Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and just a one hour drive from Boulder, the Seven Keys Lodge offers a unique experience for everyone. And for us, this historic lodge was more than just a place to stay; it was an experience we’ve talked about time and again. It’s a destination to itself.
A Unique Location
Estes Park is known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, and Seven Keys Lodge is perfectly situated to take full advantage of this natural wonderland. Whether you’re hiking through wildflower-laden meadows, enjoying the crisp mountain air, or marveling at the star-studded night sky, the lodge’s location ensures that every moment feels extraordinary.
And guests are expected to leave a piece of their own story in the Lodge, creating the perpetual sense of community across time.
The lodge’s history dates back to the mid-20th century when it was first opened as a mountain retreat. Over the years, guests have been invited to leave behind a symbolic “key” to commemorate their visit. These keys aren’t just physical objects; they’re tokens of stories, adventures, and memories that now adorn the walls of the lodge.
From old-fashioned skeleton keys to modern car keys, the collection has grown into a captivating tapestry of personal narratives. Each key tells a story: a couple’s honeymoon, a family’s annual reunion, or an adventurer’s first summit. Hanging a key at the lodge is more than a ritual; it’s a way of leaving a piece of your journey behind and becoming part of the lodge’s enduring history.
We left a key to an old apartment that was a key part of our early days together, before marriage and kids. That key was where we fell in love and now is part of the bigger book of stories that make the Seven Keys Lodge truly unique.
Our room looked out at spectacular views of the park. We looked out at the peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park and felt like we were camping – in our room.
The lodge’s common areas invite relaxation next to several fireplaces and inviting nooks. The atmosphere encourages camaraderie among visitors.
We took advantage of hiking nearby trails as well as sitting by the Lodge sipping coffee or wine and just taking in the views.
Staying at Seven Keys Lodge is more than just a getaway; it’s an invitation to become part of something bigger. We can’t wait to go back and are talking about what key we’ll leave next time – and why.
