[WATCH] An Elk Goes On A Shopping Spree In Estes Park

Why Colorado Gift Shops Are Always a Must-Stop

Who doesn't love to take a look at a gift shop?

I don't know about you, but when I'm out traveling I always make a point to stop at some sort of store for a few souvenirs.

Whether it's a museum, concert venue, or just a cheesy tourist stop on the side of the road; if there's a gift shop you bet I'm going to be all over that.

It seems like one wild animal had a similar idea after making a trip out to Estes Park.

READ MORE: [WATCH] New Wolf Pups In Colorado Mountains

Get our free mobile app

Elk Spotted Inside Estes Park Gift Shop

Surprise Visitor Enters The Sweatshirt Center on Elkhorn Ave

On Friday, July 18th 2025 the staff at The Sweatshirt Center were visited by a very unique guest, an elk. Funnily enough, this store is actually located on Elkhorn Avenue.

Elk and Calf Seen Strolling Downtown Estes

Baby Elk and Mother Draw Attention of Tourists

Some witnesses reported seeing a baby elk and its mother walking through downtown that morning.

The adult elk just calmly walked into the store and appeared to look around. Tourists crowded the store for a few minutes as the creature checked out some of the items for sale.

Luckily neither the wild animal nor any humans were hurt in this short interaction.

READ MORE: Colorado's Moraine Park Campground Reopens July 9

This Isn’t the First Time an Elk Visited the Store

Estes Park Wildlife Encounters Are Surprisingly Common

According to reports, this isn't the first time an elk has stopped into the shop.

Due to Estes Park being an optimal spot for elk year round, it's not uncommon to find one of these guys hanging out around town.

Why Elk Love Estes Park

Natural Habitat & Safety Make It a Prime Location

This spot provides "a perfect year round grazing habitat and offers safety from predators for elk," which is why the population is so high in this part of Colorado, according to experts.

You can check out more photos in a report done by our partners at Denver 7 News down below.

Stay up to date with everything going on in Northern Colorado and beyond by downloading the free station app from your app store.

Also, do not forget to follow the station across all social media platforms for the latest news and entertainment updates.