avenue. The taffy is delicious and the ice cream is always a hit!

Where to Collect Your Surprise

Once you find all 12 Pika statues, head back to the Visitor Center and get a special Pika Finder Button. If you don’t find them all, that’s okay too! We didn’t find them all but we had a great time exploring Estes Park together. You will too!

Pikas in the Park is a scavenger hunt in Estes Park, Colorado. Follow the clues to find 12 pika statutes and great local finds

Note on Parking in Downtown Estes Park

Estes Park Trolley

Parking in the downtown area can be challenged during peak travel season. So instead if hunting for a parking spot, park in the Estes Park Visitors Center parking structure or take the town’s shuttle service from your resort/hotel.

All resort shuttles stop at the Estes Park Visitors Center. From the Visitor Center you can walk to downtown or take the free trolley.

For more ideas on things to do in Estes Park, read more about our visit to Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park with Kids or see our picks for once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Colorado. SaveSave

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About Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is a travel and active family lifestyle blogger and social media influencer based out of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She shares stories, destinations, and ideas on food, family, health, and outdoor recreation to help families find their own adventures. Her spirit animal is a caffeinated squirrel fueled by coffee, real food, and the desire to seek new adventures.

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