Explore Colorado

Wander the vibrant streets of Downtown Denver, marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, and soak your cares away in rejuvenating hot springs. 🚗✨
Discover the glamour of Aspen, feel the spray of Box Canyon Falls, and climb to incredible heights aboard the iconic Pikes Peak Cog Railway! 🚂🏔️

With non-stop highlights and unforgettable moments at every turn, this is one epic journey you don’t want to miss!

Day 1: Arrive in Denver – Gateway to the Rockies

• ✈️ Arrive at Denver International Airport

• 🚗 Pick up your rental car

• 🏨 Stay: Denver city hotel (LoDo or Cherry Creek area)

• 📍 Highlights:

  • Union Station, 16th Street Mall, Larimer Square

  • Optional: Red Rocks Amphitheatre sunset visit

• 🍽 Dinner: Try local bison or craft brews at Wynkoop Brewing Co.

Day 2: Denver → Rocky Mountain National Park (Estes Park)

• ⏱ Drive: ~1.5–2 hours

• 🏨 Stay: Lodge or cabin in Estes Park

• 📍 Highlights:

  • Scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road (summer only – weather dependent)

  • Bear Lake, Moraine Park, and wildlife viewing (elk, moose!)

  • Stop at the Stanley Hotel (inspiration for The Shining)

• 🥾 Optional: Short hike to Alberta Falls

Day 3: Estes Park → Glenwood Springs (via Trail Ridge or I-70)

• ⏱ Drive: ~4–5 hours

• 🏨 Stay: Hotel or resort in Glenwood Springs

• 📍 Highlights:

  • Soak in Glenwood Hot Springs Pool or Iron Mountain Hot Springs

  • Optional: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

• 🍴 Dinner: Riverside dining in downtown Glenwood

Day 4: Glenwood Springs → Aspen & Maroon Bells

• ⏱ Drive: ~1.5 hours each way (return to Glenwood OR stay overnight in Aspen)

• 🏨 Stay: Glenwood or Aspen hotel/lodge

• 📍 Highlights:

  • Visit iconic Maroon Bells (early morning is best for photos)

  • Explore Aspen’s boutique shopping & art scene

  • Optional: Easy hike like the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail

Day 5: Glenwood Springs → Ouray via the San Juan Skyway

• ⏱ Drive: ~4.5–5 hours

• 🏨 Stay: Historic hotel or boutique inn in Ouray ("Switzerland of America")

• 📍 Highlights:

  • Drive the jaw-dropping Million Dollar Highway

  • Box Canyon Falls, Ouray Hot Springs

  • Optional: 4x4 Jeep Tour into the mountains

Day 6: Ouray → Colorado Springs (via Black Canyon or direct route)

• ⏱ Drive: ~5.5–6 hours (longer with stops)

• 🏨 Stay: Colorado Springs hotel or nearby cabin

• 📍 Highlights:

  • Detour to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (if time allows)

  • Evening visit to Garden of the Gods (great for sunset)

  • Optional: Old Colorado City for dinner & browsing

Day 7: Colorado Springs → Denver

• ⏱ Drive: ~1.5 hours

• 📍 Morning options before departure:

  • Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway

  • Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo or The Broadmoor

  • Optional: Old Colorado City for dinner & browsing

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    Day 8: Denver (Depart)

• ✈️ Drop off your car and depart from Denver International Airport