Visit Estes Park has announced the nominees for its inaugural VEP Tourism Awards, which will recognize individuals, businesses, and organizations that contribute to the community’s visitor economy.
The awards will debut at the 2026 Visit Estes Park Tourism Summit on Sept. 8 at the Holiday Inn. Winners will be announced during a ceremony at the summit.
Community members submitted nominations through an open process, and recipients were selected by an independent review committee, according to Visit Estes Park.
Nominees
Nick Mollé Tourism Legacy Award, recognizing creative storytelling that inspires connection to and protection of the natural world.
- John Berry
- Bruce Davies
- James H. Pickering, Ph.D.
Tourism Dream Team Award, recognizing a team that demonstrates collaboration while providing outstanding visitor experiences.
- Poppy’s & Mama Rose’s
- Rocky Mountain Channel
- The Taffy Shop
Visitor Champion Volunteer Award, honoring volunteers who go above and beyond to create welcoming and memorable experiences for visitors.
- Estes Park Police Department Auxiliary Unit
- Kate Arterburn
- Velina Davidson
Visitor Engagement & Place Steward Award, recognizing a business that provides exceptional visitor experiences while demonstrating a commitment to community stewardship.
- Creativity Cabin
- Egg of Estes
- Estes Park Mountain Shop
- Inkwell & Brew
2026 summit details
The 2026 Tourism Summit will take place from 8:30 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Sept. 8, at the Holiday Inn.
The event is open to the community and will bring together local businesses, community members, government and tourism leaders, and other partners to discuss the role tourism plays in Estes Park.
This year’s summit will examine the economic impact of visitation, recognize the people and businesses that contribute to Estes Park’s tourism industry, and look at future opportunities for destination stewardship.
Several area businesses and organizations have partnered with VEP to support the 2026 summit. Sponsors include Miles Partnership, Bank of Estes Park, Karsh Hagan Madden, the Estes Chamber of Commerce, Estes Chamber Foundation, Estes Chamber Economic Development & Workforce Council, Murphy’s Resort, Murphy’s River Lodge, and SnapSea.