Estes Park was founded more than 100 years ago, and of course it was inhabited for thousands of years before then by the Ute and Arapaho Native American tribes. You don’t get that kind of history without a few tall tales building up along the way; legends and ghost stories retold through generations.

But myths are more than just tales. They are a part of living history, part of the fabric of a place passed from campfire to campfire, woven through the land in the invisible threads of our imagination. And by following those threads, we’ll not only have some fun, but we’ll also see a side to these Rocky Mountains that most people don’t even know exist.

This episode follows three different stories: the Earl of Dunraven, the legend of the blue mist and the story behind the keys at the Seven Keys Lodge, which historically was called the Baldpate Inn.

Two of these stories are told by Estes Park’s professional storyteller, Kurtis Kelly. Learn more about historic characters from Estes Park through Kurtis’ upcoming events or book a private show.

Learn more about the Earl of Dunraven here.

Learn more about the haunted sides of the Seven Keys Lodge and the blue mist here.

The Seven Keys Lodge opened their tasting room this past summer in their famous key room marveled about in this episode. Here you will find handcrafted cocktails and a variety of an ever-changing menu of food.

Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry.

Campfire Ghost Stories and a Haunted Lodge: On Location in Rocky Mountain National Park

Armchair Explorer

Campfire Ghost Stories and a Haunted Lodge: On Location in Rocky Mountain National Park