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The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

From hiking in national parks to exploring charming towns, here's what to see and do on a road trip through Colorado.

To experience the best of the U.S. via the great open road, look to Colorado. This picturesque state straddling the Rocky Mountains is home to some of the most astounding stretches of highway in the country, connecting mountain resorts and artists' colonies to pioneer towns. In short, it's the perfect place for the ultimate road trip. With that in mind, we've devised a route that hits plenty of spots that make the Centennial State so special.

Our itinerary takes you through three spectacular national parks: Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, and Great Sand Dunes. While the last one doesn't require an admission fee, the first two do ($30 per car, including entry for all passengers, for one day or $35 per car for seven days of access). As of May 24, 2024, you must reserve a timed pass to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. If you're interested in purchasing an America the Beautiful annual pass, which gets you into all U.S. national parks and federal recreational lands, check each park's website below for more information about discounts for seniors, military members, and those with permanent disabilities.

Without further ado, here's our handy guide to everything you should do on a Colorado road trip.

iStockphoto / Getty Images

Colorado's capital and biggest city is inevitably where any road trip should start. Not only is Denver home to the state's largest and busiest airport, and therefore where most travelers arrive, it also acts as a gateway from the plains in the east into the Rocky Mountains. There's plenty to do here before you start your journey: Grab some green chiles at El Taco de Mexico, explore historic Larimer Square, go to one of the city's great museums — the Denver Art Museum and Denver Museum of Nature & Science are great places to start — and perhaps buy yourself a pair of cowboy boots. Whatever you do, make sure your last activity is getting in your car and driving northwest.

Denver's smaller, more free-spirited sibling Boulder is home to the University of Colorado's main campus, which means you can expect a whole lot of restaurants and businesses catering to college students. You'll also find some sublime hiking on and around the Flatirons , an iconic formation formed by dramatic, diagonally tilted slabs of rock.

Tanya Nikolic / Travel + Leisure

Your journey northwest continues to Estes Park, the first destination on this route wholly within the Rocky Mountains. This quaint town has become a popular tourist stop, due to its proximity to some of the region's best rock climbing and mountain trails. Estes Park is also considered the jumping-off point for much of Rocky Mountain National Park , where you can easily spend several days exploring backwoods trails, finding waterfalls, and spotting wildlife. This part of the itinerary is optional, but definitely encouraged if you have the time.

Trail Ridge Road

If you're road-tripping between May and October, you're in luck. The next portion of the route contains what is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in America: Trail Ridge Road , a switchback-saturated stretch of U.S. Highway 34 that crosses over the Continental Divide and is closed during the fall and winter. In the spring and summer, you can pass through some of the region's highest mountains. Witness the sun glinting off glaciers as you weave through dramatic passes and drive along impossibly blue ponds until you reach Grand Lake. Refuel, then it's onto the next oasis.

Glenwood Springs

The aptly named Glenwood Springs is the hot spring capital of the area, with huge natural hot springs bubbling up from the earth. It's just what you want to see after a long drive from Grand Lake, and a particularly scenic remedy for driving-related cramps. The town is located right where the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers meet, in a valley cradled by steep mountain faces.

Telluride and Ouray

Gallo Images / Getty Images

Drive a few hours from Glenwood Springs and you'll enter gold rush territory. Sure, you can try panning in the Uncompahgre or San Miguel Rivers — it's a good way to cool off, but maybe not to get rich — though the real draw in Telluride and Ouray is the history. These little mountain villages are chock-full of relics from the area's Wild West days, from museums like the Ouray Alchemist Pharmacy Museum to mining tours in Telluride. They're also both tucked away in furtive, but gorgeous, canyons. You can hit Telluride, which is larger, more bustling, and artsier (it's also home to the Telluride Film Festival ), or Ouray, which is smaller and more rustic. Either way, we're venturing south.

Mesa Verde National Park

Continuing south, you'll trade the gold rush era for more ancient times at Mesa Verde National Park . These lands in Montezuma County were once inhabited by the cliff-dwelling ancestors of the Pueblo people, who constructed homes out of the sandstone from the cliffs and mesas on which they were built. The result is extraordinarily dramatic and incredibly enlightening. While there are hundreds of these sites throughout the park, the most impressive is Cliff Palace, pictured above, which lies in the shadow of a magnificent rock arch. Check out its elaborate rooms and the decorative plasters, all of which have withstood erosion and time.

Michael Snell / Robert Harding World Imagery / Getty Images

Beginning our turn east, Durango is the first major town on the map after leaving Mesa Verde. It's a great place to stop and rest for a while, combining the laid-back charm of small-town America with a rich history rooted in its importance as a railroad hub. It has also served as the backdrop in many Hollywood Western films , and you can visit several shooting locations from "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid."

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Visuals Unlimited / Getty Images

Drive three hours down Route 160 and you'll arrive in a place that feels so otherworldly, you'll feel like you're on another planet. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve seems totally incongruous with the landscape around it, but that's what makes it so enticing — towering, ivory-colored dunes up to 750 feet tall are an echo of the nearby mountains. Camping here is the move, as the effect of the clear night sky over the dunes is a popular astronomical phenomenon that must be seen to be believed.

There's no better place in Colorado to witness the awe-inspiring force of water than Cañon City, so named for the steep cliffs carved by the Arkansas River. Whether you're looking for a gentle, comfortable sightseeing experience like the Royal Gorge Route Railroad or a more extreme method like rafting, you'll find it here, in addition to plenty of wineries and restaurants where you can luxuriate after feasting your eyes.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is the last stop on your vehicular journey, and it's a bit of a doozy. Not only is this the second-largest city in the state, it's also a stone's throw from two of Colorado's most impressive natural landmarks: Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods . The first can be easily ascended by car via Pikes Peak Highway, and the views from its 14,115-foot summit are truly magnificent — they actually inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write " America the Beautiful ." The second, Garden of the Gods, is a gorgeous public park that combines strikingly red rocks with lush forest scenery.

After indulging in your outdoor activity of choice, end your trip with green chiles at King's Chef Diner and bask in the success of a road trip well spent. If you're returning to Denver to fly home, it's just an hour's drive or so north to reach the airport.

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The Perfect Colorado Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for the best Colorado road trip itinerar y? We’ve got everything you need to know to plan the perfect road trip through Colorado!

Colorado is definitely one of the most beautiful states in the USA. Full of unique national parks, hot springs, forests, ski resorts, vibrant cities, and more, any Colorado itinerary is guaranteed to be full of beauty.

This article will outline an ideal Colorado road trip itinerary. With a scenic drive around the state, you can combine all the highlights of the state into one unforgettable adventure.

Go horseback riding through the majestic Colorado National Parks. Strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails at Colorado National Monument.

Go sand sledding in Great Sand Dunes National Park, or admire the ancient cliff palace in Mesa Verde. Tour Union Station in Denver , check out a former mining town turned ski resort in Breckenridge , or take a scenic drive along the famous Trail Ridge Road.

This Colorado road trip is packed with excitement. There are also suggestions for ways to modify your Colorado itinerary to suit your schedule.

Whether you have one week or one month, here is a Colorado road trip itinerary that will suit any type of traveler!

If you need more inspiration, check out our list of the best things to do in Colorado !

Table of Contents

How long is this Colorado road trip?

Colorado springs, great sand dunes national park, mesa verde national park, black canyon of the gunnison national park, grand junction, glenwood springs, hanging lake, breckenridge, estes park and rocky mountain national park, return to denver, if you have less time…, if you have more time….

This Colorado road trip itinerary covers about 1,000 miles of central and western Colorado.

You’ll drive along a loop that begins in Denver. From there, head south to Colorado Springs, home to the famous Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods.

From Colorado Springs, you’ll continue southwest, hitting the top national parks before traveling north up to Grand Junction.

After Grand Junction, start heading east again towards Glenwood Springs, Breckenridge, and finally up to Estes Park in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. Then head back towards Denver with a stop in Boulder on the way.

In total, the entire loop is about 18-20 hours of driving. You can break the Colorado itinerary up however you like. We’ve included a recommendation for how long to spend in each location, though of course this can be altered to fit your schedule.

We recommend downloading Google Maps to help you with your road trip. You can use the map live or download a road trip map offline if you need. You can save all your destinations with a pin and create a Colorado road trip map to follow on your journey.

With the time recommendations we’ve given, this Colorado road trip will probably take around 3 weeks. There are also some ideas for those who have less time or more time at the end of the road trip itinerary!

No matter how long you have, this Colorado road trip itinerary encompasses the absolute highlights of this incredible state. You’re sure to see some gorgeous sights and have epic adventures regardless of your time frame.

The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

If you’re coming from another state or country, begin your Colorado itinerary by flying into Denver International Airport.

You can rent a car right at Denver International Airport. Denver is a pretty car-friendly city, so you may want your rental car with you while exploring Denver before your road trip.

However, you also have the option of exploring downtown using public transport and then picking up a rental car in the city when you’re ready to leave for your Colorado road trip. Either way, Denver is the best place to rent a car and begin any Colorado road trips.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Recommended time here: 3 days

Start your epic Colorado road trip in Denver, the capital city of Colorado. Spending at least 3 days here if you have time is recommended, as there is so much to do!

Boasting a mile-high elevation, Denver offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and a climate that attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Also known as the Mile High City, Denver is the perfect gateway to the adventure and beauty of western Colorado.

Denver’s neighborhoods each have a distinct character, from the historic charm of Larimer Square to the trendy vibe of the RiNo Arts District, providing residents and visitors with a rich tapestry of experiences to explore.

The cultural scene in Denver is as diverse as its landscape, with a thriving arts community, numerous museums, and a bustling music and entertainment scene.

The city is home to the Denver Art Museum, showcasing a wide range of international and contemporary art, and the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, an iconic outdoor venue renowned for its acoustics and stunning natural setting.

Other highlights of the city include the Denver Botanic Gardens , the Downtown Aquarium, Union Station, the History Colorado Center, and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. There is a museum or a gallery that will entertain anyone, and the nightlife is thriving as well.

Denver is really a must-visit on any Colorado itinerary, as it is the heart and soul of the state. No matter how long you choose to stay in Denver, consider getting a City Pass to save money on select attractions. Whenever you’ve finished enjoying the Mile High City, grab your rental car and hit the road!

• Distance from Denver: 73 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour
• Recommended time here: 2 days

From Denver, you’ll head about an hour south to Colorado Springs . Nestled against the backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Springs is a city that seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban amenities.

Home to the iconic Pikes Peak, whose snow-capped summit graces the city’s skyline, Colorado Springs is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Tackle one of the many hiking trails, ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, go mountain biking, or just admire the view of the famous Pikes Peak mountain from down in the town center.

The Garden of the Gods, a mesmerizing red rock formation, also stands as a testament to the city’s geological wonders, offering hiking and rock climbing amidst stunning landscapes. If you only have time to see one attraction during your visit to Colorado Springs, The Garden of the Gods should be at the top of your list! It’s a must on any Colorado itinerary!

The city’s historic downtown, with its charming boutiques, galleries, and cafes, provides a welcoming atmosphere. The Olympic Training Center, another notable landmark, underscores Colorado Springs’ status as the home of the United States Olympic Committee.

Visitors can explore the rich aviation history at the National Museum of World War II Aviation or take a scenic drive along the Pikes Peak Highway for breathtaking views.

With a diverse range of cultural events, a strong sense of community, and proximity to outdoor adventures, Colorado Springs captures the essence of Colorado’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant spirit. From here, it’s time to continue the road trip by driving south to the magnificent Great Sand Dunes National Park.

• Distance from Colorado Springs: 154 miles
• Driving Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes

Great Sand Dunes National Park, located in southern Colorado, is a surreal and captivating landscape that stands in stark contrast to the traditional image of mountainous terrain often associated with the state. It’s one of Colorado’s most unique national parks!

Surrounded by the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, with some reaching heights of over 700 feet.

The juxtaposition of these towering dunes against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks creates a breathtaking panorama that lures visitors seeking a unique and visually striking natural experience.

Exploring Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a variety of activities, from sandboarding and sledding down the dunes to hiking through the diverse ecosystems that surround them.

The park encompasses not only the expansive dune fields but also grasslands, wetlands, and the scenic Medano Creek. Spring and early summer bring a natural phenomenon known as surge flow, where the creek surges and recedes rhythmically, creating a refreshing oasis amidst the arid landscape.

Stargazers also find the park appealing, as the absence of artificial light allows for unparalleled views of the night sky. If you’re thinking of camping at any point on your Colorado road trip itinerary, Great Sand Dunes National Park is an amazing place to do it!

Great Sand Dunes National Park is a testament to the diverse and awe-inspiring wonders that nature can sculpt, offering a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for those who venture into its sandy embrace.

Looking to try more US road trips? Check out our Utah Road Trip Guide !

• Distance from Great Sand Dunes National Park: 199 miles
• Driving Time: 3 hours and 45 minutes

From Great Sand Dunes National Park, continue driving through southern Colorado until you get to the southwest corner of the state. Here you’ll find Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unparalleled archaeological treasures.

Mesa Verde National Park is home to an extensive collection of well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, which date back over 700 years. The most famous among these is the cliff palace, a complex of interconnected rooms and dwellings built into the sheer sandstone cliffs.

Ancient structures like the cliff palace provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloan people, showcasing their architectural prowess and adaptability to the challenging terrain.

Beyond the cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde National Park offers a wealth of archaeological sites, including pit houses, kivas, and mesa-top villages, each contributing to the rich tapestry of human history in the region.

The park’s diverse landscapes, characterized by expansive mesas, deep canyons, and high plateaus, make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the network of trails that wind through the park, providing stunning panoramic views and access to archaeological sites.

Mesa Verde National Park allows travelers to admire the ancient civilizations and rich cultural heritage of the American Southwest. It’s a top destination to visit on any Colorado road trip itinerary!

• Distance from Mesa Verde National Park: 153 miles
• Driving Time: 3 hours
• Recommended time here: 1 day

From Mesa Verde National Park, continue the Colorado itinerary by heading north through western Colorado’s dramatic landscapes. Your next destination is the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, a unique natural landmark tucked away in the area’s rugged terrain.

The Black Canyon is a striking testament to the raw power of erosion and the geologic forces that shape our planet. The park encompasses a dramatic and narrow gorge carved by the Gunnison River over millions of years, creating one of the steepest and most awe-inspiring canyons in North America.

The dark, sheer cliffs that line the canyon walls plunge dramatically, with some sections so narrow that sunlight only briefly reaches the canyon floor during certain times of the day. The name “Black Canyon” is derived from the limited sunlight that penetrates the deep gorge, creating an atmosphere of mystery and allure.

Visitors to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park can marvel at the breathtaking vistas from several scenic overlooks along the rim, each offering a unique perspective of the canyon’s depth and intricacies.

Hiking trails wind along the rim, providing opportunities for exploration and panoramic views of the rugged landscape. For the more adventurous, the park offers challenging routes leading down into the canyon, where the serenity and magnitude of the rock walls become even more apparent.

If you have 1 day to spend here, you can simply marvel at the stunning views. But if you’re someone who loves hiking and adventure, it’s worth spending an extra day to conquer some of the incredible trails.

Black Canyon is not just a geological wonder but also a haven for wildlife, with golden eagles soaring overhead and mule deer traversing the steep hillsides, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts’s Colorado itinerary and those seeking the profound beauty of the natural world.

Read Next: Learn more about the best day trips from Colorado Springs !

• Distance from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: 71 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

The next stop on your Colorado road trip itinerary is Grand Junction, a picturesque city that serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Colorado Plateau.

Situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by red rock canyons, Grand Junction boasts a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and agricultural charm. The city is renowned for its vineyards and orchards, producing some of the state’s finest wines and fruits and making it a great place for wine tasting on your Colorado itinerary.

One of the top things to do in Grand Junction is visit the scenic Colorado National Monument. A red rock wonderland offering breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and opportunities for rock climbing, the Colorado National Monument is the best place to soak in the stunning canyons and expansive vistas of the Colorado Plateau.

Grand Junction’s charming downtown area is a vibrant hub featuring tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and a lively arts scene. Main Street is dotted with boutique shops, art galleries, and local eateries, creating a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. The city hosts various events throughout the year, including the renowned Colorado Mountain Winefest, celebrating the region’s viticulture.

With its proximity to outdoor wonders like the Colorado National Monument, Grand Junction provides a unique blend of recreational opportunities, cultural experiences, and a warm community spirit. These all help make it a top destination on any Colorado road trip.

• Distance from Grand Junction: 87 miles

Next on your Colorado road trip itinerary, you can start heading back east towards the Rocky Mountains until you get to Glenwood Springs. Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, this charming mountain town is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and rejuvenating hot springs.

The city is situated along the Colorado River, surrounded by lush valleys and towering peaks. Glenwood Springs gained fame in the late 19th century for its therapeutic hot springs.

Today, visitors can unwind in the historic Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the world’s largest naturally heated mineral springs pool, which has been soothing travelers for over a century. Stay right at the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort if you want to treat yourself to some luxury on your Colorado road trip!

In addition to its relaxing thermal waters, Glenwood Springs offers a myriad of recreational opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the scenic Glenwood Canyon, embark on whitewater rafting trips down the Colorado River, or go mountain biking through the surrounding mountains.

The charming downtown area boasts Victorian-era architecture, boutique shops, and a variety of dining options. The historic Glenwood Vaudeville Revue and the iconic Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park further contribute to the town’s appeal, making Glenwood Springs a perfect destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of relaxation and adventure in a picturesque mountain setting.

You could easily spend more than 3 days here, but there are still more destinations to visit on your Colorado road trip!

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Colorado Springs

• Distance from Glenwood Springs: 10 miles
• Driving Time: 13 minutes

From Glenwood Springs, it’s only about 13 minutes to Hanging Lake. You could visit the lake during your time in Glenwood Springs, but it’s on the way to your next destination so it could be more convenient to visit on your way out of the city.

Hanging Lake is a natural marvel renowned for its pristine turquoise waters and captivating setting. Accessible via a moderately strenuous hiking trail, the lake is cradled within a geologic amphitheater, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

What sets Hanging Lake apart is the delicate ecosystem that thrives in this high-altitude oasis, with waterfalls feeding the crystal-clear lake and travertine formations that cling to the cliffsides.

The journey to Hanging Lake is as rewarding as the destination, with the steep, rocky trail offering panoramic views of the Colorado River and Glenwood Canyon. The trailhead, located just off Interstate 70, has become a popular destination, and visitors are encouraged to make reservations to manage the impact on this fragile environment.

Recognizing the need for preservation, the U.S. Forest Service has implemented measures to protect the lake, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at the unique beauty of Hanging Lake while also appreciating the importance of responsible stewardship in maintaining this natural treasure.

After soaking in the beauty of this lovely spot, continue heading east through the Rocky Mountains! Before you take on the highlights of Rocky Mountain National Park, stop in Breckenridge to visit one of Colorado’s top ski resorts.

• Distance from Hanging Lake: 95 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Breckenridge , a picturesque mountain town nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, is renowned for its historic charm, world-class skiing, and vibrant cultural scene.

Originally a mining town during the Colorado Gold Rush, Breckenridge has preserved its 19th-century character, with well-preserved Victorian buildings lining Main Street.

The town’s charming downtown is a hub of activity, featuring boutique shops, art galleries, and a diverse array of restaurants and cafes. Visitors can stroll through the historic district, where the Blue River runs alongside the vibrant streets, creating a scenic backdrop for year-round festivals and events.

Breckenridge is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, drawing winter sports enthusiasts with its renowned ski resort. In the colder months, the Breckenridge Ski Resort offers world-class skiing and snowboarding across a vast expanse of slopes, while the summertime brings opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the surrounding trails and alpine meadows.

With a welcoming community, breathtaking mountain vistas, and a rich blend of history and recreation, Breckenridge has become a sought-after destination that seamlessly combines the best of the Colorado Rockies with the warmth of a mountain town.

Read More: Don’t miss this post on the best things to do in Breckenridge !

• Distance from Breckenridge: 130 miles
• Driving Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes

From Breckenridge, take a small detour north to visit Estes Park. Known as the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a charming mountain town that captures the essence of the Colorado Rockies.

Known for its stunning natural beauty and a gateway to one of the nation’s best national parks, Estes Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town is surrounded by majestic peaks, and the Big Thompson River meanders through the valley, providing a serene backdrop to the picturesque landscape.

Visitors can explore the quaint downtown area, featuring unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, creating a welcoming atmosphere that complements the town’s mountain ambiance.

Estes Park serves as a base camp for those venturing into Rocky Mountain National Park, offering access to a vast network of hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and scenic drives. This is the perfect place to base yourself for exploring the iconic park!

A must-visit is Bear Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by picturesque peaks. Bear Lake Trailhead offers access to several stunning hikes, including the famous Dream Lake and Emerald Lake trails.

Driving along Trail Ridge Road is another one of the top activities in Rocky Mountain National Park. One of the highest paved roads in the United States, Trail Ridge Road provides amazing views of the alpine tundra and a chance to spot elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife.

Or you can book a guided driving tour of Rocky Mountain National Park in a glass-top luxury van. This allows you to sit back and relax while your guide educates you about one of the nation’s greatest national parks.

You could easily spend a week in Estes Park and take countless day trips into Rocky Mountain National Park. But Trail Ridge Road, Dream Lake, Bear Lake, and any hiking trails should all be at the top of your list, and you can easily do all of these in just a few days.

Once you’ve finished exploring Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, head over to Boulder to start wrapping up your Colorado road trip!

• Distance from Rocky Mountain National Park: 40 miles

Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder is a vibrant and progressive city known for its stunning natural surroundings, active lifestyle, and thriving cultural scene.

Boulder’s iconic Flatirons, a series of striking rock formations, serve as a backdrop to the city and offer an array of recreational opportunities, including hiking, rock climbing, and photography.

The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its extensive network of bike paths, green spaces, and an eco-friendly ethos embraced by the community.

Home to the University of Colorado Boulder, the city exudes a youthful energy and intellectual vibrancy. Pearl Street Mall, a charming pedestrian street in the heart of downtown, is a focal point for shopping, dining, and street performances.

Boulder also boasts a diverse culinary scene, with a focus on locally sourced and organic ingredients. The city’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its numerous tech startups, research institutions, and a reputation as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, yogis, and wellness seekers.

With a backdrop of mountain scenery, a lively cultural calendar, and a commitment to a healthy and sustainable lifestyle, Boulder is a great stop on any Colorado road trip itinerary. And it’s only 30 minutes away from Denver, so it easily fits into a Colorado itinerary.

Check our list of the 30 best things to do in Boulder for more ideas.

• Distance from Boulder: 27 miles
• Driving Time: 30 minutes

From Boulder, head back to Denver and return your rental car. Your Colorado road trip is over!

There were so many amazing places included in this Colorado itinerary, from Great Sand Dunes National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park to the charm of cities like Colorado Springs and Boulder.

There is always more to see when you visit Colorado. If you didn’t get to see all the Colorado national parks and ski towns that you wanted on this Colorado road trip, you’ll just have to come back!

For more fun things to do in the area, try these day trips from Denver .

Hopefully this Colorado road trip guide has been helpful!

For those who are short on time, here are some modifications that may come in handy while planning your Colorado road trip.

First of all, you can cut down the amount of days you spend in each location. We recommended around 2-3 days in each place, but you could get away with 1 or 2 in most places.

The driving times in between destinations are only around 1-3 hours, so you won’t be sacrificing too much time on the road.

The longest drive is from Great Sand Dunes National Park over to Mesa Verde National Park, which is just under 4 hours. Mesa Verde is pretty far out of the way in southwestern Colorado.

To save time on your Colorado itinerary, you could skip this national park and just go straight from Great Sand Dunes National Park to Grand Junction in 4.5 hours.

Or you could skip Boulder on your way back to Denver if you’re not a big fan of exploring cities. If you’re not big into skiing or snowboarding, you could also cut out Breckenridge since the ski resort is the main attraction here.

So even if you only have a week or two for a Colorado road trip, there are ways to make it work!

Read next: 21 Best Places To Visit In Colorado

If you have more time to explore Colorado, there are so many amazing road trip options for you. First of all, you could easily just spend longer in each destination listed on this Colorado road trip!

Or you can add other cool destinations to your Colorado itinerary.

For example, you could stop in San Juan National Forest on your way to Mesa Verde. Visitors to the San Juan National Forest can explore a network of trails that wind through dense forests, traverse alpine meadows, and reveal stunning vistas of the rugged San Juan Mountains.

Or if you want more skiing and snowboarding in your Colorado itinerary, add more mountain towns to your road trip.

You can stop at Telluride Ski Resort on the way to Grand Junction, taking the Million Dollar Highway to get there. The Million Dollar Highway, a legendary stretch of U.S. Route 550 in Colorado, is renowned for breathtaking and sometimes hair-raising mountain views on the scenic drive.

Or stop in Aspen on the way from Glenwood Springs to Rocky Mountain National Park. Or spend more time exploring the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park, seeing destinations like Grand Lake and Adams Falls.

There are many different Colorado road trip routes you could take. The more time you have, the better! Have a great road trip.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Perfect Colorado Road Trip Itinerary: 22 Stops You Need to See

Posted on Published: June 21, 2023  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

The state of Colorado is a little bit magical. From the stunning Rocky Mountains, alpine lakes, adorable mountain towns and adventure around every corner, this state is unlike any other! Here’s an ultimate Colorado road trip guide that takes you to the top places to see and things to do in Colorado.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Colorado trip planning is no easy task – there’s so much to see and do – how do you even begin to start?!

Including all the best places to vacation in Colorado, this guide is perfect if you’re looking for a Colorado road trip. You can customize your trip based on the length of your vacation. Pick and choose from the activities and road trip stops below.

To see it all, you’d need a minimum of 3 weeks, which would be an amazing Colorado road trip! This Colorado itinerary starts and ends in cities, but let’s be honest – a visit to Colorado is meant to be explored outdoors! With some activities for winter and others for summer, spring and fall, this itinerary will work in any season.

Colorado road trip map

If you choose to do all 22 stops on this Colorado itinerary, here’s the best route to take. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you can join the loop at any point. 🙂

This Colorado road trip route starts in Boulder and ends in Denver. But if you’re flying into Colorado, it’s best to rent a car in Denver and then drive to Boulder to start your journey.

By the way, I recommend searching for a rental car with Discover Cars . It’s a free search tool that finds the best rate from all the major rental companies. I typically save 10-30% using Discover Cars !

Road trip Colorado: what to pack

Here are some road trip essentials you might want to take into consideration as you plan a trip to Colorado…

• Collapsible cooler. Perfect for traveling this cooler folds down and pops up when you need to keep food and beverages cold.
• Sunscreen and layers . No matter what time of year you visit Colorado, you’ll want to add or peel off layers as you adventure around these amazing destinations. And at this high of elevation, you’ll need sunscreen to protect your skin.
• GoPro. Take beautiful action photos and videos from your car, while hiking or sightseeing with a GoPro camera . It’s perfect for smooth videos, but also allows you to save your phone battery.
• Satellite communicator. Driving through the mountains and more remote parts of Colorado, you’ll run into a lot of the state that’s not within cell phone range. This satellite communicator allows for 2-way communication in the case of an emergency. Use it on a hiking trail, in a national park or road where there’s no cell phone service.
• Hiking gear. If you’re even thinking about stepping foot on a trail, come prepared! Proper hiking boots and moisture-wicking hiking socks , trekking poles and hiking backpack will go a long way in ensuring you’re comfortable while hiking and are adequately prepared.
• First aid kit. Keep it in your car or hiking backpack for just-in-case situations. You just never know!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Ultimate Colorado itinerary and road trip stops

Are you ready to see the best places to vacation in Colorado and an awesome route that takes you through the state? There’s truly so many things to see and do in Colorado!

Let’s dive in!

Start in Boulder, Colorado

Recommended time: 1 day

From Denver, hop in a car and head straight to Boulder – just 45 minutes away. Boulder is known as a food scene, the place to be for cold brews, and a gateway to the mountains, Boulder is a good time.

It’s got a cute and lively downtown that seems to be busy year-round, too!

Best things to do in Boulder

• Visit Pearl Street Mall. Watch street performers, shop cute boutique stores, grab some ice cream or people watch on one of the best downtown spots in all of Colorado.
• Do a tasting at a brewery or microbrewery. Boulder has more breweries per capita than any other city in the US, so you’ll likely find a good one. 🙂 Here’s some Boulder Breweries to check out.
• Hike or climb the Flatirons. A sight to see in real life, these giant tilted rock slabs are beyond impressive. The Mesa Trail is 13 miles and will take you past the best flatirons.
• Visit Eldorado Canyon State Park. View really cool landscapes and a great spot for a picnic, hike, climb, kayaking or paddle boarding. Note: check the official website for timed entry reservation days.
• Food! With over 300 restaurants, there’s plenty to choose from! We decided on tacos on a rooftop bar after a day exploring the area…perfection!

Speaking of food, the best road trips have great snacks! Check out the 101 Road Trip Food Ideas: Best Fun and Healthy Snacks You’ll Love

Estes Park (road trip Colorado: gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park)

Estes Park, Colorado is a fun mountain town best known for y ear-round outdoor activities. From snowshoeing to skiing, hiking and zip lining, Estes Park has something for everyone.

Since Estes Park is neighbors to Rocky Mountain National Park, the scenery is pretty incredible.

If you’e up for a thrill, head over to the the Stanley Hotel. It’s one of America’s most haunted hotels and was the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining . (I honestly wasn’t brave enough for this adventure during my time in Estes Park!)

Rocky Mountain National Park and Trail Ridge Road (a Colorado itinerary favorite)

Recommended time: 1-3 days

It’s the kind of place that takes your breath away. Rocky Mountain National Park is beautiful beyond measure , and a place that you could spend a week exploring without getting bored.

But since this is a Colorado road trip itinerary, let’s keep it to 1-3 days, okay?

From Estes Park to the next destination in Grand Lake, you’ll take Highway 34 right through the Park, also called Trail Ridge Road. And it’s got to be one of the most beautiful drives in the state!

So popular, that the National Park Service is now requiring timed entry reservations for a majority of the time the road is open (it’s closed during winter). This will take a bit more planning in advance, so be sure to factor this in with your Colorado trip planning.

Top things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park

• Hiking! There’s over 350 miles of hiking trails in the park – just pack your bear spray !
• Visit – or swim in – a gorgeous lake. Bear Lake, Adams Falls, or Sprague Lake are really beautiful.
• Witness the alpine tundra at the Alpine Visitor Center. We visited the park in late June and found many, many feet of snow still packed on the mountainside at the visitor center. While you’re there, make sure to hike the Alpine Ridge Trail to see the summit at 12,000 feet!

Pro tip: pack layers for Rocky Mountain National Park (my favorite travel pieces, merino wool , is perfect for this). Even if you’re just driving through for the day, at over 11,000 feet in elevation, getting out of your car is cold even in the hottest parts of summer.

Visit the quaint town of Grand Lake, during your Colorado road trip

Recommended time: 1-2 days

This picturesque town in Colorado is often overlooked by tourists – which is part of the appeal in my opinion! Grand Lake offers gorgeous lake and mountain views (it’s neighbors to Rocky Mountain National Park, after all) and is a quiet little village.

Walk the main street for little shops and restaurants. Or buy a souvenir to remember this amazing Colorado road trip adventure you’re on! Oh, and the ice cream shop in town is to die for so make sure you grab a cone while you’re there.

My favorite thing to do on Grand Lake is spend time on the water! Kayak the lakes and canals – it might just be the highlight of your trip!

Pro tip: rent kayaks, paddle boards, pedal boats or even motor boats in advance as they sell out quickly in such a small town. Grand Lake water rentals here.

Colorado road trip continued – Central Colorado

Ok, so this adventure has explored some fun parts of northern Colorado – if you choose to add them to your Colorado itinerary! More scenic spots ahead!

Hit the slopes in Keystone, CO

Get your skis or board ready to experience some of the best skiing in the country! If you love being on the snow, the Rocky Mountains in Colorado is the place to do it.

For the purposes of this article I chose Keystone, but there’s a ton of spots to ski right off I-70. Breckenridge, Aspen and Vail are popular ski resorts, too. Just make sure to rent equipment and make reservations well in advance during peak ski season.

My first (and only) snowboarding experience was in the Rocky Mountains, and I’d highly recommend it!

Beautiful Colorado road trip spot: Dillon Reservoir

Recommended time: 1/2 to 1 day

If you like water activities, Dillon Reservoir is the place to be. A huge lake with the perfect mountain backdrop, Dillon Lake is gorgeous.

Kayaking or boating, hiking or bike riding, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. I highly recommend renting bikes and riding the trails around the lake for a unique Colorado experience!

One of the coolest things to do in Dillon is hike the Sapphire Point Overlook Trail. It’s more of a walk than a hike, and offers beautiful views of the lake. Best time to go is the middle of a sunny day with the sun overhead for truly sapphire colored water.

Be sure to head out to one of the local breweries in town for some brews, pizza or burgers to wind down the day. Such an amazing stop during this road trip Colorado!

Year-round adventure in Frisco, Colorado

Head to Frisco for all things adventure in Colorado! Of course there’s skiing, but there’s also tubing, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, a dirt bike track, disc golfing, kayaking and hiking.

So basically, if you like being outdoors you’ll love Frisco! With plenty of options for accommodations and dining, this is a perfect one-day stop on an epic Colorado road trip.

Frisco is especially known as a winter destination for tubing and cross-country skiing in the winter. It’s the perfect stop for Colorado trip planning in the wintertime.

Experience Vail, Colorado

Vail, Colorado is the largest ski mountain in Colorado and it’s one of the bigger tourist spots on this list . Aside from mountain adventures, this town hosts lots of annual events and festivals, so there’s always something to do in Vail.

Vail is an excellent spot to enjoy a more luxurious side of Colorado. Find your zen at a yoga class or spa. Stay at one of the nicest resorts in all of Colorado, overlooking the gorgeous Rockies.

Head on over to Vail Village to experience for dining and shopping. Grab an ice cream cone at Sundae and walk the village.

Oh, and hit the slopes in over 5200 acres of terrain. If you’re into snowboarding or skiing, Vail is a great spot for it!

Sylvan Lake State Park (another favorite place to vacation in Colorado)

Okay, okay. This might be one of the most beautiful places in Colorado! I got the pleasure of spending a week exploring Sylvan Lake State Park a few years ago and honestly, I loved every minute of it.

If you’re looking for a more rustic vacation, try one of the cabins, yurts or campsites. Then rent kayaks or paddle boards on the lake and soak in the views!

Try the Sylvan Lake Trail or Sneve Gulch Trail for the best views of Sylvan Lake! Hiking through trails of Aspen trees is super fun, too. Just remember to pack your bear spray , hiking shoes and plenty of water.

Pro tip: if you’re planning to do any hiking in Colorado, be prepared with the right gear. These hiking shoes are my favorite and super grippy with ankle support. And trekking poles will definitely help you with those steep inclines, plus they’re compact too.

Perfect Colorado itinerary – heading west

As you transition from the jagged Rocky Mountains to the fun western part of the state, the landscape begins to change. With generally warmer weather, these destinations and activities will have you Colorado trip planning allll the places you can fit into your timeline!

Cross Hanging Lake off your bucket list

Recommended time: 1/2 day

I’ve already covered some beautiful places, and yet there’s more! Hanging Lake is one of the most uniquely gorgeous lakes in all of Colorado, and is extremely popular. Because of the beautiful lake’s allure, it’s accessible by permit only.

Schedule your hike weeks in advance during the summer months as it fills up fast. This trail is 2.4 miles round trip and it’s got a steep incline. You’re rewarded with a gorgeous view of this geologic gem! It’s so beautiful and such a unique experience, you’ll have fun crossing it off your Colorado bucket list .

Make reservations for Hanging Lake here .

Go hiking in Glenwood Canyon

Recommended time: 1/2 day to 1 day

The Glenwood Canyon area is one of my favorite spots in all of Colorado. Interstate 70 west of Denver runs along the Colorado River and both cut right through the canyon. And while the drive through the canyon is beautiful, seeing it while hiking is even better .

Best Glenwood Canyon hiking trails

• Glenwood Canyon Overlook Trail, 3.2 miles
• Glenwood Springs Boy Scout Trail, 6.2 miles
• Glenwood Canyon Trail, 14.3 miles
• Grizzly Creek Trail, 7.9 miles
• Wulfsohn Trail, 2.9 miles
• Jess Weaver Trail, 9 miles
• Doc Holiday Grave Trail, .7 miles
• Babbish Gulch, 3.2 miles
• Lookout Mountain Trail, 11 miles

Colorado itinerary continues: get hot in Glenwood Springs

The biggest thing that brings tourists to Glenwood Springs is the natural hot springs. Visit the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, which is the largest mineral hot springs in the world!

I’ve visited the hot springs in both winter and summer, and both seasons are fun. Make sure to get there early during summer and weekends, as the pool fills up quickly. Find out more about the Hot Springs Pool here .

While you’re in Glenwood Springs, make sure you check out the downtown historic district . It’s a great spot for street performers and to grab a bite to eat.

Speaking of which, I had the best tacos of my entire life at Slope and Hatch. They’ve received accolades from Travel & Leisure and Insider as one of the top taco places in the US. More on that here .

Colorado road trip with kids? Visit Fruita!

Recommended time: up to 1/2 day

The town of Fruita is relatively small, but for kids it’s an adventure land! One of the main attractions is Dinosaur Journey Museum.

It’s an interactive museum showcasing over 15,000 fossils, a dig site where kids can search for bones, visit a real paleontology lab, see robotic dinosaurs and more. My favorite is the Triceratops skull, which is possibly the largest ever found on earth.

Check out the Dinosaur Journey Museum’s Facebook page for the latest discoveries and event information.

Visit an icon: Colorado National Monument (must-do on this Colorado road trip itinerary)

By the time you drive to Colorado National Monument, Colorado, you’re no longer in the mountains – you’re in the desert! In fact, it’s one of the best stops on a Denver to Moab road trip as well!

Located near Grand Junction, on the western edge of the state, Colorado National Monument is the 2nd nationally protected on this list.

You could probably spend days exploring Colorado National Monument, but to see the highlights, make sure to take the scenic road – Rim Rock Drive . With 19 viewpoints in just 23 miles, it offers some of the best views in Colorado!

Other things to do Colorado National Monument

• Catch views of Monument Canyon
• Hike Devil’s Kitchen, 1.5 miles
• Window Rock
• Balanced Rock
• Independence Monument View
• Cold Shivers Point
• Hike the Canyon Rim Trail, 1.8 miles

Road trip Colorado – southern part of the state

While there’s simply too many good spots in Colorado to cover them all, here are the highlights of the southern part of the state. And the perfect way to loop back around to the starting point, with plenty of adventures along the way.

Let’s keep going!

Next Colorado road trip stop: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a huge park split up into 3 sections – South Rim, North Rim and East Portal. For the purposes of this Colorado itinerary, we’re going to focus on the South Rim section.

This national park is jaw-dropping beautiful, and to be honest, not for those afraid of heights! Many hiking trails and even the road is right beside steep drop offs, so use caution in this park.

One of my favorite parts of this park is the fact that it’s one of the least visited parks in Colorado. So it’s not packed with people, even during peak season! Making this park one of the best places to vacation in Colorado .

Top sights and things to do at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

• Take the 7-mile South Rim Drive
• Painted Wall Overlook
• Hike Rim Rock Nature Trail, 1 mile
• Devil’s Lookout
• Pulpit Rock Overlook
• Hike Oak Flat Loop Trail, 1.3 miles
• Stay until dark and stargaze – it’s an international dark sky park!

Pro tip: if you’re planning to visit all the national parks on this list, be sure to get an annual pass – America the Beautiful pass – through the National Park Service. It allows you access to all National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands for 12 months, which is a bargain if you plan to visit 3 or more.

I’ve used mine all across Colorado, but also while hiking Avalanche Lake Trail in Glacier National Park, while visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park and underrated national monuments like Petroglyph and Bandelier in New Mexico.

Drive the Million Dollar Highway: Ouray to Silverton

Recommended time: 1 hour

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in Colorado , this is it! Highway 550 from Ouray to Silverton is part of the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway and if you’re on the best Colorado road trip ever, this needs to be part of the journey!

You’ll experience hairpin turns, jagged cliffs, fun lookouts that will leave you breathless. And all in less than 25 miles of road!

Bonus if you take this road in the fall with the gorgeous changing leaves. It’s truly one of the best scenic drives in all of the U.S.!

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve (underrated stop on this Colorado itinerary)

Home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, this place is beyond impressive! And let me tell ya, if you have some adventure in you, this is a great stop for your Colorado road trip itinerary!

One of the best things to do at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is sand sledding and sand boarding! Specifically designed to help you fly down sand hills, make sure you rent the right gear! Here’s more info for renting sand sleds and such .

More adventurous things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park

• Go off-roading up the scenic Medano Pass Primitive Road (4-wheel drive necessary!)
• Camp with the best view of the stars!
• Hike to Zapata Falls, 0.9 miles

This is such an underrated stop on this Colorado road trip, but a fun adventure for all ages!

White water rafting down the Arkansas River

One of my first trips I took with girlfriends was a white-water rafting adventure trip in Colorado. The Arkansas River is powerful and impressive!

There are many great options for white-water rafting in Colorado . Perhaps one of the coolest spots is taking a trip down the Arkansas River under the Royal Gorge Bridge near Canon City, Colorado.

Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. Seeing it from underneath is a whole new perspective, too! More on the bridge, here .

Back to rafting…you can take a half or whole day rafting trip . Whole day trips include lunch and typically let you experience more views of the canyon, wildlife and of course the river.

Pro tip: most rafting companies only operate May 1st – September 30th, so make sure your trip is in this window if you’re wanting to raft down a river.

More on this Colorado road trip itinerary

The last stretch of this Colorado road trip is just as fun as the rest of it! With mountain views, city activities and a few more surprises, this beautiful is continuing to steal our hearts during this epic Colorado vacation!

Hang out with giraffes at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Ranked one of the top 10 zoos in the country , the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo does not disappoint! I’ve visited the zoo multiple times and the animal interactions are unique and fun. Feeding the giraffes is a must-do in this zoo!

The zoo is open year-round and has indoor and outdoor exhibits, perfect for even a winter Colorado road trip! Just a note though – there’s lots of hills so be prepared for a good walk when visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

You can enjoy as little as an hour visiting this zoo, or spend 1/2 day or more. It’s a fun spot for all ages on this road trip Colorado.

Visit Garden of the Gods (classic stop on this Colorado road trip itinerary)

No Colorado road trip is complete without a visit to Garden of the Gods near Colorado Springs ! You could spend a day (or more) hiking the trails and checking out the scenery, but for this Colorado itinerary let’s keep it to a day.

For a simple hike with tons of scenery, I’d recommend the Perkins Central Garden Trail. It’ relatively flat and is about 1.5 miles. The best way to see the park is though the walking trails so plan to spend some time here checking out the scenery.

If you have a bit more time, you can hike the Siamese Twins Garden of the Gods . This scenic trail has fun views of funky rock formations, and overlooks the park and Pikes Peak.

Bonus: Garden of the Gods is free!

Colorado Springs is one of the best places to visit in August , so if you happen to be planning your adventure in late summer, you’re going to love it!

Epic views at Pikes Peak (a Colorado itinerary must-see)

Nicknamed America’s Mountain, Pikes Peak is a must-do on a trip to Colorado. With an elevation of over 14,000 feet, if you choose to drive you’ll have quite the climb!

Many people take a car up to the view point and visitor center. If you’re maybe not quite comfortable ascending 8,000 feet up from Colorado Springs, you can opt to take a guided tour .

Oh, and expect the viewpoints to be crowded. Nearly 6 million people visit Pikes Peak each year. Starting your route early in the morning may help to beat the crowds!

Pro tip: pack your layers here. I visited in the middle of summer and wasn’t as prepared as I could have been. Learn from my mistake, okay?

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link .

Colorado road trip – Denver

Alright so no Colorado road trip itinerary is complete without some time in Denver. There’s about a million things to do in Denver, so it can be hard to choose what to do!

Each time I’ve vacationed in Denver, I made a visit to the 16th Street Mall in downtown. It’s the perfect spot for dining, bar-hopping, shopping and people watching. An outdoor pedestrian mall, 16th street is a mile long that offers a free shuttle, stopping at every block. So hop on and off as you please.

More things to do in Denver

• Denver Botanical Gardens
• Union Station
• Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
• Enjoy a brewery or microbrewery
• Art District on Santa Fe

As you finish your time in Denver, you can loop back up to Boulder, drive home or back to the airport to fly out. What an amazing adventure, right?!

Colorado itinerary: where will you go on your road trip?

Okay so now that you’ve seen all 22 Colorado road trip stops, which do you like best? I mean, with all the stuff to do in Colorado, you really can’t go wrong! I hope you have an amazing road trip with plenty of scenic drives too. 🙂

Comment below on which spots you think you’ll hit – I’m dying to know!

Don’t forget, if you’re planning to rent a car for this epic Colorado road trip, check out the cheap rates on Discover Cars . I typically save 10-30%, which can really add up! They search top car carriers to find the best deal, at no extra cost to you. Check rental car rates here

Related: Summer in Breckenridge: 30 Amazing Things to Do (Plus What to Know Before You Go) 26 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Dillon, CO Breckenridge Troll in Colorado: Everything You Need to Know Denver to Moab: 16 Scenic Stops You Gotta See to Believe 101 Road Trip Snack Ideas You’ll Love 15 Essentials to Pack on a Road Trip with Kids

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Sunday 25th of June 2023

I did a cross country national park road trip before the pandemic and Rocky Mountain National Park was one of my favorite parks (I made it to 22 of em' so it's saying something! :P ). I loved my time in Colorado and hope to go back again someday to visit!! Saving this for when I do!

Monday 26th of June 2023

Oh awesome Farra! Yes, RMNP is amazing. And wow what an adventure that sounded like. Hope you make it back soon!

Sunday 7th of August 2022

I have a trip coming up. 6 days to spend and a lot to cover. This list definitely helps. I have most of the spots from this list in my itinerary.

Tuesday 9th of August 2022

Oh I'm so glad to hear that Akash! I hope you have a fabulous time touring Colorado. It's such an incredible state.

Friday 23rd of July 2021

I'm going on a solo Road Trip to Colorado for 2 weeks in September. I'm so excited. Your article has given me a lot of places that I plan to hit now. I swim EVERY day, so I'm hoping to find places to swim each day of my trip. I hope that will not be hard to do. I'm an ice swimmer so if it's cold that's not an issue. Ha ha. I even plan to stay a night at The Stanley Hotel.

Sunday 25th of July 2021

Thanks so much for your comment - I'm so glad you found the post helpful! I love that you booked a night in the Stanley Hotel - such an iconic spot! I hope you have a wonderful time in Colorado!

Valerie Giacoma Wolenberg

Tuesday 22nd of June 2021

Planning a trip for August! Thanks for all the tips! Staying in Winter Park as our base.

Very cool, Valerie! You'll love Winter Park...and the rest of Colorado! Glad you found this post helpful :)

Wednesday 9th of December 2020

I've been pleased to learn about your journey with this blog post. I loved the photos that you have shared. And I am feeling fly to Colorado as soon as possible.

Friday 11th of December 2020

That's so great, Elisa. I hope you get to make it to Colorado soon :)

Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you

The Only 4-Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary You’ll Ever Need

• January 8, 2024
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on June 26, 2024 by foxintheforest

If you only have 4 days in Colorado, you’ll see quite a bit with this locally-curated Colorado road trip itinerary.

Believe me, there are so many different stops to make on a Colorado road trip, that it’s hard to boil it down to just 4 days. Like me, you could spend a lifetime here and still not see everything.

This 4 day Colorado road trip itinerary delivers you a taste of the different areas of Colorado without feeling too rushed. You’ll be in a new place each day so you can really get a flavor for the epic beauty the Centennial State has to offer.

There is a lot of ground to cover with just 4 days in Colorado so be prepared to drive and spot amazing scenery along the way.

I’ve lived in Colorado for over 13 years and I road trip in this state constantly – in the summer, I’m on the road every 4 days. Once a weekend warrior, I turned my passion for road-tripping Colorado into a full-time gig as a writer for the outdoor industry.

As a seasoned pro and local, it’s my mission to empower you to make the most of your 4 days in Colorado like a local, not a tourist.

I know all of the best Colorado road trip spots and you won’t find better advice about traveling in Colorado anywhere else on the web.

So here’s how to see the most of Colorado in just 4 days.

How to Use this Colorado Road Trip Itinerary Guide

This 4-day Colorado road trip itinerary brings you a taste of the highlights. Are there other amazingly beautiful place in Colorado to explore ?

Sure, but this 4-day itinerary is designed to give you a taste of the unique landscapes of Colorado and maximize your time exploring this amazing state. This itinerary includes:

• How to make the most of 4 days in Colorado
• 2 of the best national parks in Colorado
• Incredibly Instagrammable views
• Delicious eats
• Colorado hot springs
• 2 of the most scenic drives in Colorado
• Quick tips to make the most of your Colorado road trip
• Ideas for additional amazing Colorado road trip stops if you have more time

When is the Best Time to Go on a Colorado Road Trip?

The Rocky Mountains of Colorado typically have snow from October through June. Although it’s a pretty time to visit, it’s also a dangerous time to hike due to avalanche hazards and many of the scenic drives close down for the season. Therefore, the best time to go on a Colorado road trip is from July through early September.

Colorado Road Trip Map

Although this route has ample driving, you’ll see plenty of amazing scenery along the way. This diverse itinerary spans many exceptional landscapes on your 4-day itinerary in Colorado.

Day One: Denver to Estes Park

Since you’ve only got 4 days to explore Colorado, pick up your vehicle and drive straight to Estes Park – one of the most beautiful Colorado mountain towns . Make sure to drink plenty of water and take things slow to get properly acclimated to the altitude.

Keep in mind the Denver International Airport (DIA) is pretty far from…well…anything. If you’re arriving late, consider spending the night in Denver, and prepare for an early morning to make the most of Estes Park , Colorado.

Things to do : Catch a sunset at Sprauge Lake or the Many Parks Curve Overlook in Rocky Mountain National Park, spot wildlife in Estes Park , take a short hike at Lumpy Ridge, relax and grab a drink at the Stanley Hotel (the inspiration for The Shining – some say this place is haunted if you’re looking for spooky vibes).

Drive time: 1 hr 40 mins

Where to Stay: Camp at a campground near Estes Park, find dispersed camping along Highway 34, stay in Estes Park (generally quite pricey during the high season), or stay in nearby Lyons, Colorado (cheaper, great AirBnBs).

Where to eat: Smokin’ Daves BBQ and Brew (mid-range brewhouse), Scratch Deli and Bakery (breakfast, lunch, coffee), Burgers and Gyros on Moraine (cheap lunch or dinner), Notchtop Bakery and Cafe (excellent breakfast or brunch).

Day Two: One Day in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rise and shine before the sun to make the most of your time on this 4 day Colorado itinerary.

As one of the most beautiful national parks in the US , Rocky Mountain National Park gets crowded year-round, but if you’re willing to get up before dawn, you can savor a few moments of solitude in the park.

Today you’ll go for a hike at one of the many amazing hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, then continue onwards along Trail Ridge Road – one of the most scenic drives near Denver – to the west end of the park.

Local Tip: Trail Ridge Road is not maintained in the winter. Always be sure to check that the road is open before heading out. You can still hike, but you’ll have to drive around the west end of the park to get to Glenwood Springs if the road is closed.

Things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park : Sunrise at either Bear Lake (no walking) or continue onwards to Dream Lake and Emerald Lake (3.2 miles RT). Hikers looking for a challenge should check out Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge – a classic Colorado lake hike , or the Loch Lake Trail.

Drive time: Approximately 3 hr 30 min to Glenwood Springs with stops.

Where to eat: Pack snacks and grab a late lunch at Grand Lake. Check out Cy’s Deli or Sagebrush BBQ and Grill.

Heads Up: You’ll need a timed entry permi t to enter Rocky Mountain National Park during certain times, so plan in advance!

Local Tip: Got extra time? You’ll find plenty to do with 3 days in and around Rocky Mountain National Park.

Local Tip: If you’re planning on visiting more than 3 national parks in a year, snag the America the Beautiful Parks Pass to get into RMNP for free.

Glenwood Springs Overnight with Hot Springs

After a day in Rocky Mountain National Park, head to Glenwood Springs and relax with a soak in the Iron Mountain Hot Springs.

If you’ve got some spare time and energy, snag a permit to hike to Hanging Lake (book at least 4 months in advance), one of Colorado’s most beautiful hikes.

Things to do : Hike to Hanging Lake (near Glenwood Springs, advanced permit and paid parking or bus ride required), soak in the Glenwood Springs hot springs or ride the scenic Gondola to the top of the Canyon.

Where to eat: Sweet Coloradough (delicious donuts), Native Son Restaurant and Bar (tapas and great drinks), Slope & Hatch (delicious street tacos).

Where to Stay: The Hotel Glenwood Springs (pricey but convenient), two rest areas just east of town (free camping, budget option. Bathrooms are clean and it is very safe), Hanging Lake Inn (budget hotel).

  Local Tip: Hanging Lake has been experiencing temporary closures due to trail maintenance from the 2021 landslides (yup, even in 2024). Always check on the permit website for the most accurate and up-to-date info!

Day 3: Black Canyon of the Gunnison

In the morning, make the 2.5-hour drive to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Touted as the “Grand Canyon of the Rockies” this beautiful canyon plunges 2,722-feet down and is only 40 feet across at its narrowest section. It’s a must-see stop on any Colorado road trip.

Dr i ve Time: 2.5 hours to the more developed south rim, or 2 hours to the more remote north rim.

Things to do : Snap photos along the 12 scenic overlooks on the Rim Drive (Chasm and Sunset view are spectacular), hike to the bottom of the canyon (difficult, 5 hours, obtain a permit on arrival), go fishing, go to a ranger program and learn about the area (the night program is amazing), go for a scenic boat ride or white water raft, rock climb in the canyon (intermediate level), check out the historic town of Cimarron and see what life was like in 1882.

Where to eat: Crash Burger (casual, tasty burger joint), Colorado Boy Pizzeria, Guru’s Nepalese Restaurant (tasty Nepali food), Mimo’s (breakfast burritos, a Colorado breakfast staple).

Where to Stay: Reserve a camp spot at the East Portal Campground or stay in nearby Montrose. Stay at the Canyon Creek Bed and Breakfast (highly rated, but pricier), The Country Lodge (mid-range), or one of the many standard hotel chains.

Local Tip : With extra time on your Colorado road trip you can explore nearby Crested Butte (a charming mountain town famous for mountian biking) or the jaw-dropping San Juan Mountains.

Day 4: Explore Breweries in Denver

It’s time to head back to Denver today. If you’re short on time, make your way directly to DIA (keep in mind traffic is poor in the city around rush hour, and it’s an average of 45 minutes to the airport from Denver) or stop by one of Denver’s most amazing local breweries for a delicious beer and some food.

Dr i ve Time: 4 hrs and 45 minutes to downtown Denver. 5 hours and 20 minutes to Denver International Airport

Things to do : There’s a wide array of things to do in Denver , but if you’re short on time check out Red Rocks Amphitheater in nearby Morrison (you’ll pass it on the way to the city), grab a drink at a local brewery, visit the Denver Botanical Gardens, or wander around the RiNo District or Union Station area.

Where to eat: Lowdown Brewery (tasty pizza and beer), The Great Divide Brewery (a Colorado classic), The Post Brewing Co (the best fried chicken and soul food).

Local Tip: If you’re coming home on a Sunday and you’re traveling along I-70 the traffic is extremely bad from 11 am until 5 pm every weekend. Be sure to plan accordingly!

Bonus: Colorado Springs and the Garden of the Gods

After enjoying all the big city excitement of Denver during your Colorado road trip itinerary, you could head south to Pikes Peak. It’s a gorgeous mountain that is accessible via car, or hiking trail, and that sits right near the Garden of the Gods.

Just under an hour and a half from Denver, the Garden of the Gods is home to a series of quirky red rock formations that can be enjoyed via easy-to-navigate hiking trails. Just use I-15 to get here and hop on the Ridge Loop Trail which is a great way to get an overview of the park.

In total, there are over 15 miles of trails here that include everything from easy walks to intense climbs. This is also one of the best free things to do in Colorado since the former owner, Charles Perkins, gifted the land to the public.

Local Tip: Try to spend 2-3 days in Colorado Springs to fully enjoy all that the area has to offer. I would also avoid visiting Garden of the Gods in the summer since it is packed with people.

Additionally, golden hour is the best time for photos since the red rocks contrast beautifully against the sky.

Bonus: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Not sure where to go after you visit Colorado Springs during your Colorado road trip itinerary? If so then take a 2.5- hour ride along I-25 and US-160 to Great Sand Dunes National Park.

After all, this incredible natural oasis sits at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America.

During your visit, enjoy fun activities like sand boarding, sand sledding, hiking, camping, and picnicking. Stargazing is also popular given the park’s remote location and dark skies. Plus, don’t worry about packing your own gear since many local outfitters will rent you all the gear and sleds that you need.

During your visit, you’ll want to stay in nearby Alamosa. It is just 35 miles away from the park and offers a wide array of budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodations.

Now, to visit all the major park highlights and to have ample time to hike around the dunefield to High Dune, Hidden Dune, and Star Dune, plan to spend around two or three days here.

Local Tip: This park is best visited in early fall when temperatures are pleasant and when the crowds at Medano Creek are long gone.

Colorado Road Trip Quick Tips

Visiting Colorado in just 4 days is a tall order. There’s a lot to see and do. For the best trip, travel like a Colorado local. When you’re planning a Colorado road trip, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind to make your experience better. Here are a few handy local tips:

Mountian traffic is a real problem year-round . Build in extra time when you’re traveling on Interstate 70 (coming back from the Gunnison).

Colorado locals drive quickly and pass on the left . Please don’t drive in the left lane unless you’re looking to pass.

Fire bans are common in Colorado. If you plan on camping in Colorado , check the latest fire ban regulations for where you’re traveling.

Colorado is a naturally beautiful place, be sure to do your part and practice Leave No Trace. Pack out your trash (this includes fruit peels, wrappers, used toilet paper while hiking, and dog poop).

The airport is rather far from Denver (40 minutes at least), book in some extra time for travel.

The weather is often unpredictable and wild in Colorado , especially in the summer be prepared with a proper Colorado road trip packing list.

Weed is legal and can be found virtually everywhere in Colorado, but it still illegal to smoke in public and smoke and drive. Respect weed laws.

Spend One Week in Colorado

If you can swing it, it’s worth it to spend a few more days visiting Colorado. The ideal amount of time for a road trip in Colorado would be one week.

This way, you can get into the mountains even further. Explore a few of the most unbelievable places in the Rockies that just isn’t feasible with only 4 days.

Although this itinerary covers some amazing places, if you’ve got extra time, check out these awesome Colorado getaway destinations .

Additional Stops for 4 Days in Colorado

Create your own amazing 4 day Colorado road trip itinerary by swapping or adding these fantastic spots.

Ouray in the San Juan Mountains

Known as the “Alps of America.” This place is an excellent addition to your Colorado road trip. Head here to explore some beautiful alpine lake hikes such as the famous Ice Lake . Or enjoy incredible camping, go ATVing and check out the town of Telluride. There are plenty of things to do in Ouray and around, especially if you’re into challenging hikes and off-road driving.

The Million Dollar Highway Scenic Byway in the San Juan Mountains. Easily one of Colorado’s most scenic drives . Extend your trip or swap the San Juans for Black Canyon of the Gunnison. (Note that drives times will increase drastically).

Crested Butte

Famous for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town, and mountain biking spending the day here after Gunnison would be a great way to add a day to your trip.

Carbondale and Aspen

Peep the famous Maroon Bells or embark on the Four Passes Loop – one of the most beautiful backpacking routes in Colorado. Accessible from Glenwood Springs and can be swapped for the Black Canyon on a 4 day Colorado road trip.

B uena Vista, Leadville, and Salida

A famous weekend getaway from Denver, these towns are the gateway to the Sawatch Range. Home to some of Colorado’s easiest 14er hikes – mountains that rise over 14,000 feet above sea level.

Other activities include rafting, mountain biking, fishing, and camping. Great place to stop after coming back from the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

Grand Junction, Fruita, and Colorado National Monument

Stop here during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall, summers are sweltering) for epic desert scenery. You might just think your in Moab! 1 hour and 30 minutes from Glenwood Springs.

Breckenridge, Frisco, and Dillon

There are plenty of things to do in Breckenridge from stand up paddle boarding to amazingly scenic hikes in Breckenridge. Another great stopover coming back to Denver via I-70 if you have an extra day.

An easy, 40-minute day trip from Denver where you can embark on one of the Boulder hiking trails to see the famous Flatirons up close. Or browse the shops at Pearl Street.

Colorado Springs

Made famous by the stunning Garden of the Gods, Pike’s Peak, and the Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs is another awesome stop. Done either for a night or as a day trip from Denver, there’s lots to see.

If you’re looking to splurge, consider staying at the famous Broadmoor Resort. Ideally add Coloraod Springs to your itinerary on the return from Leadville to skip I-70 traffic.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Experience the largest sand dunes in the Americas at the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Seeing the monumental dunes with the Sangre de Cristo peaks towering in the background is quite a site. As the only dog-friendly national park in Colorado, it’s fun for fido too!

Add this leg to the trip after the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

Other Colorado Trip Ideas

Planning a big trip to colorado? Here are some local resources to help you plan:

• Best Free Camping Near Denver
• 29 of the Best Day Hikes Near Denver
• The Most Amazing Fall Hikes in Colorado

Enjoy your Colorado road trip with this iconic 4-day itinerary. Travel like a local with this insider’s itinerary.

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. She's been widely-published in the outdoors and even appeared on National TV talking about how to level up your outdoor skills and discover hidden hikes in the American West.

7 Days in Colorado – Ultimate One Week Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Raymond Cua

Posted on Last updated: March 9, 2024

Looking to do a Colorado road trip? In this travel guide, we’ll show you how to spend 7 days in Colorado with this itinerary.

With over 300 days of sunshine, Colorado is definitely a year-round destination known for its nature, city life, food scene and lots of hot springs.

Colorado Fun Fact : Colorado is called the Centennial State because it became a state in 1876, the 100th anniversary of the United States independence.

To experience all that Colorado has to offer, a road trip is a must!

And that’s exactly what we did on our one week trip to Colorado. We visited Denver, Estes Park, Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, Snowmass, Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs.

Based on our epic Colorado road trip, here’s an ultimate travel guide with a very detailed entire itinerary for 7 days in Colorado including over 40 best things to do, places to eat and stay!

Love road trips? Check out this 4 Day Road Trip in Kerala, India !

Planning A 7 Day Road Trip to Colorado

Things you should know about colorado.

Spring (March 20- June 21) : Average temperature during the day will be anywhere from 13-24 °C (55-75 °F). During the night expect anywhere between -1 to 10 °C (30-50 °F)

Summer (June 21 – September 22) : Average temperature during the day will be anywhere from 21-35 °C (70-95 °F). During the night expect anywhere between 4-15 °C (40-60 °F).

Colorado has the highest mean altitude in the USA with a mean elevation of 6,800 feet above sea level.

For example, Winter Park has elevations above 9,121′ ft. (2,780 m).

Many of Colorado’s mountain towns are at elevations above 8,000 ft. (2,438 m).

Altitude sickness is very common from the abrupt change in weather, very dry air or dehydration. You have to prepare for it.

Climatize yourself before the trip so your system is not shocked with the altitude change.

Always stay hydrated! Signs of dehydration are dizziness, headache, disorientation, fever, all of which will be heightened by altitude.

It’s encouraged to begin your hydration a couple of days prior to departure.

Always drink more water than you think you need. Our Colorado road trip went thru various elevations so we made sure there were water bottles available on the bus.

The standard tip in Colorado is 15-20%.

For any organized or guided activities, be prepared to tip anywhere from $10-$15 per person, depending on the activity (customary is 10-20%).

Smoke-Free Zones

Be sure to ask where smoking is permitted .

There are many attractions and destinations in Colorado that are Smoke-Free Zones, including many towns that don’t allow any smoking next to entryways.

Similarly, smoking is prohibited in National Parks and National Forests due to fires that can start in an instant which may cause a forest fire.

Drinking Age

The drinking age in Colorado is 21 years old .

Since most, if not all, restaurants or bars will ask for proof of age, be sure to bring an Identification Card or Passport.

WiFi and Cell Signal

Plan for having no WiFi or Cell Signal .

Depending on where you are in Colorado, WiFi and Cellular Services may not always be available.

Especially when going on a Colorado road trip, there will be times with very limited or no cell or Wi-Fi services due to mountainous terrain.

Be sure to do everything you need to do online when it’s available and before hitting the road.

Wi-Fi might only work in locations with known WiFi or hotspot connections like the cities/towns, hotels, restaurants, Welcome Centers, etc.

What To Pack For Your 7 Days in Colorado

Layers of clothing and a light jacket

Given the weather changes, doing layers and a light jacket is more recommended than a heavy jacket (unless it’s winter).

Throughout the week long Colorado road trip, you might experience very hot to very cold extremes.

Even on hot days, temperatures get chilly after sunset, especially at high elevations.

Comfortable walking/hiking shoes

Since Colorado is a very outdoorsy and nature-heavy State, even if you’re not hiking, you will be walking.

Reusable water bottle

You always need to be hydrated in Colorado to avoid altitude sickness so having a refillable water bottle like Swell is recommended.

You can refill the bottle with tap water because it is clean and perfectly safe to consume in Colorado.

Colorado can be quite hot especially at high altitudes.

It’s recommended to always wear and reapply sunscreen throughout the day, especially during activities.

One of the best things to do in Colorado is visiting the many Hot Springs found all around the State.

You’ll definitely want your swimsuit ready for this, or if you simply want to soak in the hotel’s hot tub or swimming pool.

Sunglasses and Hat

More protection from the heat, and you’ll definitely want to protect your eyes.

Colorado is a very casual state. Denim is acceptable attire nearly everywhere.

When going on nature hikes, you’ll want to have bug spray handy.

Also Read: Best Things To Do in Daytona Beach, Florida Outdoors

7 Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary: 40+ Things To Do, Places To Eat and Stay

This ultimate road trip guide has you covered on how to spend a week in Colorado!

Before you begin this road trip, be sure to learn these fun and cool facts about Colorado . You’ll be sure to wow your road trip buddies about your knowledge!

Let’s get started.

Colorado Day 1 Road Trip Itinerary: Denver

Day 1 of your 7 Days in Colorado road trip starts in Denver.

From Denver International Airport, drive about 40 minutes to Denver.

With about 700K in population in the city proper, Denver is called the Mile High City because it is exactly one mile above sea level at 5280 feet or 1609.3 meters.

Did you know? Denver’s Colfax Avenue is the longest street in the USA!

For beer aficionados, there are more than 150 craft breweries in Denver to try!

Denver has been named the #1 Microbrew Beer City in the USA by Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler.

Don’t expect much late-night scene as most establishes closes at 11pm.

But they make it up with their outdoors scene. People wake up early to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

NOTE : As of Feb 2024, Avelina has closed its doors, but we’ve kept the write-up so you can read the experience or skip the section.

Once in Denver, first order of business is lunch/brunch at Avelina.

Located in Denver’s LoDo (Lower Downtown), Avelina specializes on seasonal New American cuisine offering dinner, lunch and weekend brunch, along with a happy hour.

Brunch is served Saturdays 11am-3pm and Sundays 10am-2:30pm.

Green Chili (Chile Verde) is a staple in Colorado restaurants.

The one at Avelina is more like a pulled pork style than a stew.

The restaurant has an open kitchen concept, a relaxed dining room, a bar and an open patio.

Address : 1550 17th St, Denver, Colorado 80202

Denver Union Station

Opened first in 1881, rebuilt in 1914 and then renovated in time for 2014, Union Station is a major landmark and attraction.

One of the best things to do in Denver, the Union Station is the gathering place for both locals and tourists.

Union Station has big public spaces and local restaurants, including Mercantile Dining & Provision from a James Beard Award winning Chef, bars and cafes, and one of newest hotels in the city, The Crawford.

Website / Address : 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, Colorado 80211

Ultimate Urban Denver City Tour with eTuk Denver

One of the best Denver city tours is the Urban Denver City Tour with eTuk Denver for a behind-the-scenes and historical look at the Mile High City.

What makes it unique is you go around the city in a tuk tuk (yes, the one known in Thailand).

Looking for a tour where you drive a MINI Cooper? Read my experience on the MINI Routes Tour in Montego Bay, Jamaic a !

Did you know? The tuk tuk is 100% electric and built locally in Denver by eTuk USA!

From the pick-up point, you’ll be exploring Denver’s local hot spots and hidden gems.

This tour is a great way to visit Denver’s top sites for photo-ops.

You’ll be stopping in front of the Colorado State Capitol.

You’ll be checking out the most iconic sculpture in Denver, the “I See What You Mean” sculpture, or commonly called as the Big Blue Bear.

Made with blue clay, the Big Blue Bear is looking inside the Colorado Convention Center.

Did you know? In Denver, big buildings are required a public art installation that costs 1% of the cost of the building.

The Brown Palace Hotel is known for having famous people stay in including The Beatles and all the US presidents except Obama and Trump.

Other highlights of our tour include:

• Golden Triangle, the Main Museum area and one of Denver’s largest Creative Districts
• Poets Row where all buildings are named after poets
• Larimer Square, Denver’s Most Historic Block with 300 Alley cat sculptures

Our last stop was at RiNo Neighborhood and Graffiti Murals. Known for breweries and street art, RiNo (River North) is the most expensive part Denver because that’s where most of the young people are.

My favourite mural is this one made by Chad Bolsinger for The Crush Walls 2018.

I love the intricate details and vivid colors! He even incorporated the water drain pipe at the bottom left as part of the mural.

Website / Address : Multiple Locations

Work & Class Restaurant

You must have dinner at Work & Class, one of the best restaurants in Denver.

This no-frills restaurant in Denver’s River North (RiNo) neighborhood is driven by the motto, “a square meal, a stiff drink, and a fair price.”

Travelling Foodie Tip: To find the restaurant, look for this eye-catching sculpture.

Work & Class Restaurant changes their menu seasonally so the menu and prices may have changed since my visit, but this should give you an idea on what they are like.

For cocktail lovers, try their unique barrel-aged cocktails.

And at Work & Class, ewe definitely must try their Coriander Roasted Colorado Lamb.

Tender and flavour slices of lamb!

Other favorites include the blue corn empanada, rosemary red wine sausage, Wisonsic cheddar mac and cheese.

For dessert, get the warm chocolate brownie!

Website / Address : 2500 Larimer St, Denver, Colorado 80205

Le Meridien Denver Downtown

Stay the night at Le Meridien Denver Downtown, conveniently located within walking distance of many of Denver’s top attractions.

On the lobby of Le Meridien Denver Downtown, there’s a restaurant (Corinne Restaurant), a cafe/bar (The Lobbyist) and a tapas eatery (AC Kithcne).

I stayed at the King Guest Bedroom with floor-to-ceiling windows and city views.

The stylish rooms have free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers.

Check for prices and availability of Le Meridien Denver Downtown on Booking.com / Agoda

I highly recommend checking out the rooftop cocktail bar, 54thirty, with mountain views.

Next morning, have breakfast at Corinne Restaurant before heading to Estes Park. Be sure to check their website for most up-to-date menu and prices since what’s here are during my visit.

Website / Address : 1475 California St, Denver, Colorado 80202

Also Read: Eastwood Richmonde Hotel in Manila, Philippines

Colorado Day 2 Road Trip Itinerary: Denver to Estes Park

Day 2 of your 7 Days in Colorado is at Estes Park, which is 1.5 hours drive direct from Denver.

However, we are making a detour to Red Rocks Park, extending the drive by 30 minutes.

With an elevation of 7,500 feet, Estes Park is a town that got its name from its first permanent residents, Kentuckian Joel Estes and his wife Patsy.

Did you know? The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park is the inspiration to Stephen King’s 1977 bestseller The Shining’s Overlook Hotel. In fact, the popular author and his wife spent a night there.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

One of the best things to do in Colorado for music and nature lovers is the Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre!

This world-famous outdoor venue is the only naturally-occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheater in the world with frequent star-studded concerts.

Check out the Visitor Center which features the Colorado Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame, interactive educational displays, a short film on the geologic and musical history of Red Rocks.

Colorado is aptly named “Colored Red” because of the red sandstone rocks and soil throughout the state.

This is evident when you visit Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre.

Website / Address : 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, Colorado 80465

Also Read: Best Nature Attractions in Washington State

Seasoned – An American Bistro

When you arrive at Estes Park, head for brunch at Seasoned – An American Bistro.

One of the best restaurants in Estes Park, Seasoned specializes in seasonal menu featuring food cultures of the Americas and seasonally grown products.

Note: Check their website for days and hours and for the most up-to-date menu and prices since they are a seasonal bistro. In case they only serve dinner and Sunday brunch, you can come here for dinner and do lunch at the dinner place on the itinerary.

One of the other reasons for the name Seasoned is because Owner and Chef Rob Corey is a seasoned chef who has worked under fourteen Michelin stars.

It’s no wonder you’ll find most dishes here are homemade from scratch including their pasta dishes.

Be sure to also add a side of braised bacon and thank me later.

Website / Address : 205 Park Ln, Estes Park, Colorado 80517

Outside Seasoned – An American Bistro, walk around Bond Park which is surrounded by beautiful mountain backdrop.

If you’re looking for things to do in Estes Park, you’re covered at Bond Park, located at the center of the town.

This open space is known to have events year-round from the town’s famous Elk Fest to regularly scheduled art markets, which we got to see on our trip.

Website / Address : 170 MacGregor Ave, Estes Park, Colorado 80517

Rocky Mountain National Park

With over 4.5 million annual visitors in 2018, Rocky Mountain National Park is definitely one of the best things to do in Colorado.

In fact, it is the 3rd most visited National Park in the USA.

Did you know? The elevation changes within the park is very wide, ranging from 7,600 feet to 14,259 feet. Be sure to prepare accordingly!

Though the park itself is open all day and night, the Visitors Center has hours that you can check on its website.

Part of the Rocky Mountains is in Canada in both British Columbia and Alberta provinces. Check out these 8 Best Attractions in the Canadian Rockies !

One of the most popular spots in Rocky Mountain National Park is the Rainbow Curve Overlook which doesn’t require any hiking.

Travelling Foodie Tip: The best season to visit Rocky Mountain National Park is in Fall because of the Elk Rut, when elks would come down from higher elevation to lower elevation.

The most popular times and seasons are summer and fall during 10am-3pm so you have to plan on arriving very early or at night. In Fall, it is recommended to visit outside Friday-Sunday.

Website / Address : Fall River Rd, Estes Park, Colorado 80517 Price: 1-Day Pass ($30 for Automobile)

Ed’s Cantina & Grill

Have dinner at Eds Cantina & Grill, a locally owned, sustainable cafe serving up traditional Mexican food and drinks.

Try the Bison Enchiladas which is a good fusion of both Colorado meat and Mexican food.

The most unique cocktail I had on the trip was this Avocado Cocktail which tastes like an avocado smoothie but with alcohol.

Be sure to check their website for most up-to-date menu and prices since what’s here are during my visit.

Website / Address : 390 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, Colorado 80517

Also Read: Festival Gourmet International in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

The Ridgeline Hotel

Stay the night at The Ridgeline Hotel, a boutique hotel located minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park.

A great way to unwind is by hanging at the hotel’s Bonefire Pit with some coffee or marshmallows to roast.

You can also enjoy the Indoor Heated Pool, Indoor Whirlpool/Hot Tub, Game Room, Pool Table and Shuffleboard.

The next morning, have your breakfast at Latitude 105 inside the hotel before heading to Steamboat Springs.

Their burrito is the biggest breakfast burrito I’ve ever had.

And, of course, it has Pork Green Chili!

Check for prices and availability of The Ridgeline Hotel on Booking.com / Agoda

Website / Address : 101 S St Vrain Ave, Estes Park, Colorado 80517

Colorado Day 3 Road Trip Itinerary: Estes Park to Steamboat Springs

Day 3 of your 7 Day Road Trip in Colorado is at Steamboat Springs, a small foodie town with over 100 restaurants!

This itinerary has a 4.5-hour drive from Estes Park to Steamboat Springs.

Did you know? The town is called Steamboat because the fur trappers thought the sounds that the springs were making was that of a steamboat.

At an elevation of 6,700 feet, this popular Ski Town has produced the most winter Olympians in North America.

Also Read: Ski Bromont, Alpine Ski Resort in the Eastern Townships, Quebec

Scratch Deli & Bakery

Due to the long drive, take-out food to have for lunch on the road after breakfast.

We had our take-out at Scratch Deli & Bakery, aptly named for serving fresh & scratch-made breakfast and lunch.

If you love meat, get the Pastrami which is homemade and well-marbled.

Website / Address : 911 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, Colorado 80517

Saint Catherine’s Chapel on the Rock

One of the most unique and beautiful chapels, Saint Catherine’s Chapel on the Rock is a Historic Landmark in Camp St. Malo known for its picturesque setting with the Rocky Mountains as backdrop.

Built-in 1930s and donated to the Archdiocese of Denver, Camp St. Malo’s Chapel on the Rock has survived through the 2011 fire and the 2013 flood.

Did you know? You can get have weddings / blessings of marriages at St. Catherine of Siena Chapel.

Website / Address : 10758 CO-7, Allenspark, Colorado 80510

Loveland Pass – Continental Divide

Head to Loveland Pass, the highest mountain pass in Colorado at an elevation of 11,990 feet, located on the Continental Divide.

Be sure to prepare for high altitude and for very cold weather here.

Address : Loveland Pass, Colorado 80435

Aurum Food & Wine

Have dinner at one of the best restaurants in Steamboat Springs, Aurum Food & Wine, nestled along the Yampa River.

Opened in 2014, this historic watershed turned restaurant serves seasonal American cuisine in an elegant setting with a bar, dining room and outdoor patio.

This was my favourite meal throughout the trip!

Love the variety, the seasonality and the perfect execution of the dishes. Be sure to check their website for most up-to-date menu and prices since what’s here are during my visit.

Must-try dishes at Aurum Food & Wine are the Grilled Bison Skewers, Steak Tartare & Bone Marrow and Jumbo Lump Crab Cake.

Asian fusion can be seen with the tender Pork Ribs with Korean gochujang sauce.

An interesting yet delicious item to try!

For cocktail lovers, be sure to try the Smoked Orange Old Fashioned.

You’ll really taste the smoked orange flavour.

Website / Address : 811 Yampa St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado 80487

Steamboat Grand

Stay the night at The Steamboat Grand, one of the best hotels in Steamboat Springs, ranked #2 by US News & World Report.

For skiers, this luxury hotel is situated near ski areas.

I stayed at the Parlor Room which was my favourite accommodation during the trip.

It felt like living in a one-bedroom apartment.

It has a huge living room space and a small dining area.

It even has a kitchen complete with fridge and stove!

Check for prices and availability of the Steamboat Grand on Booking.com / Agoda

Website / Address : 2300 Mt Werner Cir, Steamboat Springs, Colorado 80487

Colorado Day 4 Road Trip Itinerary: Steamboat Springs to Glenwood Springs

Day 4 of your 7 days in Colorado road trip is at Glenwood Springs, the 7th city in Colorado to be 100% powered by renewable energy.

Did you know? Glenwood Springs is a resort town famous for its water due to the confluence from two rivers the run through it, Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers.

It takes 2.5 hours to drive from Steamboat Springs to Glenwood Springs.

Creekside Cafe & Grill

Where to eat breakfast in Steamboat Springs?

Located in historic Soda Creek building, Creekside Cafe & Grill is one of the best restaurants frequented by locals.

Be sure to come early; otherwise, expect to wait.

Note: Food & Drink and Prices shown here are from my visit. Please check out their website for most up-to-date menu and pricing.

An uncommon dish to find for breakfast is Country Fried Steak.

I just had to get this because Country Fried anything is not too common in Toronto .

The one here is hand-tenderized, battered and fried!

Website / Address : 131 11th St, Steamboat Springs, Colorado 80487

F.M. Light & Sons

One of the best things to do in Downtown Steamboat Springs is to check out F.M. Light & Sons to get a taste of Steamboat’s authentic Western heritage.

This historic Western store has been selling authentic Western apparel for at least 113 years and 5 generations!

Did you know? Frank M. Light opened the store on November 9th, 1905. This was only seven months after arriving Steamboat Springs on April 1905.

Website / Address : 830 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, Colorado 80487

Also Read: Downtown Woodstock, Georgia Guide: Best Restaurants and Things To Do

Strawberry Park Hot Springs

One of the best things to do in Steamboat Springs is the Strawberry Park Hot Springs, nestled alongside Hot Springs Creek.

This spectacular mineral springs is my favourite hot springs from the trip because of how beautiful and raw it is.

Strawberry Hot Springs blends with the natural environment covered in Steamboat’s famous Champagne Powder snow.

It was also my first time doing hot springs in the snow!

Surprisingly, once you’re there, you actually don’t feel cold due to the 104F heat from the hot springs.

At night time, Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs becomes adults-only and clothing optional.

Website / Address : 44200 Co Rd 36, Steamboat Springs, Colorado 80487 Price: $20 (paid in Cash-only) per person per 2-hour reservation made online.

Yampa Sandwich Company

Since it’s going to be a long drive to Glenwood Springs, you’ll be taking out food for lunch on the road again.

We took out sandwiches from Yampa Sandwich Company, known for being one of the best places to eat sandwiches in Steamboat Springs.

Website / Address : 635 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, Colorado 80487

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

After leaving Steamboat Springs, you’re headed to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, the only mountain top theme park in America and the highest (elevation-wise) in North America, making it one of the best things to do in Glenwood Springs.

This unique attraction is perfect for adults and families with a mix of family-friendly rides and cave tours and crazy rides, while being immersed in breathtaking views all around.

They are known for cave tours which put the “Caverns” in its name.

The Kings Row Tour brings you to two caves: The Barn and Kings Row.

The Kings Row was bought in 1961 by the owner then sold for 1.6m to the theme park.

It’s called Kings Row because of the 3 stalagmite that looks like the King’s line in chess.

If you want your adrenaline pumping, try the Crystal Tower (previously the Haunted Mine Drop), considered to be the scariest amusement park ride in USA 2018 and the world’s first underground drop.

You must do the Alpine Coaster, which was named one of the 10 Best Roller Coaster Rides of Your Life by USA Today and Park World Magazine.

The views are just amazing!

Be sure to check out the observation deck for panoramic views of Glenwood Springs!

You can also see a big difference on the mountains looking from left (with snow) to right (dry and reddish).

You can spot different mountain peaks from the Rocky Mountains like Mount Sopris and Mount Daly.

Website / Address : 51000 Two Rivers Plaza Road, Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601 Hours : Sunday-Friday (9am-6pm), Saturday (9am-10pm) Price : $35 (Gondola only), $51 (Gondola/Caves), $65 Funday. $5 off when buying online. $5 off for Children (Age 3-12).

The Pullman

Where to eat in Glenwood Springs with fun casual vibes?

The Pullman in the Railroad District in downtown has you covered for a laid back atmosphere.

Chef-owner Mark Fischer has won numerous national accolades for The Pullman’s emphasis on innovative cuisine.

My most favourite dish was the truffle and parmesan pork rinds, a refreshing change from the usual truffle parmesan fries.

I enjoyed the grilled Angus flat iron steak with the perfectly grilled meat. It was so tender that it cuts like butter.

I do recommend asking to have the sauce on the side.

Website / Address : 330 7th St, Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

One of the most popular hot springs in Colorado, the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is the biggest mineral spring swimming pool in the world!

Drawing visitors from all over the world since 1888, this historic thermal spring water has temperatures ranging from 92-104F.

Website / Address : 401 N River St, Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601

Also Read: Nordic Spa at Cedar Meadows in Timmins, Ontario

Hotel Colorado

Ask locals for where to stay in Glenwood Springs, and you’ll most likely hear Hotel Colorado.

Named one of 25 Must-See Buildings in Colorado by USA Today, this 1893 Historic Hotel is popular for its history and perfect location right in downtown.

Did you know? Hotel Colorado was once the summer White House for President Teddy Roosevelt for a week when he would come to hunt. It was also used as a hospital by the US Navy for 3 years during World War II.

I enjoyed the spacious Premier Parlor Suite Queen.

And it has a separate living room and wet bar.

Next morning, have breakfast at the Hotel Colorado Restaurant and Bar, managed by award-winning Chef Aaron Haga.

The most unique dish I saw that I had to try was the Corned Buffalo Hash which uses buffalo meat.

It’s quite tender and tasty!

Check for prices and availability of Hotel Colorado on Booking.com / Agoda

Website / Address : 526 Pine St, Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601

Colorado Day 5 Road Trip Itinerary: Glenwood Springs to Snowmass

Day 5 of your 7 day road trip in Colorado is at Snowmass.

A renowned winter playground, Snowmass consistently ranked as one of the best ski areas in the world including Aspen Snowmass as #1 “Resort of the Year” in the West for 2019 by Ski Magazine.

It takes about 1-hour drive from Glenwood Springs to Snowmass.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Perhaps the best hot springs with a view in Colorado is the Iron Mountain Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs, nestled along the banks of the Colorado River.

The Iron Mountain Hot Springs has 16 soaking pools filled with 100% pure thermal mineral waters ranging from 90-108F.

There is also a freshwater family pool with a jetted spa.

There is an on-site restaurant so you can dine with a view for lunch!

Website / Address : 281 Centennial St, Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81601 Hours : 9am-10pm Daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas Price : $40-52 General Access (3 hours, 19 pools); $55-67 WorldSprings Access (3 hours, 32 pools, 21 & over only); $100-150 All-Day Soak (Unlimited time. Access to all 32 pools. Limited number of passes available)

Spiral Point (Yin Yang Point)

Snowmass is known for mountain vistas and 2.8 million adjacent acres of open wilderness so hiking is one of the best things to here!

You can do soft hikes to hardcore hikes in Snowmass.

I recommend doing the hike to Spiral Point along Rim Trail South which is an easy-moderate 1.5-mile hike (though avid hikers would find this a soft hike).

Did you know? Spiral Point is also called Yin Yang Point because of the Yin Yang symbol on the ground at the top of the point.

At Spiral Point, you are at the approximate top of the Rim Trail, overlooking beautiful views of Snowmass Village!

Address : Rim Trail South, Snowmass, Colorado

Limelight Hotel Snowmass

Stay the night at one of the best hotels in Snowmass, the Limelight Hotel Snowmass, which opened in December 2018, located at the heart of Snowmass adjacent to Snowmass’ Elk Camp Gondola providing ski-in/ski-out access.

Did you know? Limelight Hotel has Colorado’s largest indoor rock-realistic climbing wall, at 54 feet high, designed by Stonehill Taylor. But my favourite amenity was the two outdoor pool spas (with different temperatures) with spa-side cabanas.

The Grand Deluxe Bedroom at Limelight Hotel was my other favourite accommodation this trip.

Sleek, modern and spacious.

I also love the little details they put in the room.

Each room has a different book to read and mini-game to play.

Also, what about the Smeg retro style minibar?

End the night with delicious food and over glasses of wine at the Limelight Lounge.

They are known for wood-fired hand-tossed pizzas.

Also Read: Prosciutto Arugula Pizza Recipe

Favourites that night included PEI Mussels, truffle fries and pork belly rillons.

We actually ordered the truffle fries three times!

You must try their Colorado Lamb dish, which was braised roulade of lamb that had crispy skin outside and tender meat inside.

Overall, Limelight Hotel Snowmass was my favourite place to stay in our Colorado trip.

Next morning, have breakfast at their complimentary buffet before checking-out.

Check for prices and availability of Limelight Hotel Snowmass on Booking.com / Agoda

Website / Address : 65 Wood Rd, Snowmass Village, Colorado 81615

Colorado Day 6 Road Trip Itinerary: Snowmass to Colorado Springs

Day 6 of your 7 days in Colorado road trip is at Colorado Springs, Colorado’s second largest city founded as a resort town in 1871.

Did you know? Colorado Springs is home to Pikes Peak, the highest summit of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains at 14,115-feet.

The itinerary has about 4.5 hours of driving from Snowmass to Colorado Springs with stops for lunch and Aspen.

Also Read: 4 Day Food Trip in Saint John & Fredericton, New Brunswick

Local Coffee House

NOTE : As of Feb 2024, Local Coffee House has closed its doors, but we’ve kept the write-up so you can read the experience or skip the section.

Make a short visit to Aspen and re-fuel your body with coffee and baked goods at one of Aspen’s best cafes, Local Coffee House, frequented by both locals and tourists.

They are a small-batch roaster having their own local blend.

Be sure to try their Cronuts (croissant + donut) as well!

Address : 614 E Cooper Ave, Aspen, Colorado 81611

Maroon Bells

Head to one of Colorado’s most popular attractions, the Maroon Bells, located just 16 miles from Snowmass.

The most photographed place in Colorado, the Majestic Maroon Bells features a lake and two giant snow-striped mountaintops, Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak.

Did you know? The Maroon Bells area is prone to avalanches. There were 350 avalanches in March 2019 alone.

The money shot is having the reflections of the mountains on the lake when the lake is calm.

Address : Maroon-Snowmass Trail, Aspen, Colorado 81611

Woody Creek Tavern

Have lunch at a local’s favorite in Snowmass, Woody Creek Tavern, a small bizarre yet vibrant bar that opened in 1980 as a gathering place for locals.

You’ll find a lot of interesting things on the wall along with hundreds and hundreds of photos of customers.

They are known for Mexican food with a twist and I highly recommend their Fresh Tilapia and Homemade Chips!

While you’re at it, try their fresh squeezed lime margarita.

Website / Address : 2858 Upper River Rd, Woody Creek, Colorado 81656

Smørbrød

By the time you arrive Colorado Springs, it’s time for dinner!

Head over to Lincoln Center for a taste of Scandinavian food at Smorbrod.

It’s not common to find Scandinavian cuisine in North America so I was glad to see one in Colorado Springs.

At Smorbrod, they specialize in smorbrod, which is an open-faced sandwich on rye bread.

Did you know? The restaurant has over 20 Nordic-inspired smorbrod sandwiches to choose from!

Aside from smorbrods, they also have other popular Scandinavian dishes.

They also have rotating feature Oyster menu.

Website / Address : 2727 N Cascade Ave #111, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80907

SCP Hotel Colorado Springs

Stay the night at one of the most unique hotels in Colorado, SCP Hotel (Soul Community Planet).

SCP Hotel has a concept centered around holistic hospitality, where guests stay consciously and value personal wellness, social good and the environment.

I stayed in the Queen Bedroom which was minimal and spacious.

The usual room amenities are eco-friendly or healthy.

They also have a 2,300 square-foot creative co-working space, the SCP Commons, providing an eco-friendly and fun place to work with a pool table.

Check for prices and availability of SCP Hotel Colorado Springs on Booking.com / Agoda

Website / Address : 2850 S Circle Dr, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906

Colorado Day 7 Road Trip Itinerary: Colorado Springs & Manitou Springs

Last Day of your 7 days in Colorado road trip is spent in Colorado Springs and its neighbour, Manitou Springs.

Ivywild Kitchen

Start your morning with breakfast at Ivywild Kitchen inside the Ivywild School, a former elementary school turned into a community hole with gathering spaces, local cuisine, art and gardens.

Ivy Kitchen features comfort food with a twist on a seasonal menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

As usual in Colorado, you’ll find pork green chile even for breakfast!

Website / Address : 1604 S Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80905

Academy Riding Stables

You cannot go to Colorado without doing anything cowboy related.

And one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs is horseback riding at Garden of the Gods Park with Academy Riding Stables, a popular Colorado stable since the 50s.

Did you know? If you don’t want to ride a horse, you can also do a Jeep tour of the Garden of the Gods Park.

The one-hour scenic trail ride is led by a knowledgeable cowboy guide who will explain the trail and its history.

Before climbing into the saddle, you’re expertly paired with one of the horses based on ability level, weight and height.

Love horseback riding? You’ll also enjoy the ones I did in Conejo Valley, California and West Volusia, Florida .

Website / Address : 4 El Paso Blvd, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904

Manitou Springs

Drive 10-minutes to Manitou Springs and explore its downtown and get a taste of some natural mineral springs.

The downtown is very walkable so just find parking then walk.

Did you know? There are 8 different springs spread around the town that’s open to public. Each has its own flavour and properties.

Website / Address : Manitou Springs, Colorado 80829

The Broadmoor’s Restaurant 1858

Head to lunch at one of Colorado Springs’ best restaurants, The Broadmoor’s Restaurant 1858.

This unique restaurant features Colorado cuisine set in a beautiful rustic setting nestled in the Cheyenne Canyon with views of the Seven Falls.

The must-try at The Broadmoor’s Restaurant 1858 is the delicious Colorado Rocky Mountain Trout with fresh fish on a cast iron pan.

The trout had a crispy skin, and the small pieces of bacon added extra flavour to the fish.

I also enjoyed the Vidalia Onion Rings which were big thick-cut pieces and incredibly sweet.

It was also here that I had the best version of Pork Green Chili in the trip.

Website / Address : 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80905

The Broadmoor’s Seven Falls

Didn’t I say you get views of Seven Falls?

The Seven Falls, and its 181-foot drop of falling water, is right outside the restaurant itself!

Situated in a 1,250-foot-wall box canyon between the towering Pillars of Hercules, this majestic series of seven waterfalls is one of Colorado’s most captivating natural wonders.

You can take an elevator to the observation deck which offers complete view of the Seven Falls.

Travelling Foodie Tip : You can climb 224 steps to the top of Seven Falls with views of valleys, rock formations and the banks of streams that feed Seven Falls.

Address : 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80905

The Broadmoor

When in Colorado Springs, you’ll have to check out its most luxurious hotel and resort, The Broadmoor, a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond Resort.

This iconic and historic Colorado Springs resort has been stayed and visited by celebrities and public figures with its perfect getaway of outdoors and nature mixed with modern luxury.

Check for prices and availability of The Broadmoor on Booking.com / Agoda

Website / Address : 1 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80906

The Springs Signature Cocktail Tour with Rocky Mountain Food Tours

For lunch, you’ll be doing one of the best food tours in Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain Food Tours.

We did the Springs Signature Cocktail Tour which highlights the cocktail scene in downtown Colorado Springs.

You’ll be visiting 4 drink stops with food pairing while learning about the prohibition in Colorado Springs and the history behind some classic cocktails.

Love food and drink paired tours? You might also enjoy reading about the Brews N Browse Tour by Great Tasting Tours in DeLand, Florida!

Started off with a Welcome Champagne at The Mining Exchange and met our knowledgeable and friendly guide, Noel.

First stop was at Colorado Springs’ most sought-after speakeasy, Brooklyn on Boulder Street of Lee Spirit’s Distillery.

With the tour, you get to visit here when it’s closed to the public.

Now that’s VIP experience!

Here, you’ll get to try the Aviation Cocktail paired with Cheese and Charcuterie from The Wild Goose Meeting House.

Second stop was at Odyssey Gastropub for their take on Paloma Cocktail and Crispy Brussels Sprouts which they go through 200lbs of daily.

Third Stop was at Four By Brother Luck, a Chopped Finalist and winner of Beat Bobby Flay, for some unique Pear Ginger Beer and highly addicting bacon fat chipotle popcorn.

Did you know? Even though the prohibition started in 1919, it was already illegal in Colorado Springs in 1872 because of the Quaker beliefs of the city founder Gen. William Palmer.

The last stop is at The Archives, a basement bar that is a reminder of the bar that would’ve been when alcohol was illegal.

Here you’re having their Classic Mint Julep Cocktail and Beef Sliders.

By this time, you might be slightly tipsy from the cocktails and have built up an appetite from all the walking, right?

No problem because dinner is just upstairs!

Website / Address : Multiple Restaurants

Colorado Craft Social

Head upstairs for dinner at one of the best bars in Colorado Springs, Colorado Craft Social featuring the best of Colorado’s breweries, distilleries, farms and purveyors in a modern restaurant.

The seasonal menu features a diverse range of cuisine from comfort food with a twist to Italian food fare.

Love seeing different ways the Pork Green Chile is used and loved the Green Chili Tots here!

This is how you end your 7 days in Colorado.

Also Read: Air Fryer Bacon Cheese Tater Tots

Website / Address : 15 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903

MAP: 7 Days in Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

Hope this Colorado travel guide & itinerary helps you plan on things to do, where to eat and stay for your 7 day road trip to Colorado.

Now you know how to spend a one week road trip in the Centennial State!

Be sure to bookmark/save/PIN this Colorado travel guide for future reference when planning a trip to Colorado.

Even if you don’t have 7 days in Colorado or are simply visiting one destination, this guideand itinerary still helps you with tips, best attractions and activities, restaurants and accommodations in the destination you’re visiting whether it be Denver, Estes Park, Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, Snowmass, Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs.

Huge thanks to Visit Colorado Tourism for having me on the press trip! As usual, 100% of reviews/opinions are my own.

You can learn more about Visit Colorado on their website .

A big thanks as well to the support of Colorado’s tourism partners that made the trip possible: Visit Denver ( website ), Visit Estes Park ( website ), Steamboat Springs Tourism ( website ), Visit Glenwood Springs ( website ), Snowmass Tourism ( website ) and Visit Colorado Springs ( website )!

Enjoy the content and want to support? Buy me a coffee ☕

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Updated: March 9, 2024 by Raymond Cua

5-Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Duncan McHenry

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Of all the states in the Western USA, Colorado is among the best for road trips thanks to its excellent network of highways and interstates, a wide range of landscape types, and an abundance of attractions like national parks, monuments, and ski resorts. The main arteries of Interstate 70 and US Highway 285 are good focal points for anyone looking to plan a 5-day Colorado road trip itinerary, with plenty of possibilities to spend the entire 5 days focusing on one route through the mountains or take to the backroads and chart more of an unconventional path.

Colorado’s mountain mainstay towns like Estes Park, Salida, Steamboat Springs, and Breckenridge also offer some of the country’s best year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.

A 5-day road trip from Denver to Utah could have you skiing Vail Pass and mountain biking through the desert in Fruita within 48 hours, and a winter drive across the state could easily include a different stop at a world-class ski resort each day.

Whatever kind of trip you’re after, the three routes below will help you plan a Colorado adventure to suit your wants and needs.

Table of Contents

When to Visit Colorado

Weather is always the single biggest factor to consider when planning a road trip through the mountains of Colorado. When it comes to vehicles, tires with good tread are worth their weight in gold and might be second only to brakes in terms of what should be top of your list to have serviced before you hit the road.

Out of all four seasons, wintertime (roughly November through early March) is when you’re most likely to run into freezing temps (even in cities like Denver during winter! ) and the most difficult road conditions, so plan accordingly when driving in the mountains during these months. However, even visiting the Rocky Mountains in the winter can be very much worth it!

Spring, summer, and fall are all great times to take a road trip in Colorado, with late spring and summer standing out as the times with the mildest weather and the best opportunities for comfortable camping and backpacking.

The biggest bonus to planning an autumn road trip across Colorado would have to be the scenery, as vivid shades of yellow, orange, gold, and red blanket the aspen groves all across the state.

Photographers will be kept busy regardless of the season when traveling in the Rockies, but late September through early November is a time when you’ll want to be especially sure you don’t leave the camera at home.

The Perfect 5-Day Colorado Itinerary

For whichever of these Colorado road trip routes that you take, you’re going to need to have a car. If you need to rent a car for this trip, check out Rentalcars.com which shows a range of deals across major car hire suppliers. You can also rent an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy if you prefer to camp during your time in Colorado.

Classic Colorado Itinerary

Day 1: denver.

If you’re starting a 5-day road trip from Denver, odds are you’ll end up on Interstate 70 eventually, but this itinerary will loop you north past Rocky Mountain National Park in a way that makes sense before ending up in the high peaks of Summit County and the town of Breckenridge.

But before you strike out on this steeply climbing route into the mountains, be sure you spend at least a day enjoying Denver and its humming cultural atmosphere.

Downtown Denver and the surrounding area have enough to keep anyone busy for an entire 5-day itinerary, so it’s probably best to focus on one or two destinations if you’re only here for a day.

The Denver Art Museum, for example, is nationally renowned for its extensive collection of works and exhibits highlighting indigenous art, modern art, fashion, and everything in between. The Denver Botanic Gardens is another standout destination that also sometimes hosts summer concerts.

Where to Stay in Denver

Holiday Inn Express Downtown Denver – Good for mid-range visitors looking for a comfortable hotel, this is a reliable place to stay in Downtown Denver. There are countless rooms available and daily breakfast.

Westin Denver Downton – A high-end option in Downtown Denver, there are several modern and spacious rooms and an unbeatable location for exploring the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Denver hotels

Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain NP and its base camp town of Estes Park are located just under an hour and a half from Denver, making this a great day 2 stop on your itinerary.

Estes Park has great shopping and a good number of dining options along its main drag of E Elkhorn Avenue, so stop through town for a bite to eat and a chance to stretch your legs after driving from Denver. Then it’s just a 5 to 10-minute drive over to the RMNP entrance, where you’ll spend the rest of the day.

Once inside the park, the main paved artery of Bear Lake Road is easily drivable and affords great access to lots of trailheads and places to merely park the car and get out for photos and sightseeing.

The Fall River area of RMNP is another scenic zone with a number of trailheads based around the landmark of the Alluvial Fan, where a record flood in the early 1980s reshaped the landscape.

This is a particularly good part of the park for sighting bighorn sheep, with a dedicated observational area near the Fall River Entrance.

Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain NP

Murphy’s River Lodge – Located close to the Park entrance in Estes Park, this is a classic lodge that offers a swimming pool and hot tub, a great breakfast and several rustic rooms.

Streamside on Fall River – Situated in Ested Park, this hotel has numerous rooms (some including kitchenettes), barbecue facilities for guests and beautiful river views.

Private Rental – There are plenty of furnished homes to choose from – such as this grand cabin with panoramic mountain views – and this can make a great option when staying near the National Park.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Estes Park!

Day 3: Scenic Drive to Granby

Depending on the time of year you can either drive Trail Ridge Road—the highest paved road in any national park in the US—from Estes Park to the town of Granby or loop back to the south on Highway 7 (also known as “the Peak to Peak Highway”) and take I-70 to Highway 40.

Assuming you’re traveling in a month when there’s no closure of Trail Ridge Road (roughly April through October, depending on the year), this route through alpine tundra and the subalpine forest is not to be missed.

No matter which route you take, you’re in for one of the most memorable drives of your lifetime, as the Peak to Peak Highway leading south from Estes Park to I-70 also winds through the thickly forested terrain bordering on the scenic Indian Peaks and James Peak Wilderness areas.

And once you’ve arrived in the town of Granby, you’ll find a wide mountain valley with towns built around Grand Lake and the headwaters of the Colorado River. World-class hiking, boating, golfing, mountain biking, and horseback riding are all easy to find here, and Winter Park, one of Colorado’s most prized ski resorts, is just around the corner.

Where to Stay in Granby

The Inn at Silver Creek Resort – If you’re looking for comfortable and spacious self-catering options in Granby, then this 2-bedroom apartment is fully equipped with everything you might need and is well-located to explore everything.

Lodge at Ten Mile & Granby Ranch – Another excellent self-catering option, this place has a few apartments to choose from depending on the size of your party. They come excellently well-reviewed and have a great location in Granby.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Granby hotels!

Day 4: Silverthorne/Breckenridge

From Granby, you could choose to drive back over Berthoud Pass and get back on I-70 before continuing your road trip west, but another good option for a more scenic drive is to take Highway 40 over to Kremmling before going south on Highway 9 toward Silverthorne.

This drive takes you along the beautiful ranchland that surrounds the upper Colorado River, as well as landmarks like Green Mountain Reservoir.

Once you’ve reached Silverthorne, the area surrounding Lake Dillon is an adventure playground where popular activities range from paddleboarding to guided fly fishing. This is undoubtedly one of the best stops when driving between Denver and Breckenridge!

The mountain town of Breckenridge is then less than a 20-minute drive from Silverthorne, so head over here for famed ski slopes, locally renowned craft breweries, and what can only be described as a quintessential Colorado vacation town experience.

Where to Stay in Breckenridge

Welk Resorts Breckenridge – A classic luxury lodge in Breckenridge, this is perfect for visitors after a plush stay. There are several different Alpine rooms to choose from along with 2 swimming pools, a fitness center and a bar.

Breck Inn – A comfortable and rustic 3-star getaway, this hotel is located five minutes from the Breckenridge Ski Resort. There are rooms to suit couples and families along with free parking and breakfast.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Breckenridge hotels!

Day 5: Vail

Vail is one of the most popular destination towns in Colorado for many reasons: it’s right along I-70, has some of the most diverse ski terrain in the country, and has developed a “high class” reputation akin to that of Aspen , just to name a few.

So for travelers looking to cap their 5-day Colorado road trip itinerary with a memorable stop, it’s hard to beat Vail—especially for any first-timers in the Rocky Mountains during the winter.

Even if you’re not skiing at the resort, be sure to spend some time in downtown Vail exploring this town’s retail stores, art galleries, and beautifully landscaped paths that run alongside Gore Creek. The Vail Scenic Gondola is a nice attraction to consider for tourists visiting for a day.

Where to Stay in Vail

Montaneros in Vail, A Destination Residence – Boasting beautiful furnished apartments of varying sizes, this hotel also has multiple swimming pools, barbecue facilities, free parking and much more.

Lodge at Lionshead – A comfortable lodge at the base of Vail Mountain, this place and a range of rooms to chose from, a great location, family rooms, a swimming pool and plenty more for guests to enjoy!

The Sebastian – A wonderful luxury option, this hotel not only has a range of gorgeous rooms, there is also an on-site spa, an inviting pool and simply breathtaking surroundings in Vail.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Vail hotels!

Have More Time?

Make a Detour to Minturn – Just around the corner from Vail at the confluence of the Eagle River and Gore Creek, Minturn offers a nice contrast to the ski town vibes of its surroundings. The former railroad town has a nice selection of local restaurants and shops and is surrounded by many National Forest hiking trails.

Extra Day in RMNP – There’s so much to do in this national park that an extra day is more than warranted. If you’ve explored a particular area like Moraine Park, the Fall River area, or the Grand Lake side on day one, then branch out and enter the park from a different access point when you return.

Colorado Springs – You can take a leisurely drive back to Denver, stopping in Colorado Springs and exploring Pikes Peak or the Garden of the Gods.

Denver to South Fork Itinerary

This 5-day Colorado road trip itinerary also kicks off in Denver, though a drive south of I-70 past the small town of Morrison and onto US Route 285 is your trajectory this time.

While still in Denver, take the opportunity to pick one of the city’s affectionately named main districts—such as the River North (“RiNo” for the locals) or Lower Downtown (LoDo) areas—and strike out for some exploration.

If you choose to explore the RiNo area, for example, you’ll find lots of contemporary art galleries and a string of cocktail lounges, brewpubs, and patio bars along Upper Larimer Street. 

Day 2: Fairplay

Known to fans of the controversial show “South Park” as the source of inspiration for creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the small town of Fairplay is also “the official trout fishing capital of Colorado” thanks to its proximity to so many rivers, streams, and reservoirs.

Because the downtown area of Fairplay is relatively small, it’s probably best to plan for half a day of exploring the town and spending the rest of the day branching out for an activity in the surrounding mountain wilderness.

Some local favorite hiking trails near Fairplay include the Rich Creek Trail, Beaver Creek Trail, and multiple trails in Eleven Mile State Park.

Where to Stay in Fairplay

A Riverside Inn Travelodge – Centrally located, this hotel is an excellent place to rest your head in Fairplay if you’re looking for a basic hotel. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available and there are good facilities.

Fairplay Cabin with Large Porch – If you’d rather stay in your own private place over a hotel, then this cabin is a good option. It’s well-located in Fairplay, they have 2 bedrooms, a great living area and a fully-equipped kitchen.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Fairplay hotels!

Day 3: Salida

As you continue south on US 285 from Fairplay, your next stop just an hour down the road is the town of Salida in the upper Arkansas River valley.

This is another postcard-worthy Colorado mountain town, though it stands apart from places like Breckenridge and Vail with a slightly more “down to Earth” feel that comes from not being quite as heavily invested in the ski industry (though Monarch Mountain is a popular ski option located about 20 miles away).

Beyond its restaurants, breweries, and art galleries that have a reputation for drawing a “hip” local crowd, Salida also offers lots of water-focused recreation on the Arkansas River, a scenic tramway that takes riders to an elevation of more than 11,000 feet, and easy access to explore the pristine Browns Canyon National Monument area, among many other activities, depending on the time of year.

Where to Stay in Salida

Browns Canyon Inn – Offering breakfast, free parking and rooms for both couples and families alike, this inn in Salida is a great choice. There are lots of great rooms to choose from and friendly owners.

The Salida Inn & Hostel – Great for those looking for a budget option, this inn has private rooms and dorms available, all equipped with a private bathroom. There is also free on-site parking.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Salida hotels!

Day 4: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Just a short detour to the east from your main artery of US 285, Great Sand Dunes National Park should be on anyone’s 5-day Colorado itinerary when traveling on this route.

This national park is somewhat unique in terms of how freely visitors are allowed to strike out independently and explore these mountainous sand dunes without even having to be on a marked trail or needing a tour guide.

With that said, the Great Sand Dunes also has an excellent visitor’s center and a staff of rangers and wildlife experts who put on presentations and events in the spring through fall, so stop in and see the experts if you want some help in planning your day here.

A good option is to head out on your own from the parking area to climb a dune and see the sunrise, and then consider booking a guided adventure such as an off-road 4×4 excursion on the Medano Pass Primitive Road in the afternoon.

Where to Stay Near Great Sand Dunes NP

Best Western Movie Manor – This cool hotel in Monte Vista is great for exploring the Park. Not only are there plenty of comfortable rooms available, there is also an on-site drive-in movie theatre!

Sandhill Inn & Suites – With several clean and modern rooms available, this hotel in Monte Vista has an indoor swimming pool and serves as a great base fore exploring the Great Sand Dunes.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels near Great Sand Dunes National Park!

Day 5: South Fork

The final stop on this trip to Colorado is the town of South Fork, which is located just about an hour west of the Great Sand Dunes and serves as a fitting basecamp for access to many surrounding destinations, including the town of Creede, Wolf Creek Ski Resort, and the La Garita Wilderness.

If you decide to make the drive up the Silver Thread Scenic & Historic Byway to Creede, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the mighty Rio Grande River’s headwaters.

The town of Creede itself is worth a stop thanks to its status as a historic mining town, and the opportunities for camping, hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and more are seemingly endless in this hidden gem of a wilderness area.

Where to Stay in South Fork

Quality Inn & Suites – If you’re after some consistent accommodation, then this hotel is a great option. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, an on-site indoor swimming pool and hot tub and 24-hour reception.

Grandview Cabins & RV Resort – If you’re happy for your trip to Colorado to include a stay in a cabin, then this is a great option for you. They have a number of rustic cabins available to suit all kinds of visitors.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more South Fork hotels!

Stop in Pagosa Springs – This could be a possible alternative as a last stop on your itinerary if you’d prefer to push on a little farther from the Great Sand Dunes. The Springs Resort & Spa, located right on the San Juan River, is a favorite attraction in this town.

Ski or Bike the Continental Divide – As mentioned earlier, the Monarch Mountain area is a big draw for visitors to Salida and the upper Arkansas River valley, no matter the time of year. In the summer, the Monarch Crest is a highly prized trail for serious mountain bikers, and when the snow falls, Monarch Mountain Ski Area has something for brand new beginners up to the most advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Mesa Verde National Park – If you have an extra couple of days, you can drive to Mesa Verde NP from South Fork to explore more stunning cliff dwellings and archaeological sites.

Steamboat to Gunnison Itinerary

Day 1: steamboat springs.

This itinerary will take you on a more unconventional north-south route across some of Colorado’s less-traveled, yet most scenic, highways and backroads. Travelers coming from Denver will find that the drive to Steamboat Springs, your day one destination, takes roughly three hours and comes with great views as Highway 9 traverses Rabbit Ears Pass.

Steamboat Springs is probably best known for its famed ski mountain that has long served as a training ground for Olympic-level skiers. But if you’re not here to ski, consider grabbing some brunch after your morning drive from Denver at one of the local favorite eateries like Winona’s or the Creekside Café and Grill.

From there, you have your pick from countless activities in and around Steamboat, from fly fishing or tubing in the Yampa River to a soak in the popular Strawberry Hot Springs, depending on the time of year.

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs

The Bristol Hotel – If you’re traveling on a bit of a higher budget, then this lovely boutique hotel is a great option. Centrally located in downtown Steamboat Springs, they have a number of rooms available, an indoor hot tub and a restaurant/bar on site.

Mariposa Lodge Bed and Breakfast – If it’s basic yet comfortable accommodation that you’re after, then this hotel is a great option. They have a number of rooms on offer, a good location and offer breakfast in the morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Steamboat Springs hotels!

Day 2: Glenwood Springs

Day 2 of this 5-day Colorado itinerary will take you from one “springs” to another as you make the roughly two-hour drive down Highway 131 and eventually I-70 West from Steamboat Springs to Glenwood Springs.

If you made a stop at Steamboat’s Strawberry Hot Springs, you’ll have to visit the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. While both feature naturally heated hot spring waters, you’re sure to find that each one has its own personality and offers a unique set of wilderness views as you relax and soak in the springs.

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs

Hotel Colorado – An excellent option for those traveling on a bit of a higher budget, this hotel has a lot to offer visitors. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer along with a full-service spa and a bar and lounge on site.

Glenwood Springs Inn – If you’re looking for basic and consistent accommodation in Glenwood Springs, then this hotel is a solid option. They have a number of rooms on offer, comfortable facilities, and they include breakfast.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Glenwood Springs hotels!

Day 3: Paonia

Today, you’ll really deviate onto the “road less traveled” as you leave the familiar traffic of I-70 and head down Highway 82, which will soon branch directly south at Carbondale onto Highway 133 and have you driving along the beautiful Crystal River.

This incredibly scenic mountain drive will take you past a slew of landmarks, such as Paonia State Park, before you reach the small town of Paonia.

Known for having a surprising number of wineries, and for generally being situated in one of Colorado’s most awe-inspiring valleys, Paonia is a great place to spend an afternoon or an evening after making the drive south from Glenwood Springs.

Where to Stay in Paonia

Bross Hotel B&B – This charming bed and breakfast is an excellent option in Paonia. Centrally located, they have a handful of comfy rooms available and, of course, an excellent breakfast included each morning.

Wisehart Springs Inn – Another fantastic option in Paonia, this inn boasts incredible mountain views and a great location in this Colorado town. There are a number of rooms on offer and they also include breakfast in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Paonia hotels!

Day 4: Montrose

Montrose is located just an hour south of Paonia, and you’ll have your choice of several possible routes once you’ve deviated from Highway 133 onto 92 just past the small town of Hotchkiss.

Montrose is quite a bit larger than Paonia and rests at a relatively low elevation to the west of the Gunnison and Crested Butte areas.

Since services are in such good supply here, Montrose is an ideal supply stop for visiting a gear shop if you’re planning on being outdoors in one of the many natural areas near Gunnison, such as the Gunnison Gorge or the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Where to Stay in Montrose

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Montrose – If you want a consistent and predictable chain to stay at in Montrose, then this is a good option. They have a myriad of rooms available, good amenities and include breakfast in the room rate.

The Blue Bungalow – If a private holiday home suits your fancy while in Gunnison, then this central house is a great option. Consisting of two bedrooms, this charming house is close to all the action and comes extremely highly reviewed.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Montrose hotels!

Day 5: Gunnison

The grand finale of this Colorado road trip that has ranged from the far north in Steamboat Springs to this southwestern part of the state is a stop in the town of Gunnison.

This is another valley with a reputation for being among Colorado’s most beautiful, and the town itself doesn’t disappoint thanks to a wide range of unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment experiences available to visitors.

Natural areas like the Black Canyon of the Gunnison—known for being both one of America’s least-accessed and most unforgettable national parks—are within easy striking distance of downtown. Other main attractions such as Blue Mesa Reservoir also present plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, depending on the time of year.

Where to Stay in Gunnison

The Inn at Tomichi Village – A great option for those who are looking for a bit of a splurge in Gunnison, this hotel has a lot to offer visitors. They have a number of great rooms available, a good location and a number of great amenities.

Rodeway Inn Gunnison – A solid option for those traveling on a mid-range, this centrally-located hotel has a number of great rooms available. It’s well-located, has a hot tub on site and also includes breakfast in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Gunnison hotels!

Crested Butte – If you feel inclined after visiting Gunnison, the town of Crested Butte is just a 30-minute drive to the north. Downhill ski and mountain bike trails dominate the surrounding landscape, and there are even Nordic ski routes scattered around town.

Aspen – If you felt inclined to really make this a snow sports-heavy itinerary, you could easily make a detour to the town of Aspen from Glenwood Springs or visit as an alternative ski resort to Vail or Breckenridge.

Boulder – This college town is a great place to explore more of Colorado with many preferring to base themselves in Boulder rather than Denver.

Planning a 5-day Colorado road trip itinerary should start with figuring out your goals in terms of activities and an overall trajectory for your trip. Hopefully, these three possibilities have given you the inspiration needed to plot your own route through the Rocky Mountains in the Centennial State.

Are you planning a trip to Colorado? Have questions about any of these routes? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

8 Best Stops on the Denver to Albuquerque Drive via Santa Fe

10 Best Stops on a Denver to Yellowstone Road Trip

10 Best Stops on Denver to Salt Lake City Road Trip

About Duncan McHenry

Duncan is a writer for The World Was Here First. He lives in Colorado and also works as a fly fishing guide and instructor when not editing or writing. He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains.

I’m looking to find a place that would house around 10 people, in a central location of Colorado that would provide me a good central place to make day trips to Breckenridge, Estes park, Colorado Springs, etc… Where is a good central area to stay and make drives to these places?

Hi, thanks for your very helpful post. After a very hard year, my friend and I will be taking a road trip from Denver area, we have about 5-6 days and want to do something memorable, the only problem is that I get a bit stressed out on high mountain drives with big drops/no railings etc. which route will you take and which route will you advise? Anything’s helpful

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Your Trip to Colorado: The Complete Guide

Jamie Hergenrader is the Commerce Director of the Travel Group at Dotdash Meredith where she leads the content strategy of product reviews and recommendations for the company's travel brands. She joined the company in 2018 and has nearly a decade of experience writing and editing for travel and lifestyle publications.

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Colorado's Most Beautiful Places
• How to Spend One Week in Colorado
• Best Road Trips
• Top Things to Do
• Where to Go Hiking
• Best State Parks
• Best Breweries
• Ski Resorts
• White Water Rafting
• Cross Country Skiing
• Rocky Mountain National Park

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Beautiful and diverse landscape, scenic road trips, bucket list ski experiences, and a strong craft beer culture are some of the highlights of a trip to Colorado. Start your trip in Denver to experience the capital city’s arts, culture, food, and nightlife, and then head to more remote destinations to immerse yourself in some of the most impressive scenery in the country. Use this guide to plan your perfect trip to the Centennial State.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Summer or winter are the best times to visit. They’re both peak season due to the enjoyable summer weather (it’s hot but never humid) and the draw of ski season in winter. However, fall offers some fun events like the Aspen Film Festival and Denver Great American Beer Festival, showcasing 2,700 beers from around the world. No matter when you visit, you’re likely to have some clear, sunny days, as the state boasts 300 days of sunshine per year.
• Getting Around: The best way to see the state is by car—it will give you the flexibility to explore, drive along the many scenic routes, and stash and transport your gear if you’re coming for some adventure.
• Travel Tip: The high altitude can be a problem for some travelers. Denver is at an elevation of 5,280 feet (earning it the nickname of the Mile High City),   and you’ll climb even higher as you head into the mountains. Take it easy and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.

Things to Do

Hit the great outdoors. Colorado is home to some pretty stunning landscape that’s enjoyable all year, including several national and state parks; more than 50 hikeable fourteeners (or 14ers, local speak for mountains whose peaks reach 14,000 feet in elevation)   ; world-class ski resorts; and more ways to spend your days with Mother Nature. Adventure-seekers won’t be disappointed.

Go for a drive. You can also take in all that beautiful nature by car. Just outside Denver, you can do the Lariat Loop, drive Rocky Mountain National Park Trail Ridge Road, or make your way to the southwest corner of the state to drive the San Juan Scenic Byway. 

Grab a beer. Colorado is known for its craft beer scene, and you have hundreds to choose from on your visit   . You’ll find them all over the state , with higher concentrations in cities like Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, Golden, and Colorado Springs. But no matter where you are, you won’t be far from a good craft brew.

Get high. If that’s your thing, Colorado was one of the first states (along with Washington) to legalize marijuana for recreational use in 2012   , and since then dispensaries have cropped up (pun intended) all over. Just be sure to finish your stash before crossing state lines.

What to Eat and Drink

Colorado is perhaps most known for its craft beer, but pair your pint with a few of the state’s tastiest and most iconic dishes, primarily consisting of local meats. When out for a meal, look for trout, bison burgers, elk, and Rocky Mountain oysters (aka bull testicles). It also lays claim to some of the best breakfast burritos and green chile in the country, and Colorado-style pizza (a thick-crust pie piled with toppings) is definitely a local and visitor favorite, especially at its origin, Beau Jo’s .

Top Destinations

Denver: The Mile High City is the state’s capital and largest city, and it's where you’ll find award-winning restaurants, a strong craft beer scene, arts and culture, and sports stadiums for the professional teams. It’s also a convenient and practical location for day trips to popular Rocky Mountain destinations.  

Rocky Mountain National Park: Ranked third in the country (after the Grand Canyon and Great Smoky Mountains), this national park gets about 4.7 million visitors per year to hike, see wildlife, and drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road. Base yourself in the town of Estes Park. 

Colorado Springs: Similar to Denver, Colorado Springs is a great jumping off point for some day trips. You can summit the 14,000-foot Pikes Peak by hiking or by car (one of the few you can do by car), and admire gorgeous views from the top (its beauty inspired the song “America the Beautiful”); visit Garden of the Gods , a park filled with towering red rock formations; and walk across the highest suspension bridge in the country at Royal Gorge Bridge and Park , which towers 955 feet over the canyon and Arkansas River below. For even more thrill, ride the country’s highest zipline at 1,200 feet over the gorge.

Ski Resorts: Colorado has some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world, so naturally, its top ski resorts , such as Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen, and Telluride, are popular destinations come winter. Ski season lasts from about November to April depending on snowfall and weather, and each resort offers a different experience and vibe. These mountain towns are also great to visit in the summer for hiking, mountain biking, and festivals. 

Mesa Verde National Park: Tucked all the way in the southwestern corner of Colorado, this UNESCO World Heritage site attracts visitors from around the world to see its remarkably well-preserved cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people. After the park, drive one more hour to the Four Corners, a site that lets you stand in four states—Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona—simultaneously, where their borders meet.  

San Juan Mountains: Arguably the most picturesque part of the state, a road trip through this area is highly recommended. The San Juan Skyway is a 230-mile loop through southwestern Colorado that takes you through Durango, Silverton, Telluride, and other towns. The stretch from Ouray and Silverton, known as the Million Dollar Highway, might be the most beautiful road trip you take in your life. 

Great Sand Dunes National Park: Experience North America’s tallest sand dunes by hiking around the 30 square miles of dunes (there are no trails), sandboarding or sand sledding, spending the night to do some stargazing (it was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2019), or simply taking in the views of the dunes with the Sangre de Cristo mountains in the backdrop.

Getting There

Unless you’re driving to Colorado from a nearby state, you’re likely going to arrive by flying into Denver International Airport , about 20 minutes outside of downtown Denver. You can take a train to downtown’s Union Station , and then walk or use local public transit to explore. Plan on renting a car if your itinerary includes destinations outside of Denver. If you’re headed straight to the mountain areas like Vail, Aspen, or others, shuttle companies, such as the Epic Mountain Express , offer round-trip rides from the airport to various mountain towns for a fee.

Money Saving Tips

• Traveling during the off-peak seasons of spring or fall will help to save money on flights and accommodations. 
• If skiing is your reason for visiting, plan on day trips to the slopes instead of overnight stays to save on hotels, pack your own lunches to avoid pricey mountain meals, and look online for lift ticket discounts in advance. Schedule-permitting, ski on weekdays for lower lift ticket prices, as well as fewer crowds and less traffic. 
• If you’re coming to check out Colorado’s amazing outdoor opportunities, consider trading a few hotel stays for nights under the stars instead. If you already own the proper gear, camping can save you a lot of money. 

VISIT Denver . "Denver At a Glance."

Colorado Tourism Office . "What Are 14ers?" June 3, 2020.

Brewers Association . "State Craft Beer Sales & Production Statistics, 2019."

Department of Regulatory Agencies . "2014 Sunset Review: Colorado Medical Marijuana Code." October 15, 2014.

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ONE CHEL OF AN ADVENTURE

Colorado summer road trip – 7 day itinerary + map.

Planning a Colorado Summer Road Trip ? Read on for my full itinerary + maps and all the best things to see on a Colorado Road Trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, Grand Lake, Vail, and more! And don’t forget to check out my Colorado Packing List for Summer !

1 Week Colorado Summer Road Trip Itinerary

Before heading out on a road trip, I highly recommend you check out these posts as well (they’ll open in a new tab, read after):

• How to Get Your Car Ready for a Road Trip
• Best Road Trip Apps to Download
• Colorado Packing List for Summer

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness in Colorado

Colorado Summer Road Trip Day 1: Drive from Austin, TX to Denver, CO

The drive from Austin, TX to Denver, CO is over 14 hours… It’s a long one! We wanted to make the most of our time, so we opted to leave Austin around 3 AM, that we’d get into Denver around 5 PM. Map of the route below:

Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, TX

Along the way, we stopped at the infamous Cadillac Ranch . To be honest, I wasn’t impressed. There was trash and spray cans littered everywhere. If you need a stop to stretch your legs, then go for it, but I wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to see it.

Art Cartopia Museum, Trinidad, Colorado

This stop, however, I would totally recommend! I randomly found Art Cartopia Museum by looking at the route on Google, and it was such a fun/funky stop! 

Entry is free but donations are encouraged. There are so many bizarre and interesting cars here, it is totally worth a stop!

Arrive in Denver

We stayed in Arvada , a little outside of Denver to visit our friends that live in the area. Denver is an awesome place with so much to do, I recommend staying the night and checking out a cool place for dinner.

You could choose to drive straight to Estes Park instead, it would add another hour and a half or so. We decided to stop in Denver because we like the city, wanted to stock up on supplies, and see some friends that live in the area.

Colorado Road Trip Day 2: Denver to Estes Park

Make the 1.5-hour drive from Denver to Estes Park . It’s a beautiful drive through the mountains, and Estes Park is gorgeous to see coming down! The temperature changes too, be prepared, check out my packing list for this trip .

Hotel in Estes Park

Check into your hotel (if you can) before heading out for the afternoon! We stayed in The Estes Park Resort . It was fairly nice and looked better than most of the accommodations available in Estes Park. 

We stayed in the Lake View Room with a balcony, and the view really was beautiful!

Visit The Stanley Hotel

Drop off your gear and head over to The Stanley Hotel . The Stanley Hotel is a historic hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, and known for being haunted! Believe it or not, it was the inspiration for The Shining!

You are able to explore the grounds and I highly recommend getting a drink at their infamous Whiskey Bar !

Stroll down Estes Park Main Street

Estes Park , like many small towns in Colorado, has a cute, quaint downtown area. Stroll along the streets and check out the different shops, restaurants, and bars! It also has a stream/river that flows through the downtown.

Dinner in Estes Park

We had dinner at The Grubsteak . It was pretty good, but there are tons of great restaurants in Estes Park to check out too.

Click here for more Estes Park recs!

Colorado Road Trip Day 3: Rocky Mountain National Park

Wake up bright and early and head into Rocky Mountain National Park ! At the time I am writing this, you are required to get a reservation to enter the park. I HIGHLY recommend you do that far in advance, the early slots sell out quickly! You can get reservations online here .

Bear Lake Trail Head

Once in the park, we headed to Bear Lake Trailhead to do the hike to Dream + Emerald Lake . 

I had read online that there is very limited parking but thought we’d be early enough at 8 AM… I was wrong. It was totally full when we arrived. The parking gods must have been smiling on us though, we took another pass through and were able to snag a spot! If you aren’t going super early, I recommend parking at the visitor center and taking the shuttle instead.

Hiking to Dream Lake + Emerald Lake

This hike was incredibly beautiful and I highly recommend it! It was fairly easy, but there were some parts that definitely had me huffing and puffing. And I was SUPER sore the next day. But overall, it was so worth it.

Lunch in Estes Park

After the hike, we were pretty tired and opted to go back into Estes Park for lunch/a nap. You could also bring a picnic and enjoy it in the park, there are plenty of places to stop and eat with picnic tables (I wish we had known this and done it)!

Evening Exploring Estes Park

After napping, we headed out to the main street in Estes Park to explore and get a drink. The Barrel is a cool outdoor beer garden that’s definitely worth checking out. We also went to The Slab , but The Barrel was cooler.

We had dinner at Bird & Jim upon the recommendation from several hikers we met on the trail. It was a little pricey but really good!

Related Post:  Best Things To Do, See, and Eat in Estes Park

Related Posts: How to Prevent Altitude Sickness in Colorado

Colorado Summer Road Trip Day 4: Estes Park to Grand Lake via Trail Ridge Road

I was SO excited to drive Trail Ridge Road , it is one of the most scenic roads in the state! Unfortunately, the weather was not on our side that day, but it was still beautiful to see. I highly recommend doing it even if you aren’t going to stay in Grand Lake. 

NOTE: Trail Ridge Road is only open during the summer months, be sure to check weather conditions beforehand.

Trail Ridge Road

The Trail Ridge Road is 48 miles long, with 11 miles of it above the treeline (elevation over 11,000 ft)! It is incredible to see the change in scenery as you rise in elevation so quickly. Luckily there are tons of places for you to pull off, enjoy the view, and snap some pics. These are the top spots/overlooks along the way:

• Hidden Valley
• Many Parks Curve Overlook (pictured below)

• Rainbow Curve Overlook (pictured below)
• Forest Canyon Overlook
• Tundra Communities Trailhead
• Gore Range Overlook (pictured below)

• Alpine Visitor Center
• Medicine Bow Curve
• Milner Pass
• Fairview Curve Viewpoint (pictured below)

• Colorado River Trailhead
• Holzwarth Historic Site
• Bowen/Baker Trailhead
• Coyote Valley Trailhead

We got to see moose along the trail ridge road as well! 

Arrive in Grand Lake, Colorado

After Trail Ridge Road, arrive in Grand Lake, CO! We opted to stay the night here at the Grand Lake Lodge and I highly recommend it. 

The room itself is nothing to write home about, but the views here are incredible. The lodge sits on top of a hill overlooking Grand Lake below. It’s so beautiful! 

Dinner at Huntington Tavern Grand Lake Lodge

Have dinner at Huntington House Tavern at Grand Lake Lodge , and be sure to book seating on “the porch” — just look at that view for dinner!! Reservations are recommended far in advance, book here .

At the time I am writing this, they do a pre-fixe dinner menu for $50/person and it was delicious!

Sunset Drinks on the Deer Deck at Grand Lake Lodge

After dinner, grab a drink at the bar and head out to the Deer Deck to watch the sunset over Grand Lake.

Read More:   Grand Lake Lodge Review

Summer CO Road Trip Day 5: Grand Lake to Vail

After spending the night in Grand Lake, it’s time to head to Vail, CO !

Breakfast in Grand Lake, CO

Head down to the cute “downtown” main street in Grand Lake for breakfast. We first tried breakfast burritos at The Hub because it had rave reviews, but it was the worst breakfast burrito I’ve ever had. It was obviously a frozen burrito heated up.

We ditched those and headed to Blue Water Bakery instead.

After grabbing a coffee and pastry, walk down to the lake to enjoy your breakfast. There are plenty of benches you can sit on and enjoy the lake views.

Drive to Vail

Then it’s off to Vail, CO ! We opted to take a little longer route through Winter Park, CO (read this post for everything you need to know about Winter Park ).

The drive again was just incredible. SO many switchbacks through the mountains with views for miles!

Stop at Georgetown, CO

We stopped in Georgetown, CO with the hopes of riding the Historic Georgetown Loop Railroad (another reason we chose this route), but unfortunately, the tickets were all sold out.

It looks awesome though (you get to ride in an open air train through the mountains) and I would highly recommend checking it out – just be sure to book tickets in advance !

Arrive in Vail + Check in to The Four Seasons Hotel

We stayed at the Four Seasons in Vail and I cannot recommend them enough! The Four Seasons was gracious enough to host us for two nights, but all comments are my honest opinion! 

We were able to check right in and get settled in our gorgeous Mountain Premier Room ! See my room tour on Instagram :

View this post on Instagram Four Seasons Vail room tour! That view of the pool at the end though 😍 @fsvail #fsvail #fsvailpartner #visitvail #fourseasons A post shared by Chelsea Bancroft | ATX (@onechelofanadventure) on Sep 10, 2020 at 7:19pm PDT

After a welcome drink, freshen up and head into Vail Village.

Explore Vail Village

Head into Vail Village and see just how cute and quaint it is! It reminds me of a European town and I loved it!

There are tons of shops, galleries, and restaurants to explore. For all the best shopping in Vail Village, click here .

Likes Estes Park , Vail has a beautiful stream/river running through it too!

Dinner in Vail Village

We had dinner at Sweet Basil the first night and it was wonderful! It, like most of the restaurants in Vail, are very popular, so I highly recommend making a reservation no matter where you go!

For more amazing Vail restaurant and bar recs, click here (Vail in Summer guide).

Drinks at The Remedy Bar in the Four Seasons

Even if you don’t stay at the Four Seasons , you should definitely head over and get a drink in The Remedy Bar ! They are known for their cocktails and have a great outdoor patio that overlooks the pool and mountains!

Colorado Summer Road Trip Day 6: Vail, CO

Spend a full day exploring Vail! There is so much to do in Vail in the Summer that I honestly would recommend another day. I didn’t feel like two days was enough.

Room Service Breakfast

We ordered room service for breakfast, it was nice to have a slow wake up before a big day!

Trail Ride at Vail Stables

There are tons of outdoor activities to do in Vail, we opted for a trail ride with Vail Stables ! It was an awesome ride and I would totally recommend it.

We did the 1.5-hour Bear Hollow Trail ride and it was plenty. If you’re not used to riding (like myself), 2 hours would probably be too much. I was sore for days after.

The trail takes you through Aspen lined trails up the mountain. The forest is so beautiful and peaceful.

On the way down, you get incredibly scenic views of Gore Range, Vail Ski Slopes, and Beaver Creek!

Lunch at Four Seasons

After a trail ride, refuel with some lunch. We opted for the Four Seasons because it was easy and we were leaving from here for our next activity, but there are tons of lunch spots in Vail Village to check out!

Adventure out to Piney Lake

One of the perks of staying at the Four Seasons Vail is guests get to use their Mercedes-Benz G Wagon ! Driving out to Piney Lake was highly recommend to us, but you have to drive on really rough (basically off-roading roads) so we took the G Wagon!

To get out to Piney Lake , you take to drive on almost 9 miles of rough, rocky, roads (it doesn’t look like it, but trust me). It takes about 40 minutes to get out there. I was very thankful to have a vehicle that could handle the rough road. 

Check out the video here .

But let me tell you, once you get out to Piney Lake, the views are SO worth it! LIKE WOW:

View this post on Instagram Vail, CO Must-Do: Piney Lake HOW TO GET THERE: To get to #PineyLake from Vail, you have drive about 8 miles on a bumpy, rocky, gravely road (basically off-roading). It takes 40+ min to get there and it’s a rough ride, but the views are worth it 😍 We saw several sedans on the road but I wouldn’t recommend it, you need an SUV/Truck in my opinion. WHAT TO DO THERE: One you arrive at Piney Lake, you can hike the trails around the lake, rent a boat, or have lunch at the Piney Lake Ranch! SAVE this post for future Vail, CO trips! #pineylakecolorado #vailcolorado #visitvail #visitvailvalley A post shared by Chelsea Bancroft | ATX (@onechelofanadventure) on Sep 7, 2020 at 6:12am PDT

Once out there, you can hike the trails around the lake, rent a boat, or check out the Piney Lake Ranch . They have a restaurant and gift shop.

Pool at Four Seasons Vail

After returning from Piney Lake, relax a little before dinner at the gorgeous Four Seasons Resort pool ! 

Dinner in Vail

We originally wanted to have dinner at Mountain Standard but unfortunately weren’t able to get a reservation. So we opted for room service again because we were exhausted and had a huge day or driving ahead of us the next day.

Other Things to do in Vail

For a full guide on what to do, see, and eat in Vail, Colorado during the summer, check out this post !

Colorado Summer Road Trip Day 7: Drive from Vail, CO to Austin, TX

We had a 17-hour drive back to Texas ahead of us, so we were up early and hit the road.  We took the longer route through Taos, New Mexico to visit some family.

Here are some interesting stops along the way on a Colorado Summer Road Trip that are worth checking out if you need a driving break:

Leadville, CO

We drove through Leadville, CO and it is such a cute little town! Had it been later in the day, we totally would have stopped to look around.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

I would have LOVED to stop here, but we were already on a time crunch and it would’ve added another 2 hours. If you’re breaking up the drive, I’d totally recommend making a stop at Great Sand Dunes National Park :

Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

Just outside Taos, the Rio Grande Gorge is definitely worth a stop. The rest stop has fairly clean bathrooms, and the bridge really is incredible to see.

Taos, New Mexico

If you have time to stop in Taos, it’s a great little city with lots of art and culture! We stopped for lunch here.

Carson National Forest

After Taos, our GPS took us through Carson National Forest. It was a slower drive but absolutely beautiful through the mountains and along creeks.

After that, it’s pretty flat and boring through Texas.

A word of warning, check the weather ahead of time… we found ourselves in one of the worth thunderstorms we’ve ever had to drive through. Ended up delaying us even more… it did however give us some awesome lightning shots .

So there you have it, an awesome 1-week Colorado Summer Road Trip Itinerary ! If you have any questions or want to connect, please feel free to leave a comment or send me a  DM on Instagram !

Related Posts:

• Summer Colorado Packing List
• The Best Road Trip Apps to Download
• How to Get Your Car Ready For a Road Trip + What to Bring​

You Might Also Like:

Vail, Colorado in Summer: Best Things to Do, See, and Eat

11 Tips for Road Tripping with a Dog

Fall Road Trip Essentials: What to Pack for a Road Trip in the Fall

Four Seasons Resort Vail – REVIEW

Grand Lake Lodge – Best Hotel in Grand Lake, CO

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6 thoughts on “ colorado summer road trip – 7 day itinerary + map ”.

Enjoyed reading and “traveling” with you. Great pictures!

Ah thank you so much!! 🙂

This is so helpful! I’m currently planning a road trip to CO with my bf and we know nothing about the area, so this is super helpful!

Ah I’m so glad I could help 🙂

Hi there! I’m planning something VERY similar from Dallas, TX with the hubby! I’m curious..roughly how much did this 1 week in Colorado cost for both of you?

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Ideal 10-Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary (Ideas, Costs & Map)

Last Updated: July 5, 2024

If I had to sit down and draw up my dream US road trip itinerary, I’d have a hell of a hard time ever leaving my home state of Colorado.

I’m a hopeless skiing, hiking, camping, and outdoor addict, and I can’t imagine a better setting to fire up my camper van and start exploring.

Sure, I’ve spent most of my 30-something years here, and I’m a bit biased, but that doesn’t change the cold hard facts: Colorado is packed with rich history, easy-to-find adventure, and exceptional natural beauty.

Are you thinking about a Colorado road trip of your own?

You’re in luck, because I’ve put together my ideal 10-day itinerary to help you maximize your journey cruising around the Centennial State.

I’ve also included must-see destinations, vehicle and lodging recommendations, tips, maps, costs, and more.

Keep reading; it’s time to start planning the right way.

Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

• Ten-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Day One: Denver

Day two: boulder, day three: estes park, day four: steamboat springs, day five: glenwood springs, day six: black canyon of the gunnison, day seven: telluride, day eight: durango.

• Day Nine: Great Sand Dunes NP.

Day Ten: Buena Vista

• Additional Ideas & Destinations
• Shorter Itineraries (Four to Nine Days)
• Road Trip Planning Tips
• Final Thoughts: Colorado Road Trip

A Local’s Ultimate 10-Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

Colorado Road Trip Map

Now, for the fun part.

Here’s the exact itinerary I would use if I had ten days to spend road-tripping around my home state.

My route is quite ambitious — over 100 miles and about two hours of driving per day — so don’t be afraid to bend and tweak it to fit your style.

Buckle up and have fun out there.

Distance from Denver International Airport : 26 miles Driving Time : 45 minutes

I don’t consider myself much of a city boy, but if you witnessed me in my element in Denver , you might beg to differ.

I never once grew bored of the place during my six years living in the Mile High City.

The scores of restaurants, microbreweries, cafes, music venues, sports arenas, museums, and parks always seemed to keep me thoroughly entertained (for better or worse).

The impressive views of the Rocky Mountains beckoning on Denver’s horizon serve as a reminder that pristine wilderness is an easy escape.

You can’t road trip Colorado without spending some quality time in Denver; I won’t allow it.

Activities & Ideas Near Denver

• Ogle over incredible marine life at the Downtown Denver Aquarium
• Get tipsy on a brewery tour and sample some of Denver’s best beer
• Relax and watch a baseball game at Coors Field , the home of the Colorado Rockies
• Stroll down Larimer Square to enjoy the best of Denver’s food and drink scene
• Dance to incredible live music at Dazzle , Denver’s oldest Jazz bar

Check out my detailed one-day budget guide for Denver for a more in-depth look at my favorite activities within The Mile High City.

RV Parking: The Prospect RV Park Budget Hotel: Off Broadway B&B Mid-Range Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Luxury Hotel:  Kimpton Hotel Born

Distance from Denver : 30 miles Driving Time : 30 minutes

Some of my best childhood memories were when my parents drove my brother and me to Boulder to march up hiking trails and wander the Pearl Street Mall.

These fond experiences eventually led me back to Boulder, where I spent six years socializing, exploring, and occasionally studying at the University of Colorado.

Boulder and I go way back.

What I love most about Boulder is its proximity to nature.

Mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, camping, fishing – it’s all within your backyard when Boulder’s your base camp.

And much like Denver, Boulder has plenty of excellent food, nightlife, and cultural happenings to keep you busy as you pass through.

Activities & Ideas Near Boulder

• Bask in the sun and enjoy an afternoon by the Boulder Creek at the lively Eben G Fine Park
• Hike Nederland’s jaw-dropping 4th of July Trail , just a 45-minute drive from downtown
• Shop, watch street performers, and enjoy Boulder’s best restaurants on the Pearl Street Mall
• Catch some live tunes at Boulder’s most iconic music venue, The Boulder Theater
• Soak in Colorado culture at the Boulder County Farmers Market (Wednesdays and Saturdays)

Want to explore more entertaining things to do in Boulder during your Road trip? Visit Boulder’s official website .

Camping: Kelly Dahl Campground RV Parking: Boulder Area RV Site | Sign up here first for $10 off Budget Hotel: Rodeway Inn and Suites Mid-Range Hotel: Boulder University Inn Luxury Hotel:  Hotel Boulderado

Distance from Boulder : 40 miles Driving Time : One hour

Just 45 minutes from my hometown of Longmont, Estes Park has been a go-to mountain town of mine for many years. I know it quite well.

Though Estes Park has a bit of a touristy downtown — packed full of kitschy restaurants and souvenir shops — I’ve always found it to be quite endearing.

But I don’t visit Estes Park for its downtown.

I travel there for a completely different reason: the incredible natural beauty in every direction.

Estes Park is a gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park – 250,000 acres full of incredible hiking trails, crystal clear mountain lakes, roaming wildlife, and staggering alpine terrain.

You won’t need to leave your car to soak it all in either, as the road leading up to the park entrance is among the most beautiful I’ve ever driven on.

Note : Every car entering Rocky Mountain National Park must pay a $30 entrance fee, which covers you for three days.

Activities & Ideas Near Estes Park

• Drive along the breathtaking Trail Ridge Road (Highway 34), which tops out at over 12,000 feet
• Explore over 350 miles of hiking trails in the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park
• Take a tour of the Stanley Hotel , made famous by the classic film, The Shining
• Check out how Colorado settlers lived 150 years ago at the MacGregor Ranch Museum
• Stroll the streets of Downtown Estes Park for shopping, restaurants, and more

Want to explore more entertaining things to do in Estes Park during your Road trip? Visit Estes Park’s official website .

Camping: Moraine Park RV Parking: Manor RV Park Budget Hotel: Discovery Lodge Mid-Range Hotel: StoneBrook Resort Luxury Hotel: The Ridgeline Hotel

Distance from Estes Park : 115 miles Driving Time : Two hours and 30 minutes

As I write this, I’ve only visited Steamboat Springs once, on a 2019 road trip with my mom.

I’ve been ready to return ever since.

My mom and I set up base camp during our trip at the scenic Steamboat Lake State Park.

We nearly inflated my two-person raft and set out on the glassy lake on a couple of different occasions, but ultimately we were far too relaxed to be bothered.

We made a few visits to downtown Steamboat, filled with delicious food stops, thrift store browsing, and lazy window shopping.

The wide-open landscape surrounding Steamboat Springs is rugged and raw, and driving its sprawling country roads is like stepping back in time.

Rustic ranches dot the countryside, and imposing mountains stand firmly on the horizon. Steamboat Springs is my kind of place.

Activities & Ideas Near Steamboat Springs

• Go fishing, kayaking, camping, or swimming in the pristine Steamboat Lake State Park
• Soak in the natural 100-degree geothermal pools at Strawberry Hot Springs Park
• Ride the gondola to the top of Steamboat Ski Resort for impressive views of the Yampa Valley
• Sit in on a live concert from the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra
• Enjoy a breathtaking day hike along the Fish Creek Falls Trail in Mount Zirkel Wilderness

Want to explore more entertaining things to do in Steamboat Springs during your Road trip? Visit Steamboat Springs’ official website .

Camping: Steamboat Lake State Park RV Parking: Steamboat Lake State Park Budget Hotel: The Steamboat Hotel Mid-Range Hotel: The Inn at Steamboat Luxury Hotel:  Chalet Val d’Isere

Distance from Steamboat Springs : 114 miles Driving Time : Two hours and 15 minutes

Glenwood Springs is surrounded by impressive nature, but many of my best experiences there have occurred within the town.

Whether I’m poking around outdoor gear shops, cozying up on a barstool, or soaking in its hot springs, Glenwood Springs always seems to show me a good time.

Originally named ‘Defiance’ in 1880, Glenwood Springs is steeped in Wild West heritage.

So, be sure to stop by the Frontier Museum , which paints a colorful picture of Glenwood Springs’ rowdy and tumultuous spirit near the turn of the 19th century.

On top of its rich history, Glenwood Springs has plenty to offer to the outdoor enthusiasts who are passing through.

Mountain biking, rafting, skydiving, hiking, rock climbing, you name it – it’s all there waiting for you.

Activities & Ideas Near Glenwood Springs

• Hike along the Colorado River and through Glenwood Canyon to the picturesque Hanging Lake
• Throw back a few cold Colorado microbrews at Glenwood Canyon Brewpub
• Honor the Wild West and visit Doc Holiday’s gravesite in Linwood Cemetary
• Play a round of golf surrounded by mountains at the Ironbridge Golf Club
• Relax and soak in 16 different thermal pools at Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Want to explore more entertaining things to do in Glenwood Springs during your Road trip? Visit Glenwood Springs’ official website .

Camping: Coulter Creek  | Sign up here first for $10 off RV Parking: Ami’s Acres Campgrounds Budget Hotel:  Hanging Lake Inn Mid-Range Hotel: Hotel Denver Luxury Hotel: Hotel Colorado

Distance from Glenwood Springs : 95 miles Driving Time : Two hours

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is among the most staggeringly beautiful places I’ve ever visited.

On my first visit, I sat for hours atop the canyon, staring down at the jaw-dropping 2,000-foot walls as I sipped beer in silence.

Years later, I embarked on a shin-busting (and mildly terrifying) 1.1-mile descent into the bottom of the canyon to set up camp along the Gunnison River.

I spent the entire evening craning my neck up towards the same canyon walls I’d ogled a few years prior.

Though it’s not as gigantic or well-known as the Grand Canyon, I found the Black Canyon of the Gunnison to be just as impressive.

It’s one of Colorado’s most magnificent feats of nature and is about as can’t-miss as they come.

Pro Tip : When stocking up on supplies, be sure to do so in Montrose – a relaxed, authentic, and outdoorsy town just a 20-minute drive from the Black Canyon.

Activities & Ideas Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison

• Camp out atop the canyon and revel in the stunning views at the North Rim Campground
• Enjoy a pleasant stroll full of gorgeous overlooks along the Warner Point Trail
• Hike the Gunnison Route Trail , a remarkably  steep descent into the bottom of the canyon
• Learn the region’s fascinating history at the Museum of the Mountain West in nearby Montrose
• Kayak, stand-up paddle, or play disc golf along the river at the Montrose Water Sports Park

Want to explore more entertaining things to do near the Black Canyon of the Gunnison during your Road trip? Visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison’s official website .

Camping: North Rim Campground (First come, first served) RV Parking: South Rim Campground (First come, first served) Budget Hotel: Briarwood Inns Mid-Range Hotel:  Hampton Inn Montrose Luxury Hotel:  Double G Guestranch

Distance from Black Canyon of the Gunnison : 78 miles Driving Time : One hour and 45 minutes

Of all the picturesque ski towns in Colorado, Telluride might be the most captivating.

Surrounded by towering peaks in nearly every direction, the small town of 2,500 attracts visitors from all over the world.

The endless opportunities for outdoor bliss around Telluride — hiking, mountain biking, skiing, fishing, camping — are a bit excessive.

You’ll see.

Lodging in Telluride isn’t cheap by any stretch of the imagination (the “budget” hotel I’ve listed below is $176 a night!).

However, budget travelers can still visit by setting up shop at Telluride Town Park Campground.

Show up early, though, as sites are first-come, first-served.

Telluride’s something different, and you need to see it for yourself.

Activities & Ideas Near Telluride

• Drive Owl Creek Pass through the Cimmaron Mountains and soak in captivating views
• Set up camp in the heart of town at the Telluride Town Park Campground
• Enjoy a jaw-dropping day hike along the scenic Hope Lake Trail in Lizard Head Wilderness
• Try your hand at some of Colorado’s best fly fishing along the San Miguel River
• Sing, dance, and eat your heart out at the annual Telluride Bluegrass Festival

Want to explore more entertaining things to do in Telluride during your Road trip? Visit Telluride’s official website .

Camping: Telluride Town Park RV Parking: Ouray RV Park & Cabins (Ouray, CO) Budget Hotel:  Mountainside Inn Mid-Range Hotel: Mountain Lodge at Telluride Luxury Hotel: Lumiere with Inspirato

Distance from Telluride : 111 miles Driving Time : Two hours and 15 minutes

If I could choose one place to live on this ten-day road trip itinerary, I’d pick Durango.

Durango offers some of the best skiing, hiking, and camping in the state, and the town is full of great food, rich history, live music venues, and entertaining nightlife.

I consider Durango Colorado’s cultural center west of the Rocky Mountains, and it’s not even close.

Though the route from Telluride to Durango I’m about to recommend may seem a bit indirect, take it anyway.

It’ll be among the most beautiful stretches of the entire trip.

Here it is:

• From Telluride, drive west on Highway 145 for 16 miles
• Turn right on Highway 62 and continue for 24 miles
• Turn right on Highway 550 (the Million Dollar Highway) and continue for 81 miles until you reach Durango

Follow this route even though Google Maps will recommend something entirely different.

Activities & Ideas Near Durango

• Drive along the famed Million Dollar Highway (US 550) for, you guessed it, million-dollar views
• Walk along the Animas River Trail , a scenic nature path that cuts through the heart of town
• Hop aboard the Silverlight Express , a coal-powered train running along the San Juan Skyway
• Lace up your boots, throw on your daypack, and hike a segment of the Colorado Trail
• Enjoy prohibition-era live music and ambiance at the Diamond Belle Saloon

Want to explore more entertaining things to do in Durango during your Road trip? Visit Durango’s official website .

Camping: Lightner Creek Campgrounds & Cabins RV Parking: Alpen Rose RV Park Budget Hotel: Days Inn by Windham Mid-Range Hotel:  The Durango Downtown Inn Luxury Hotel: Doubletree by Hilton

Day Nine: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Distance from Durango : 168 miles Driving Time : Three hours and 15 minutes

At first glance, Great Sand Dunes National Park doesn’t seem real.

Wavy sheets of rolling sand that stretch for miles, backed by mammoth snow-capped mountains on the nearby horizon – How did this unreal spectacle end up out here in the middle of nowhere, anyway?

Believable or not, Great Sand Dunes National Park exists and is a must-visit on any itinerary.

So, pencil in a stop and get ready to explore one of Colorado’s most mystifying places.

There’ll be no shortage of tourists, so strap on your day pack, put on your favorite hiking playlist, and trudge your way deep into the sprawling hills of sand for some well-earned solitude.

Activities & Ideas Near Great Sand Dunes National Park

• Set up at Piñon Flats Campground , your base for the Sand Dunes and the San Juan Mountains
• Four-wheel along Medano Pass Road for a bumpy and exhilarating off-road adventure
• Fly fish for Colorado mountain trout along Medano Creek or the Rio Grande River
• Strap on a sandboard and explore the dunes in the most entertaining way imaginable
• Revel in the brisk runoff from the San Juan Mountains along a day hike to Zapata Falls

Want to explore more entertaining things to do near the Great Sand Dunes National Park during your Road trip? Visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park’s official website .

Camping: Piñon Flats Campground RV Parking: Piñon Flats Campground Budget Hotel: The Sunset Inn (Alamosa, CO) Mid-Range Hotel: Mountain View Motor Inn (Fort Garland, CO) Luxury Hotel:  Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott (Alamosa, CO)

Distance from Great Sand Dunes National Park : 109 miles Driving Time : One hour and 45 minutes Distance back to Denver : 123 miles Driving Time back to Denver : Two hours and 15 minutes

Whenever I find myself near Buena Vista, I usually punish my legs on an ass-kicking ascent up one of the nearby Collegiate Peaks.

This impressive collection of mountains — a 34-mile section of the Sawatch Range — includes 19 imposing summits over 13,000 feet in elevation.

Simply put, the hiking trails around Buena Vista are steep, breathtaking, and world-class.

And, if hiking isn’t your thing, Buena Vista has plenty else to offer – ATV tours, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, elk hunting, and camping (to name a few).

When all the adventure has caught up to you, head straight to the nearby Mount Princeton Hot Springs for a long, contemplative soak.

Activities & Ideas Near Buena Vista

• Set up shop near some of Colorado’s tallest mountains at the Collegiate Peaks Campground
• Conquer a 14,000-foot mountain and soak in the views on a grueling day hike of Huron Peak
• Rent an ATV and power through the backcountry trails at Chinaman Gulch
• Sample some of Colorado’s best whiskey during a quick tour of the Deerhammer Distillery
• Replenish energy and restore your balance with a soak in Mt. Princeton Hot Springs

Want to explore more entertaining things to do in Buena Vista during your Road trip? Visit Buena Vista’s official website .

Camping: Historic Ranch at Mt. Princeton | Sign up here first for $10 off RV Parking: Mt. Princeton RV Park Budget Hotel:  Topaz Lodge Mid-Range Hotel: Super 8 by Windham Luxury Hotel:  Surf Hotel & Chateau

Additional Colorado Destinations

Let’s face it. It’ll be impossible to see all Colorado has to offer on the 10-day itinerary I’ve given you.

Colorado has many more beautiful places that I was forced to leave out.

Check out the list below for more awe-inspiring destinations that barely missed the cut.

• Aspen – Ritzy ski town an hour south of Glenwood Springs
• Blackhawk – Casino-filled mountain town an hour west of Denver
• Breckenridge – Popular resort town for skiers an hour and a half west of Denver
• Creede – Historic mining town two hours west of the Great Sand Dunes National Park
• Crested Butte – Adventure-packed mountain town two hours east of Montrose
• Fort Collins – College town and microbrew mecca an hour north of Denver
• Grand Lake – Family-friendly mountain town an hour west of Estes Park
• Gunnison – Outdoor lovers college town an hour and 15 minutes east of Montrose
• Idaho Springs – Tourist-friendly mountain town an hour west of Denver
• Nederland – Funky and spiritual mountain town 45 minutes west of Boulder
• Ouray – Hip and lively mountain town 45 minutes north of Telluride
• Pagosa Springs – Relaxed town with hot springs an hour and 15 minutes west of Durango
• Salida – Small and endearing mountain town half an hour south of Buena Vista
• Silverton – Rugged and imposing mountain town an hour north of Durango
• Twin Lakes – Scenic camping and boating reserve half an hour north of Buena Vista
• Vail – Hip and world-renowned ski town two and a half hours west of Denver

Shorter Itineraries (4-9 Days)

While I highly recommend you set aside at least ten days for your ideal road trip, I understand that not everyone can hit the road for that long.

So if time is an issue, check out my shorter suggested itineraries below and start planning your dream route.

Distance from Denver International Airport: 23 miles Driving Time: 45 minutes

Day Two: Rocky Mountain National Park

Distance from Denver: 72 miles Driving Time: One hour and 45 minutes

Day Three: Breckenridge

Distance from Rocky Mountain National Park: 130 miles Driving Time: Three hours

Day Four: Buena Vista

Distance from Breckenridge: 60 miles Driving Time: One hour and 15 minutes

Day Two: Fort Collins

Distance from Denver: 66 miles Driving Time: One hour and 15 minutes

Day Three: Steamboat Springs

Distance from Fort Collins: 157 miles Driving Time: Three hours and 15 minutes

Day Four: Vail

Distance from Steamboat Springs: 93 miles Driving Time: One hour and 45 minutes

Day Five: Blackhawk

Distance from Vail: 77 miles Driving Time: One and a half hours

Day One: Boulder

Distance from Denver International Airport: 43 miles Driving Time: 45 minutes

Day Two: Denver

Distance from Boulder: 28 miles Driving Time: 45 minutes

Day Three: Vail

Distance from Denver: 97 miles Driving Time: One hour and 45 minutes

Day Four: Glenwood Springs

Distance from Vail: 61 miles Driving Time: One hour

Day Five: Aspen

Distance from Glenwood Springs: 41 miles Driving Time: One hour

Day Six: Twin Lakes

Distance from Aspen: 23 miles Driving Time: 45 minutes

Day Two: Vail

Day three: gunnison.

Distance from Vail: 160 miles Driving Time: Three Hours

Day Four: Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Distance from Gunnison: 63 miles Driving Time: One Hour and 15 minutes

Day Five: Salida

Distance from Black Canyon of the Gunnison: 64 miles Driving Time: One Hour and 15 minutes

Day Six: Buena Vista

Distance from Salida: 25 miles Driving Time: Half an hour

Day Seven: Blackhawk

Distance from Buena Vista: 115 miles Driving Time: Two hours

Day Three: Grand Lake

Distance from Rocky Mountain National Park: 21 miles Driving Time: 45 minutes

Distance from Grand Lake: 94 miles Driving Time: Two hours

Distance from Steamboat Springs: 114 miles Driving Time: Two hours and 15 minutes

Distance from Glenwood Springs: 95 miles Driving Time: Two hours and 15 minutes

Day Seven: Salida

Distance from Black Canyon of the Gunnison: 126 miles Driving Time: Two and a half hours

Day Eight: Idaho Springs

Distance from Salida: 127 miles Driving Time: Two and a half hours

Distance from Denver: 28 miles Driving Time: 45 minutes

Day Three: Rocky Mountain National Park

Distance from Boulder: 49 miles Driving Time: One hour and 15 minutes

Distance from Rocky Mountain National Park: 137 miles Driving Time: Three hours

Distance from Vail: 28 miles Driving Time: 45 minutes

Day Seven: Ouray

Distance from Black Canyon of the Gunnison: 49 miles Driving Time: One hour

Distance from Ouray: 71 miles Driving Time: One hour and 45 minutes

Distance from Durango: 168 miles Driving Time: Three hours and 15 minutes

Tips for Planning Your Colorado Road Trip

As a passenger and driver, I’ve been going on road trips for as long as I can remember.

Here are some of my best bits of wisdom to help you plan your best trip possible.

Know When to Go

While cruising around Colorado is doable at any time of the year, certain times are better than others.

My favorite months to visit weather-wise are September and October – when the leaves on the trees change colors, and the air is cool and crisp.

July and August are typically Colorado’s hottest months and are best for hiking, backpacking, and camping at high altitudes.

Snow is scarce during these months, even on Colorado’s tallest peaks .

Skiers and snowboarders should expect the best snow from January until March, although snowfall is impossible to predict from year to year.

Driving long distances during the winter could get dicey, as the roads are more prone to snow, ice, and slush.

Book Your Lodging Early

During peak season, hotels, Airbnbs, campsites, and RV parks are known to book up well in advance.

Study up, plan your trip, and reserve your accommodations ahead of time, or risk losing out on the lodging that best suits your needs.

Bring Your Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking Gear

Colorado offers some of the most incredible hiking, camping, and backpacking in the US.

Pack your tent, boots, and other lightweight backpacking gear so you’ll be ready for any hiking or camping adventures the moment they present themselves.

Camping along the way can also save you loads of money.

Download Offline Maps

Cell coverage can get spotty in the more rural parts, so I recommend downloading offline Google Maps for every region you’ll explore during your trip.

These offline maps will allow you to use GPS navigation even if cell service is inconsistent or lacking altogether.

Keep Track of Special Events

Visit Colorado’s official events page to keep up with fun happenings that might pop up along your adventure.

With constant music festivals, farmers markets, rodeos, art exhibits, and more – Colorado is a lively place with a heck of a lot to offer.

Start Your Days Early

You’ll likely be logging some serious miles, so rise early, brew up a strong pot of coffee, and hit the open road with an entire day ahead of you.

You’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to make prolonged pit stops, wear out the shutter button on your camera, and bask in the Centennial State’s undeniable glory.

Don’t be Afraid to Ditch Your Itinerary

Last summer, I spent days planning a “perfect” five-day trip for my girlfriend while she was visiting from China.

But about 36 hours into our journey, we realized that the trip I’d planned was moving too quickly.

Eventually, we took a deep breath, scrapped the rest of the itinerary, and slowed our roll. It was the right decision.

Buy Travel Insurance

Regardless of how much effort you put into drawing up your trip, the best-laid travel plans can spiral out of control at a moment’s notice.

Cover yourself with a rock-solid travel insurance policy to protect against accidents, breakdowns, theft, sickness, and injury.

WorldNomads is widely used by road trippers worldwide.

Plan Your Perfect Colorado Road Trip

So, there you have it. I’ve given you the very best information I can offer about taking your Colorado road trip.

The tips, advice, and recommendations – it’s all straight from the heart of a passionate native.

I hope you find it useful.

I’ve spent decades exploring this great state and hope to spend many more in the future.

Colorado is a place I’ll never grow tired of, and it’s somewhere that will always spark my explorer’s spirit.

So, fire up your engine and see Colorado for yourself.

Noel Krasomil

Affiliate Disclosure : Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help support this website and keep it 100% ad-free.

22 thoughts on “Ideal 10-Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary (Ideas, Costs & Map)”

Sounds like an awesome itinerary. Thank you for sharing. I am planning on a solo road trip this October for about 10 days. As much as I would love to do some camping, I don’t feel like bringing all that gear with me as I want to pack a carry on only. Any suggestions on how to modify the itinerary for a solo female traveler?

Sorry for the late reply. I just got back from hiking the Colorado Trail for the last month. Give me a little time to think about an adjusted itinerary without camping and I’ll get back to you soon. I’ve got a lot of catching up to do with my blog! Take care.

Awesome write up. First one I clicked and I feel like I don’t need anymore! I was surprised there were no ghost towns on here but I am not sure how common they are to begin with. I am also hesitant to fly with all the extra weight of camping gear for luggage, I was wondering if It might be a good idea to buy a tent in colorado and ship it back to my home state.

Glad you liked the write-up! Yeah, ghost towns are usually out in the middle of nowhere and aren’t always super easy to get to. I’ll consider adding some to the list when I have some time! Thanks for the heads up.

When will you be in Colorado for your road trip? I could loan you an REI Half Dome 2 tent if you’d like.

Hi, I’m arriving in Denver on April 23rd, and I know that the weather is super unpredictable at that time of year. Should i skip RMNP and just head south? We will be there for 7 days, still trying to decide on itinerary and accommodations. Looking for great hiking and scenery, and am overwhelmed with too many options!

Hey, Christie. Thanks for reaching out! Hmmmm… you’re right about the weather here being unpredictable during April. It could be 70 degrees and sunny or it could be 25 degrees with a foot of snow. Colorado is fun like that. If the weather is decent, which it should be , I really do recommend visiting RMNP. But if there’s a spring snowstorm in the forecast, you might want to have a plan B.

In terms of hiking, there will probably be snow/ice/snowpack anywhere you go above 10,000 feet in elevation, so bring snowshoes or crampons if you want to get up high into the thin, crisp air!

What are some destinations that jump out at you for your road trip? I’d be happy to answer any more questions you may have.

This is a great list! Thanks so much for putting it together!!

I’m planning a 6-7 day road trip in the last week of May/first week of June. We’ve already explored Denver/Boulder on a previous trip so we’d focus on parks this time. Do you think the weather would be amenable for RMNP/Black Gunnison/Great Sand Dunes? Those are the main places we’d want to hit if we can. Also, we can’t decide if we should RV or rent a car –> it would be our first time RV’ing and we have to fly in so we can’t bring much camping gear. I’m just not sure how RV friendly these places are if we haven’t yet booked campsites. This late could it be more practical to stay in airbnb’s and such instead? Thanks so much if you have the chance to answer our amateur questions!

Thanks for reaching out! I’m glad you like the list.

Late-May/early-June should offer up some good weather for your particular trip, but there’s no way to be certain. At higher elevations like in RMNP and Great Sand Dunes, where you can get above 10,000 feet, snow and cold temperatures aren’t completely out of the question for that time of year. As I said, you should be good, but I would pack cold-weather clothing and be ready for snow if and when it arrives.

As far as renting an RV, I can’t give you much advice. I travel in my converted Chevy Astro Van, so I park where cars/trucks go. For this part of your question, you might be better served posting on a message board or diving deep into the National Parks Service websites.

I’m really excited you’ve chosen to explore Colorado on your upcoming road trip! I think you’re going to have a wonderful time. Please feel free to reach out to me with any more questions you might have until then.

Happy Travels!

Hey Noel, First of all, GREAT SITE! Lots to digest. I am coming out in August with my 17 yr old son for a Saturday to Saturday trip. We’re city folk but like to take vacations with some outdoor life, but comforts of hotels at night. We will land in Denver and head to a Rockies game, then the following day be ready to get out into the country. We are renting a 4WD truck to get around. Any recommendations on a trip that would not lead to a new town every night? So like, maybe Denver the 1st night, then a couple nights in Boulder, then a night or two in Estes (hitting RMNP), maybe a few nights in Breckenridge. I’m not opposed to driving 2-3 hours between stops, but Telluride, as amazing as it sounds, is just too far. Along the way we want to do some cool hikes (4-6 miles and we are ok with steeper terrain), rent an ATV for a half day, do some mountain biking one day, and maybe somewhere we could hire a fishing guide. Any thoughts?

Thanks, Nathan

Glad to hear you and your son are coming out to Colorado this August! You’re going to have a wonderful time. Definitely check out Denver/Boulder and catch a Rockies game. (Even though they’re really bad this year, Coors Field is always a good time!)

Good call on RMNP. It’s truly a gorgeous place. It will be very busy in August (peak season), so start your days early and research lesser-traveled parts of the park to avoid crowds.

For ATV riding and fishing, look into Buena Vista, Salida, and Leadville. Really cool mountain towns known for those activities that aren’t quite as touristy or expensive as Breckenridge. You’d likely have a more authentic Colorado experience in that neck of the woods, as well.

I’m not a mountain biker, but I do know lots of the ski resorts (Breck, Winter Park, Copper Mountain, etc.) will haul you and your bike up to the top of their ski runs and let you ride down. If you’re looking for a more earned experience, there are plenty of great trails in Colorado that you can find through a quick Google search.

Feel free to get in touch with me before your trip. If I’m available, I’d love to meet up with you guys and show you around Denver. (I’m living here for the summer.)

I hope this was helpful!

Hi, loved your itineraries…. we are flying in and out of Denver (6 days). Any recommendations how we can see the most in that short of a loop?

Yes, but can you tell me about your group first? Do you like city life, hiking, camping, outdoor sports, etc.?

Thank you for a great post! Thinking of renting a campervan for the first time, but I couldn’t understand if you must park it in RV parking lots? if not, what are the rules regarding where I could park it while on my road trip? Thanks again!

Thanks, Sapir! I have never parked my camper van in an official RV lot/campground in Colorado and haven’t had any issues parking it (for free) at trailheads, dispersed campgrounds, hotel parking lots, etc. I guess it all depends on how much your camper van blends in and what the regulations are around where you are planning to travel. That said, if you’re quiet, respectful, and park your van in strategic spots, you probably won’t run into any issues. Happy travels!

Thank you so much for your time and effort in creating this itinerary! I know very little about traveling and nothing about Colorado, this is a tremendous help!

You’re welcome, Hailey. Let me know how your adventure of Colorado ends up!

This is a great guide. It highlights a lot of the main destinations. One town that doesn’t get mentioned a lot is Cripple Creek. It is a neat little town with beautiful scenery, especially in the fall. Estes and Rocky Mountain National Park are the gems of Colorado and you could easily spend a few day just exploring the park.

Thanks, Josh! I need to look into Cripple Creek. Though I’ve heard about it, I’ve never visited and don’t know anything about it. I’ll add it to the list!

Hi Noel, I am looking to do a trip around July to add to my bucket list. I was interested in packing my days with as much as possible. Some things I wanted to see were: Marron Bell Lake, Garden of the Gods, Red Rocks, Rocky Mountains and if possible a natural hot spring. I love hiking, and would also like to do some sort of either sand sledding or a zip line of some sort to get the most of the views. If I did a thursday to Monday trip what would you suggest? I will rent a car and I think maybe a hotel in Denver for the first two nights but I also am wondering for the farther part of the trip maybe a hotel closer to Breckenbridge/ Aspen?

Hey, Jenna! Thanks for reaching out. I think you could definitely squeeze everything in on a Thursday to Monday trip, but you’d definitely have to do a bunch of planning ahead of time to maximize your time. Since Maroon Bells is a bit of a drive from Denver, it might not be a bad idea to get a hotel close by (or camp!) for one night. Aspen isn’t cheap, though, so you might want to look into Carbondale or Glenwood Springs. I don’t really know your trip info, so I can’t suggest an itinerary, but you can pull this off if you plan accordingly and are okay with long drives in the rental car. Good luck! Feel free to reach out to me as the trip gets closer.

I visited Snowmass and Breckenridge and had a great time hiking there. The rivers are scary. Telluride has fascinated me and I’d like to hike there. What area would you say is close to what you’d hike in the Canadian Rockies? Everything’s so expensive in Colorado. Definitely need to make it a primarily camping trip though. Congrats on your blog and happy hiking Noel.

Hey, Gord. I’m not super familiar with the Canadian Rockies, but I think sticking to SW Colorado near Telluride would be a great move. Telluride isn’t affordable, but there is tons of free camping all over the region. Check out Ridgway, Ouray, and Silverton. (Definitely look into Silverton if you want to find some dramatic landscapes.) Cheers, and happy trails!

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10 Days in Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

Are you planning to road trip Colorado? There are many attractions worth adding to your Colorado itinerary including the stunning Rockies, beautiful towns like Aspen, hot springs, and cultural attractions including Mesa Verde National Park. Plan the ultimate road trip around these attractions using our flexible Colorado trip planner. You might also like our post on the Best Things to do in Colorado. 

Welcome to our Colorado road trip planner!

For many years, the only part of Colorado that we had visited was the Four Corners National Monument.

And then, we went on a memorable Colorado road trip that had us wishing, why hadn’t we visited the state sooner?! 

Colorado is truly beautiful and colorful.

Also Read: Denver to Mt. Ruhsmore, South Dakota road trip

It has everything from mountain scenery, hot springs, sand dunes, ancient dwellings, romantic railroads, trendy city life in Denver, charming mountain towns like Aspen, and even breweries! 

It turns golden in the fall and comes alive in the spring and summer when wildflowers bloom on mountain slopes.

But Colorado is most fun in winter when you can go snowshoeing, sledding, skiing, and snowmobiling.

A Colorado road trip is always spectacular and among the best road trips you can take, year-round. 

Colorado is home to 4 national park sites: Rocky Mountain National Park, the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

We have designed this road trip itinerary such that you can visit all 4 of them in one Colorado National Parks road trip. 

Also Read:  33 Best Places to Visit in the USA 22 Best Cities to Visit in the USA Texas to Colorado Road Trip Itinerary Denver to San Francisco Road Trip Planner

10 Day Colorado itinerary

Denver – 2 days.

Denver is popularly called the Mile High City because of its high elevation.

It makes the ideal city to fly into and begin your Colorado road trip from Denver.

It is well connected by air to most major cities and is the hub for Frontier, a low-cost carrier.

That means cheap tickets to Denver are often available.

We have scored deals for as low as $70 round-trip from Houston and recommend starting your epic road trip from Denver. 

Things to do in Denver

Denver is famous for its food and art scene. Art lovers should visit the Denver Art Museum.

This striking building has a stunning collection of artwork from around the world.

Along with famous paintings, you will also find historic sculptures and artifacts from around the world. 

If you are visiting Denver with kids, then see the enormous dinosaur skeletons at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

The museum also has many other interesting exhibits including gold nuggets found in Colorado and a planetarium. 

Other popular things to do include the Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver Zoo, and Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies baseball team.

Denver also has plenty of free attractions for budget travelers. 

Spend a romantic evening walking under the twinkling lights of Larimer Square.

The beautiful Colorado State Capitol can be seen on a free guided tour on weekends.

The Denver Public Library building is a beautiful structure while the pedestrian 16th Street Mall is a beautiful example of landscape architecture.

Read about other Denver attractions including the Union Station and the famous Blue Bear in our post on Best Things to do in Denver .

Optional: Red Rock Amphitheatre and Golden

For a day trip on your 2nd day, consider visiting the Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

This concert venue is famous for its acoustics and the striking red sandstone formations.

If you can, try to attend a summer concert at the amphitheater – it is an exhilarating experience to see rock bands perform in a beautiful location. 

Nearby you will find Dinosaur Ridge where you can see fossils and footprints of many dinosaurs including Stegosaurus and Apatosaurus.

The Coors Brewery in Golden is free to visit, has samples included, and can be easily seen with Red Rock amphitheater and Dinosaur Ridge for an ultimate day trip.

Optional: Boulder and Loveland

Another option for a day trip! Boulder is located on the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, north of Denver.

It makes a great day trip from the city.

Boulder is most famous for its craggy rock formations known as the Flatirons.

Visitors can hike along several trails in the flatiron formations. 

Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian mall located in historic Downtown, is a great place to go for people watching, boutique shopping, souvenir hunting, and dining.

It also has many art galleries and cafes. Boulder History Museum and the Farmers Market are also popular places to visit. 

If you love drinking tea, then you should definitely visit Celestial Seasonings.

This tea factory is located in Boulder and offers free factory tours for its visitors.

At the end of the tour, you can also sample many teas and purchase your favorites.

Loveland, located near Boulder, is also worth a visit for their gigantic love sculpture.

They are also famous for their Valentine re-mailing program and an outdoor sculpture garden.

Loveland makes a great Valentine’s Day getaway.

You can read more in our post on Best Things to do in Loveland, Colorado. 

Rocky Mountain National Park – 2 Days

After exploring Denver, leave for Colorado’s famous Rocky Mountain National Park.

The park’s eastern gateway city is Estes Park, a delightful mountain town surrounded by mountains and wildlife.

The park has spectacular scenery and is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. 

Once near the Rocky Mountains, you have a few options.

You can either spend a day in Estes Park or Grand Lake and a day in Rocky Mountain National Park or spend both days in the National Park.

We recommend spending some time in all three destinations and have listed attractions for all here.

This itinerary makes for a perfect Colorado summer road trip as the national park is blooming with wildflowers during the season. 

Things to do in Estes Park

Estes Park is the perfect gateway to stay and explore Colorado’s famous Rocky Mountain National Park.

Estes Park is located less than an hour away from the eastern entrance to the park.

It offers access to the most popular national park attractions on the eastern side of the Continental Divide, making it popular to visit even during the winter.  

The town itself is charming and considered among the best small towns in America.

It has many attractions including the Visitor Center, Estes Park Museum, Rocky Mountain Conservancy and Art Center.

You can also tour the famous Stanley Hotel, which served as the inspiration for the Overlook Hotel in Stephen King’s book ‘The Shining’. 

The main street in Estes Park is called Elkhorn Avenue.

We recommend walking along this street to explore candy stores, taffy shops, art galleries, and boutique stores.

This is also where you need to visit to rent outdoor gear for the park. 

Another popular attraction is the Estes Park Riverwalk which starts at the Visitor Center and follows the Fall River through the town.

Also must visit is Lake Estes where you can see many elk grazing around the shore. 

To read more about all the attractions in Estes Park including distilleries and wineries, read our post on 20 Delightful Things to do in Estes Park . 

Things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in the country.

The park has good wildlife sightings, many miles of hiking trails, beautiful mountain lakes, scenic drives, and many activities to satisfy outdoor enthusiasts. 

The most popular roads in the park are Bear Lake Road, Fall River Road, Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, and the Trail Ridge Road.

We recommend visiting Bear Lake Road, Fall River Road, and the attractions along the roads on your first day in the National Park. 

To reach Bear Lake Road, you will need to enter Rocky Mountain National Park through the Beaver Meadows Entrance from Estes Park.

Bear Lake Road has amazing views of the Continental Divide peaks.

You can also often spot a large elk herd near Moraine Park. 

Our favorite stop on Fall River Road is the Alluvial Fan trail, where you can hike to see giant boulders that washed down the mountain slopes in a major flood.

This is an easy hike and good for all skill levels. Posing on top of the giant boulders is popular with visitors. 

On your second day inside the Rocky Mountain National Park, drive the Trail Ridge Road.

This road has panoramic views over the national park and is stunning to drive.

There are many hikes and lookout points along the Trail Ridge road.

One of the most famous lookout points is Many Parks Curve Overlook.

From here, you can see a beautiful 360 view of the area.

The road also offers beautiful views of the Mummy Range of the Rockies.

The road is especially scenic in summer when wildflowers bloom all around you. 

If you are visiting between Memorial Day and September end, then the Trail Ridge Road is usually open and you can drive all the way across the Continental Divide to Grand Lake, the western gateway city for Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Things to do in Grand Lake

Grand Lake is the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and its Alpine Visitor Center.

The distance between Estes Park and Grand Lake is about 50 miles long and takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on how many stops you take.

Located on the shores of Grand Lake and adjacent to Shadow Mountain Lake, this charming mountain town has plenty of attractions for all visitors.

We recommend taking a walking tour of the town and its historic structures including the wooden boardwalks. 

In the summer, water sports on the lake are a great way to cool down in the heat.

Grand Lake is the biggest lake in Colorado and is popular with kayakers, paddleboarders, and swimmers.

You can relax on the sandy beaches by its shore or rent a pontoon to spend a day on the water. 

In the winter, Grand Lake is a popular skiing and snowboarding destination.

Granby Ranch ski resort is one of the top ski resorts in Colorado.

Other popular winter activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, snow tubing, ice skating, and ice fishing.

Rocky Mountain National Park in winter

If you are visiting Colorado in winter or even in early spring, then you will find that the park is a winter wonderland.

The most popular activities in the park include skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking to frozen waterfalls.

This is a truly wonderful time to visit the park. 

Bear Lake is completely frozen and you can snowshoe or even go hiking in regular winter hiking boots around the lake.

Hidden Valley Sleigh Area on Trail Ridge Road is open and fun for skiers and sleighers of all ages. 

Trail Ridge Road itself is open only till Many Parks Curve Overlook in winter.

If you are visiting when the road is closed, then you can’t reach Grand Lake.

During this time we recommend taking the beautiful Peak to Peak Scenic Byway while exiting the park.

Drive along the byway towards Mt. Evans and take I-70 towards Breckenridge.

Some of the important attractions along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway include Lily Lake, Longs Peak Scenic Byway, and the charming town of Nederland.

Whichever road you use to exit Rocky Mountain National Park, we recommend driving towards Mt. Evans / Breckenridge / Aspen for your next destination. 

Optional: Mt. Evans – 1 Day

If you are driving the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway during summer and have extra time, drive up Mt. Evans Scenic Byway to the famous”fourteener” peak of Mt. Evans.

A fourteener is basically a mountain peak with an elevation of 14,000 feet or more.

The Byway is open just from Memorial Day to Labor Day. 

Mt. Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in America and is worth the trip.

The road can be dangerous to drive with switchbacks and turns.

The temperature drop at the top is staggering and we recommend carrying jackets even during summer.

This road is closed during the winter. 

The Byway begins at Idaho Springs which is at an elevation of 7526 feet and climbs up over 7000 feet to the peak in the distance of 28 miles.

You will need roughly an hour to drive the Byway.

The views from the drive are superb: you have a bird’s eye view over the Rockies and can spot a range of wildlife, wildflowers, and more.

The Continental Divide peaks can also be seen very well from the drive. 

The main attractions of the drive are Echo Lake, Mt. Goliath Natural Area, and Summit Lake.

Echo Lake, located at 10500 feet has picnic tables and is great to take a rest and acclimatize to the air.

At Mt. Goliath you can see protected bristlecone pine trees while at Summit Lake you can admire one of the highest lakes in the country.

At the top, you need to hike the last few feet on foot to reach the summit. The views from here are beautiful. 

There are two most important things to remember about the Byway: the air is very thin at the top, so take your time and keep sipping water to replenish the oxygen.

The other thing is that (as we mentioned before) Mt. Evans is always cold, so be sure to layer up and bring a jacket. On the way down, drive slowly and follow warning signs. 

After seeing Mt. Evans you can proceed to Aspen or take another break in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Optional: Hot Sulphur Springs and Frisco

If you are driving from Grand Lake towards Aspen or Breckenridge, then you will pass Hot Sulphur Springs.

This quiet town is most famous for its hot springs.

There is nothing better than soaking in the mineral springs followed by a spa massage after a day of skiing or snowshoeing.  

Another pit stop just before reaching Breckenridge is Frisco.

This small town is located less than 30 minutes away from 6 of Colorado’s most popular ski resorts making it very popular in the winter.

In summer, Frisco is popular for hiking and water activities.

Stroll through the charming Downtown, go thrifting, and step inside pubs and breweries. 

Optional: Breckenridge  – 1 Day

Breckenridge is one of America’s most popular ski towns.

Breckenridge’s resorts offer excellent skiing for all levels.

Other winter activities include dog sledding, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

Breckenridge’s distillery is also popular to visit in the winter.

The town also has winter events including a snow sculpture competition. 

In summer, Breckenridge is a beautiful mountain town filled with outdoor activities.

Popular summer activities include hiking, fishing, searching for wildflowers and wildlife, camping, boating, and white water rafting.

You should also drive down the Boreas Pass Road, a 20-mile long scenic route that follows the Pacific Railroad.

It is particularly beautiful in the fall when the Aspens turn color.

Whichever season you visit, you must see Breckenridge Main Street.

This area is part of the Breckenridge National Historic District.

Breckenridge started as a mining town and on Main Street, you can see many historic landmarks and buildings from the Victorian times.

We recommend spending at least a day or two in Breckenridge to get a feel of the town.

Optional: Vail

Or instead of Grand Lake or Winter Park or Breckenridge, you can also choose to visit Vail.

Located within the White River National Forest, Vail is home to the Vail Ski Resort and has been Colorado’s top ski destination for decades.

But there are many other things to do in Vail besides skiing. 

Other popular winter activities include snowboarding, playing in the snow, sleighing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and taking in the dramatic winter landscape.

The holiday decorations make Vail postcard-perfect in the winter. 

In the summer, you can explore Vail Village and the adjacent Lionshead Village.

The architecture is distinctly European and shopping opportunities abound throughout the town.

Take a trip in the Vail gondola, which was the first gondola in the US!

Aspen and Maroon Bells – 1 Day

Finally, it’s time for the highlight of your Colorado road trip – Aspen and Maroon Bells area! 

Aspen located high up in the Rockies is a charming ski resort town. It offers year-round fun and is exceptionally popular during the holiday season.

Maroon Bells is the highlight of any trip to Colorado and ideally, you should not leave Colorado without visiting it. 

If you plan a winter Colorado road trip around skiing, then you will be delighted with Aspen.

The town is surrounded by 4 amazing ski areas, the most popular of which is Snowmass ski resorts.

Aspen is perfect for beginner to expert skiers.

The town also looks very pretty in the holiday season when lights and decor like wreaths and holiday displays are seen all over the town. 

In summer, you must take the beautiful scenic drive to Independence Pass.

This scenic road follows the peaks of the Continental Divide and is one of the highest roads in America.

The scenery all around is breathtaking and the short hike to the overlook has jaw-dropping views of the Continental Divide. 

Another essential in Aspen: taking the Silver Queen gondola up to  Aspen Mountain!

The views as you travel up to the top are breathtaking and the facilities at the top are worth the rather pricey tickets.

Downtown Aspen is also delightful for a stroll.

See the historic Wheeler Opera House and explore the charming buildings. 

Iconic Maroon Bells has the honor of being the most photographed place in Colorado.

The twin peaks of Maroon Bells are among Colorado’s fourteeners. The craggy, jagged peaks rising towards the sky, colorful mountain slopes, and placid Maroon Lake at the foothills all together make Maroon Bells one of the most beautiful places to visit in the USA. 

This spot is a photographer’s paradise, especially at sunrise and sunset. If you plan to visit Maroon Bells during these peak hours, we recommend arriving well in advance as the crowds can be overwhelming. Maroon Bells is also popular for hiking, wildlife watching, and camping. 

If you have the time, consider taking a trip to Glenwood Springs in Roaring Fork Valley. Located about an hour’s drive northwest of Aspen, Glenwood Springs is famous for its natural hot springs. Here you can relax and soak in the bubbling hot spring pools and be thrilled to know that even President Teddy Roosevelt came here to relax!  

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park – 1 Day

Located in the Western part of the state, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of the most underrated national parks in Colorado. The Park has a spectacular dramatic landscape and is full of steep cliffs, sharp spires, and valleys that seem to disappear into their own depths. A product of weathering and erosion carried out by the Gunnison River, Black Canyon is beautiful in its stunning wilderness. 

The National Park has stunning scenic drives and hiking trails along the rim to explore its beauty. The rim trails are of varying difficulty level: many are family-friendly and great for kids including the Cedar Point Nature Trail on South Rim. One essential trail is the Painted Wall View trail which has great views of the canyon walls.

We recommend driving along both the South Rim Road and North Rim Road to see different views of the canyon. Drive along the scenic hairpin bends of the East Portal Road towards the Gunnison River. The view of the canyon walls as you descend into the canyon is fantastic. 

For experienced hikers, rock climbers, and kayakers, the Inner Canyon holds special attractions. You need a wilderness permit to access this area and need to be experienced and prepared to explore here. The Inner Canyon is truly remote and recommended only for expert outdoor explorers. You can climb down to the river, go rock climbing up the canyon walls, or even go rafting in the water. 

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park also has abundant wildlife. On a visit, you can spot mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and even an occasional mountain lion or black bear! Other activities in the park include fishing, camping, and stargazing. Many of the park activities, the North Rim Road, and certain parts of the South Rim Road are closed in the winter so we recommend looking at the park website before planning a winter trip. 

Optional: Telluride – 1 Day

Telluride is a charming small town set in the Colorado Rockies. Located in the southwest part of the state, Telluride is also one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado. It has world-class ski slopes and has hundreds of trails for all difficulty levels. The Telluride ski resort offers family fun during the winter. 

Telluride has an interesting history. It has its origins as a small Victorian mining town. Its historic downtown district has several well-preserved buildings in the Late Victorian and Gothic Revival style of architecture. Several of them are located on and around Colorado Street, the main street of Telluride.

Some of the prominent landmarks to watch out for include the Telluride Historical Museum, New Sheridan Hotel, Sheridan Opera House, San Miguel County Courthouse, St Patrick’s Catholic Church, and The Rio Grande Southern Railway Depot. We recommend taking a self-guided walk through the historic buildings and understanding Telluride’s history. 

Telluride also enjoys a unique location. It is located inside a box canyon and is surrounded by steep mountain slopes. The hills surrounding Telluride look breathtaking in the fall when leaves change color. For a beautiful panoramic view of the area, we recommend taking the Telluride Gondola up to the pretty European style town, Mountain Village. The ride is over 10 minutes long and offers one of a kind experience year-round. 

The 365 foot tall Bridal Veil Falls are another primary highlight of Telluride. The hike to the fall is a bit steep but pleasant and worth the effort. Telluride has many other popular hiking trails including Bear Creek Trail, Jud Wiebe Trail, and the Telluride Trail. For a tranquil walk, consider visiting the Town Park. 

Mesa Verde National Park – 1 Day

Mesa Verde National Park located in Southwest Colorado is one of America’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The park is famous for its unique history and has been home to the Anasazi Indians and their striking cliff dwellings for thousands of years. 

Touring these extremely well-preserved cliff dwellings is one of the highlights of Mesa Verde National Park. There are over 4000 archeological sites inside the park however only a few of them are open to the public on ranger-led guided tours. The two most famous dwellings are Cliff Palace and Balcony House. 

Cliff Palace is vast and immense and has over 150 rooms. The Balcony House has 40 rooms and is also amazing to see. The tours involve climbing down steps and ladders, so wear hiking boots and be prepared for an adventure. Tickets to both the time tours have to be purchased separately and well in advance of your visit. 

We also recommend hiking in Mesa Verde National Park. The hikes will take you deep within the canyons and the protected ecosystems of the park. Petroglyph Point Trail is one of the popular trails. It is around 2.5 miles round-trip and leads to many petroglyphs created by the Anasazi people. 

Another must-see site inside the park is the Chapin Mesa Museum. Here you will find archeological remains, interactive exhibits, historic information, and Native American arts and crafts. The museum is an excellent place to learn about the pueblo culture. 

We also recommend driving along Mesa Verde’s scenic drives: Mesa Top Loop and Cliff Palace Loop. Along the drives, you will find archeological sites, trailheads, overlooks, and stunning landscapes. The best time to visit Mesa Verde is during summer to fall, we recommend checking the park for closures during winter. 

Optional: Durango – 1 Day

After visiting Mesa Verde National Park, you can either head to Great Sand Dunes National Park or take a detour to Durango or Pagosa Springs. 

Durango is one of the popular places to visit in Colorado for multiple reasons.

The charming town has something to offer for all types of tourists: whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or cultural traveler. In winter, it is famous for the Purgatory Ski Resort. 

The #1 tourist attraction in Durango is the Silverton-Durango Railroad.

This narrow-gauge route is very scenic and offers breathtaking panoramas as it travels through a narrow canyon.

The train has vintage carriages and an authentic steam engine, adding to the fun of the ride.

Keep aside an entire day to enjoy this spectacular train ride. 

The town of Durango itself is pretty charming. A major part of it is preserved as the historic district and dates back to the late 19th century. On a stroll along Main Avenue, you can see several historic buildings including the grand Strater Hotel among other landmark buildings. Also worth visiting is the free Railroad Museum. 

If you have extra time, consider driving along the San Juan Scenic Byway which connects Durango to Telluride. The 230 miles road crosses three mountain passes, goes through the San Juan National Forest, and offers some of the best views in Colorado. A part of the road from Silverton to Ouray is known as the Million Dollar Highway. 

Alternatively, after visiting Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, you can also drive the San Juan Scenic Byway from Telluride to Durango, and then visit Mesa Verde National Park before heading back to Colorado Springs.

Optional: Pagosa Springs – 1 Day

Located in the San Juan Mountain ranges, Pagosa Springs is one of the most underrated towns in Colorado.

With its hot springs, hiking trails, wilderness areas, waterfalls, lakes, fishing, camping, mountain biking, and more, Pagosa Springs is a paradise for outdoor lovers. 

After spending a day outdoors, you can relax in the hot springs and visit the area’s breweries.

If it gets too hot, you can spend the day cooling off in the San Juan River.

The river runs through downtown and is popular for river tubing, kayaking, and fishing. 

While in Pagosa Springs, we recommend taking the ride to Treasure Falls.

Not only is this 100-foot tall waterfall beautiful, but the route itself is super scenic.

The views from West Fork Valley Overlook are incredible while at Wolf Creek Pass, you are right on top of the Continental Divide! 

Great Sand Dunes National Park – 1 Day

One of the highlights of a Colorado road trip is the suddenness with which the landscape changes.

Nowhere is this more prominent than in the Great Sand Dunes National Park. 

Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes National Park has some of the highest and tallest sand dunes in America.

The tallest dune here, Star Dune, is over 750 feet high! One of the favorite visitor activities in the park is to climb to the top of the sand dunes and sled down its slopes. Be sure to rent sleds or sand boards in Alameda, which is the gateway town for the park prior to your visit. 

The sand dunes are also popular with photographers. The ripples look striking against the sand and photograph really well. To take the best photographs, either hike to the top of the tallest dunes or hike really deep into the dunes to where the ripples are undisturbed by human feet. The dunes look especially beautiful at sunset when the sand glows under the orange sky. 

The park also has picnic tables, well-maintained hiking trails, campgrounds, and spectacular scenic drives. Because of its remote location away from most major cities, the park also has great stargazing opportunities. 

If you have a true 4WD vehicle, then you must definitely drive the Medano Pass Road. This primitive road is 22 miles long and full of soft sand, so even AWDs get stuck here. The road has many creek crossings, goes along primitive campsites, and takes you deeper into the wilderness. 

If you visit in spring or early summer, then the Medano Creek will be flowing which transforms the park into a water park for the kids! We recommend taking swimsuits and towels during this time. The kids can enjoy splashing in the water and building sandcastles. 

The park basically feels like a giant beach, especially when the Medano Creek is flowing and provides a fun experience for the whole family. In spite of this, Great Sand Dunes National Park continues to be one of the less-visited national parks in the country, and you are guaranteed a crowd-free time! 

Colorado Springs – 2 Days

Colorado Springs is a must-stop on any Colorado road trip for its stunning natural beauty. It is located on the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains and is just 1.5 hrs away from Denver. You will find a range of cultural as well as natural attractions in Colorado Springs, hence we recommend spending a minimum of 2 days in this resort city. 

One of the must-visit attractions here is the Garden of the Gods. This nature area is famous for its unique red sandstone formations and is extremely photogenic. We recommend driving the scenic drive and doing a few hikes to explore the beautiful landscape. If possible, visit the Garden of the Gods during the golden hours of sunlight or sunset for epic photos. While you are there, visit the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic area. 

The second most visited attraction in Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak mountain. To reach the summit, you need to drive along the Pikes Peak Highway, a 19-mile scenic drive with multiple pullouts, lakes, and picnic areas. From the parking lot, you can take a shuttle to the peak or better, take the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway to the top. This is the highest railway in the country and has the most frequent runs during the summer season. 

7 Day Colorado Road Trip

Our one week Colorado itinerary is perfect if you have just about 7 days to see the state. With just 7 days in hand, we would recommend focusing on Denver and the surrounding area of Colorado Springs. 

Spend a couple of days in Denver, enjoy the downtown and museums, and have lunch at the city’s finest restaurants. Then spend a day either in Boulder or Golden followed by a couple of days in Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Enjoy the mountain scenery in the park, go hiking and see the mountain lakes, and spot iconic Rockies wildlife including elks and deer. Drive the Trail Ridge Road and visit the gateway cities of Estes Park and Grand Lake.

Then head down to Colorado Springs and see the beautiful landscape of the Garden of the Gods. Take the cog railway up to Pikes Peak. If you have more time, then visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

4 Day Colorado Road Trip

Are you short on time? You can also cover the highlights of this colorful state in a 4 or 5 Day Colorado Road Trip. We recommend starting this 5 day road trip from Denver and seeing the Rockies or Colorado Springs. Spend a day or two each in the Mile High City followed by a couple of days in either Estes Park or Colorado Springs.

Another option for a 4 day itinerary is to visit the southwestern part of the state. Start your trip in Durango, drive the San Juan Scenic Byway to Telluride, and then visit the famous Mesa Verde National Park. 

For a short winter road trip, consider basing yourself in Frisco and checking out the surrounding mountain towns and ski resorts in Vail, Aspen, Durango, and Grand Lake. This makes a great trip for Christmas or Thanksgiving when the towns look straight out of a fairytale due to the holiday decor. This also makes for a great romantic Valentine’s Day Colorado road trip.  

Two to Three week Colorado Road Trip

If you have two to three weeks to spend in Colorado, then you can easily see most parts of the state. Here are some sights to add to your Colorado itinerary for a longer trip. Most of these stops are located between Grand Lake / Aspen and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in the western part of the state.

Hanging Lake

Hanging Lake, located in Glenwood Canyon, near Glenwood Springs is one of the most beautiful places in Colorado. The lake looks almost ephemeral with its multiple waterfalls and emerald water. To reach Hanging Lake, you need to hike a 3-miles long moderate trail. We recommend keeping aside half a day to explore Hanging Lake at your leisure. 

Glenwood Springs

Colorado’s resort city, Glenwood Springs is famous for its hot springs. The city enjoys beautiful mountain scenery due to its location in the Rocky Mountain ranges and the White River National Forest. 

Stay in the beautiful Glenwood Hot Springs Resort and enjoy a luxury spa vacation. Dine in Glenwood Springs restaurants and enjoy the charming vibe of this small town. 

Glenwood Springs is also famous for its outdoor excursions into the scenic Glenwood Canyon, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, Glenwood Caverns tours, and the kid-friendly Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. 

Grand Junction

If you love drinking wine and touring wineries, then you are going to love Grand Junction!

Located on the western slope of the Rockies, the climate here is perfect for growing grapevines.

You can take a tour of the wineries and enjoy tastings while in Grand Junction.

Apart from the wineries, there are many things to do in Grand Junction.

Explore the charming downtown and nearby attractions including the Avalon Theatre, the Museums of Western Colorado, and the Dinosaur Journey Museum.

Also, check out the Art on the Corner outdoor sculpture gallery in downtown.

For outdoor lovers take a drive along the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway in Grand Mesa National Forest.

The drive has many overlooks and pull-outs from which you can enjoy breathtaking views.

There are also many hiking trails in the area. 

Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument is one of Colorado’s most photographed attractions.

The monument is famous for its iconic red and orange natural rock formations.

Located less than an hour away from Grand Junction in the small town of Fruita, Colorado National Monument is a must-visit if you are in this area.

This enchanting landscape of canyons, sandstone towers, spires, and juniper trees is best explored by driving along the Rim Rock Drive.

The route is 23 miles long and takes visitors to striking rock formations such as the Pipe Organ, Praying Hands, and Kissing Couple. 

You will also have memorable wildlife encounters in the park and can hike among the sandstone formations.

Some of the exposed rocks here are almost as old as the earth itself!

For an easy hike, go along the Devil’s Kitchen Trail; for a challenging hike that takes you close to iconic formations, try the 5 miles long Monument Canyon Trail. 

Another great National Park site to add to your Colorado road trip map after visiting Mesa Verde National Park is the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. 

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

There is something magical about the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument in southwestern Colorado. Here you will find more archeological sites than at any other place in the country. You can find cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, kivas, and ceremonial platforms. 

This area was once home to the Anasazi Indians around 1500 BC. They built elaborate multi-room cliff dwellings, similar to the ones at Mesa Verde, and also left behind many other artifacts and artwork. Start your visit at the Visitor Center and Museum and learn more about Anasazi culture. 

Lowry Pueblo is one of the most popular cliff dwellings in the park. It has 40 rooms and is fascinating to see. There are many other pueblos, hiking trails, and kivas worth seeing in the monument. Also worth visiting is the nearby Hovenweep National Monument on the Colorado Utah border. 

Four Corners Monument

If you are traveling as far as Mesa Verde and Canyons of the Ancients in southwestern Colorado, then we recommend making time for Four Corners Monument. 

This is one of the unique geographic points in the country where the 4 states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, and Colorado meet. There is a marker here depicting the boundaries and you can take a photo with a limb in each state! 

Visiting Four Corners Monument is a truly one of a kind experience. The shops surrounding the marker are great to purchase Native American souvenirs like dream catchers and other handicrafts. The Native fry bread that we are here has also been one of the best we have ever tasted! 

Besides these, Colorado has many other beautiful towns and places to visit including Canon City, Buena Vista, Steamboat Springs, Dinosaur National Monument, Lyons, and more.

Read our post on the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Colorado for more ideas. 

Many times you will be close to the Utah border as you explore Colorado, and attractions such as Arches National Park will be pretty close.

If you get the temptation to continue to Utah, then you can also check our comprehensive post on the Ultimate Colorado Utah road trip itinerary. 

As you travel towards Four Corners, we definitely understand the urge to visit Monument Valley or the Grand Canyon.

Check out our Las Vegas Grand Canyon road trip itinerary to continue on an American Southwest road trip. 

We hope you liked our post on the Epic Colorado Road Trip Itinerary.

What was the favorite part of your Colorado road trip? When are you planning to visit Colorado?

Let us know in the comments!

5 thoughts on “10 Days in Colorado Road Trip Itinerary”

While Great Sand Dunes is one of the least visited national parks by body count, it can be very crowded as there is just one giant parking lot. I’ve experienced a 3-hour traffic jam to get into the park more than once. Weekends are particularly crowded, as are May and June. Typically the dunes are too hot to enjoy in July and August. So those “relatively few visitors” stats you read about are very concentrated in time and location. Over Memorial Day, Médano Creek by the parking lot will feel like the Jersey Shore, with rangers overburdened directing traffic and corralling off-leash dogs. It’s a beautiful place, but Even miles into the dune field, it is not crowd-free.

Is it possible to go to Telluride during Thanksgiving? Will I need chains for my car?

@Oshim, In most cases, yes, you must carry chains. https://www.codot.gov/travel/colorado-chain-law

We are considering driving from Houston or taking a flight (only about 250 right now in 2021) and rent a car. I like all of your suggestions!

I’ve been pleased to learn about your journey with this blog post. I loved the photos that you have shared. And I am feeling fly to Colorado as soon as possible.

Comments are closed.

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• Trip Planner

Colorado Trip Ideas & Vacation Planner

The Centennial State is bursting with fun things to do and see. Narrowing in on the right Colorado trip ideas and vacation spots can be a daunting task. Luckily, you can’t really go wrong, it’s all pretty cool stuff to discover with the Rocky Mountains in Colorado’s backyard.

Travel by Planes, Trains, Buses and Automobiles

There are thirteen commercial airports presently operating flights in Colorado. Other options for local transportation include trains, buses, and automobiles. You can reserve a seat in a shuttle, hail a taxi or ride-sharing vehicle, or rent a car and go on some scenic drives.

Colorado Buses

Colorado Commercial Airports

Colorado Railroads & Train Rides

Colorado Scenic Drives

Colorado Shuttles, Taxis & Ride Sharing

Colorado Vehicle Rentals

Year-round featured colorado trips.

This mountainous state has so much terrain to cover, there’s something neat in all directions. With all the sunshine, it’s a very easy place to load up the car and go for a road trip at almost any time. We’ve scoured up a wide array of ideas for your next spur-of-the-moment trip or that long-planned vacation getaway.

10 Zen Nature Trips in Colorado

Experience the Arts among Southern Colorado’s Spanish Peaks

4-Day Road Trip Thru Southern Colorado

13 Quirky Colorado Roadside Attractions

All Aboard! Colorado’s Top 10 Train Rides

18 Best Long Weekend Trips in Colorado

12 Incredibly Beautiful Places in Colorado

The Eastern Plains of Colorado

8 Iconic Mountain Towns in Colorado

Trio of Fantastic Four Corners Road Trips

Tour Ancient Puebloan Ruins in Colorado

Handsome Historic Districts of Colorado

10 Terrific Day Trips from Denver

The Ultimate Colorado Hot Springs Loop Road Trip

7 Things You Maybe Didn’t Know Were in Colorado

Winter featured colorado trips.

Ski trips take center stage in the Rockies over the wintertime. The dozens of resorts welcome avid skiers and snowboarders on their chairlifts and gondolas to the top for some epic laps down. Luckily, the mountain towns have far more to do over the snowy months than just skiing.

Wondrous Winter Road Trips In Colorado

Southern Colorado’s 12 Secluded Ski Areas

Take on Winter on the Western Slope!

Summer featured colorado trips.

“Come for the winters and stay for the summers,” can be said for just about any ski town in Colorado. The Rocky Mountains are an alpine paradise from May through September with terrific weather and long sunny days. Make the most of this short season of warmer days with some of our unique trip ideas.

12 Incredible Colorado Hot Springs Where You Can Camp

Chasing Colorado’s Incredible Waterfalls

10 Scenic Mountain Passes in Colorado

Autumn featured colorado trips.

By September the hints of autumn approach and in the highest elevation spots below the tree line, the leaves begin to fade. It typically starts in late summer, around early to mid-September in the high country. It has all but wrapped up by October, and a month or so later down on the Great Plains. Check out some of the fall foliages on these colorful trips.

Experience the Fall Colors of Kebler Pass

Autumn Cruising on Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway

What to do and where to go.

Aside from a lack of oceanfront, Colorado has a magnitude of things to see and do, from high-elevation mountains to colorful cities. While there are certainly the peak summer and winter seasons, any time of year has something extraordinary to uncover. Add in Colorado’s sunny outlook and dry climate, and there’s a lot of opportunity to seize the day.

Colorado Brands – Food, Gifts & Products

Colorado Events & Festivals

Colorado Food & Dining

Colorado Outdoor Recreation & Sports

Colorado Tourist Attractions & Entertainment

Colorado Towns, Cities & Communities

Find your accommodation.

Once you’ve secured a safe and comfortable place to lay your head at night, Colorado is your playground. And, with some cool and unusual accommodations, from historic hotels to mountain cabin rentals, there’s a lot of fun and memories to be had right in your abode. It’s also one of the best states to camp in, with the main season running from late May through September, though you’ll find some year-round campgrounds.

Colorado Camping

Colorado Hotels & Lodging

Travel and driving tips.

Most folks start out in Denver, Colorado, a fast-growing capital city, boasting around three million residents in the greater metropolitan area. It’s located in a stretch of the Great Plains at the edge of the Rocky Mountains, known as as the Front Range Urban Corridor, from Fort Collins south to Pueblo. From here, it’s a large state to drive with plenty of places to go and see.

15 Winter Driving Tips for Colorado’s Rocky Mountains

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Rules of the Road and Traffic Laws in Colorado

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What to Expect When Driving Colorado’s Mountain Roads

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7 Tips for A Smooth, Successful Colorado Roadtrip

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Welcome to Colorado! Learn the lay of the land

Colorado’s a big state, the eighth largest in terms of square miles at 104,094. It’s also a diverse state geographically, ranging from grassland plains to alpine tundra.

There are five physiographic provinces in Colorado. Each is unique in natural landmarks. They are divided by changes in the landscape. Often tourists consider Colorado all mountains, or all mountains plus Denver.

The physiographic provinces in Colorado include the:

• Great Plains
• Southern Rocky Mountains
• Colorado Plateau
• Wyoming Basin
• Middle Rocky Mountains

However, during casual conversation, most Coloradoans refer to Colorado in 4 general regions , listed below from east to west. From here there might be a further distinction to a particular area within the bigger region, such as Southwest Colorado or the San Juan Mountains for the same area in the Rocky Mountains.

Eastern Plains

The Eastern Plains begin at Kansas or Nebraska and run west to the area known as the front range, a narrow north-south strip of the largest cities where the majority of the popular lives. The plains are quiet and the towns smaller. The Eastern Plains are all part of the Great Plains.

Some of the bigger named cities in the Eastern Plains include:

• Fort Morgan

This area ranges from 3,315 feet of elevation at its lowest point near the Kansas border, to around 5,000/6,000 feet as the high plains climb up the Rocky Mountains. It’s a dry high desert landscape, with agriculture as the main economy.

Front Range (Urban Corridor)

The term “front range” really means two different things in Colorado. It’s both the biggest cities at the edge of the mountains like Denver and Colorado Springs, which reside on the Great Plains. These cities are just west of the Eastern Plains distinction above. However, the Front Range is also referring to the mountains on the east side of the Continental Divide, known as the Front Range Mountains.

The largest towns on the plains region of the Front Range Urban Corridor include:

• Fort Collins
• Colorado Springs

This is really named the Front Range Urban Corridor and spans from Casper, WY south to Pueblo, CO. These towns lie on the Great Plains, along the edge of the Front Range Mountains. This is what most people are referring to when they use “front range” in conversation, towns at the base of the Rocky Mountains, north and south of Denver.

Most people arrive in Colorado via the Denver International Airport on the Front Range Urban Corridor. They fly completely over the Eastern Plains, with a seldom few driving east to explore. That leaves the Front Range as the most visited, with tourists flocking south to Colorado Springs , or north to Boulder .

Nearly every traveler comes to Colorado with the mountains in mind, so from Denver or Colorado Springs, people generally head west. Then, the further remote into the Rocky Mountains you get, the less crowded it is.

Southern Colorado/Base of Sangre de Cristo

After the front range mountains end by Pueblo, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains pick up in Southern Colorado and continue into Northern New Mexico. The towns at the eastern base beside I-25 include Colorado City , Walsenburg , and Trinidad . They are part of Southern Colorado and perhaps mistakingly, lumped into the front range. The towns residing in the mountains and on the western side of the Sangre de Cristos are part of the next group, “The Mountains.”

The Mountains

If you’re not living on the front range somewhere, which the vast majority of Coloradans are (2/3), then chances are pretty good that you’re residing up in “The Mountains”, short for Rocky Mountains. This vast landscape of peaks, forests, and high country ranges from the northern border with Wyoming south to New Mexico.

This includes a vast range of towns, which are based at varying elevations, usually starting around 6,000 ft and climbing up to 10,361 ft (3,158 m) in Alma, Colorado, Leadville is next at 10,152 feet (3,094 m).

• Front Range Mountains

The whole front range would really span into the mountains on the eastern slope of the continental divide south until Pueblo. This area is the Front Range Mountains or Front Range for short. Heading south from here the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range takes over as the Great Divide.

A few of the Front Range Mountain towns include (east side of the continental divide):

• Idaho Springs
• Buena Vista

Rest of the Rockies

Some of the other best-known mountain towns outside the Front Range Mountain, such as those on the west of the Continental Divide, or south of the front range in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

• Steamboat Springs
• Breckenridge
• Glenwood Springs

Located on the western slope of the Divide, Summit County is less than 1.5 hours from Denver, making it the most popular tourist hub for the mountains, especially its county seat, Breckenridge.

A few of the biggest mountain ranges within the Colorado Rockies include:

• Sangre de Cristo Mountains
• Sawatch Range
• San Juan Mountains

There are many sub-ranges within the above, such as the La Plata Mountains within the San Juans.

Western Slope (Colorado Plateau)

Technically, the Western Slope includes any mountain towns located on the western side of the Continental Divide (water draining west). This overlaps with a good portion of towns listed in the aforementioned “The Mountains”, including destinations such as Summit County, Winter Park, Pagosa Springs, and Aspen.

However, when most locals say western slope, they are referring to the far west region around Grand Junction. It’s part of the Colorado Plateau physiographic province, seldomly called the Western Colorado Plateau or Western Plateau.

When locals say “western slope” most are referring to Western Colorado nearby these towns on the west side of the Southern Rocky Mountains, the same as Boulder and Pueblo would be on the east side:

• Grand Junction

Thanks to Highway I-70 blasting through the heart of the state east-to-west, the mesas of the Western Colorado Plateau and Grand Junction are relatively easy to access in under 5 hours.

Major Landmarks in Colorado

There are a lot of ways to divide and section off Colorado based on topography and landmarks. Let’s look at some of the common lingoes of places and things you might hear about in Colorado.

Here are some major landmarks in Colorado, in no particular order:

Continental Divide

This divides the Rocky Mountains between Colorado and determines whether the major rivers ultimately flow east or west. Will the water empty into the Pacific Ocean or the Atlantic?

Major Rivers

Affected by the side of the continental divide the waterway lies on, determines whether it will join up with a river heading west or east. There are countless creeks and river tributaries to the major rivers in Colorado.

Biggest Lakes

Colorado has hundreds of different lakes, some natural, and others manmade dammed reservoirs. Learn some of the biggest ones to get an understanding of where the aforementioned major rivers flow in and out.

Parks, Valleys and Basins

A park is a basin, which is a vast valley with a lot of lower land between mountain ranges. An example would be Middle Park, which contains most of Grand County. However, specific valleys can be within the greater park or basin. For example, the Fraser Valley (formed by the Fraser River) is located in southern Middle Park.

Here are some major parks and basins in Colorado, north to south:

• North Park – Within Jackson County
• Middle Park – Within Grand County
• South Park – Within Park County
• Upper Gunnison Basin – Within Gunnison County
• Sand Luis Valley – Within Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Rio Grande, and Saguache counties

Colorado Travel Tips and Ideas

Colorado is a land that inspires. If you need some motivation to plan your trip, skim these inspirational travel quotes , and you’ll be packing in no time!

Vacation planning in Colorado can actually be a challenge because there are so many bucket-list items. Naturally, it depends on the season you visit, on where and what you will do. Luckily, it’s always a delight to visit here and there’s stuff to do year-round. Look over these Colorado destinations for help picking the perfect vacation spot!

Uncover free things to do in Colorado

Join thousands of Colorado adventurists! And receive your guide to free attractions in CO and monthly what’s up designed to help you live your Colorado life and uncover fun things to do.

We feature a range of travel planning resources , including activities, events, towns, hotels, dining, transportation, and local Colorado companies. Find specific activities and festivals, or explore towns to find local things to see and do. Browse hotels and dining to see if there are any cool places worth checking out. Transportation covers airports, trains, buses, etc.

Colorado Summer Vacation Ideas

Despite its reputation for arctic-level winters, Colorado can get very hot during the summer. Temperatures of more than 100°F are heard of on the Front Range and Western Slope. It’s a dry desert heat so you’re not constantly sweating, however, it still can feel unbearable without A.C.

Most residents of the Front Range and lower-elevation towns cherish the Rocky Mountains as an escape. The highs in the mountains rarely exceed the 80°s, perfect for exploring. At night, temperatures drop quickly as the sun sets, and 40°s are common at high elevations. This is the season for exploring the Rockies’ vast collection of hiking trails .

Colorado Fall Vacation Ideas

Fall’s a true in-between season, where you’re camping under the stars during the first half and skiing over that said campsite in the second. Enjoy those final days of warmth before the sporadic and consistent cool weather settles in by November.

Autumn colors begin at the highest elevation places first, usually sometime in early September. This lasts for several weeks in each region, generally starting earlier to the north, such as Walden and Steamboat Springs , and beginning later in the season further south in Pagosa Springs or Durango . By the end of October, most of the colors have turned and leaves have fallen.

Colorado Winter Vacation Ideas

By the third week in December, it’s full-blown cold, and winter driving conditions are always to be expected. Snow’s usually in the forecast and if you’re looking for guaranteed powder and 100% open status on the trails, wait until January to plan your epic ski vacation. Head to Powderhorn or Purgatory to avoid crowds.

If you’re not the outdoor recreation type, consider a hot springs adventure . Aside from the trek to the mineral-filled pools, it’s an easy-going, luxury spa-type experience. There are dozens of hot springs around the state to choose from.

Colorado Spring Vacation Ideas

Locals love their snowy activities, however, even the most die-hard snowboarder secretly loves to bask in Colorado’s spring paradise. Waterfalls are raging from snowmelt, and the summertime activities are beginning to offer themselves. By May, camping, rafting, and hiking are common talk at the office coolers.

You can usually ski through the whole spring season with an Arapahoe Basin pass if it’s a good regular season. By the final days at most resorts in early April, pond skimming is popular.

It’s a hilarious impromptu or organized event where skiers and snowboarders will ride over ponds on the ski slopes formed from melted snow. Arapahoe Basin has the best pond skimming in Colorado, available while it’s during its last weeks.

Read about the top items for your Colorado bucket list .

Colorado Trip Packing Checklist

If picturesque Colorado beckons you with its incredible nature and challenging paths, our list of travel hints will definitely be helpful when preparing for this unforgettable trip. Unpredictable and erratic, the state is constantly surprising visitors with rapid weather changes and its bipolarity.

So, to properly enjoy everything that Colorado has to offer, follow the Scout motto “Be Prepared!” and take at least a week or two to explore it.

1. Decide When And Where To Travel

Thanks to the state’s climate diversity, you can choose from a great range of activities, including everything from snowboarding and whitewater rafting , to camping and taking a scenic drive to the tourist attractions. Depending on what you pick, decide what season is more appropriate and research your costs.

If traveling without a guide, make sure you know where you’re going and how to get there, so mapping your route ahead of time would be a smart idea.

2. Make All Necessary Arrangements In Advance

Proper planning is the key to a successful trip, no matter where you go. Book the vacation and tickets, reserve the rental equipment, and confirm check-in time. If skiing or snowboarding – purchase your lift tickets beforehand, if driving – get directions or check them on your GPS device and make sure that all car maintenance is done, as well as the registration and insurance.

3. Pack Like For the Beach and the Mountains

Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses or goggles – these three items will help you tremendously while you’re in Colorado. With a reputed 300 days of sunshine per year, they don’t seem so weird even though you’re coming during colder months. SPF 30 and a pair of sunglasses do make a life-changing difference indeed.

However, always bring layers and be prepared for winter weather. Snow and adverse conditions can come at any time including the height of summer.

4. Clothing Issues

Choose comfort over fashion, bearing the variety of elevation and, eventually, the weather conditions in mind. That’s why the more multipurpose your outfit is, the better. Don’t underestimate the importance of layering up and packing clothes for all four seasons, as sudden temperature shifts are highly likely. In winter, try layers of breathable but warm clothing: sweatshirts, long-sleeved T-shirts, long underwear, waterproof pants, and coats.

Also, you can easily adjust to the changing weather and save space in the suitcase with such universal items as pants that zip off into shorts, swim trunks that can be worn as a pair of shorts, and walking shoes that look good enough for a party or dinner.

Don’t forget about comfy footwear that can cover mileage – an essential in Colorado, whether you’re gonna camping, hiking, biking, rafting, or just wandering around outdoors.

5. Moisturizing & Other Must-Haves

Check all traveling must-haves like your phone, earphones, snacks, bug spray, and so on to make your vacation as trouble-free as possible.

6. Be Adventurous!

When discovering new places in Colorado, plan some extra days for unexpected stops at some incredible attractions along your way, don’t feel married to your route. Follow our tips, make it a journey of a lifetime, and enjoy the majestic beauty of the world around you.

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An Awesome Colorado Road Trip Itinerary For Your Bucket List

A Colorado road trip is one for the bucket list!

The State is an absolute treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting 4 National Parks and the Rocky Mountains. You’d be right if you’re thinking Colorado hit the outdoor adventure jackpot! But that’s until you realize these places are  just the start  of all the things to see and do in Colorado.

It’s impossible to see every last corner of this spectacular state in one visit, but this awesome Colorado road trip itinerary is the best way to cover a lot of ground and maximize how much you can see and do.

From National Parks to Colorado scenic byways to historic mountain towns with great eats, a Colorado trip will not disappoint!

Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

Of course, you could spend countless days exploring all Colorado has to offer and still leave hoping for a return visit.

The Colorado itinerary below was based on having just over 1 week in Colorado. I also visited in the Fall to see the spectacular Colorado Fall foliage. This meant I planned a route to give the best chance of seeing the fall colors at their peak.

You could certainly decide to do this Colorado road trip itinerary loop in reverse if it’s better suited to your travel plans. Each stop has plenty to see and do making it easier to extend your trip if you have more time.

Lastly, some of the Colorado scenic passes are only open from late spring to late fall. (Check local road advisories for specific dates as they’re subject to the weather.) Road trips in Colorado outside of this time will likely have to be adjusted for winter weather road closures.

Day 1- Fly into Denver.

If you don’t live near Colorado, you’ll need to fly into the region. Unlike my Oregon Coast road trip itinerary , this Colorado itinerary is a loop, which makes it more cost-effective and convenient when searching for  cheap flights  and booking rental cars. 

For all my road trips, I use a tool like  Kayak  to search rental car costs because it compares prices on many sites all at once. You can reserve a car at the best available price without paying upfront and use this  car rental hack  to hopefully save even more!

Consider the time of year of your trip. Colorado is in the mountains. There are steep, curvy roads across the state. I rented a small SUV with 4-wheel drive and packed a few  road trip essentials  for a successful trip.

ProTip: Since my Colorado road trip was focused more on the outdoors and the small towns and cities along the way, I didn’t include time to explore Denver.

But the city has a vibrant food and craft beer scene, as well as popular places like the Denver Botanical Gardens and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Save money by bundling ticket costs into the  Denver Mile-High Culture Pass  for entry to 7 Denver attractions if you decide to stay for a couple of days.

Once you’ve picked up your rental car, head northwest for the 1.5-hour  drive from Denver to Estes Park , Colorado. Estes Park is the gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park. You’ll find everything you need from food to gas to lodging.

The earlier you arrive in Denver the more extra time you’ll have to explore Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. 

But even if you arrive after dark, the night drive from the airport to Estes Park is straightforward. If you feel comfortable, I recommend doing the drive when you arrive so you can settle in and get ready for a fresh start in the morning.

If you get to Estes Park and have some time, check out:

10 fun things to do in estes park, where to stay:.

I recommend the  Best Western Plus Silver Saddle Inn  along the main road in town. The hotel includes breakfast, which is always a plus so you can fuel up before a day of hiking and outdoor adventures.  The hotel is on the main road through town and is just about 3 miles from the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park.

ProTip: If you’re planning a Colorado road trip in October like me, visit Rocky Mountain Park at the start of your trip. The park is in the northern part of the state and combined with the elevation, the leaves turn earlier than points further south. Watch for early winter weather systems, too, that can cause roads and hiking trails in the park to close.

Day 2- Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Jagged peaks, grassy meadows, evergreen forests, and mountain lakes reveal themselves around every bend as you drive into the park’s main access point, the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center.

One of the main highlights of the park and the Estes Park area is the  abundance of wildlife . And since the elk and other herds are up early, so should you if you’d like the best chances at seeing them. 

On your way to the National Park, consider a quick detour to drive near the Estes Park Lake. You might just see a herd of elk make its way along the shores, grazing for breakfast.

ProTip: If you plan to do most or all of this Colorado itinerary, buy the  America the Beautiful Pass   to get free entrance to any National Park, National Monuments, and more for a whole year. After visiting just a few parks, the $80 pass will pay for itself. You should also find out ahead of time if you qualify for any other ways to save money on  National Park entrance fees . 

Rocky Mountain National Park is divided into east and west sides by the Continental Divide. Trail Ridge Road (U.S. 34) is open from Memorial Day until mid-October-ish (as weather permits). You won’t want to miss the views from this scenic drive! 

Trail Ridge Road  is the highest paved road in the entire country and, as you can imagine, comes with spectacular mountain panoramas, grassy tundras, and alpine lakes. There are pull-offs along the way so you can safely stop to take photos and to just relish in the unbelievable views.

Driving this road, looking for wildlife, and of course, making time for a hike combines for a perfect day in Rocky Mountain National Park. Remember to pack water and lunch/snacks for the day. Estes Park has plenty of places to stock up before you enter the park. 

Day 3- Independence Pass to Aspen to Maroon Bells

Check out of your Estes Park hotel bright and early for full-day bursting with everything that makes road trips in Colorado fantastic.

The goal today is to drive along  Independence Pass , a Colorado Scenic Byway, which is part of State Highway 82. This mountain pass climbs 12,095 feet, across the Continental Divide and through swaths of National Forest. 

Independence Pass opens each year around Memorial Day until about mid-October or early November depending on the weather. Its elevation isn’t the only thing that’ll leave you gasping, either!

The road, complete with hairpin curves and narrow lanes, comes with terrific views of the Rocky Mountains, ghost mining towns, scenic overlooks, and in Fall, the Aspen Trees blaze in golden yellow. 

If you’re sticking to this Colorado trip planner, plan a half-ish day of sightseeing and road-tripping before following Independence Pass into the town of Aspen.

Outside of ski season, Aspen is a pretty mountain town with a walkable downtown. It also makes a great place to stop for lunch. Even on a weekday in Fall when I visited, the restaurants in town were bustling with diners, especially those with an outdoor seating area. 

Remember, even here in the town, you’ll feel the elevation. So don’t rush it and drink plenty of water. 

After lunch and a short stroll through town, dedicate some time to visiting  Maroon Bells . Not only is it a great spot to get out of the car to walk and do a short hike, but the landscape is also gorgeous in summer when all the wildflowers are in bloom and in Fall when the leaves turn.

From early June to early October, the only way to access the Maroon Bells area is by bus. The Aspen Highlands Visitor Center has parking and buses that take you the 8 miles to the natural wilderness area. Outside of these times, private cars can drive directly from Aspen to the Maroon Bells parking area.

Once you arrive, the easy Maroon Lake Scenic Trail and the more moderate Crater Lake Trail are the most popular trails for day visitors.

By late afternoon, head west to  historic Glenwood Springs , a mountain town famous for its hot springs and revitalized downtown area with plenty of restaurant choices for dinner.

Finish the day in Glenwood Springs, about 50 minutes from Maroon Bells and Aspen. I had a comfortable stay with breakfast included at the  Holiday Inn Express . I also looked at the  Hampton Inn  and the  Residence Inn  but both were slightly higher priced for my dates and I was also trying to maximize an IHG promotion.

I stayed in Glenwood Springs because overall hotel prices are cheaper than Aspen. It also positioned me close to the start of the next day’s drive. 

ProTip:  Glenwood Springs had a super cute downtown with great eateries. I highly recommend getting some tacos from  Slope and Hatch , arguably the best in all of Colorado!

Day 4- McClure Pass to Kebler Pass to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

If your road trip in Colorado is during the Fall, this could end up being one of your favorite days of the whole trip! Even in summer, today’s travel along 2 of Colorado’s Scenic Byways will have you taking photos at every turn.

After breakfast at your Glenwood Springs hotel, head back east on CO-82 towards Carbondale for about 20 minutes. Then, turn right (south) onto State Highway 133, also known as the  McClure Pass .

This pass is part of the  West Elk Loop  which takes you through arguably some of the prettiest areas of forest, parks, and wilderness in all of Colorado. Climbing more than 8,000 feet, this scenic drive is a road-trippers dream!

On top of the natural beauty closing in on your car from all sides, you’ll come across ghost towns and historic sights like the Redstone Coke Ovens where you can stop to stretch your legs and take photos.

Turn onto County Road 12 going east towards Crested Butte. This road is known as the  Kebler Pass.  This dirt road (but still easy to drive on even with 2-wheel drive) is closed in winter and reopens some time at the end of May until November when the snow has melted.

The Kebler Pass takes you through the spectacular Gunnison National Forest with its millions of Aspens that put on an absolute jaw-dropping show in the Fall.

The pass is also home to all kinds of wildlife which can appear at any time like this moose and her baby!

How long you spend on these passes is up to you, but we made it to the wild west looking town of  Crested Butte  for an early-ish to-go lunch stop, and that was with lots of stops to take photos and at least 20 minutes of awing over the moose we spotted.

ProTip: Be sure to gas up and grab water and snacks before leaving the Glenwood Springs/Carbondale area. The McClure and Kebler Passes have very little (if any) services along the way.

Leave Crested Butte along Co-135 South, also part of the West Elk Loop, heading towards the South Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. 

If you’ve never heard of  Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park , be prepared to be wowed at the power of nature! The canyon was cut and sliced by the Gunnison River of millions of years into the dramatic canyon you see today. The deepest parts of the gorge get just a couple of minutes of sunlight on any given day!

Depending on your timing, drive along the South Rim Road and see as many over the overlooks as you can. Don’t miss Gunnison Point, Chasm View, Painted Wall View, and Sunset View.

Most overlooks include a short walk to the vista point. But if you’re looking for a bit more of a walk, save a half hour to travel on foot along the Rim Rock Nature Trail accessed from the South Rim Visitor Center.

For a detailed National Park guide, check out:

6 top things to do in black canyon of the gunnison national park.

When your National Park visit is finished, drive 20-30 minutes to the  town of   Montrose . It’s the gateway town to Black Canyon of the Gunnison. It has a small, old-time downtown area with shops and restaurants. Montrose has gas stations and hotels, as well.

The  Hampton Inn  in Montrose is a traveler-favorite. This Hilton brand hotel includes a free breakfast and is just a couple of minutes away from the downtown restaurants and just near gas service stations.

Day 5- Telluride to the San Juan Skyway to Durango 

The drive today starts by going 1 hour and 20 minutes from  Montrose to Telluride . Part of this drive covers a section of the San Juan Scenic Byway.

Getting to Telluride will require a little backtracking later on but it’s worth the time whether you’re visiting in summer to hike or in the Fall to Ohh and Ahh over the brilliant golden yellow of the Aspen trees. 

Set your GPS to Mountain Village, Colorado, where you can park and take the gondola for free directly into Telluride. The 8-mile ride takes about 15 minutes and gives you a birds-eye panoramic view of the spectacular San Juan Mountains. 

Once in Telluride, spend the morning hiking the Bear Creek Preserve Trail. The trailhead is accessible from town. Along the way, you’ll be treated to a view over the town of Telluride and waterfalls at the end. The hike is 2.5 miles one way to the falls and does climb steadily upwards, even going past a section where an avalanche once took out part of the forest.

To reach the falls, it’ll take about 1 hour 10 minutes. Just be mindful that the elevation could slow you down, especially if you stop for breaks.

If you’d rather not hike, stroll through the old mining town, stopping into shops and eateries as you go. 

After spending the morning in Telluride, opt for a grab and go lunch if you finished hiking and haven’t eaten since breakfast. Then, take the gondola back to your car to continue your road trip.

The  San Juan Scenic Byway  is a loop in southern Colorado, nicknamed the  Million Dollar Highway . It’s one of the most scenic drives in all the U.S, and even more so in the Fall when the colors of the leaves set the mountain peaks on fire.

Your final destination today is  Durango  but you don’t want to miss the scenic section of the Skyway in between Ouray and Silverton, especially.  From Mountain Village, backtrack to the north and east on CO-62 to ultimately land on US 550 South starting in Ridgeway, the top of this scenic byway loop. 

Head south until you reach Durango. Along the way, take in the millions of acres of the San Juan and Uncompahgre National forests, traverse the mountain peaks, and if you’d like, stop at historic wild west towns like Silverton and click away at scenic overlooks.

ProTip: If you’d rather not hike in Telluride, you could always go straight to Durango from Montrose. (Although, I recommend making a stop in the historic town of Silverton along the way.) The 2 1/2 hour drive along US 550 South allows you to drive part of the San Juan Scenic Skyway and then have more time to enjoy historic Durango.

Durango, Colorado in the State’s southwest corner offers the best of the American Southwest, complete with its historic steam train and downtown saloon. Durango is lined with shops, breweries, and restaurants. We stopped into the Derailed Pour House on Main Street for some delicious “Derailed” tacos.

The main road through Durango is lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. The  Hampton Inn Durango  is along this road, just a couple of miles from the heart of downtown. The hotel was quiet, comfortable, and once again, came with breakfast.

Day 6- Mesa Verde National Park

Today is all about the archaeological wonders found within  Mesa Verde National Park . The Park is just 40 minutes from Durango and unlike any other National Park in the country!

Before your day in Mesa Verde National Park, though,  you’ll need to make advance reservations . Many of the ancient cliff dwellings can be seen from overlooks from the park’s main roads. But for a closer look, you’ll need to join a ranger-led tour. These tours book quickly so reserve as soon as you know the date of your visit.

Luckily, the National Park Service has made this much easier to  reserve tour times online  ahead of time instead of (Ugh!) waiting in line on the day of your visit or trying to get to the park a few days before your actual visit.

Also, be sure to have your  America the Beautiful Pass ! It easily pays for itself if you plan to visit even just 2-3 National Parks or National Monuments in 12 months.

Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Long House are the most popular ancient Puebloan people cliff dwellings to see. These people lived and worked along these cliffs before disappearing around the year 1300.

Tours of the cliff dwellings are generally held between April and October, but check dates and times for your visit. No ranger-led tours are offered in the winter but the roads through the park are open, weather permitting.

If you’d like to do more than 1 cliff dwelling tour, follow  these NPS guidelines  for how much time to have between each tour.

You should also plan to drive the park roads in the Far View and Mesa Top Loop areas to view more of the Park’s archaeological sites from scenic overlooks.

Once your visit is done, head back out to US 160 East and make the 3 1/2 hour drive to Alamosa.

If you’re road tripping in the Fall and missed some of the peak colors further north, you might be in luck!

The Aspen trees on this section of the drive turn later since the southern part of the state is warmer later into the Fall. Even in mid-October, the yellow leaves were at their peak brightness. I found myself pulling over several times to take photos and marvel at the brilliant color!

Situated right on US 160, the  Comfort Inns & Suites Alamosa  is the perfect place to stop for the day and position for tomorrow.

Alamosa’s biggest asset is its convenient location relative to the highway and Great Sand Dunes National Park. There are also some fast food options and gas stations near the hotel. Complimentary breakfast is included with your stay. It’s easily the cleanest and most comfortable place to stay in Alamosa.

Day 7- Great Sand Dunes National Park

Colorado’s National Parks are each unique in their own way and  Great Sand Dunes National Park  is no different. Surrounded by mountain peaks and mountain rivers, North America’s highest sand dunes are just 40 minutes from Alamosa. Again, be sure to have your  America the Beautiful Pass !

The most incredible thing about Great Sand Dunes National Park is the sand, of course! The sand shifts with the wind and the elements, so every day the landscape looks different. 

Spend the day sand-boarding, driving to the park’s scenic viewpoints, and if you’re looking for a workout, hike in the sand to the top of High Dune. (The National Park also has a few forest trails, too, if you’d rather.)

When you’re ready to move on, set your navigation to Colorado Springs, Colorado. It’s 2 1/2 hours from Great Sand Dunes and has some of Colorado’s most famous sights and attractions.

Also, keep your camera ready. By now you know that a drive is never “ just a drive”  in Colorado.

The  Best Western Plus Peak Vista Inn & Suites  in Colorado Springs is located just off the highway and near food options and gas stations. (Delivery to the hotel is also available.)

If you’ve shied away from the Best Western brand because you prefer a more upscale brand, this location in Colorado Springs will challenge that perception. Clean, spacious rooms, a full complimentary breakfast, and fantastic hospitality will leave you wishing you had more time to spend in Colorado Springs.

ProTip: Look for  Best Western promotions . They’ve been known to offer 1 free night certificate after staying 2 nights in a U.S. Best Western.

Day 8- Pikes Peak to the Garden of the Gods to Home

The action doesn’t stop on the last day of this Colorado road trip itinerary!

One of the great things about Colorado Springs is it’s less than 1 1/2 hours from Denver International Airport. You can easily spend part of the day in Colorado Springs and then make the drive straight to the airport for a late afternoon or evening flight back home.

Start the morning at  Pike’s Peak , nicknamed American’s Mountain, reaching up over 14k feet! You can begin your ascent by car at 9 a.m. There’s limited parking at the top due to construction so there are shuttle vans to bring you the last few miles. 

I recommend the shuttles because the higher you climb, the less oxygen there is. If you’re not used to altitude this high, expect to feel a little dizzy and lightheaded. (This is also why summit visits are generally on the shorter side.)

Most visitors to Pike’s Peak visitors station spend some time admiring the views and tasting the famous Pike’s Peak donuts, before starting back down. The spectacular views from above the clouds sweeping over the entire Colorado Springs area are not to be missed!

If you’d rather ascend Pike’s Peak with a guide, check out this  4×4 Jeep Tour.

Once you’re breathing easy again, drive to the  Garden of the Gods Park . It’s a top place to visit in Colorado Springs and a great way to stretch your legs before heading back to the airport and onto a flight.

Garden of the Gods Park is full of the signature red rock formations for which the southwestern United States is known. Depending on your timing, walk through the gorgeous red Garden Rock area. Or hike one of the trails, independently or on a guided walk.

Garden of the Gods is free to visit and could easily take up an entire day. The Visitors Center has information and child-friendly, interactive exhibits, too, that explain the geology of the park.

When it’s time, hit the road back to Denver International Airport to catch your flight home and reflect on a successful road trip through the beautiful State of Colorado!

ProTip: Colorado Springs has plenty to see and do. If you have the time, stay another night to see top sights like the United States Air Force Academy and the Old Colorado City Historic District. 

Want to extend your Colorado road trip?

If you’re looking for a variation on this itinerary that includes additional states and National Parks, and one-of-a-kind natural landmarks, here are a few ideas.

• From Durango and Mesa Verde National Park, you could plan a Colorado to Utah road trip for a  Utah National Parks adventure . Moab, Utah is the gateway town for both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. It’s less than a 3-hour drive from Mesa Verde.
• Monument Valley  is also just 3 hours from Mesa Verde. The orange rocky landscape is the emblem of the American Southwest.
• Antelope Canyon  and Horseshoe Bend are natural wonders not far from Monument Valley. Why not plan extra time in the area to take a guided tour?
• And if you’ve made it this far, consider adding days to do part of this  Arizona road trip.  You can visit iconic landmarks like the  Grand Canyon’s South Rim  and uncover parts of Route 66 in nearby  Flagstaff .
• When you’re done, you can fly out of Las Vegas but not before a night in Sin City!

So, what are your Colorado road trip ideas? 

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2 thoughts on “an awesome colorado road trip itinerary for your bucket list”.

I loved Alamosa in the brief time I got to pretend like a local. I recommend pizza at San Luis Valley pizza, pub food at the SLV brewery, or greasy Mexican (can’t miss the green chili) at Calvillos. There is a super convenient HI express you can stay at so you’ll pass Kristi Mountain sports to pick up your sand sled on the way to the dunes. Be careful not to leave too much skin exposed in the summer – it sure is hot! The best time to go is right after an unexpected snow – the dunes are extra gorgeous when they’re layered that way!! If the weather waylays you, check out the cute town of Creede instead of heading straight to CO springs.

Thanks so much for reading, Artie. Appreciate the tips, too. They’ll come in handy for others planning this road trip. 🙂

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An Epic Colorado Road Trip: The Perfect Colorado Itinerary

Planning a Colorado road trip? Don’t miss this step-by-step 10 day Colorado itinerary – complete with everything you need to know, practical tips and maps to help you plan your trip.

Errrmagawd people. Can we talk about Colorado? I’ve just returned from an epic Colorado road trip with Visit Colorado and am already itching to go back.

It’s no surprise really is it – from the urban hipster chic of Denver to the foodie paradise of Fort Collins and a big dollop of national parks and forests (including that little-known range called the Rocky Mountains), Colorado has a hella lot going for it.

So… that’s the why you want to go deal with then (if I didn’t make it clear enough, the WHY is because it’s epic – a word that you better believe that I don’t use lightly).

Now’s time to look at the how.

IMHO a road trip is the best way to tackle seeing some of Colorado’s biggest sights (as well as a few offbeat inclusions too) – there’s the joy of being on the open road and the opportunity to explore the Centennial State at your own pace.

I’ll level with you – ten days is pretty tight for a Colorado road trip.

Given my own way, I’d dedicate at least two to three weeks to discovering the state but hey, this is the real world, with pesky little things like holiday allowance and budget to consider – so a 10 day Colorado itinerary it is.

That’s also why we are pretty much going to stick to the area of Northern Colorado: I don’t want you haring around the whole state clocking up the miles at the cost of the actual experience.

I will, however, include a couple of smaller stops on this Colorado road trip planner that I think really give you a peek into a different side of Colorado life (ahem did anyone say hanging out on a DUDE RANCH).

Be warned, this isn’t your bog standard Colorado road trip, but then again, you’re not bog standard kind of people are you?

Kick back and enjoy the ride, it’s time to set off on an epic Colorado road trip.

Colorado Road Trip Map

10 Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

Colorado road trip days 1 + 2: denver.

You’re about to kick off your Colorado itinerary in Denver.

Denver seriously took me by surprise – in the absolute best way possible.

Blending hipster cool, an incredible food scene, cultural attractions and a ridiculous number of craft breweries, it’s the perfect introduction to Colorado.

It was clear from the moment I stepped outside that Denver is a city that loves the great outdoors – pretty much a given seeing as you can see the Rockies looming high from most points in the city.

Cool Things to do in Denver on Your Colorado Itinerary

Discover denver’s popping street art scene.

Love street art? I have one word for you. RiNo.

Denver’s street art scene is on another level (the only place I’ve seen to rival it is Shoreditch in London ) but as you’re short on time, you should head to the RiNo district, which boasts the biggest concentration of pieces.

Local names such as Pat Milbery and Detour 303 sit alongside international street art stars like Obey Giant (the dude who designed that iconic Obama poster in 2008) and Mr Cenz (a long-standing favourite of mine).

It’s colourful and straight up awesome.

Fair warning though: CRUSH Walls, which sees a huge mural festival takeover in RiNo each year, is coming to an end. CW holds the right to decorate the area until 2023, and then after that, they’re parting ways. 

Who knows what will become of Denver’s street art scene? Sniff. Check it out while you still can.

Read More: Finding the Best Street Art + Urban Murals in Denver

Take E-Tuk Tour of the City

Denver is pretty spread out, so I’d recommend starting your time in the city with a tour.

Not just any tour though, the cool Denver e-tuk tours not only whizz you around the city in their eco-friendly and rather quirky contraptions, but just so happen to have some of the funniest guides I’ve ever met. ROFL funny meets a wealth of history and unique insight into some of Denver’s coolest spots? I’m sold.

Explore Denver’s Museums

Denver has a lot of museums.

I’ll be honest, as we only had a couple of days in the city, I skipped visiting most of the museums in favour of mooching around RiNo and goggling at street art.

However, if you’d prefer to head to a museum instead, I’ve heard rumour that the Denver Art Museum has a cool collection of Native American art, while the Clyfford Still Museum is an impressive showcase of the works of the abstract expressionist artist of the same name.

See the Big Blue Bear and More ‘Grammable Spots

There’s a tonne of public art in Denver thanks to a programme that requires each new construction project in the city to donate 1% of the proceeds to a public art fund. How cool is that?

We saw a lot of art on the e-tuk tour but if you only have time to see one it has to be the Big Blue Bear (actual name I See What You Mean ) by Lawrence Argent.

The bear represents the outdoors sitting right on Denver’s doorstep – pretty fitting given the city’s location.

Gorge on the City’s Farm to Table Cuisine

Can we take a moment to pay homage to the good chefs of Denver keeping the city’s inhabitants and visitors fed in the best way possible.

Thank you people. My stomach thanks you. My tight jeans, not so much.

Farm to table is kind of a big deal in Denver – no wonder when there is such a wealth of local ingredients for chefs to use in all kinds of inventive and wonderful ways.

Mercantile in the iconic Union Station serves fresh flavours and innovative contemporary American cuisine – book ahead – it’s very popular (deservedly so).

Denver Central Market in RiNo has numerous traders serving great food from around the globe.

I also loved El Five, whose quirky Mediterranean dishes came with a side of some of the best views in the city.

Explore Denver’s Different Districts (And Have a Giggle at their Names Too)

LoDo (Lower Downtown), RiNo (River North), SEEmo (OK, the last one’s a joke), Denver has a lot of districts with some rather amusing nicknames – so much so that there’s even a South Park episode mocking the locals with the made-up SoDoSoPa.

Funny as their names might be, Denver’s districts each have a distinctive vibe of their own – take as much time as you can hanging out in each of them.

RiNo totally captured my heart though, if only for the epic street art.

Where to Stay in Denver – The Sheraton Denver

The Sheraton Denver – The Sheraton Denver is one of the biggest hotels in Denver and where I stayed during the Denver leg of the trip.

It’s everything you’d  expect from a Sheraton – high-end, comfortable and a great location downtown (plus beds so comfortable that you never want to get out of them).

Colorado Road Trip Day 3: Loveland

Loveland is a cool little spot with a compact downtown that you can explore in the matter of a morning and a nice contrast to Denver.

It’s one of those spots that you could pass through as you rush to get to the Rockies – but you’d be missing out if you did.

Though the downtown is pretty and has plenty to keep you entertained Loveland is really a place where you need to get out and explore.

Put on your hiking boots and attack the stunning Devil’s Backbone trail – a ridge of rocky outcrops that comes complete with views of the Rocky Mountains.

Cool Things to do in Loveland

Visit sweetheart winery.

A winery in Colorado? Surely I’ve got it confused – do I mean California? Nope.

Sweetheart Winery was one of my fave stops in Loveland and a welcome shift from the craft breweries that dominate the state.

The winery was started by a wine enthusiast who honed his craft, he turned to selling the wine he produced at independent wine fairs – turns out that the wine started winning more than a few awards and he took the leap (along with his wife) into starting a full winery.

That’s a story and a half right? Wait until you try the wine.

Hike the Devil’s Backbone

No, not the film by Guillermo del Toro (creepy AF), this Devil’s Backbone happens to be a cool 12-mile Colorado hike along a series of impressive rock formations that looks (you guessed it), like the Devil’s sinuous and scaled backbone.

The hike isn’t tough and the trail is well marked – go as far as you wish before turning back to do the return hike but I would recommend going at least as far as The Keyhole. This an opening in a rocky outcrop through which you can peek at the Rocky Mountains on the horizon.

Your Insta will thank you for it.

Visit one of Loveland’s Sculpture Gardens

Away from its mega-cute name, Loveland sits at the heart of the American sculpture scene.

The town itself has over 380 pieces of public art, many of which are located in its sculpture gardens: Benson Sculpture Garden and Chapungu Sculpture Park.

Benson is the biggest of the two and the one I visited during my stay – it opened in 1985 and has been showcasing the best pieces in local and international sculpture ever since.

It’s pretty cool – with a range of styles and mediums that I just wasn’t expecting to find – I still am not sure which of the 148 pieces currently displayed was my favourite.

This piece “ Menage a Trois ” was certainly a close contender.

Chapungu Sculpture Park is just as cool (I’ll be heading there on my next trip fo’ sho), boasting more than 80 stone sculptures with themes like the spirit world and village life playing a huge role in the park.

Have a Cheeky Night out on the Town

Loveland is pretty sprawling but the compact downtown area is where it’s at when it comes to keeping you out of (or getting you into) trouble of an evening.

Start with dinner at Door 222 – where the dishes display a masterful balance of flavours familiar and unusual.

Think tapas but with an international twist – embodied by dishes such as shaved brussels sprouts with a maple and sherry glaze, bacon-wrapped dates – followed up by hearty mains including Gold Canyon Flatiron with grilled asparagus and lemon hollandaise.

Plus the cocktails are pretty ace too #justsayin’.

Post-dinner, I’d be remiss if I didn’t at least mention that local arcade The Flipside and Wicked Tequila Room are mere paces away from each other.

I’m flat out not spilling the tea on that particular night (what happens in Loveland stays in Loveland) but I’ll leave it by saying you might not want to schedule too early a start the next morning if you do decide to have a cheeky night out.

Where to Stay in Loveland – The Courtyard by Marriott

I was pretty much ready to flop and drop by the time we checked into the Courtyard by Marriott in Loveland – it’s a new hotel with spacious bedrooms and (most importantly) ridiculously cosy beds.

There’s a gym (not sure you’ll need it if you’ve been doing this itinerary) and a hot tub (that’s more like it) and comfortable love-seats in-room for you to nestle up on and enjoy the views.

Colorado Road Trip Day 4: Fort Collins

Fort Collins is a quirky city with a vibrant heart. Even though it’s actually pretty big, it’s maintained the welcoming feeling of a small town – in no small part thanks to the fact that it is home to Colorado State University.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Fort Collins after having fallen for Denver and Loveland so hard but it totally won me over.

Where Denver is hectic and sprawling, and Loveland has its low-key vibe, Fort Collins feels like a sip of cool water – complete with boutique shops, independent bookstores and (yet more) locally-sourced and totally delish food.

Cool Things to do in Fort Collins

Discover the ghost signs of times past trail.

Where Denver has street art, Fort Collins has ghost signs. What’s a ghost sign? This should give you a clue.

Alright, I’ll tell ya. Fading retro posters from the yesteryears plastered on the sides of buildings.

There are nine of the signs hidden on old walls around town advertising famous brands like Coca Cola to local gems like Damm’s Bakery, and the oldest one dates from the 1880s. Go hunt them out!

Cycle the Experience Platinum Route

Fort Collins is an outstanding place to explore on two wheels, with miles and miles of cycle trails that take you through the city and its beautiful surrounding areas.

I’ll be honest. I’m always a bit touch and go on a bike. Of course I can ride a bike (just about) but there’s only so much coordination a notoriously klutz-bound girl like me can pull out on the fly.

All of that is to say that I was a bit nervous before we set off on the 7 mile Experience Platinum path.

It turned out there was no need to worry at all.

The route takes you alongside the state’s only designated wild & scenic river (I can confirm that it was both wild and scenic) and into the heart of the city.

If you’re nervy – don’t be. The terrain is pretty flat in town and the bike lanes are generous. Take it slow and you’ll get the hang of it in no time.

We rented e-bikes, which was totally the way to go.

Indulge in Fort Collins’ Fabulous Foodie Scene

Fort Collins might not look like the likeliest contender for a shipping container street food market but I’ll let you in on a little secret…. The Exchange is one of the coolest places in town.

There’s craft beer (of course there is, this is Colorado after all) from the Crooked Stave, insanely moreish spicy chicken bites from Chick’n’Cone, pizza from The Pizza Press and OMG, the most delicious doughnuts and ice cream from Foco Doco and Old Town Churn respectively.

The best part of being an adult? There’s no one there to shout at you to tell you to eat some veg or not to go straight to dessert.

Have some cash to splash? Make a beeline for Ginger & Baker for a feast of locally-sourced high-end cuisine.

There’s a reason why this is one of the biggest names in town. Opt for the tasting menu for a culinary journey of Colorado’s finest flavours.

Sample the Local Drinks

Fort Collins has more than its fair share of craft breweries (man, I had not realised how much Coloradans love their craft beer) but there are also a few distilleries dotted about too.

If you know me, you’ll know that a good whisky is a pretty direct way to my heart (there’s a reason I go to the Islay Whisky Festival every year) – so it’s no surprise that I was ridiculously keen to try out the tipples at Old Elk Distillery .

Not satisfied with making an unbelievably smooth bourbon, they also make gin and vodka. Of course they do.

Where to Stay in Fort Collins – The Armstrong Hotel

I’m a total sucker for a gorgeous boutique hotel and The Armstrong gives it just the right amount of strong quirky-comfy-chic vibes.

From the art-filled reception downstairs (keep your eyes out for the Napoleon Dynamite portrait – YAS) to the high-end suites, this isn’t the kind of hotel you forget in a hurry.

Colorado Road Trip Days 5 + 6: Sundance Trail Dude Ranch

I’ve been dipping into the great outdoors on this Colorado itinerary – but you’d better know that sh*t’s about to get REAL.

The next five days are about exploring the varied terrains and spectacular landscapes that Colorado has to offer.

I hope you’re ready – this is going to leave you exhilarated, exhausted and your eyes stuffed with wonder*.

*yes, I absolutely stole that phrase from Ray Bradbury

There are a couple of places on this itinerary that you’ll find plastered everywhere.

It’s not exactly a revolutionary statement to suggest that if you’re going to Colorado you should stop off in Denver or the Rockies. But our next stop is somewhere really special – Sundance Trail Guest Ranch .

Do you ever find a place where the moment you set down your bags, you know it’s a home away from home?

Where you segue into its rhythm of life without any effort – as if you were meant to be there all along. Sundance is that place.

It’s hard to pinpoint the exact appeal: I think it’s a combination of so many elements rather than one individual thing.

The welcoming owners, Dan and Ellen Morin, the communal dining – tables sinking under the weight of good ol’ American cuisine, the numerous activities to get you outdoors – from campfire songs, square dancing and axe-throwing – or last, but certainly not least, the horseback riding.

This is the place to learn to become a rootin’ tootin’ whip-crackin’ cowboy and explore the local surrounds – including the Roosevelt National Forest, on horseback.

I love riding but no fear if this is your first time on a horse, Sundance will make you fall in love with the freedom of horseback riding into the wild on a trusty steed.

Each day we’d saddle up (my horse, Mouse, was just the right combination of personality and calm to make him a pleasure to ride) and set off for a new destination.

We meandered through valleys, to panoramic outlooks – all the while accompanied by the friendly and impossibly cool ranch hands (if ever I had serious job envy, it was of those guys).

You’d think that after a day in the saddle, your day’s work would be done.

“ You’re supposed to fall exhausted into your bed at the end of the day, ” Dan cheekily told us on the first day – safe to say that is exactly what happened.

Don’t know how to square dance? You will do by the end of your stay (as an aside, I will say that this was a hell of a lot more fun than I thought it could possibly be).

We even learnt to forage the local flora in the capable hands of a brilliant local couple before settling around a campfire, singing traditional cowboy songs and making s’mores.  

It was magical and I cannot recommend it enough.

Dude Ranches are an alien concept at home in the UK, but they form the backbone of rural frontier Colorado life in times present and past – it was the point where I felt most immersed in a culture so distinct from London life, and I loved it. You will too.

Read More: Why You Need to Plan Your Colorado Dude Ranch Vacation

Colorado Road Trip Days 7 – 9: Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park , The Rockies, RMNP – whatever you want to call it, the end result is still the same. One of the spectacular national parks on the West Coast and a great place to try glamping in Colorado .

Let’s face it – the Rocky Mountain National Park is no secret – last year it received over 4.5 million visitors, making it the third most visited national park in the US.

By all accounts, the park is heaving in the summer months so the best time to visit is spring or autumn to beat the crowds.

I’m always aware of the danger of us loving the world’s beautiful places to death – literally – so please be aware and take care to leave no trace when you’re visiting so that future generations will also be able to marvel at the beauty of this treasured destination too.

Preachy pedestal aside, this is the place to get outside and explore.

Strap on your hiking boots and hop onto one of the hundreds of hiking trails – if you’re travelling in peak months, start early or late to avoid the biggest crowds.

A Few Cool Spots in Rocky Mountain National Park

We were pretty limited for time in Rocky Mountain National Park , so didn’t have as much time to explore as I’d have liked (I pretty much could have stayed there for two weeks and still whinged that I didn’t have enough time though to be fair).

Here are a couple of spots I visited – rest assured there are endless more – as many as you will ever need to fill your time in the park.

Rainbow Curve

Standing at 10,875 feet (that’s 3,300 metres to my metric peeps), Rainbow Curve is one of the outlooks that you can drive to using the Trail Ridge Road.

It’s about 13 miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance to the park and a great place for a striking overview of some of the park’s peaks.

You can see nine peaks from the lookout, as well as the Hidden Valley and Horseshoe Park below. I might have gotten RIDICULOUSLY excited when I saw the lookout. I mean, you’ve got to be a bit dead inside not to.

It was still snowing and the road was closed, so we got to frolic along the road taking arty pics without being ploughed down by oncoming traffic. Win.

Hike to Nymph Lake

This is a short hike in Rocky Mountain National Park but big on views.

First up you park at the Bear Lake Trailhead (this is serviced by the park shuttle – recommended in high season) and make your way to Bear Lake – this section takes a couple of minutes.

You could leave it there, but where’s the adventure in that?

So it’s on to Nymph Lake, which is only a mile further along the trail. I say it’s only a mile further but depending on the time of year, it can be snowy – it was when I did it – cue display for my best Bambi vibes as I tried to stay upright and not land on my ass.

All that skittling and baby-stepping was worth it though – I turned the last corner to see the frozen Nymph lake with Hallet Peak peeping out in the background. Pretty brilliant right?

Don’t be fooled by the name – Estes Park is actually a town – and pretty much the best place to base yourself for your Rocky Mountain National Park adventures if you’re not camping within the park itself (you’ll need to book a whopping six months ahead if you want to give that a try).

It’s got a quaint downtown area, filled with all manner of indie shops – including, somewhat bizarrely, three Christmas shops. At Christmas-time the area boasts ice rinks and markets galore – heading back here during the festive season is near the top of my Colorado bucket list.

There’s also a tonne of choice when it comes to places to eat – The Bird & Jim sources produce from local farms and transforms them into sustainable and healthy dishes that are full of flavour.

Kick back afterwards at The Barrel , which has mead, cider and kombucha on tap – as well as a diverse wine-list.

I was more than a little excited to see a malbec from of my favourite Argentine wineries Bodega Colome pop up, so of course, that’s what I went for (to put it into context, I’ve only ever seen this once outside of Argentina itself).

Where to Stay in Estes Park – The Evergreens on Fall River

The Evergreens on Fall River offers suitably rustic lodges with gorgeous views overlooking the Fall River.

It’s the perfect base for exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park – and when you get back from a long, sweaty day on the mountains, the hot tub beckons – I certainly couldn’t resist.

Colorado Road Trip Day 10: Boulder then Back to Denver

It’s almost time to go home.

I know, I know – who knew a 10-day Colorado road trip would go so fast? If you have enough time, I’d recommend popping into laid-back Boulder, which is certainly having a real heydey at the moment.

I did pop into Boulder and had a lovely walk around the town, plus a few chill cups of coffee and glasses of wine (when in hipsterville…), but I will be honest and say that I really didn’t do it justice.

If you have more time, spend an extra day or two here – walk along Pearl Street, which sits at the heart of the town before venturing out to explore The Flatirons – those huge sandstone outcrops that dominate the town’s vistas or meander your way along Boulder Creek Path.

There are breweries, distilleries, hiking paths, cycling paths – basically all the things you could need to make you fall in love with Boulder’s small-town vibes.

The University of Colorado’s Boulder Campus is also home to the Fiske Planetarium and the Museum of Natural History, which is perfect if you’re desperate to get inside after spending the best part of ten days hiking, riding, and climbing. Not to mention that both of these museums are stuffed with fascinating history and cool facts.

Once you’re done, hit the road and truck on back to Denver to finish this Colorado road trip back where we started. Enjoy!

Additional Colorado Road Trip Ideas and Destinations

I’ve tried to keep things relatively simple for this Colorado road trip itinerary.

Changing destinations every night can be pretty exhausting, but if you want to up the pace, or you have more than 10 days to play with, you can also add these cool Colorado road trip ideas to your list.

Colorado Springs and the Garden of the Gods – CS is a cool town with iconic highway snaps. Garden of the Gods is a nearby sandstone formation park with impressive views – you can take a chilled-out (and relatively easy hike) or kick things up a notch with guided rock climbing excursions and Segway tours.

Mesa Verde National Park – Known for boasting amazing cliff dwellings and petroglyphs carved out of the rocks by the Ancestral Pueblo people, this is one of the top national parks in Colorado and I highly recommend you allot some time to see it. For gorgeous panoramic views head to the Sun Point Overlook, or embark on the Petroglyph Point Trail to spot carvings.

Great Sand Dunes National Park – Located in South Colorado, the national park boasts sand dunes on an unbelievable scale. But it’s much more than just an incredible photo spot, the national park is home to incredible hikes and various ecosystems (many of which you’ll get to gawk at during a visit).

Aspen – The ski hounds and snow bunnies among you need no introduction to Colorado’s chi chi winter sports haven. There’s no better place in Colorado to indulge in snowsports – and a whole lotta Apres Ski. Aside from the slopes, make sure to check out the impressive Wheeler Opera House.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre – Ten miles west of Denver lies an amphitheatre carved into soaring red rocks. It’s still used for performance today and is one of the most impressive sights in Colorado.

Planning Your Colorado Itinerary: Practical Tips

• Stay hydrated – they don’t call Denver the mile-high city for nothing and the elevations just get higher – plus the air is incredibly dry. There were points in the Rockies where I could barely walk and breathe at the same time because the altitude was so high. All of this means that it is incredibly important to drink lots of water and stay hydrated.
• If you show signs of altitude sickness, go to a lower elevation and take it easy. If it’s serious, seek medical help. This isn’t likely to be an issue in Denver but altitude sickness can come into play in other parts of the state like the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Denver is well served by national and international flights (including direct flights from the UK) – hence why I’ve chosen it as the place to start and finish the Colorado road trip.

Check flights to Denver on Skyscanner.

Renting a Car

Chances are you’re planning to rent a car for your road trip – here are a few good options.

• Hertz – Hertz is an international car rental company that has a variety of cars available to hire. Go for something sturdy and rugged rather than a muscle car – practicality is more important than looks here 🙂
• Sixt Rent a Car – Sixt has great car rental prices too.
• Enterprise Rent a Car

Colorado Packing List

Your packing list for your Colorado road trip itinerary is going to vary seriously from season to season, but it pays to be aware that the weather in Colorado is changeable and fluctuates between extremes quickly.

Want an example? Well I’ve just returned from my trip a few days ago (in May) – it snowed the week before we arrived, was gorgeously sunny for the duration of my trip but the state has just experienced a huge snow dump again this week – as in Denver airport is currently closed kind of snow.

So, just like the Girl Guides and Boy Scouts, it pays to be prepared when you’re packing for the Colorado road trip.

Colorado Road Trip Packing List

• Light jacket / heavy jacket depending on the season. I recommend a windproof softshell as the lighter jacket.
• Hiking boots
• Trainers / sneakers
• Sunscreen / suncream
• Insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle (there are places to refill everywhere, don’t be that person still using disposable bottles when it’s completely unnecessary).
• Swimsuit (for that sweet hot tub action).

PS: Still not sure? Read My Ultimate Road Trip Packing List or my Torres del Paine Hiking List for hiking in the Rockies (same same, but different).

Discover More Colorado Road Trip Guides

• C ool Things to do in Colorado
• The Best Airbnbs in Colorado
• Why you HAVE to go Horse Riding at a Dude Ranch on Your Next Vacation
• Street Art in Denver
• Time to Explore Fort Collins
• Time to Explore: Loveland
• The Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
• Unmissable Things to do in Denver

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I was kindly hosted by Visit Colorado on this trip but as ever, all of my thoughts and opinions are very much my own. As if you couldn’t tell.

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary – Map & Guide

Whether you’re looking to take a scenic drive near Denver or have your sights set on doing a road trip from Denver, you’re in for a treat. Our Colorado road trip itinerary will take you through some of the best places to visit in Colorado.

The state is jam packed with amazing sights and we’re going to give you some of our favorite places to visit in Colorado. Before you know it, you’ll be visiting some of the most beautiful places in Colorado.

Let’s get to it!

Southern Colorado Road Trip

The best part of a road trip is it can be for anyone. A Colorado road trip is perfect for families, folks who are on a budget, or anyone with a dog. Really and truly, the only thing that is hard to come by in Colorado is a bad time.

Before we dive in, below is a map of the Colorado road trip itinerary so you can follow the exact route we took. We may be biased, but our Colorado road trip was epic.

Jump Ahead To:

Getting Around Colorado

Alright, listen up road warriors, if you are wanting to road trip through Colorado, you’ll need a car – duh, right? If you’re using your own vehicle, right on.

If you’re thinking “meh, I don’t really wanna rack up miles on my own car”, do what we did during our Arizona Road Trip …. RENT A RV OR VAN ! It’s one of the best ways to road trip, in our opinion 🙂

Best Time To Visit Colorado

Let’s be honest, Colorado is great all year round, it just depends on what you want to do when you visit.

If you’re wanting to Ski, November to March are your months. If you’re wanting to go White Water Rafting, May through July are great times to visit Colorado.

However, for the purposes of this post, a good ole’ Colorado road trip, the Spring, Summer, and fall months are perfect times to visit. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, try visiting before the summer officially kicks off – before Memorial Day weekend – or after the summer season ends – after Labor Day weekend.

Ok, now to our Colorado road trip itinerary….

Stop 1: Explore Colorado Springs

Located 70 miles south of Denver, a little over an hour’s drive, lies the city of Colorado Springs. Nestled on the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs has a handful of attractions that will keep your little exploring heart entertained making it the first stop on our Colorado road trip itinerary.

Things To Do in Colorado Springs:

• Pikes Peak: Drive the 19-mile scenic Pikes Peak Highway to reach the tippy top of Pikes Peak, also known as America’s Mountain. Once at the 14,115 ft summit, be sure to eat a donut at the Summit House. Trust us, they’re good and are formulated to only be eaten at altitude.
• Garden of The Gods: Catch a sunrise or sunset at the famous Garden of The Gods. Offerings amazing views and free to enter, what’s not to like?
• Manitou Incline: If you’re looking to get a workout in, head to the Manitou Incline to climb the 2,744 steps to the top. Oh and gain 2,000 ft in elevation while you’re at it. Are your calves burning yet?
• Hiking: If you’re wanting to get out and into nature and do a bit of hiking, check out Red Rock Canyon, Cheyenne State Park, and The Broadmoor Seven Falls.
• Old Colorado City : From art walks and farmers’ markets to quaint shops and restaurants, Old Colorado City is a great place to wander about. Grab a beer at one of the craft breweries in town (Our pick? Cerberus Brewery) and a bite to eat and one of the many eating establishments you’ll find scattered about. Basically, mosey along and stop wherever your heart decides.

Where To Stay In Colorado Springs:

• The Luxury Inclined |  Garden of The Gods Club & Resort
• The Budget Conscious | The Academy Hotel
• Something in Between | SCP Hotel Colorado Springs

TIP: If you’re wanting to camp in Colorado Springs, don’t. It’s too dense of a city to find any decent campsite. Set your sights on the surrounding areas, around Pikes Peak, if you want a proper campsite.

Check Out: Camping for Beginners – Tips & Essential Camping Gear

Stop 2: Visit the Dillon Pinnacles in Gunnison

After a few days in Colorado Spring, set your sights a little further west, you’re headed to Gunnison, Colorado! Gunnison is located about 3 hours and 15 mins west of Colorado Springs making it an easy, and beautiful drive.

Now, the time you spend here is totally up to you. You can make Gunnison a pit stop on your way to your next destination or, stay a night or two. Or, once in Gunnison, head North and visit the AMAZING town of Crested Butte .

For us, we just stopped for a few hours in Gunnison but could have definitely spent more time .

While in Gunnison, be sure to grab a cup of coffee at Tributary Coffee Roasters before heading over to check out the Blue Mesa Reservoir and Dillon Pinnacles. The scenery is fantastic, to say the least.

Where To Stay In Gunnison, Colorado

• The Luxury Inclined |  The Inn at Tomichi Village
• The Budget Conscious | The Wanderlust Hostel
• Something in Between | Alpine Inn & Suites

Stop 3: Fall in Love With Telluride

Keeping the southwest theme alive and well on this road trip, you’re headed to one of the most famous towns in Colorado, Telluride. Located two and a half hours southwest of Gunnison, Telluride is a former mining town located within a box canyon.

Surrounded by mountainous peaks, Telluride is the epitome of picturesque Colorado. From fine dining to fantastic craft beer and epic hiking, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Telluride.

Regardless if you are skiing, hiking about or just enjoying the quaint, historic town, plan to spend 2-4 days here. It’s well worth it, especially for you outdoor enthusiasts.

Read our guide on the 12 incredible things to do in Telluride !

Where To Stay In Telluride, Colorado

• The Luxury Inclined |  Element 52
• The Budget Conscious | Moun tainside Inn
• Something in Between | Camel’s Garden Hotel

TIP: Accommodations in the Telluride Ski Village and the town of Telluride are pricey. If you are looking for budget-friendly accommodations, consider booking in Ouray (1 hour from Telluride) or Ridgway (53 minutes from Telluride). Or, pack a tent and gear and do some camping around Telluride.

Stop 4: Drive The Million Dollar Highway to Durango

The name says it’s all. The Million Dollar Highway offers billion-dollar views to those who make the trip. The breathtaking mountain, valley, and gorge views, will have your jaw dropping after every turn. The views are really THAT good.

Read about everything you need to know to drive the Million Dollar Highway !

The section from Ouray to Silverton is what most consider to be the Million Dollar highway. However, on your Colorado road trip itinerary, you’ll be going a little further south than Silverton and let us tell you, the views never stop getting good.

From Telluride, make your way to Ouray, then onto Silverton, and finally, Durango, Colorado. The drive is around 3 hours if you don’t stop, but that’s nonsense, you’ll be stopping.

Reported to cost a million dollars a mile to build, the Million Dollar Highway is a must-do when in Southern Colorado.

Where To Stay In Durango, Colorado

• The Luxury Inclined |  The Strater Hotel
• The Budget Conscious | MainStay Suites
• Something in Between | Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn

Stop 5: Stand in Awe at Great Sand Dunes National Park

From Durango, Great Sand Dunes National Park is about a 3-hour drive away. Located near the towns of Alamosa and Fort Garland in Southern Colorado, Great Sand Dunes is known for its towering sand dunes, its seasonal Medano Creek and the beautiful backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo mountains.

Rent a board and go “sand-boarding” down the dunes. Take a hike to Zapata Falls or take a seat on the “high dune” and watch the sunrise and set. Regardless of what your plan is for the day, you should 100% plan to spend a full day at the National Park.

Read our complete guide to Sand Dunes National Park !

Where To Stay Near Great Sand Dunes National Park

• The Luxury Inclined | Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
• The Budget Conscious | Dunes Inn
• Something in Between | Fairfield Inn & Suites

Stop 6: Hang Out in Taos, New Mexico

Okay, okay, you got us! Yes, we know that Taos is not in Colorado but WE had to add it to our Colorado road trip itinerary. It’s so close for us not to include it! It’s a perfect stop on any Colorado to New Mexico road trip.

Located about 2 hours south of Great Sand Dunes National Park , you’ll find the New Mexico high desert town of Taos. Perfect for art lovers, history buffs and of course, outdoor adventurers. Taos is a perfect place to spend a few days.

Spend time hiking or mountain biking in the Taos Ski Valley, book a white water rafting trip on the Rio Grande River, or spend the afternoon shopping at the art museums in town before heading out for dinner around the Taos Plaza.

Whether you’re out exploring or sitting back and enjoying the view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, we guarantee you’ll fall in love with Taos.

Get our guide to some of the BEST things to do in Taos, New Mexico !

Where To Stay In Taos, New Mexico

• The Luxury Inclined |  Hotel La Fonda
• The Budget Conscious | Sagebrush Inn & Suites
• Something in Between | Dreamcatcher B&B
• Something Unique | Hotel Luna Mystica

From Taos, if you are needing an airport, Santa Fe and Albuquerque are the two closest cities to Taos. Santa Fe is located 1.5 hours (70 miles / 112 km) from Taos whereas Albuquerque is a little further.

The trip from Taos to Albuquerque will take you around 2 hours and 15 mins (132 miles / 212kms).

If you’re wanting to road trip back to Denver, expect the drive to take you around 4.5 hours. No matter where you choose to go on from Taos, you can easily reach a handful of amazing Southwestern cities with ease.

Looking to spend more time in the Southwest? Check out our Arizona Road Trip Itinerary or Utah Road Trip to help you plan one epic trip.

Road Trip Must-Haves

It goes without saying that your license and registration, insurance, and spare tires are no-brainers to have. But what about the other stuff? No matter where you’re road-tripping to, check out some of our essential road trip items we never leave home without.

Staying Safe On The Road

Just like other destinations, we want to make sure you’re being safe and have coverage. Accidents happen. They’re unpredictable and can be problematic. We highly recommend getting  travel insurance .

We use  World Nomads  and it’s definitely come in handy a time or two for us!

WANT MORE INFO ON COLORADO?!

10 Epic Things To Do In Great Sand Dunes National Park

Your Complete Guide to Driving Colorados Million Dollar Highway

The Best Things To Do in Telluride

Can’t Miss Things To Do in Crested Butte

Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Black Canyon of The Gunnison

PIN IT FOR LATER!

For more travel tips, guides and awesome travel shots, be sure to poke around our site, follow us on Instagram  @wanderingstus , Pinterest and on  Facebook . Oh and if you have any questions, let us know in the comment section. We’re happy to answer. Or, just leave us a positive note!

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Home > United States > One Week in Colorado Itinerary: Perfect Road Trip for 7 Days in Colorado

One Week in Colorado Itinerary: Perfect Road Trip for 7 Days in Colorado

By Dymphe / May 23, 2022

If you're going to spend one week in Colorado , you'll have an amazing time in the state. This itinerary shows you how to have the perfect road trip for 7 days in Colorado!

Colorado is one of the Mountain States. This beautiful state of the United States has a lot of great things to do and see.

There is a great mix of wonderful cities and beautiful nature that is amazing to explore! That's why Colorado is the perfect state for a road trip.

If you're going to follow this itinerary for 7 days in Colorado, you'll visit many wonderful places!

For example, the city of Denver is one of the highlights of this one week in Colorado itinerary. Here you find many interesting and fun places!

Another great thing about this itinerary is visiting Rocky Mountains National Park. This is a great place with beautiful nature. But there is so much more that I included in this itinerary!

I'll start with some tips and information about how to get there. Then, you can find the itinerary for a week in Colorado!

Table of Contents

Tips for One Week in Colorado

One Week in Colorado is a great trip for sure! During this week you are going to see so many different things, which is awesome!

But there are some things that can make your trip even better if you know them!

By far, the most important tip for your 7 days in Colorado is to rent a car or travel there by your own car. Doing a road trip in Colorado is amazing.

There are lots of great places in the state, but traveling by public transport is very difficult. That's especially true if you want to do all the things on this itinerary in one week only.

That's why I recommend having a car with you when you are here.

Another tip is to make sure you take water with you when you are visiting the sights on this itinerary.

There are lots of great places with nature in Colorado. These places are often at a distance from shops.

Often, you can find there places with water, but to be sure, I recommend always bringing a bottle of water with you!

Besides that, you should bring good hiking shoes with you when you are using this itinerary. There are many places with great hiking trails. Good shoes make your experience of one week in Colorado so much better!

Another tip for your 7 days in Colorado is to bring a battery pack with you wherever you go.

When you are visiting the nature of the state, there are no charging stations for your phone nearby. Thus, bringing your own extra electricity is a good idea!

Getting to Colorado

Getting to Colorado is easy. There are good connections to a lot of other places in the United States. So that's very convenient if you're planning on spending one week in Colorado!

One of the best ways to travel to the state from a place that isn't close is by airplane.

The largest airport in the state is Denver International Airport. This is a large airport with lots of flights. You can get here from lots of destinations within the US and outside of it.

For example, there are flights from the UK, France, Canada, Japan, and more places that are further away!

Another way to get to the state of Colorado is by train. That's also a great option if you're going to spend 7 days in Colorado.

The train is a good way to reach Colorado if you are coming from places that are closer to it.

It is a very convenient and often fast way to travel.

Also, you could come to the state of Colorado by bus.

Besides that, you can also reach the state of Colorado by car. This is a very convenient way to reach the state as you can bring a lot of luggage. Furthermore, it is one of the fastest ways to get to the state.

Especially when you're doing a road trip in Colorado getting there by car is perfect. In that case, your car is very convenient during the rest of your one week in Colorado!

Itinerary for One Week in Colorado

If you're going to travel to Colorado for 7 days, you'll have an amazing week for sure. Furthermore, with this itinerary, you can make the most out of your time in the state.

Let's start with the one week in Colorado itinerary!

Day 1: Colorado Springs, A Gorgeous Place To Visit During Your 7 Days in Colorado

Colorado Springs is the first stop of this 7 days in Colorado itinerary.

After Denver, where you are going the next day, this is the most populous city in the state.

Colorado Spring is a lovely place where you find all kinds of things to do and see.

Especially if you like nature, Colorado Springs is a great place to start your one week in Colorado with!

Explore Downtown Colorado Springs

When you want to get a good impression of the city of Colorado Springs, you should explore downtown! This is one of the best ways to start your day in Colorado Springs.

In this part of Colorado Springs, you find a lot of buildings with beautiful architecture. This is lovely to see!

In the city center, you also find a lot of stores and restaurants, which makes it a wonderful place to stay!

Visit the Garden of the Gods

After seeing the inner city of Colorado Springs, you should definitely see a place near the city.

One of the most famous places in Colorado Springs is the Garden of the Gods .

This is a public park with many pretty things to see. Going here during a road trip in Colorado is great.

There are red rock formations that have all kinds of different shapes. This is very unique to see. Besides that, there are a lot of trees.

What's great is that you can visit the park for free. You can enter the park from 5AM to 10PM. This makes it very convenient to go here during your 7 days in Colorado.

Because it is so beautiful you should definitely see it when you are one week in Colorado Springs.

From the city center of Colorado Springs, you can drive here in less than 15 minutes.

See Pikes Peak

Another beautiful place at Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak . This is another wonderful place with lots of nature.

It is a very tall summit of the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. This makes it a very interesting place to see!

Besides that, there is a lot of nature that surrounds the mountain summit. This makes it a great place to spend some time at.

You could spend many hours at Pikes Peak, but that's not doable if you are spending one week in Colorado. There's so much more to see during this week!

That's why I recommend driving here and going for a short hike only!

Staying in Colorado Springs

There are many places where you can stay in Colorado Springs. That's because there are lots of great hotels and apartments in the city.

Moreover, the best place to stay in the city of Colorado Springs is definitely downtown.

This is near many of the sights of Colorado Springs. And also, the nearby stores and restaurants make it a much more comfortable place.

Day 2: Denver, a Great City to See During Your One Week in Colorado

Denver is the second city you are visiting during the 7 days in Colorado.

It's the capital city of the state of Colorado and it is also the largest city.

There are many activities in this busy city, so that's why I recommend spending about 2 days in Denver! That way you can see all the highlights this city has to offer!

Drive from Colorado Springs to Denver

Driving from Colorado Springs to Denver is very doable!

The distance between these two cities is about 70 miles (or 113 kilometers). The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Along the way, there is some beautiful nature to see, which is great!

I recommend leaving Colorado Spring early to make most of your time in Denver. There are lots of things to do in the city, so arriving early ensures you can have the best experience!

Walk Through City Park

When you are in Denver, I recommend going first to City Park.

City Park is a public park that you can find close to Downtown Denver.

It is a beautiful place with lots of nature. Furthermore, there are lakes that make walking around in the park even better!

What's great is that you can see the skyline of the city of Denver from here. It is amazing that you can see both nature and the city from here!

Because this is the largest park in Denver you'll have a great park experience here.

After spending some time in the park, it is time to go to Downtown Denver. That's also a must-see when you're one week in Colorado.

You can walk there from here, as it's only about one mile east of Downtown.

Explore Downtown Denver

Downtown Denver is where you find most of the activity in the city. For that reason, it's great to go here when you're 7 days in Colorado!

You'll find here amazing historic buildings that are lovely to see.

Furthermore, there are lots of streets with stores, restaurants, bars, museums and more.

Walking around through this part of the city is a great way to get to know the city. You can see here local shops and local people, which is great to experience.

Furthermore, there are great squares that are a must-visit when you are one week in Colorado.

One of these squares is Larimer Square. This is a historic square that played a large role in the history of Denver. It's where the city of Denver began and one of the oldest places in the city. You find here all kinds of historic houses and a great atmosphere.

See art at the Denver Art Museum

After strolling through the city center of Denver, it's time to see some of the city's art.

A great place to do this is at the Denver Art Museum . This is the largest museum in the state and the surroundings. It's the best place to see art if you're 7 days in Colorado.

You find here more than 70,000 objects from all around the world. Furthermore, the objects come from each period of time. So there is a lot to see at this museum!

One of the best collections of the museum is the Asian art collection. Here you find lots of objects from India, Japan, China, and more Asian countries.

Another great part of the museum is the one that focuses on modern and contemporary art. You find here objects from many famous artists of the genre. For example, there are artworks made by Picasso, Matisse, and more

What I also like about the museum is the architecture of the building itself. It has a very unique shape that is great to see!

See a performance at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts

A great way to end your day in Denver is with a performance!

One of the best places in the city for that is the Denver Center for the Performing Arts .

There are here several theaters. Each of these theaters has regular performances with live theater! It's very fun to attend one of the performances.

Staying in Denver

There are lots of areas in the city of Denver that are great to stay at.

It doesn't matter which area you choose, as it is easy to reach the sights of the city from anywhere.

But if you want to have the best experience, the city center is the best option. There, you find many restaurants and sights.

Day 3: Denver

See the daniels and fisher tower.

When you are in Denver you should definitely go to the Daniels & Fisher Tower. This is one of the best landmarks in the city of Denver. It's one of the best landmarks to see during your 7 days in Colorado.

The tower is a replica of The Campanile in the city of Venice, Italy. The original tower in Venice is lovely to see, but this tower is great as well! That's because it looks a lot like it!

The tower features clocks on all four of its sides. Furthermore, there is a large bell at the top of the tower.

What's great is that you can inside the tower as well. There is an observation deck.

From there you have a beautiful view of the city of Denver! You can go there when you are doing a guided tour of the tower.

You should definitely see the building and go inside during your one week in Colorado!

Walk through the Denver Botanic Gardens

One of the most beautiful places in the city of Denver is the Denver Botanic Gardens .

This is a great public park with a large variety of nature.

This makes it a great place to go to and roam around!

At the gardens, you can find the largest US collection of plants that grow in cold temperatures. This is very interesting to see.

Besides that, there is a Japanese Garden. This is a great garden, where you can see a garden with Japanese garden architecture. There is a pond and there a lot of plants from Japan. This is a very pretty sight to see!

Shop at Denver Pavilions

You cannot leave the city of Denver without shopping! This is a great activity for your one week in Denver if you like shopping!

Denver Pavilions is definitely the best place for this. You find this shopping mall in Downtown Denver. It is on the 16th Street Mall.

There are lots of shops here, such that you can shop a lot when you are here! It's easy to spend hours shopping here.

Furthermore, there are many restaurants and other entertainment venues at Denver Pavilions! This makes your experience even greater!

For example, you find here the movie theater United Artists Theatre.

Go to a performance at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre

The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the best places to visit during your one week in Colorado.

It is an amphitheater that you can find to the west of Denver. It is an outdoor theater that looks very unique!

That's because the theater is part of a rock structure. Because of this, you can see a lot of red rocks that surround the theater.

There are a lot of events at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, so there is likely an event when you are 7 days in Colorado. Attending one of the events is an amazing experience.

Drive to Boulder

After seeing a performance at Red Rocks Amphitheatre it is time to go to the next place of your 7 days in Colorado.

The place where you are going next if your use this itinerary is Boulder. You can find Boulder to the north of Denver and you are already close if you are at the amphitheater.

Driving to Boulder from Red Rocks Amphitheatre takes about 45 minutes. Furthermore, the distance is about 30 miles (or 48 kilometers).

When going to Boulder at the end of your day in Denver allows you to have a lot of time the next day!

Day 4: Boulder

Boulder is a lovely university city with a great city center and beautiful nature nearby.

On this fourth day, you can relax a lot, which I recommend after your busy days in Denver!

Hike at the Flatirons

Let's start by going to one of the most famous places in Boulder: the Flatirons.

The Flatirons are rock formations that you can find close to the city. These rock formations look amazing and visiting them is one of the best things you can do in Boulder.

From Boulder, it takes about 10 minutes to drive to the Flatirons.

A great way to get the best experience at these rock formations is by going for a hike. There are lots of hiking trails near it!

One of the best of these is the Flatirons Vista Trail. This is a loop trail with a length of 3.3 miles (or 5.3 kilometers). Along the way of this hike, you can get a lot of beautiful views of the Flatirons.

See Downtown Boulder

Even though Boulder is a small city, there is a very charming city center. It's lovely to see the city center during your 7 days in Colorado.

Exploring Downtown Boulder is a great thing to do on this fourth day of your one week in Colorado!

Here, in the city center, you find a lot of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

The best street in Downtown Boulder is Pearl Street. Here you find most of the activity of the city and most of the shops. This makes it the perfect place in Boulder for shopping.

Staying in Boulder

When you are staying in Boulder, I recommend staying in Downtown Boulder. That's because here you find most of the stores and restaurants in the city.

Drive from Boulder to Fort Collins

It's the end of your day in Boulder. Now it's time to go to the next place on this itinerary!

From Boulder, it is easy to get to Fort Collins.

The whole journey takes a bit more than 1 hour. Moreover, the total distance is about 45 miles (or 72 kilometers).

Day 5: Fort Collins, A Must-See If You’re 7 Days in Colorado

Fort Collins is another great city in the state of Colorado that you should definitely visit!

There are some very nice places in the city center. But there is even more to discover if you go to a place next to the city!

See Downtown Fort Collins

The first thing to do in Fort Collins is to explore the city center.

Downtown Fort Collins is an area of the city where you find a lot of historic buildings from when the city started. The architecture of these buildings is great to see and makes roaming around here a fun activity.

One of the best places to visit when you are in Downtown Colorado is Old Town Square.

Besides that, there are a lot of things to do and see in this part of the city. There are many shops and restaurants, which is very convenient.

Furthermore, it is the best place to experience local life in the city!

Roam the Colorado State University Campus

Colorado State University is a great university with thousands of students. Besides that, it's also a great sight for your 7 days in Colorado. You can find this university in the city of Fort Collins.

Exploring the campus of Colorado State University is a great experience.

The campus buildings are very interesting to see.

Also, you find the Oval in the middle of the campus of the university. This is a large green area with lots of large trees that is lovely for a relaxing walk.

Visit the Center for Fine Art Photography

The Center for Fine Art Photography in Fort Collins is a great place to visit as well. When you come back from the campus of Colorado State University, you should go here!

You find here art galleries that are great to see. These galleries feature photography from lots of good photographers.

What's great about this place as well is that there are many workshops. During these, you can learn more about photography and it is suitable for everyone.

Go to the Horsetooth Reservoir

Horsetooth Reservoir is one of the most beautiful places in the state. So you should go here when you are one week in Colorado.

Horsetooth Reservoir is very close to Fort Collins. You can reach it within minutes.

The reservoir is an artificial lake. The people made it around the year 1933 as a source of water. That was because there was a drought.

Nowadays, this is a lovely place to visit. It is great for hiking, picnicking, swimming, and more outdoor activities.

Staying in Fort Collins

When you are in Fort Collins, I recommend staying in the historic city center.

The atmosphere here is amazing, and it is very convenient because of all the shops and stores.

Day 6: Rocky Mountains National Park, Beautiful Nature to See During Your 7 Days in Colorado

When you are in one of the mountain states, you cannot miss out on seeing the Rocky Mountains.

That's why I recommend going to the Rocky Mountain National Park during your one week in Colorado. Here you can see the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.

There is a lot of beautiful nature that you can explore in full during 2 days!

When you are 2 days at Rocky Mountain National Park, you'll have a wonderful time for sure!

Go Hiking at the park

There are lots of different hikes in Rocky Mountains National Park.

Each of these hiking trails leads you to another aspect of the park and all places here are very beautiful.

One of the best hikes at Rocky Mountains National Park is the Sprague Lake Loop.

During this hike, you walk around the stunning Sprague Lake. Along the trail, you have wonderful views of the lake and its surrounding.

What's great about this hiking trail is that you'll end up back where you started, as it is a loop.

Another great hike is the hike to Chasm Falls. Chasm Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is lovely to see. And the hiking trail to it is amazing as well.

Staying near Rocky Mountains National Park

There are no places inside Rocky Mountains National Park where you can stay.

But there are places near it that are very convenient for exploring the park.

One of these is Estes Park. It lies to the east of the national park and is a very convenient place.

Day 7: Rocky Mountains National Park

See the park with a ranger.

During certain times of the year, you can explore the park together with a ranger.

This is a great experience as you'll learn a lot of new things while doing it. Not only will you see lots of gorgeous places, but you'll also get to know nature and wildlife better! So it's definitely a very interesting activity.

Drive Along the Trail Ridge Road

The Trail Ridge Road is an incredible scenic ride. Driving here during your road trip of 7 days in Colorado is amazing.

During this ride, you'll cross the park from one side to the other.

Along the way, you can see very high peaks, amazing landscapes, and wonderful views. You can stop at a lot of places and have a good look at all there is.

What's also great about the road is that it is one of the highest roads in the United States. This makes driving here even more unique!

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7 Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

We recently spent one week in Colorado enjoying the highlights of Denver, Loveland and Fort Collins.  While it wasn’t enough time to do everything, it certainly gave us a good taste of what the Centennial State has to offer. So to help you plan a trip to Colorado , I’ve put together this guide, where I share all I learned from our own 7 day Colorado itinerary .

This guide is a great place to start if you’re planning a family road trip in Colorado .  This 7 day Colorado road trip itinerary covers Denver, Loveland and Fort Collins, including the best attractions, tips on where to eat and the best order to do it all.  This Colorado trip planner even provides suggestions on where to stay. 

If you can add a few extra days to your itinerary for Colorado – I’d highly recommend it.  However, if you can’t on this road trip to Colorado , no doubt you’ll soon be planning your return trip as it really is a fabulous place for a family getaway.  

Talk to other families about their tips on visiting Colorado and join our Thrifty Family Travel Facebook Group or get inspired with our Thrifty Family Travel Instagram Feed .

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.

Page Contents

• 1 Colorado Trip Planner
• 2.1.1 Breakfast: Denver Biscuit Co
• 2.1.2 Denver Musuem of Nature and Science
• 2.1.3 Lunch: Denver Milk Market at the Dairy Block
• 2.1.4 Downtown Aquarium
• 2.1.5 Meow Wolf Convergence Station
• 2.1.6 Dinner: 16th Street Mall
• 2.1.7 Stay: The Curtis Hotel
• 2.2.1 Breakfast: Snooze an AM Eatery at Union Station
• 2.2.2 Elitch Gardens
• 2.2.3 Dinner: Larmier Square
• 2.2.4 Big Blue Bear
• 2.2.5 Stay: The Curtis
• 2.3.1 Rocky Mountain National Park
• 2.3.2 Stay: TownPlace Suites Loveland
• 2.3.3 Dinner: The Foundry
• 2.4.1 Breakfast: TownPlace Suites Loveland
• 2.4.2 Chapungu Sculpture Park
• 2.4.3 Loveland Visitor Center
• 2.4.4 Loveland Musuem
• 2.4.5 Lunch: Sweet Heart Winery
• 2.4.6 Sylvan Dale Ranch 
• 2.4.7 Devil’s Backbone Open Space
• 2.4.8 Street Art
• 2.4.9 Dinner: Slice n’ Roll Pizza
• 2.4.10 Stay: TownPlace Suites Loveland
• 2.5.1 Breakfast: TownPlace Suites Loveland
• 2.5.2 Lake Loveland Love Lock
• 2.5.3 Benson Sculpture Garden
• 2.5.4 Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and Horsetooth Reservoir
• 2.5.5 Stay: Marriott Hotel
• 2.5.6 1879 Avery House
• 2.5.7 Old Town
• 2.5.8 Ghost Tour
• 2.6.1 Breakfast
• 2.6.2 Gardens on Spring Creek
• 2.6.3 Farm at Lee Martinez Park
• 2.6.4 Fort Collins Musuem of Discovery
• 2.6.5 Fort Fun
• 2.6.6 Dinner
• 2.6.7 Stay: Marriott Hotel
• 2.7.1 Bee Family Centennial Farm Musuem
• 2.7.2 Time to Head Home
• 3 7 Day Colorado Itinerary: Final Words

Colorado Trip Planner

The 7 day Colorado road trip below is really for those wanting to see the highlights of Denver, Loveland and Fort Collins and covers the most popular things to do and see in each city.

When planning a trip to Colorado , every family is different and will want to see different things .   So I’d recommend in addition to reading this Colorado itinerary 7 days guide you also check out our full guides on Denver , Loveland and Fort Collins.   This will help you plan the very best Colorado road trip itinerary for your family.

For this 7-day Colorado road trip , we’re going to assume you arrive in town mid to late afternoon the day before the start of this itinerary.  If that’s not the case for you, just adjust the Colorado 7 day itinerary to suit your own schedule.

The other thing this Colorado road trip planner assumes is that you’re visiting during the warmer months. So if you’re looking for a Winter Colorado 1 week itinerary guide, this is not the guide for you.

If you’re driving into town, great – head straight to your hotel to check in.  If you’re flying to the airport, I recommend you pick up a hire car at the airport.  

I recommend for your few days in Denver; you stay at The Curtis Hotel.   This is the hotel we stayed at during our 7 days in Colorado while in Denver and had a great stay.

The Curtis Hotel is in a fairly central location downtown, just a block from 16th Street Mall, so you’ll have easy access to the free MallRide bus and lots of shops and places to eat.  

Day 1 – Denver

Breakfast: denver biscuit co.

Start your 1 week Colorado itinerary and first day in Denver by filling up the kid’s bellies with some delicious biscuit sandwiches from the Denver Biscuit Co.  These guys make delicious buttermilk biscuits from scratch every morning and stack them with a range of fresh ingredients to cater to even the fussiest little eater.  

I recommend aiming to have breakfast around 8 am, so you’re at the next stop by 9 am.  

Location : 3237 E. Colfax Ave, Denver

Open : Weekdays 8 am to 2 pm | Weekends 8 am to 3 pm

Prices : Meals range from $13 to $15 – check out their menu here .

Denver Musuem of Nature and Science

Now your bellies are full; it’s time for your first Denver attraction.  It’s just a short 3 minute drive from the Denver Biscuit Co to the Denver Musuem of Nature and Science.  There is plenty of free parking on site.

There is so much to do at the Musuem that you could pretty much spend the entire day here.  However, on this Colorado vacation itinerary , you’ve only got time for about 4 hours.

The museum is massive, spread out across three levels.  Various sections cover topics such as space, health, wildlife from around the world, dinosaurs, gems and minerals, Native American culture and more.  

The Mazes & Brain Games section is fun for the kids and parents alike, where you can work together to get through large mazes, solve 3D puzzles and play games.

While some sections are more interactive than others, I love that throughout the museum; there are blocks and toys scattered around the place to keep younger children entertained.  Plus, the little ones will love the Exploration Studio, where they can watch themselves interacting with dinosaurs and other larger than life creatures on screen.  And there’s the Discovery Zone, where they can play in sand pits, experiment with water and climb colossal insects.

Other attractions at the museum which have an additional charge are the planetarium, IMAX 3D theatre and any special exhibition which may be on – during our visit, there was an Egyptian mummies exhibit.  These might be worth considering for families with older kids.

Plan to leave the museum around 1 pm. 

Location : 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver

Opening Hours :9 am to 5 pm daily

Price : Museum: $19.95 per adult | $14.95 per child  Planetarium: $5 per adult | $4 per child  IMAX: $7 per adult | $6 per child  Special Exhibits: $9.50 per adult | $7 per child

Lunch: Denver Milk Market at the Dairy Block

Hopefully, you’ve all now hungry and ready for lunch.  If that’s the case, drive to the Denver Milk Market – you’ll find plenty of street parking nearby.

Previously home to the Windsor Dairy, the Dairy Block is a historic location that has been transformed into a vibrant area with shops, restaurants and bars, with the highlight being the Milk Market.

The Milk Market is an indoor eatery with 16 food and drink establishments in one location.  With so many options available, this makes it the ideal place to dine when every family member wants something different to eat.

Location : 1800 Wazee Street, Denver

Open : 7 am to 2 am daily

Prices : Meals range in price, so for more information, it’s best to check out their menu here .

Downtown Aquarium

Image credit Visit Denver

Depending on your children’s age, you might want to skip this attraction and move on to the next one.  However, for children happy to continue sightseeing into the early evening, it’s worth adding the Downtown Aquarium to your day.

The Downtown Aquarium features over a million gallons of underwater exhibits of species from across the world. Here you’ll see aquatic life from the Rainforest, the Barrier Reefs, Shipwrecks, Beaches and loads more.

However, there are more than just underwater exhibits at the aquarium; there is also an impressive array of birds, reptiles, amphibians and swimming Sumatran tigers!

There are also paid interactive experiences, including snorkelling and diving with fish and sharks, becoming a marine biologist or zoologist for a day, and one-on-one animal encounters where you can meet the local sloth, snake, tortoise or porcupine.

Location : 700 Water St, Denver

Opening Hours : Sunday to Thursday 10 am to 9 pm | Friday and Saturday 10 am to 9.30 pm

Price : $24.99 per adult | $18.99 per child (3-11) | Under 3s are free

Meow Wolf Convergence Station

Just a short drive from the Downtown Aquarium is Meow Wolf Convergence Station. This is one of the newest family attractions in Denver and is an absolute must do no matter how old your kids are.

Meow Wolf is completely indoors, sprawled across four levels and features more than 70 one of a kind art installations.  The basic concept is that the four parallel worlds of C Street, Eemia, Ossuary and Numina have somehow collided and now you can freely move from one world to the other.

This is not the kind of attraction where you start at one end and sequentially move through until you reach the end.  Rather you’re taken to the top level via a lift and then are free to go about the four levels as you please.  Open secret doors, climb staircases, crawl through tight spaces – follow wherever your interest takes you – or more likely, wherever your kids go.

The art installation in this place is absolutely mind blowing and mind boggling all at the same time.  The imagination and thought that went into dream this place up is phenomenal, let alone the attention to detail in the execution.

Little kids will love it as if it was one huge playground over four levels, while tweens and teenagers will love trying to make sense of what they see and using their imagination to explain the stories between the alien worlds colliding.

We spent around 2 hours here and Myla declared it the best place she’s ever visited – so yeah, she absolutely loved it.  

Location :  1338 1st St, Denver

Opening Hours : Sunday to Thursday 10 am to 10 pm | Friday and Saturday 10 am to 12 am

Price : $52.50 ages 14+ | $44 4-13

Dinner: 16th Street Mall

Image credit Kari Geha and Downtown Denver Partnership

By now, you and the kids are probably starving, so head back to your hotel, freshen up and then walk down to 16th Street Mall for something to eat.

16th Street Mall is a mile-long pedestrian mall with a wide variety of places to eat, including 42 outdoor cafes.  Dining options include casual cafes, bakeries and delis, and family-friendly restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe and Earls Kitchen + Bar.

In addition to dining options, the Mall has numerous shops, attractions such as the Selfie Musuem, movie theatres and the free MallRide to get you around and after dark; there are even horse drawn carriage rides where you can sit back and relax while enjoying the beautiful lights that twinkle away in the trees that line the mall.

Stay: The Curtis Hotel

The whole family is probably beat now after a busy day in Denver, so head back to your hotel for a good night’s sleep.

Day 2 – Denver

Breakfast: snooze an am eatery at union station.

Start your morning by filling up with a hearty breakfast at Snooze an AM Eatery at Union Station.  It’s a 15 minute walk from The Curtis Hotel or a short drive away – there is street parking in the area.

The Snooze menu is an all day breakfast menu.  While you’ve got your standard bacon and egg type meals, there are also tasty breakfast burritos, tacos, tostadas, pancakes and vegan and vegetarian options. They also have a great kids’ menu, with all meals being $6.50, including a drink.

This place is super popular, so it’s worth calling ahead the day before to make a booking.   

Location : Union Station, 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver

Open : Weekdays 7 am to 2 pm | Weekends 6.30 am to 2.30 pm

Prices : Meals range from $10 to $16 – check out their menu here .

Elitch Gardens

Today you’re taking the kids to Elitch Gardens – are great theme park a short drive from the center of town.  Elitch Gardens is perfect during the warmer months because it’s a theme park and water park in one – so there’s plenty to do here for the day.

In the theme park section, you’ve got all kinds of rides for all age groups.  There’s the Mind Eraser, the Sidewinder, Half Pipe and the Boomerang for the older thrill seekers.  Family rides include Hollywood & Vine, the 100 feet tall ferris wheel and water rides like Disaster Canyon and Shipwreck Falls. While the littles will enjoy the carousel, tea cups, train rides and lots more.

Also scattered throughout the park are carnival-style games and plenty of places to get food and drinks.

As the day warms up, head to the 10 acre water park to escape the heat.  Here you’ve got a huge wave pool, lazy river and a bunch of other water slides suitable for all ages, from tame aqua tube slides to the 65 foot tall Mega Wedgie.  There is even an area for the younger kids to play, including a pirate ship with six mini slides, sprayers and a tipping bucket.

During the Summer, Elitch Gardens is open late, so if the kids are still going, you can stay here well after dinner time.

Location : 2000 Elitch Cir, Denver

Opening Hours : Hours change depending on the season

Price : Standard tickets are $99 per person, but they regularly have special deals – we paid only $30 each on the day we went – so do your research.

Dinner: Larmier Square

If you do manage to drag the kids away from Elitch Gardens before dinner time, head back to the hotel for a shower before walking down to Larmier Square for dinner.  Larimer Square is just a 5 minute walk from the hotel and the perfect place for a family meal.

Larmier Square is full of beautiful heritage architecture, with modern shops housed in Victorian buildings.  It is a lovely place to walk through, especially at night with lights strung overhead.

While the area is decked out with many high end restaurants, places to eat that are great for families include Bubu for quick and easy Asian fare or Smoke House for slow cooked BBQ.

Big Blue Bear

On your way back from dinner, I recommend walking a few blocks further instead of going straight to your hotel to see the Big Blue Bear.  Located just outside the Colorado Convention Center, the Big Blue Bear is a giant 40 foot sculpture peering into the window and is a great photo opportunity for the kids.

Location : 750-776 14th St, Denver

Opening Hours : Always

Price : Free

Stay: The Curtis

From the Big Blue Bear, it’s just a short 5 minute walk back to the Curtis Hotel.  Get your bags packed because on this 1 week itinerary Colorado offers, tomorrow you’ll need to leave Denver bright and early for the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Day 3 – Loveland

Rocky mountain national park.

Get on the road as early as you can today because you’ve got some driving ahead of you.  Depending on the time you leave, you can grab some breakfast at Starbucks near the Curtis Hotel otherwise stop for something along the way.

Your first stop will be the Kawuneeche Visitor Center, a 2 hour drive from Denver.  Enjoy the stunning landscape along the way and perhaps do one of the short walks in the area.  Be sure to stroll down Grand Avenue, a charming little village dating back to 1881 and a good spot to grab some lunch.

Next, you’ll drive to the Alpine Visitor Center, which is a 40 minute drive away.  This drive takes you along the scenic Trail Ridge Road, which has some of the park’s best views.  Be sure to factor in plenty of stops to admire the views.

At the Alpine Visitor Center, you can stop for a coffee, enjoy the views of the Continental Divide or take a short stroll on one of the tundra trails.  There is also a small museum here.

Continue your drive along Trail Ridge Road to Fall River Visitor Center, which is a further 40 minute drive.  The Fall River Visitor Center has a small museum with a few interactive exhibits and a restaurant if you’re hungry.

15 minutes away from the Fall River Visitor Center is the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center.  Here you can watch free films about the Rocky Mountain National Park.

It’s an 8 minute drive back into the town of Estes Park.  Some things to do in Estes Park include taking a ride on the aerial tramway, visiting the Open Air Adventure Park, visiting the Estes Park Musuem or browsing the shops along Elkhorn Avenue and Moraine Avenue.

Once you’ve had enough, it’s time to head to Loveland, which is about a 45 minute drive from Estate Park.

Please note you will require a park pass and timed entry permit reservation to enter the Rocky Mountain National Park.  Be sure to arrange these well in advance.  More information can be found here .

Stay: TownPlace Suites Loveland

In Loveland, we recommend staying at TownPlace Suites .  Its located in the center of the Downtown District, making it convenient for dining out and sightseeing.  We stayed here during our 1 week Colorado road trip and really enjoyed it.

Dinner: The Foundry

After you’ve checked into your hotel and had time to freshen up – head out to the Foundry, which is directly across the road from your hotel.  Here you’ll find a range of place great places to eat.

Day 4 – Loveland

Breakfast: townplace suites loveland.

You’ll be pleased to know that your hotel provides a hearty breakfast for the entire family each morning. So just head downstairs and near the foyer, you’ll find all you need for a great start to the day.

Chapungu Sculpture Park

After breakfast, continue your one week Colorado itinerary by driving to Chapungu Sculpture Park, about 10 minutes from your hotel.  I’d recommend aiming to arrive here around 9 am.

At Chapungo Sculpture Park, 82 stone sculptures from Zimbabwe are sprawled across 26 acres of natural and landscaped parklands.  These permanent outdoor exhibits tell Zimbabwean stories about family, children, elders and village life.  These abstract sculptures are perfect for getting the kids to engage their imagination.

As well as the sculptures on display, the stroller and wheelchair friendly path lead you through a beautiful natural landscape, across bridges and along the canal.

Allow around 30 to 45 minutes to visit the Chapungu Sculpture Garden.

Location : East of the Promenade Shops at Centerra, Loveland

Opening Hours : Daily from 6 am until 10 pm

Loveland Visitor Center

Next, it’s just a 5 minute drove to the Loveland Visitor Center.  While here, pick up a few brochures for information on the attractions in Loveland; but the main reason for visiting is to see the town’s huge love lock sculpture.

The Loveland Visitor Center Love Lock is just one of two love lock sculptures in Loveland.  This one is a 24,000 pound, 10 foot tall, 30 foot wide steel sculpture – the largest of its kind in the entire USA.  So either bring your own padlock, or you can buy one for each of the kids at the center, which they can engrave for free and then attach to the giant “Love” love lock sculpture.  

The Loveland Visitor Center is at McWhinney Hahn Sculpture Park.  So as well as locking a padlock on the giant sculpture, it’s a nice spot to wander around the pond, watch the cheeky ducks and admire the various bronze sculptures. 

Allow around 20 minutes to visit the Loveland Visitor Centre, longer if you wish to also stroll around the pond.

Location : 5400 Stone Creek Circle, Loveland

Opening Hours : Monday to Saturday 9.30 am to 4.30 pm | Sunday 11 am to 3 pm

Loveland Musuem

On your Colorado one week itinerary , it’s now time to head back downtown to visit the Loveland Musuem.  It’s about a 10 minute drive into town.

The Loveland Musuem is a small but interesting museum perfect for families with young children.  The museum covers the history of Loveland, including the town’s largest industries over the years, such as sugar.

There are some great little exhibits where the kids can visit an old general store, a mock-up of Loveland’s first jail cell, and Loveland’s first hotel.

Allow around 45 minutes to an hour to visit the Loveland Musuem.

Location : 503 N Lincoln Ave, Loveland

Opening Hours : Daily from 10 am, except from 12 pm Sundays and closed Mondays

Price : Free – although the art exhibit is $7 per person for those 13+

Lunch: Sweet Heart Winery

If you love your wine as I do, then some wine tasting at Sweet Heart Winery is a must!  Its a just a 10 minute drive from the Loveland Musuem and the perfect place for lunch.

Sweet Heart Winery is a fabulous place for the entire family, with a beautiful outdoor area, with wide open spaces for the kids to play.  Situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains, the 8 acre grounds around the Sweet Heart Winery are beautiful.  Picnic tables are spread across the lawn and chairs are strategically placed along the river for privacy.

Of course, the main reason for your visit is wine tasting, so you’ll be pleased to know various tasting options are available.  Order a single glass of your favourite drop, enjoy a flight of wine or even a bottle.

For lunch, you can share charcuterie boards or pizza with the family.

Location : 5500 W US-34, Loveland

Opening Hours: Daily from 12 pm, closing at 8 pm Sunday to Thursday, 9 pm Fridays and 4 pm Sundays

Price : Glass of wine starts at $10 and flights start at $12

Sylvan Dale Ranch 

Just a 10 minute drive from Sweet Heart Winery is Sylvan Dale Ranch, where the kids can go horse riding.   The ranch offers kids of all ages and all levels of experience horse riding opportunities.  

For the younger kids (3-6), there are 15 minute horse rides available, where your little one will be seated on the horse as it’s led around by a guide.

Then for ages 7+, horse rides are available from one hour to two hours, and you can choose from rides across gentle terrain to more challenging rides up to the ridge top, which offers fantastic views across the countryside and out to the Rocky Mountains.

There are longer 3 hour rides for those 13+ who consider themselves intermediate riders.  

I recommend you book your horse riding prior to commencing your Colorado week trip and book a late afternoon ride. 

Location : 2939 N Co Rd 31D, Loveland

Opening Hours : Horse riding tours vary throughout the year – check here for tour availability

Price : From $55 per person

Devil’s Backbone Open Space

After your horse ride, head back towards town, stopping at Devils Backbone Open Space – 10 minute drive from Svulan Dale Ranch.

While Devil’s Backbone Open Space offers a range of hiking and biking trails, for your 7 days in Colorado itinerary , you’ll only have time for the short Keyhole hike via the Wild Loop – which takes around 1 hour return.  You’ll get fabulous views of the Devil Backbone and great views across Loveland and the Rocky Mountains.  

It’s an easy walk and most kids will have no problems doing it.

Location : Eisenhower Blvd, Loveland

Opening Hours : Sunrise to Sunset

Price : $10 per vehicle

From Devil’s Backbone, it’s a 10 minute drive back to your hotel.  I recommend everyone freshens up before heading out for dinner.

On your way to dinner, I suggest you detour down 4th and 5th Streets between Jefferson and Railroad Avenues to check out some of the town’s street murals and sculptures.  Also see if any of the kids can spot the 36 individually painted hearts scattered across the city.   

Once you’ve had enough of admiring the street art – walk over to the Slice n’Roll Pizza – about a 5 minute walk away – depending on where you end up on your street art walk.

Location : Along 4th and 5th Streets from Jefferson to Railroad Avenues

Opening Hours: Always

Dinner: Slice n’ Roll Pizza

Slice n’Roll Pizza is a fabulous place for dinner – you can eat in or grab some takeaway to have back at your hotel room.  They offer pizza slices – more than enough for a child – even most adults, or you can get personal size pizzas and larger family size pizzas.

We ate here on our one week trip to Colorado and can highly recommend it!

Location : 141 E 4th St, Loveland

Open : Monday to Thursday 11 am to 10 pm | Friday to Saturday 11 am to 12 am | Sunday 10 am to 10 pm

Prices : Slices start at $4 and pizzas start from $10 – check out their menu here .

From the Slice n’ Roll Pizza, it’s just a short 5 minute walk back to the TownPlace Suites.  

Day 5 – Fort Collins

Be sure to enjoy another hearty breakfast at your hotel before checking out and finishing your sightseeing in Loveland.  It’s now time on this 7 day trip to Colorado to drive to Fort Collins.

Lake Loveland Love Lock

You’ve seen one love lock on Loveland, but now it’s time to see the town’s second one at Lake Loveland.  This love lock is a 12 foot tall and 14 foot wide steel heart sculpture.

As well as locking a padlock to the back of the sculpture, this is a great spot for a family photo as the location is gorgeous with the lake and views of the Rocky Mountains in the background.

Location : Southeast corner of Lake Loveland

Benson Sculpture Garden

Just a 5 minute drive from Lake Loveland is the Benson Sculpture Garden.  This is a 10 acre park with 172 permanent sculptures (valued at a huge $5 million!).  

While all the sculptures are lovely, the ones in the children’s garden will undoubtedly capture the kid’s interest the most.  They can join the ring of children playing ring a ring o’ rosie, pose on top of a crocodile, pat the dog and take a few selfies with some of the more unusual sculptures, such as the banana on skates.  The experiences are only limited by their imagination.

The gardens are the perfect place for some quiet family time, with wheelchair and stroller friendly paths, restrooms, picnic areas and a pond for watching ducks and other wildlife.

Allow around 30 to 45 minutes to visit the Bensons Sculpture Garden.

Location : 1125 W 29th Street, Loveland

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and Horsetooth Reservoir

Before heading into the town of Fort Collins, head to the stunning Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and Horsetooth Reservoir, which is a 20 minute drive from Loveland.  This place is gorgeous and perfect for spending a few hours with the kids.

Stop by the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space first and enjoy one of the short walks there.  Afterwards, head to the designated beach area at the Reservoir, where the kids can swim.  If you’re keen, you can hire a kayak or stand up paddle board which could be a bit of fun.

It’s probably worth stopping somewhere on the way for some snacks or lunch so you can have a bit of a picnic there.  Also, ensure you have plenty of water with you.

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

Location : 6550 W County Rd 38 E, Fort Collins

Price : $9 per vehicle

Horsetooth Reservoir

Location : 4200 W County Road 38 E, Fort Collins

Stay: Marriott Hotel

From Horsetooth Reservoir, it’s just a 15 minute drive to the Marriott Hotel , our recommended place to stay while in Fort Collins.  This is where we stayed while in Fort Collins on our one week Colorado road trip and had a very comfortable stay.

If for your Colorado one week road trip you’d prefer to stay in the centre of Downtown, we recommend the Elizabeth Hotel – however, it’s very pricey and the fact is you won’t spend all that much time in the center of Downtown anyway, which is why we recommend the Marriott instead.

The Marriott Hotel is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and many department stores, so perfect for families wanting easy access to food and shops.  Plus, you’re only a 10 minute drive downtown.

The hotel also has a great pool, restaurants on site and plenty of free parking.

1879 Avery House

Provided it’s a weekend, after you’ve had time to check in and freshen up at your hotel, head Downtown and take a tour of Avery House.  Avery House is about a 10 minute drive from the hotel.

Avery House was built in 1879 by the Avery family and gives you an insight into what life was like in town during the 19th century.  Guided tours go for 1 hour and take you through the home, which is furnished with items typical of the era.  Throughout the tour, your guide tells stories about the Avery family and what it was like to live in Fort Collins during the 19th century.

Location : 328 West Mountain Avenue, Fort Collins

Opening Hours: Saturdays 11 am to 2 pm | Sundays 1 pm to 4 pm

Price : $6 per adult | $4 per child

After your tour of Avery House, it’s just a few minutes drive to Old Town (the name the locals give to the Downtown area), where you’ll spend the remainder of the day.

Old Town is considered one of the prettiest downtown areas in the country; the wide walkways and charming street facades of Old Town Fort Collins were even the inspiration for Disneyland’s Main Street.

The area is jam packed with cafes, restaurants and bistros to grab a bite and lovely boutiques for browsing.  You’ll find colourful street murals and sculptures and even talented buskers on the occasional street corner.

Wander around the streets at your leisure.  If it’s warm and you have little kids, perhaps let them have a splash under the fountain at Old Town Square.  For families with older children, maybe spend an hour or two a Pin Ball Jones playing old school pinball machines and arcade style games.

Old Town is also the perfect place for dinner.  

After dinner, if your kids are game, how about taking a ghost tour?  On these tours, you visit the most haunted places around Old Town and hear some pretty epic stories.

There are a couple of different tour groups available, but one of the more popular ones is the Fort Collins Tours.  The main tour takes you to sites both above and underground and your guide shares stories about local legends, ghostly sightings and strange occurrences.  These tours are for kids 12 and above.

There is the Fort Collins Ghosts and Goodies Tour for families with younger children, which is a little less spooky.  While you’ll still visit haunted sites, you’ll also stop along the way to sample some yummy treats.

Other tour options include history tours, haunted pub tours and alcohol tours.

Location : Tours commence in the Old Town Square by the fountain

Opening Hours : Tours times vary – check here for times.

Price : $22 per person

Day 6 – Fort Collins

Either grab some breakfast at the hotel, or there are plenty of fast food places and cafes within walking distance.

Gardens on Spring Creek

On your way Downtown this morning, stop into the Gardens on Spring Creek to visit the Butterfly Pavilion.  It’s just a 5 to 10 minute drive from the hotel.

This botanic garden is sprawled across 12 acres and has a range of attractions to keep the little ones entertained.  But the real highlight is the tropical butterfly house.  This attraction is home to hundreds of butterflies and tropical plants, where you can wander as the butterflies fly all around – even landing on you if you’re lucky.

Another great spot for kids at the gardens is the Children’s Gardens, where there are plenty of activities for the kids, including an interactive model train.  Depending on what day you visit, you might be there for the Read and Seed Youth program, which includes story time and nature inspired craft activities (bookings are recommended).

The gardens have wheelchair and stroller friendly pathways throughout, and the entire loop of the gardens takes around an hour to complete.  Allow additional time also to see the butterfly house.  A cafe is also on site.

Location :2145 Centre Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado

Opening Hours : Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

Price : $11 per adult | $8 per child (2-17) and under 2s are free

Farm at Lee Martinez Park

After you’ve visited the gardens, head over to the Farm at Lee Martinez Parks, it’s about a 10 minute drive away.

Back in 1920, this was an old dairy farm, and today all your favourite farm animals are still here.  There are chooks, pigs, ponies, horses and more.  These friendly animals will come over for a pat if you’re lucky.

A small museum also shows old farm equipment, tools and machinery.   Then if you happen to stop by on the weekend during April and October, you can enjoy pony rides.

It’s only a small farm, so allow around an hour to visit.

Location : 600 N Sherwood St, Fort Collins

Opening Hours : Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 5 pm | Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm | Closed Monday

Price : $4 per person | $2 per person for a pony ride

Fort Collins Musuem of Discovery

From the farm, it’s just a 3 minute drive to the Fort Collins Musuem of Discovery.  While some museums can be a little on the boring side – the Fort Collins Musuem of Discovery is one of those places your kids won’t want to leave!

While not an overly big museum, with the number of hands on / interactive exhibits here, you’ll want to allow plenty of time to explore.  The museum focuses on culture, history and science, with more than 30,000 items on display.

One of our favourite sections of the museum is the Music and Sound Lab.  Here the kids can play various musical instruments and jam with others.  They can try out so many great instruments, including guitars, drums, keyboards, and xylophones – they can even try their hand at DJ scratching!   

The Exploration Zone is also great fun where the kids can try out mini science experiments involving light, motion and air.  While for toddlers, there is the Tot Spot – which has bite size exhibits especially for them, including water play, a train table, arts and crafts and more.  

In addition to the museum, there is also the OtterBox Digital Dome Theater, Colorado’s only 360° dome theater.  The theater shows a range of educational programs across its 360° gigantic 35 foot dome screen, including programs on space, music, science and more.

You’ll probably be here over lunchtime, so you’ll be pleased to know there is a cafe on site.

Allow about 2 to 3 hours to visit the musuem.

Location : 408 Mason Court, Fort Collins

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm

Price : Musuem: $12.50 per adult | $9.50 per child (3-18) | children under 3 are free | Theater $4 per person

After visiting the museum, take a short drive to Fort Fun.  I guarantee no matter how old your kids are; they will absolutely love it here!  

There is so much to do at Fort Fun, from arcade games, VR rides, laser tag to escape rooms.  Outside there is even more fun to be had with mini golf, bumper boats, a giant slide and even go karts.

You’ll need a card pre loaded with some cash to play the arcade games.  There are games for all ages and levels of experience, so perfect whether you’ve got tiny tots or teenagers.  Don’t forget to cash in all your winning tickets before going home for some prizes.

Outside you’ve got two mini golf courses.  You can putt your way through the early pioneer history of North Colorado or play the fantasy course.  Mini golf starts at $7 per person.

The whole family will love the wind in their hair as they wiz around the go cart track.  If the kids are too little, they don’t need to miss out as they can go as a passenger in a double kart.  Rides start at $9.75.

For the little ones not too keen on speeding around the track – take them on a fun paddle on the bumper boats or even a leisurely paddle on the lake.

Location : 1513 E Mulberry Street, Fort Collins

Opening Hours :  Monday to Thursday 12 pm to 9 pm | Friday 12 pm to 12 am | Saturday 10 am to 12 am | Sunday 10 am to 8 pm

Price : Prices range depending upon attraction

For dinner tonight, depending on how long you stay at Fort Fun, you could grab dinner there as they have a restaurant on site.  Otherwise, you’ll pass plenty of fast food places and restaurants on your way back to the hotel.

Enjoy your last night in Colorado!

Day 7 – Fly Home

Today is the very last day of your 1 week in Colorado itinerary .  Whether you have time for sightseeing really depends on what time your flight home is or when you need to start the drive home.  But if you have time for more attractions, then continue with the suggestion below.

Bee Family Centennial Farm Musuem

From the hotel, it’s a 20 minute drive to the Bee Family Centennial Farm Musuem. The attraction takes you back in time to experience farming conditions in 1894 when the Bee family first started the farm.

As you tour the Bee Family Centennial Farm Musuem, you’ll learn all about the farm’s history and family heritage.  Highlights include the fully furnished historic homesteads and the vintage farm vehicles and equipment. In addition, thousands of items are displayed, including letters, diaries, pictures and more.

There are also plenty of animals to meet and a range of activities, especially for the kids, such as milking a wooden cow, collecting eggs and even grinding corn.

Keep in mind the farm museum is only open Fridays and Saturdays.

Location :4320 East Country Rd 58, Fort Collins

Opening Hours:   May to October – Friday and Saturdays 9 am to 4 pm

Price : Adults $8 | Kids (3-12) $4 | under 3s are free

Time to Head Home

Unfortunately your one week in Colorado itinerary has come to an end and it’s now time to start your drive home or drive to the airport.  From the Bee Family Centennial Farm Musuem, the Denver Airport is just over an hour’s drive away.

7 Day Colorado Itinerary : Final Words

Hopefully, this guide has helped you with some Colorado road trip ideas , so you can determine the best itinerary for your family.

Don’t forget to help you plan the ultimate Colorado road trip we have a range of other guides including:

• Best things to do in Denver with kids
• Best hotels in Denver for families
• Best things to do in Loveland with kids
• Best hotels in Loveland for families
• Best things to do in Fort Collins with kids
• Best hotels in Fort Collins for families

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The Perfect Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

06/23/2023 by Megan MacGregor 12 Comments

Colorado is one of the best states in America for road tripping and camping. A bold statement, I know, but once you see the diversity and beauty I’m sure you’ll agree! 

The Rocky Mountains straddling the middle of the state give way to the vast desert and red rock plateaus in the west. In the south, the landscape turns arid, and small rural towns give it a unique character. Colorado’s diverse scenery just doesn’t stop! 

Home to the largest amount of “fourteeners” (mountains higher than 14,000 feet) in the United States, Colorado is a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. In summer, the state offers camping, mountain biking, and hiking; and in winter it is one of the best places for snowboarding and skiing in the United States. 

Whether you want to make your road trip span a week, ten days, or two full weeks, there’s plenty to see and explore along the way. We’ll start with places to see and explore in seven days, and add stops the logner your trip becomes. One thing is for sure, no matter how long you stay, you’re bound to find some of the most beautiful scenery in the Centennial State. Get yourself a rental car  and be ready for an adventure:

Table of Contents

Colorado 1-week Road Trip Itinerary

If you only have a week in Denver then I recommend sticking close to the city–but fear not, there’s still plenty to see and do. If you’ve never been to Denver then you’ll definitely want to make this awesome city a part of your week stay. From there, you’ll head to the mountain town of Boulder, and then you’re only a short drive from the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Day 1-3: Denver 

Denver is the largest city in Colorado and is a perfect jumping off point for your adventures in the Rockies.

Over the last decade, Denver has grown from a sleepy town into one of the most vibrant cities in the  western USA . Today it boasts world-class breweries ( go on a tour  if you have time), restaurants for all tastes, and plenty of historical landmarks ( Larimer Square, Union Station, and 16th Street Mall are among the most popular ones ).

And if you crave some culture, visit the Denver Art Museum, or the famous Denver Mint – a museum that chronicles the history of gold and silver coin production back in the days of Colorado’s mining boom. Finish your day in the RiNo (River North), a former industrial area that has undergone a transformation and is now one of the coolest parts of the city with street art, bars, restaurants, and cafes. 

Nicknamed “The Mile High City,” Denver sits a mile above sea level and has over 250 days with sunshine per year, so it’s a good idea to bring some  sunscreen . It’s a pedestrian-friendly city, and since you will be walking a lot, the last thing you want is to get a sunburn before your big road trip.

To really explore everything Denver has to offer, I recommend spending at least two to three days in this city. If you’re looking for a more budget friendly lodging experience, check out the 11th Avenue Hostel , an awesome spot to meet locals. If you have a little bit more cash to spare, then Thompson Denver is a great option.

Day 4-7: Rocky Mountain National Park (with a stop in Boulder)

Rocky Mountain National Park  is an unmissable stop on your Colorado Road Trip Itinerary. It’s one of the most scenic national parks in the state and it offers breathtaking scenery at any time of the year. From Denver, head north toward Rocky Mountain National Park and take a pitstop in Boulder, a quaint college town that gives you the hippy vibe of Denver without the big city mentality. Boulder has a grand outdoor culture and a booming tech scene and is just a fun place to walk around. I recommend staying one to two days to really see everything this town has to offer. There’s a range of places to stay from budget-friendly to higher priced locales .

After checking local stores and grabbing a bite along Pearl Street, explore hiking trails around the Flatirons – stunning rock formations that dominate the landscape of this town. Or take a challenging hike to Mount Sanitas to test your stamina. 

When you’re ready to head to Rocky Mountain Nationalal Park, hop on Interstate-70 and continue your journey from there. After a long day of hiking, you can stay in  Estes Park , the gateway to RMNP, however, make sure to  book your room in advance  as it’s extremely popular during the high season! The park is very accessible and driveable, but to fully experience what it has to offer, spend a minimum of two days exploring the park.

Colorado Ten-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Ten days is a solid amount of time to see what Colorado has to offer. Rocky Mountain can be included on this trip, but it’s in the opposite direction of Colorado Springs, so you’ll need to plan accordingly, and if you’d like to include the National Park, I’d recommend limiting your time in Denver.

Day 1-5: Denver to Colorado Springs/Garden of the Gods 

After your time in Denver (or Rocky Mountain) head south out of the city. Located at the foothills of Pikes Peak mountain, Garden of the Gods is about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Denver.

Garden of the Gods  is a combination of incredible scenery, relatively easy hiking trails, and quirky rock formations that overlook Pikes Peak. Often referred to as one of the most popular hikes in Colorado, Garden of the Gods has over 15 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to moderate. 

One of the best things about the Garden of the Gods is that it is free! From Denver, it’s about a ninety minute drive via I-25. I recommend staying two to three days to experience everything this cool town has to offer.

The owner of the park, Charles Perkins, wanted to donate this place to the public, however, he died before he could do that. Later, his family fulfilled his wish by donating the park to Colorado Springs.

Garden of the Gods is beautiful at any time of the year, however, summer tends to be the busiest season, as with many other places in Colorado. Winter is a great time to snap some cool photos as the red rocks get covered with white powder creating wonderful scenery throughout the park. Fall brings some beautiful colors and milder temperatures, and spring is warm enough but not yet crowded. 

PRO TIP: If you want to take good photos, try to visit the Garden of the Gods during golden hour on a bright sunny day when the bright red rock formations will create a beautiful contrast with the blue sky. 

And if you are still craving adventure after wandering around the Garden of the Gods, you can get to the top of Pikes Peak that can be accessed by car or by foot. 

Book your stay in Garden of the Gods here.

Day 6-10: Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Colorado isn’t all forest, mountains, and lakes, and for your ten-day road trip this is your destination!

Head to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in southern Colorado and you will find the highest mountains of sand in all of North America! Located at the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, these majestic sand dunes stretch for 30 square miles. It’s a little under a three hour drive from Colorado Springs via I-25 and then 160.

Sand sledding and sandboarding are some of the most popular activities here. So grab a sand sled at one of the area’s rental stores and slide down a tall sand dune! Or take a leisurely hike along a sand dune, have a picnic, and set up your camping spot for the night to enjoy this enigmatic and tranquil place.

Thanks to its remote location in rural Colorado, the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is also one of the prime locations for stargazing, with many dark enthusiasts coming year-round.

The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is located about 35 miles away from Alamosa. While it’s often dry and warm during winter, winter brings cooler temperatures, so be prepared! Alamosa has a range of places to stay from budget-friendly to more upscale getaways, but fortunately both options are relatively affordable compared to other places in Colorado. I recommend staying about two to three days to experience everything there is to see.

This rounds out your ten-day road trip, giving you just enough time to head back to Denver. You can also break up your time in Colorado Springs for both parts of the trip so your drive back to Denver won’t be as long.

Colorado 2-Week Road Trip Itinerary

If you’re really down to see all Colorado has to offer, then this two-week road trip is for you. To make the most of this trip, I recommend organizing your trip so you limit your time in Denver. Either fly in late, crash at a hotel and drive the next morning or grab your rental car and get moving!

Day 1-3: Breckenridge/Frisco 

Breckenridge and Frisco are a classic Colorado stop in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and your first place to rest on your two week road trip. Located about an a hour and a half from Denver, you’ll take I-70 W for most of the drive, and when I say this is one of the most scenic drives I’ve ever done, I mean it. Cliffs tower over the roadside as you drive through tunnels dug into the mountainside. Keep in mind, this road will close during snowstorms if the weather gets out of hand so you’ll want to plan your trip accordingly.

Located near several fourteeners (or mountains with the elevation higher than 14,000 feet), Frisco is a year-round vacation spot that used to be a mining town in the old days. Whether you want to enjoy a hike to Quandary Peak (East Ridge is the easiest route that is perfect for beginners, while West Ridge is more suitable for experts), have some fun at Frisco Adventure Park skiing or tubing, Frisco has it all!

The neighboring Breckenridge is a small mountain town with the charming Main Street where you can find stores, pubs, and restaurants among other things. And while most people have come to associate Breckenridge with skiing, the town also offers many other activities such as whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and hiking. In addition, the town has a rich mining history and many well-preserved buildings from that era.

If you are visiting Breckenridge in summer, hiking is an absolute must. The area is home to hundreds of incredible hiking trails with gorgeous wildflowers and alpine lakes which make this destination so popular.

Similar to Telluride and Aspen,  Breckenridge hotels  can be pricey. Luckily, there are plenty of options for dispersed camping in the area. In addition, you can also try nearby  Frisco  and  Silverthorne . I recommend staying two to three days so you can explore both towns fully.

Day 4: Independence Pass

One of the highest paved passes in North America, Independence Pass, is a must for anybody who comes to Colorado. Located at an elevation of 12,095 feet, it begins near Leadville, stretches all the way to Aspen, and traverses through the Continental Divide. 

While the pass is only 32 miles, take your time when going over it. The views along the way are breathtaking and the two lane-road winds along sharp curves. While the road is closed in winter, it’s one of the most popular destinations in Colorado during summer with holidays and weekends being the busiest days. 

In addition to enjoying the scenery along the way, you can also enjoy several trails located right off the pass. One of the best hiking trails in the area is called Lost Man Trail that provides access to the beautiful alpine meadows and lakes. You won’t need to stay here, though, this will just be a fun place to drive through.

Keep in mind, the road is closed during the winter. If the road is open, however, the drive from Breckendridge through Indepdence Pass, takes a little under two hours via Interstate 24 to 82 and will take you across the pass and to your next destination–Aspen.

Day 4-7: Aspen 

Chances are you have probably heard of Aspen even if you have never been to Colorado. While Aspen is a great place to visit at any time of the year, it’s skiing that has made it so famous. 

People from all over the world come here to hit the famous Aspen slopes in areas such as Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, and Snowmass Ski Resort among others. 

However, it’s not just the winter season that offers plenty of things to do. In fall, visitors come to snap photos of the iconic Maroon Bells, the two majestic peaks reflected in the still waters of the Maroon Lake – one of the most photographed places in Colorado; or hike the Rio Grande Trail – one of the easiest trails near Aspen. 

If Independence Pass is open then you’re only a short 45 minute drive to Aspen along 82. If, however, the road is closed, you’ll be skipping Independence Pass and heading from Breckenride directly to Aspen, about a three and a half hour drive from I70 to 82.

PRO TIP: While  Aspen  tends to have more pricey accommodations, nearby towns  Carbondale ,  Basalt  and  Glenwood Springs  have more budget-friendly accommodations. Regardless of the time of year, Aspen has A LOT to see and do. I recommend staying two to three days to experience everything this famous town offers.

Day 8: Glenwood Springs

Aspen’s neighbor to the north, Glenwood Springs, is home to world-famous hot springs where you can soak in mineral-filled waters. The town also offers a vibrant outdoor and cultural scene.  Visitors enjoy rafting  down the river through the scenic Glenwood Canyon, biking the 14.4-mile Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail, and hiking the area’s scenic trails. 

Hanging Lake is one of the most beautiful hikes near Glenwood Springs, however, it has fallen a victim to its own popularity, as it began attracting thousands of visitors on a daily basis. As a result, local officials created a reservation system and a host of rules that didn’t exist years ago. 

If you want to enjoy Hanging Lake, I recommend  making your reservation  for a weekday. Glenwood Springs can be a pitstop for an afternoon, or you can stay longer–just remember, the next part of your two-week road trip is going to be a bit of a drive.

Day 9-10: Telluride 

Telluride, about three and a half hours from Glennwood Springs, has become one of the premier destinations for winter sports in North America. After mining in the region waned by the 1970s, the town was reinvented with the help of locals who built the area’s first ski resort. But Telluride’s spirit of Old West continues to live on to this day and you can feel it the moment you step in the city’s downtown. 

Today this small town is considered one of the top places for recreation in Southwest Colorado, thanks to its Victorian-era charm, hiking, mountain biking in the summer, and skiing and snowboarding in winter. People from all over the world come here to experience the incredible atmosphere.

But besides being an outdoorsman’s paradise, Telluride is also a major destination for festivals during summer months. Some of the most prominent events here include Mountainfilm, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and Telluride Film Festival.

Telluride accommodations  come at a premium price, especially during the high season. Check out nearby towns  Ridgeway ,  Ouray , or Montrose for budget-friendly options. And if you would like to camp, head to the gorgeous Alta Lakes outside of Telluride. I recommed staying here for atleast a day or two, possibly longer if you plan to get into the outdoors.

Day 11-14: Mesa Verde National Park

The final stop on your two week road trip will take you from Telluride to Mesa Verde National Park, an hour and forty minute drive along Interstate 145. Located in the southwest corner of Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park was created to preserve the archaeological sites that chronicle the heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived here from 600 AD to 1300 AD. Translated as “Green Table”, Mesa Verde offers a combination of centuries-old history that can be seen in hundreds of cliff dwellings. 

Visitors can learn about the history of this place and explore hundreds of ancient cliff dwellings as part of a guided tour (tickets can be purchased at the park’s visitor center), or take a self-guided tour of the Step House at Wetherill Mesa at your own pace. 

And if you don’t feel like walking around the archaeological sites, you can visit many viewpoints and overlooks along the 6-mile Mesa Top Loop Road on the Chapin Mesa. 

It’s a great way to understand the unique history of the area because all of the sites are arranged in chronological order. If you’re left wanting more, check out the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum – a great alternative to being outside when it gets too hot in summer.

When you tour the park, don’t touch the dwellings. These ancient structures are fragile and can be easily damaged. Stay inside the park or in the nieghboring city of Cortez. Spend at least two to three days in the park to fully absorb this beauty.

And if you decide to go for a hike, Chapin Mesa also has several trails such as Spruce Canyon trailheads and the Petroglyph Point Trail. That’s it, friends! Your two week adventure is now set. Just keep in mind, if you decide to head straight back to Denver from Mesa Verde, it’s a seven hour drive, so depending on your patience, you may want to back track the way you came and split up the drive in other cities. Either way, you’re truly in for an adventure with this one!

Well you there you have it, folks! With these three different itineraries, you’re certain to have plenty of options to explore on your Colorado road trip. Follow each one directly or combine them to make your own. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re in for a great time!

About Megan MacGregor

Megan MacGregor is Florida-based freelance writer with a heart that beats for travel and adventure. Her travel journey began in childhood, thanks to her parents, avid travelers who introduced her to the wonders of South American culture at a young age. Megan hopes to cross off all 63 National Parks in America and is well on her way there. When she's not traversing the globe, Megan writes fiction, pet sits, and rides horses.

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Lauren Pelkey says

08/17/2020 at 12:19 pm

Love these ideas! I have been to Denver a few times and recently camped in RMNP with my best friend…we had an absolute blast. Just need this pandemic to be over so I can plan my next trip!! Thanks for a great post 🙂

Kristin says

08/17/2020 at 2:07 pm

I hear you. I’m ready too!

Stephen says

10/09/2020 at 7:46 pm

I’ve passed through Colorado several times (a few by train, a couple by car). Fantastic scenery. One of my favourite towns is Idaho Springs. I visited there in 2008. Nice little place! Looking forward to cycling through there (and Colorado, in general) in a couple of years time (Covid-19 permitting!).

Sheila says

11/13/2020 at 4:55 am

Thank you for this itinerary! Colorado has been on my wishlist for quite a while. Now, I come from quite a flat country (Denmark) and have only tried driving in the mountains in Slovenia. I found that a little bit scary. How are the roads in general? Are there very steep drives with hair pin turns or not really? The roads in your pictures are quite large (compared to many mountain roads…!).

Thank you 🙂

11/14/2020 at 8:56 am

It really depends on the mountain, and the weather. Snow for me can be scary to drive on, but if it’s a trip in a different season in general yes, the roads in the US are bigger than in Europe I’ve found!

Cecilie says

03/31/2021 at 12:14 am

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Colorado again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to hoping for a better 2021 with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

– Cecilie

03/31/2021 at 9:09 am

Josh Brady says

09/06/2021 at 4:46 pm

This is a great itinerary for a trip to Colorado. There are so many beautiful places to see that even a resident would have a hard time seeing everything. One of my favorite places is Telluride with so much scenery all around you.

01/26/2022 at 5:53 pm

How many days would you recommend for this trip?

01/27/2022 at 12:27 pm

To hit all the spots, it’s always best to give it a couple of weeks to a month in a state that big, but you could always reduce the stops so you don’t feel like you are running from place to place.

05/30/2023 at 9:10 am

Hey there Kristin, We are flying into Denver at 6PM on a Friday and leaving the following Saturday at 9am out of Denver. If you had 8 nights, what cities would you plan to overnight and for how long? I don’t want to feel like we are constantly packing/unpacking and would love to stay in just 3-4 hotels/VRBOs if possible! I appreciate your feedback! Thanks! Cathy

06/08/2023 at 1:11 pm

Depends a lot on the time of year, but I’d personally prioritize being near national parks if it’s the summertime!

7 Colorado Hikes That Show Off The Beauty Of The State In The Fall

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• Hiking in Colorado during fall offers stunning views of golden aspen trees, making for a leaf peeper's paradise.
• Trails like the Sunny Aspen & Lodge Pole Loop Trail provide easy, family-friendly options to enjoy fall's splendor.
• Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, Colorado's extensive trail network has something for everyone to explore this fall.

With summer almost drawing to a close, the anticipation of fall in Colorado, which typically begins in mid-September and peak colors being seen through the end of the month, starts to heighten. After all, Colorado puts on quite a show during autumn once the tinkling leaves of Aspen trees take on vibrant shades of gold.

Well, visitors have many places to see stunning fall foliage in Colorado , and since most are natural spaces, there’s no better way to take it all in than hiking. As one of the best hiking states in the US , Colorado offers an abundance of hiking trails that show off its beauty during fall, from popular to underrated ones.

Plus, the state's extensive trail network ensures everyone, from beginners to seasoned hikers, has something to satisfy their desire to witness fall's splendor. Here’s a list of scenic hikes in Colorado that are the perfect start to your fall-searching adventures.

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7 Rainbow Lakes Trail, Indian Peaks Wilderness

Alltrails rating: 4.5 stars.

The Rainbow Lakes Trail is a popular route traveling through the Indian Peaks Wilderness near Nederland, Colorado. This shaded out-and-back trail is a favorite local destination as it leads to several beaver ponds and well-stocked alpine lakes, offering excellent fishing opportunities.

Adventurers also revel in the trail's beauty as it winds through lush aspen groves that take on brilliant fall foliage colors during the fall. The lakes and blazing forest scenery make this route one of the best hikes to explore during Colorado's peak fall foliage season.

Aside from admiring the scenery, hikers also spot wildlife such as elk, moose, and bears known to frequent the area. Since this is one of the most explored trails in the area, hikers should plan for an earlier start to snag a parking spot and enjoy solitude at the picturesque lakes.

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6 Sunny Aspen & Lodge Pole Loop Trail, Meyer Ranch Park

The Sunny Aspen and Lodge Pole Loop Trail in Meyer Ranch Park offers an easy, scenic hike perfect for all skill levels throughout the year. Starting at the Meyer Ranch trailhead, this loop trail meanders through mixed forests of lodgepole pine and aspen groves.

In the fall, the trail becomes a leaf peeper's paradise as it transforms into a golden corridor with aspen leaves turning vibrant shades of yellow and orange. This transformation provides a stunning contrast against the surrounding dark pines from September through early October.

The trail also offers beautiful views of the surrounding foothills and is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, as deer, moose, and woodpeckers frequent the area. Since this is a family-friendly trail, it can be busy on weekends, so plan an early visit to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

5 Horsethief Falls Trail, Pike National Forest

Alltrails rating: 4.6 stars.

Adventurers can immerse themselves in Colorado's autumnal beauty along the Horsethief Falls Trail , stretching 2.6 miles in the scenic Pike National Forest . This moderate trail begins at a trailhead off Highway 67 near an old tunnel exit located a few minutes’ drive from Divide, one of the many hike-friendly towns in Colorado .

Hikers endure a manageable incline as the trail follows a path with loose gravel before meandering through dense aspen and pine forests to the picturesque Horsethief Falls.

After hiking for approximately one mile, the trail levels out, allowing travelers to revel in the peaceful and beautiful surroundings with soothing creek sounds in the background.

Before long, hikers reach the small waterfall and marvel at its photogenic beauty, with the surrounding vegetation boasting spectacular shades of yellow and orange.

4 Lily Pad Lake Via Meadow Creek Trail, Eagles Nest Wilderness

This 3.1-mile trail takes hikers to Lily Pad Lake from the Meadow Creek Trailhead, offering a moderate hike through the expansive Eagles Nest Wilderness . The Lily Pad Lake Via Meadow Creek Trail is perfect for those looking to escape into a tranquil setting, as it takes hikers past several stream crossings, beaver ponds, and a dense forest.

The forest boasts lodgepole pine and aspen trees, which burst into vibrant yellows and oranges during autumn, drawing nature lovers from the nearby towns of Silverthorne and Frisco.

The trail's highlight is the serene Lily Pad Lake, surrounded by the season’s stunning foliage, providing a perfect spot for reflection or a picnic after hiking. However, due to the trail's popularity, it is advisable to start early to secure parking and enjoy the autumnal scenery with fewer crowds.

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3 Raccoon Trail, Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Alltrails rating: 4.7 stars.

The 4.7-star-rated Raccoon Trail in Golden Gate Canyon State Park is one of the top Colorado hikes to take in the fall . Hikers can access the trail from a trailhead near State Park Road after parking in the main parking area or at an alternative lot located near Gap Road.

This moderate loop explores vast wildflower-covered meadows and aspen forests, known for their vivid golden-yellow hues during peak fall foliage season. For the most spectacular views, leaf peepers take a short break at the Panorama Point viewpoint, offering jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding blazing aspens and rugged mountains as backdrops.

Before hiking, visitors should ensure they have an offline map to follow due to the state park's limited cell coverage.

2 Kenosha Pass North, Pike National Forest

The Kenosha Pass North Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike leaf peepers can explore during the fall season. Located in the vast Pike National Forest , this beautiful trail begins at the Kenosha Pass Trailhead along Highway 285 near Jefferson. It's one of Colorado's most scenic fall hikes, renowned for its stunning foliage and expansive vistas.

Although hikers endure a 1,600-foot elevation gain, the trail treats them to picturesque views of towering golden aspen forests before leading to wide open areas. The trail offers a mix of meadows and dense woods, providing a varied and engaging hike for experienced hikers and their leashed furry friends.

Aside from admiring the gorgeous autumnal scenery, hiiers can spot wildlife such as deer and moose when hiking during the quieter early morning hours.

1 Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail, Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness

Alltrails rating: 4.8 stars.

The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is one of the top fall foliage hikes in Colorado , and the best thing is that it's ideal for all skill levels. This easy loop trail showcases the beauty of the Maroon Bells, which are often regarded as the most photographed peaks in North America. In the fall, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of gold as the aspen trees surrounding the trail blaze with color.

The trail starts at the Maroon Lake parking area before meandering through serene meadows, dense aspen groves, and along the shores of Maroon Lake. Along the way, hikers can admire panoramic vistas of the snow-capped peaks and their reflection in the crystal-clear waters, the vivid autumn foliage, and the tranquil alpine scenery.