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The Stanley Hotel is a stunning Colonial Revival-style hotel located in Estes Park, just outside Rocky Mountain National Park. The hotel, known as the most haunted hotel in Colorado and one of the most famously haunted hotels in the United States, draws countless visitors for both its historic charm and eerie reputation. After spending a single night there, Stephen King was inspired to write one of his most popular novels, The Shining, which was later turned into a film starring Jack Nicholson.
Over the years, the haunted Stanley Hotel has been featured on A&E’s Ghost Hunters, The Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventures, and other paranormal documentaries. Numerous guests and investigators have reported unexplained phenomena, including apparitions, footsteps, flickering lights, and voices. Some of the spirits believed to linger include former owners F.O. and Flora Stanley, mischievous children, and even phantom pets.
Located about 90 minutes from Denver, The Stanley Hotel sits on a scenic hilltop, offering mountain views and frequent wildlife sightings. The property includes 140 guest rooms, multiple restaurants and event spaces, a historic concert hall, and even an underground tunnel system. Continue reading to learn how to plan your visit to the haunted Stanley Hotel, join the hotel’s ghost tours, and read spooky stories, including my own.
History of the Haunted Stanley Hotel
The Estes Valley was once a remote area of open meadows and wilderness. In the late 1800s, it attracted hunters and settlers drawn by its rugged beauty and wildlife. In 1903, Freeman Oscar Stanley, the co-inventor of the steam-powered Stanley Steamer automobile, was diagnosed with tuberculosis. At the time, the dry mountain air of Colorado was believed to aid recovery. Following the advice of his doctor, Stanley left Maine and spent the summer in Estes Park.
Within weeks, Stanley’s health improved significantly, and by 1907, he had fully recovered. Captivated by the area’s natural beauty, Stanley and his wife Flora, began spending every summer in Estes Park. However, the couple, who were used to the luxuries of the East Coast, found the accommodations lacking. To attract other wealthy vacationers, they decided to build a world-class resort in the wilderness.
The Stanley Hotel opened in 1909 with 48 rooms, electric lighting, telephones, private bathrooms, and a fleet of steam-powered cars, all of which were remarkable features for the time. It elevated Estes Park’s status as a travel destination and played a pivotal role in the area’s development. By 1915, Rocky Mountain National Park was established, and two years later, Estes Park had its own power and water systems.
In 1926, The Stanley sold the hotel to a private company, which soon failed. After repurchasing the property, he sold it again in 1930 to Roe Emery, a transportation and tourism entrepreneur. Over the following decades, the hotel’s condition declined due to limited maintenance and seasonal closures. By the 1970s, it faced possible demolition.
That changed in 1974, when author Stephen King stayed at the Stanley during its off-season. The eerie atmosphere of the nearly empty hotel inspired his novel The Shining, which brought worldwide attention to the property. Though the film adaptation was not shot on-site, King’s story helped cement the haunted Stanley Hotel as a legendary destination for horror fans and paranormal enthusiasts.
Today, the haunted Stanley Hotel has been restored to reflect its early 20th-century grandeur. It features elegant decor and a lingering air of mystery that draws thousands of visitors each year.
The Stanley Hotel and “The Shining”
In 1974, horror author Stephen King was living in Boulder, Colorado, and struggling with writer’s block while working on a new novel. Unsatisfied with the setting of his current project, he was advised to take a break and visit The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park. He and his wife drove an hour north, arriving just as the hotel was preparing to close for the winter season.
That night, they were the only guests on the property. The Kings were served dinner alone in the grand dining room, accompanied by orchestral music that echoed through the empty hallways. By the time King went to bed, he knew he had a new story. He stayed in Room 217, now the most requested room at the hotel. That night, King had a vivid nightmare in which his young son was being chased through the corridors by a possessed firehose. When he awoke, he had the premise for The Shining.
Published in 1977, The Shining became one of King’s most successful novels. It was later made into the well-known Stanley Kubrick film by the same name; however, it was not filmed at The Stanley Hotel and was filmed almost entirely on set. Room 217 is featured in the story and is the hotel’s most requested room.
Scary Stories from the Stanley
Over the years, The Stanley has solidified its reputation as one of the most paranormally active hotels in the United States. Both employees and guests have reported a wide range of unexplained phenomena, everything from mysterious noises and voices to ghostly apparitions and figures captured in photographs. Below are some of the most well-documented hauntings associated with the haunted Stanley Hotel:
Room 217
In June 1911, a gas explosion brought attention to what is now the most infamous room at The Stanley, room 217. After a severe storm knocked out the power, staff turned to gas lamps for light. Elizabeth Wilson, the hotel’s head chambermaid, was sent to prepare the room. Unbeknownst to her, gas had been leaking into the space. When she entered with an open flame, a powerful explosion tore through the room, throwing her into the dining room below and destroying much of the hotel’s southwest wing.
Remarkably, Wilson survived. After her recovery, she returned to work at the Stanley Hotel and remained there until her death in the 1950s. Since then, Room 217 has been at the center of numerous unexplained incidents.
Guests and staff at the haunted Stanley Hotel have reported seeing a woman in an old-fashioned maid’s uniform near Room 217. One tour guide recalled the door to the room mysteriously opening and closing on its own during a group tour, despite the room being vacant. Others have claimed to return to their room to find their clothes mysteriously folded and put away. Some report the awakardly-located bathroom light turns on without explanation.
The 4th Floor
The fourth floor of the haunted Stanley Hotel is widely regarded as the most active area for paranormal encounters. In the hotel’s early years, wealthy families would spend their summers at The Stanley and often brought nannies to care for their children. It was a time when children were to be seen and not heard. While parents enjoyed the amenities, the nannies were typically housed on the fourth floor, and the children dined in a separate, windowless room.
Today, many guests report hearing unexplained sounds of children running, laughing, and playing in the halls, particularly at night. Yet when doors are opened to investigate, the hallway is empty.
Room 401
Room 401 at the Stanley is another frequently cited location for paranormal activity and was featured on the TV show Ghost Hunters, where it became a favorite among the crew. It is said to be haunted by a male ghost, Lord Dunraven, an Irish nobleman who never stayed at the Stanley but once owned the land it was built on. Some believe his spirit may be tied to the property.
Women have reported unsettling experiences in Room 401, particularly in the closet. Many describe hearing whispers and feeling their hair touched or being inappropriately grabbed, despite no one else being present. Men, on the other hand, often describe a more aggressive or territorial presence. Some have experienced personal items missing, including one man who claimed to see his wedding ring slide off the bathroom counter and fall into the sink drain without explanation.
Room 407
Room 407 at the haunted Stanley Hotel is said to be home to a gentler spirit. Guests frequently report a comforting presence, most notably, the sensation of being “tucked in” at night. One well-known account involves a mother and her young son. Throughout the night, the boy kept kicking off his blankets, only to find them repeatedly pulled back up. In the morning, he mentioned it to his mother, who was surprised, as she hadn’t woken during the night.
Other visitors to Room 407 have reported feeling someone sit on the edge of the bed. When they turn on the light, the room is empty, though an indentation is often visible on the bedsheets.
Room 428
Room 428 at The Stanley Hotel is known for strange noises that defy explanation. Guests have frequently reported the sound of footsteps and furniture being dragged across the floor from the room above. However, this is physically impossible; there’s no room above 428, only a sloped roof.
One of the more specific hauntings in this room involves a ghostly “cowboy.” While there’s no record of a cowboy dying at the hotel, many have stayed at the Stanley over the years. Women in particular have reported seeing the figure of a cowboy standing silently in the corner or pacing at the foot of the bed. Others have noted unexplained flickering lights or subtle movements within the room.
Underground Caves
Joining one of the haunted Stanley Hotel’s official tours offers a rare chance to explore its underground cave system. During the hotel’s early years, staff used these tunnels to move discreetly throughout the property, avoiding guest interaction.
Visitors to the tunnels often report feeling unexplained cool breezes and noticing the faint aroma of baked goods, despite no active kitchen nearby. Legend holds that the spirit of a former pastry chef still lingers here, along with the ghost of a cat seen wandering the lower levels.
My Experience at The Haunted Stanley Hotel
While on a road trip, I decided to book a stay at the haunted Stanley Hotel for my birthday. The Shining has long been one of my favorite films, and visiting the Stanley had been on my bucket list for years. My friend and I reserved a “spirited room” and requested Room 407. I was hoping for a fun, spooky experience, something memorable, but not too unsettling.
To my excitement, our room request was granted at check-in. While I didn’t experience the reported “tucking in” phenomenon, we did encounter a few strange occurrences. We began the evening with a cocktail at the bar, followed by dinner in the hotel restaurant. Afterward, we picked up a couple of bottled beers to take back to our room and spent some time relaxing before our scheduled ghost tour.
By 10 p.m., we had finished the drinks and placed the empty bottles into the metal trash can in the room. We then headed downstairs for the tour. After returning, we got ready for bed and quickly fell asleep, until we were jolted awake less than 30 minutes later by a loud crash.
The noise had clearly come from the trash can. It sounded as if someone had picked up the plastic liner containing the bottles and dropped it forcefully into the metal bin. While it’s possible a bottle shifted, the sound seemed far too loud and deliberate.
The rest of the night was uneasy. The room was warm, yet I repeatedly felt unexpected bursts of cold air pass by the side of the bed. There were no ceiling vents, no open windows, and the only air source, a portable A/C unit, was positioned across the room and pointed away from the bed. I struggled to fall back asleep, left wondering if something, or someone, had decided to make its presence known.
Things to Know Before You Go:
How to Get to the Haunted Stanley Hotel
The Stanley Hotel is located in Estes Park, Colorado, approximately 80 miles (129 km) northwest of Denver International Airport. Renting a car at the airport is the most practical and flexible option for reaching Estes Park and exploring the surrounding area. The drive from Denver typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The final 20 miles include a mountain ascent of nearly 3,000 feet (915 meters), offering scenic views along the way.
Driving is generally the quickest and most cost-effective method to reach the hotel; however, alternative transportation options include taxis, buses, and shuttles. Estes Park Shuttle operates daily trips from Denver International Airport and nearby towns, making it a convenient choice for day visitors. The shuttle ride takes roughly two hours, with a round-trip fare of $135 USD per person.
Public transportation is available but can be complex and time-consuming. From Denver, you can take a bus to Boulder or a regional rail to Lyons, then connect via taxi or shuttle to Estes Park. Taxi service from Denver to Estes Park is the most direct but also the most expensive option, averaging around $190 USD each way.
Ghost Tours and How to Visit The Stanley as a Non-Guest
Ghost Tours
Anyone can visit and explore the common areas of the haunted Stanley Hotel, but access to the underground caves and the hotel’s more “spirited” hallways is restricted to guided tours. While guest rooms are off-limits during tours, visitors will still have the chance to see the iconic door of Room 217.
The hotel offers three main tours: the Historic Stanley Day Tour, the Night Tour, and The Shining Tour. While all tours cover similar material, the Day Tour emphasizes the hotel’s history and is suitable for children. The Night Tour, by contrast, is recommended for those seeking a more intense and eerie experience.
Each walking tour lasts approximately 60 minutes and provides a thorough history of the hotel, alongside stories of reported ghost sightings and the locations where they occurred. Although paranormal encounters are never guaranteed, the hotel’s stunning architecture and engaging guides make the experience enjoyable for all visitors.
Tours tend to sell out quickly, so booking well in advance is highly recommended. Hotel guests must also purchase tickets ahead of time, as no additional tickets are held for walk-ins. Tickets can be purchased online, with current pricing as follows:
Night Tour: $25 per person / $23 per person for hotel guests
The Shining Tour: $30 per person
Historic Stanley Day Tour: $23 per person / $20 per person for hotel guests
Other Ways to Visit as a Non-Guest:
The Stanley Hotel frequently hosts public events that showcase its unique atmosphere. One event is Aiden Sinclair’s Underground, hidden beneath the hotel’s carriage house. It features performances by the hotel’s resident illusionist and apparitionist, Aiden Sinclair, as well as other magicians. Tickets for these shows can be purchased online.
Non-guests are welcome to visit the hotel’s restaurants and bars. The Whiskey Bar at Cascades offers an extensive cocktail menu with creative options like the signature Redrum Punch. For breakfast or brunch, Brunch & Co., located in the Lodge section of the property, provides a charming patio with scenic views and a well-curated menu.
While the hotel’s main restaurant, Cascades, offers dinner service, my personal experience was underwhelming. The food felt mediocre and was overpriced. For those staying at the haunted Stanley Hotel, I recommend dining off-site. Nearby Bird & Jim is a local favorite with quality dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
How to Book a Haunted Room at The Stanley
If you’re hoping to stay in one of the haunted Stanley Hotel’s famously active rooms, you’ll need to book a designated “spirited room.” These include Rooms 217, 401, 407, and 428, all of which have been the subject of frequent paranormal reports. Reservations can be made online or by phone. If you have a specific room in mind, you can include the request in the booking notes; however, room assignments are not guaranteed.
These rooms are in high demand, especially during peak season. For summer stays, booking at least a couple of months in advance is recommended. If you’re planning a visit in October or around Halloween, when interest in the haunted Stanley Hotel is at its highest, reserve at least six months ahead. Spirited rooms are priced at a premium. Rates typically average $500 USD per night, plus taxes.
Other Things to Do in Estes Park
Rocky Mountain National Park
No visit to Estes Park is complete without exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, located just minutes from The Stanley Hotel. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes, ranging from dense forests to alpine tundra, and offers visitors a wide variety of outdoor activities. A great way to see the park is by joining a tour.
One of the park’s main highlights is Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuously paved road in the United States. It climbs to an elevation of 12,183 ft (3,713 m), offering sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains and access to high-alpine ecosystems rarely seen from a vehicle.
Other popular activities include walking the scenic loop around Bear Lake, hiking to Alberta Falls, or, if you’re an experienced hiker, attempting the challenging summit of Longs Peak, the park’s tallest mountain at 14,259 ft (4,346 m).
For the best chance at spotting wildlife such as elk, moose, or bighorn sheep, consider joining a guided wildlife or photography tour. These tours often venture into the park during the early morning or evening hours when animals are most active.
Explore Downtown Estes Park
Downtown Estes Park is home to more than 300 shops, making it a great place to browse for souvenirs, gifts, and locally made goods. You’ll find everything from handcrafted art and jewelry to outdoor gear and specialty foods. The walkable downtown area also offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs, perfect for grabbing a meal or drink after a day of exploring nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.
Relax at Lakes Estes
Lake Estes is just down the road from The Stanley and is an excellent spot for kayaking or boating. The lake is relatively small, so you won’t need to worry about sharing the water with large boats, making it ideal for a peaceful paddle. The surrounding mountain views are stunning, and the area is rich with wildlife. We even spotted a herd of elk grazing right off the roadside.
Where to Stay Near the Stanley
If staying at The Stanley isn’t within your budget, there are plenty of other accommodations nearby. Estes Park can be expensive during peak season, but with early planning or by visiting during the off-season, you can often find more affordable options. Alternatively, you could stay in Boulder or Denver and make a day trip to The Stanley. Here are a few great places to consider:
Silver Moon Inn
Silver Moon Inn is an excellent mid-range option. The Inn is a charming, family-owned hotel nestled along the Fall River in Estes Park, just a short stroll from downtown shops and restaurants. It offers clean, well-appointed rooms, cozy fire pits with nightly s’mores, complimentary continental breakfast, and a peaceful riverside setting.
Hotel Estes
Hotel Estes is a locally owned, family-operated hotel just five minutes from The Stanley. The rooms are clean and feature cozy, rustic decor. Larger “family rooms” are available, making it a great option if you’re visiting with kids.
Aloft Downtown Denver
Aloft Downtown Denver is a modern, stylish hotel located in the heart of downtown Denver. Its central location makes it highly walkable, with the 16th Street Mall just a few blocks away. The hotel offers a sleek, urban design and is a great option for travelers looking for both comfort and convenience. Rates are often more affordable during the off-season.
Have you had a paranormal experience at the haunted Stanley Hotel? I’d love to hear about it. If you’ve enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Interested in other unique hotels? Check out the incredible Giraffe Manor.
Amazing! I enjoyed reading this and I didn’t know you could actually stay there
Thank you! Glad you liked it :)
I had no idea you could stay at the Shining’s Hotel! That’s SO creepy!!!! I would not have been able to sleep all night. I might opt for a night tour or just a day time visit instead :P
Yea, it definitely wasn’t a good night’s sleep but it was lots of fun.
This is the coolest travel post I’ve read. My family’s business is Halloween related so we grew up traveling to spooky destinations like ghost towns. This totally fits the bill! I would LOVE to visit the Stanley hotel. The Shining is one of my favorite movies (and books) as well!
Thanks so much! That’s so fun. What does your family do? I love Halloween…it’s my favorite time of year.
Great post! I would love to stay at the Stanley Hotel – I have only visited during the day. I actually lived and worked in a haunted hotel in New Zealand for a few months years ago, I never experienced anything but my brother and Dad both had experiences – my Dad was the General Manager and my brother was doing some gardening work for him.
How fun! I would love to hear about their experiences! I’ve had one other at a haunted hotel in Los Angeles.
This place not only looks awesome but I enjoy a good ghost story! Plus the shining is one of my favourite movies!
Glad you enjoyed it :)
I would love to visit the Stanley Hotel one day! Not sure if I could stay in one of the haunted rooms, but I think doing a tour would be so fun :) I have been to Colorado a number of times, but not to Estes Park so that is on my list still!
Wonderful article and description. Appreciate the helpful advice. Our daughter lives in Castle Rock so we venture to Denver often. I think I will try to stay there!
Thanks for reading! It was a fun night and the area is gorgeous!