Estes Park Hotel Damaged in Friday Night Fire

One person injured in two-alarm blaze at Expedition Lodge

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A two-alarm fire broke out at the Expedition Lodge in Estes Park, Colorado on Friday night, causing damage to several rooms on both floors of the hotel. One person was injured in the incident and transported to the hospital, though the extent of their injuries is unclear. Guests staying in the damaged wing of the hotel were displaced overnight.

Why it matters

Hotel fires can pose a serious threat to public safety, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Estes Park that rely on their hospitality industry. This incident raises questions about fire safety protocols and emergency response procedures at the Expedition Lodge and other hotels in the region.

The details

The fire started a little after 8:30 p.m. on Friday at the Expedition Lodge, located at 1701 N. Lake Avenue in Estes Park. An emergency alert was issued at 8:56 p.m. ordering the evacuation of the hotel, which was lifted at 10:15 p.m. One person was injured in the fire and brought to the hospital, though the extent of their injuries is unknown. The Estes Valley Fire District chief reported that several rooms on both floors of the hotel were damaged, with two rooms sustaining heavy damage.

  • The fire started a little after 8:30 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2026.
  • An emergency alert was issued at 8:56 p.m. on February 28, 2026, ordering the evacuation of the hotel.
  • The evacuation was lifted at 10:15 p.m. on February 28, 2026.

The players

Estes Valley Fire District

The fire department that responded to and managed the incident at the Expedition Lodge.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of robust fire safety protocols and emergency response plans at hotels to protect guests and staff in the event of a fire. It also raises questions about the specific factors that may have contributed to the fire and the extent of the damage, which will likely be the focus of further investigation.