Wind, Water, and a Few Surprising Rainbows

Howdy neighbors. Buck Timber here, checking the weather, securing loose patio furniture, and once again being reminded that wind has a personality in Estes Park.

Last weekend brought calm skies, bright sunshine, and a downtown that felt lively and full. Then midweek arrived and the wind decided it wanted top billing. Strong gusts rolled through the valley, whipping up Mary’s Lake, bending trees, and creating one of those only in Estes Park combinations. Big wind, choppy water, and sudden rainbows stretching across the lake.

If you looked toward Mary’s Lake this week, you probably saw it. Waves breaking like a tiny inland ocean. Ducks riding them like they had been practicing all season. And yes, rainbows appearing right through the mist.

Which brings us to an unexpected local update:

Mary’s Lake Surf Club Expands Its Membership

The Mary’s Lake Surf Club was back in action this week as high winds turned the lake into a wave pool.

Mallards were spotted catching swells near the shoreline, popping up like they knew exactly what they were doing. Locals paused. Cameras came out. The ducks remained unimpressed.

New this week were the rainbows. As wind pushed spray into the air and clouds rolled through, several rainbows appeared right over the lake. Ducks surfing under rainbows might be the most Estes Park headline imaginable.

Buck’s note: No wetsuits required. Beanies optional. Membership remains duck only.

What makes Estes Park especially prone to strong winter winds?

If this week left your skin feeling like it spent too much time facing the wind, you are not imagining it.

Cold air, strong gusts, and low humidity pull moisture fast. Alpenglow Beauty was created with mountain living in mind. Clean, nourishing ingredients designed to help protect and restore skin after days like this.

From windburned cheeks to hands that forgot what lotion was, these products are made for Estes Park weather.

Because your skin deserves a little shelter too. Explore the collection at
AlpenglowBeauty.com especially the Whipped Tallow Balm

December has arrived in Estes Park. The lights are up, the wind is back, and the town calendar is full of holiday events worth stepping outside for.

From new holiday events and glow-filled nights, runs to cozy drinks, ugly sweaters, and community gatherings, here is what is coming up around town this week.

☕ Thirsty Thursday: Holiday Hot Chocolate Bar and Mulled Wine

The Barrel
📍 251 Moraine Ave, Estes Park
📅 Thursday, December 18, 2025
⏰ 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
💵 Free

The Barrel is leaning hard into winter comfort with a holiday hot chocolate bar and mulled wine available all day. Expect loads of toppings, festive pours, and a warm place to thaw out after battling the wind.

Buck’s note: Mo Pass claims hot chocolate counts as hydration if there are marshmallows involved. Science has not confirmed this.

🎄 Ugly Sweater and Ornament Exchange Party

American Legion Post 119
📍 850 N St. Vrain Ave, Estes Park
📅 Thursday, December 18, 2025
⏰ 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
💵 Free

Break out the sweater you swore you would never wear again. The American Legion is hosting an ugly sweater party with an ornament exchange, holiday music, drinks, and a white elephant style swap.

Christmas music, tasty food, festive drinks, and competitive sweater energy all encouraged.

❄️ Snowman Scavenger Hunt

Now through December 31

One of the most family friendly traditions in town is back. Pick up a Snowman Punch Card at any participating store or the Estes Park Visitor’s Center, then stroll through town searching for hidden snowmen in shop windows.

Once your card is complete, head to Simply Christmas, Nana’s Christmas Cottage, or The Christmas Shoppe to claim your free keepsake snowman ornament.

Festive. Free. And a great excuse to check out every storefront.

More info: visitestespark.com/events-calendar/holidays/snowman-scavenger-hunt

✨ Holiday Lights Driving Tour

Best viewed nightly from 5 to 9 p.m.

If the wind is winning the argument this week, the holiday lights driving tour is a solid alternative.

Highlights include:

• Downtown Estes Park around Bond Park, George Hix Riverside Plaza, and Elkhorn Avenue

• YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center

• Fall River corridor featuring Castle Mountain Lodge

• Lake Estes area and the Estes Park Resort, home of the Festival of Trees

An interactive Google Map helps guide the route, but honestly, following the glow works just fine.

Buck tip: Hot chocolate improves visibility. Probably.

Upcoming Christmas Eve Services

For those planning ahead for Christmas Eve or looking for quieter moments during Advent, here are several local options.

⛪ Christian Church of Estes Park

4655 US Highway 36

• Advent Sundays: Dec. 7, 14, and 21 at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Services: Dec. 24 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
  Nursery and Children’s Church available.

•  

⛪ Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies

1700 Brodie Ave

• Sunday Advent Services: Dec. 7, 14, and 21 at 10 a.m.

• Blue Christmas Service: Dec. 21 at 5 p.m.

• Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: Dec. 24 at 5 p.m.

This service is especially meaningful for anyone feeling the weight of the season.

⛪ Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church

920 Big Thompson Ave

Multiple Masses throughout December including Advent observances, Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrations, and Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services in both English and Spanish.

⛪ Summit Church

156 1st Street

Christmas Eve Service at 5 p.m.
Carols, cookies, and the Christmas story.

DID YOU KNOW? – December Edition

• Estes Park experienced school closures this week due solely to wind, something longtime locals say they don't recall has happened before.

• The Snowman Scavenger Hunt runs for more than a month so families can participate at their own pace.

• Bond Park’s holiday light displays are designed to be enjoyed on foot or by car, making them accessible even on the windiest nights.

Buck's Joke Of The Day

Why did the wind get detention in Estes Park? 

Because it would not stop making a scene. 

Mo Pass says that joke blew in without permission.

.

It's location along mountain passes and valleys that funnel fast-moving air downslope.