The Final Colorado Highway Journey Itinerary (3 Weeks)

• Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Proper subsequent to Metropolis Park, this museum is a enjoyable and academic cease with reveals starting from dinosaurs to area exploration. Take a look at the planetarium or catch a movie on the large IMAX display screen.
• Botanic Gardens: Spend your afternoon on the Denver Botanic Gardens, a lush oasis in the midst of the town. It’s particularly lovely in the summertime when the flowers are in full bloom, however even in winter, the tropical conservatory is a heat escape.
• Purple Rocks Park & Amphitheatre: No journey to Denver is full with out visiting Purple Rocks. This pure amphitheater is world-famous for its unimaginable acoustics and beautiful setting. Even when there’s no live performance, you’ll be able to hike the paths across the park or simply marvel on the views. In the event you’re there within the morning, be part of a yoga session on the stage—it’s an unforgettable expertise.
• Golden, Colorado: Only a quick drive from Purple Rocks, head to the charming city of Golden. It’s a fantastic spot for a leisurely lunch and a tour of the Coors Brewery. Afterward, stroll alongside Clear Creek, the place you’ll be able to see kayakers and tubers having fun with the water.
• Mount Evans Scenic Byway (Seasonal): In the event you’re visiting within the hotter months (late Could to September), take a drive up the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the very best paved highway in North America. The views are breathtaking, and you may typically spot mountain goats and different wildlife alongside the way in which. Make sure you test highway situations earlier than you go—it’s solely open seasonally.

Boulder is the sort of place that appears like a breath of contemporary air—actually and figuratively. From Denver, it’s a simple hour’s drive by way of US-36 West. Nestled proper on the base of the Flatirons, this city is understood for its laid-back vibe, out of doors adventures, and a thriving native meals scene. It’s a fast hour’s drive from Denver, making it the right subsequent cease on our Colorado highway journey.

Listed here are a few of my most favourite locations to go to:

• Flagstaff Mountain: Only a quick drive from downtown, Flagstaff Mountain gives incredible views over Boulder and the encircling space. There are a number of picnic spots and straightforward mountain climbing trails just like the Vary View Path. In winter, it’s a fantastic place for some peaceable snowshoeing.
• Boulder Creek Path: This 5.5-mile path runs alongside Boulder Creek, offering a scenic route for strolling, biking, and even tubing in the summertime. It’s a stunning, enjoyable solution to get pleasure from Boulder’s pure magnificence.
• College of Colorado Boulder Campus: Take a stroll across the CU Boulder campus—it’s lovely, with its sandstone buildings and views of the Flatirons. The CU Heritage Middle in Outdated Foremost gives a glance into the historical past of the college and the world.
• Fiske Planetarium: For one thing a bit completely different, try a present at Fiske Planetarium on the CU Boulder campus. It’s one of many largest planetariums between Chicago and Los Angeles, providing all the pieces from star reveals to laser mild reveals set to music.

Steered Lodging: In the event you’re trying to splurge a bit, St. Julien Lodge & Spa gives unimaginable views of the Flatirons and is only a quick stroll from Pearl Road. This luxurious lodge additionally has a fantastic spa in case you’re within the temper for some leisure after your adventures.

For one thing extra budget-friendly however nonetheless tremendous cool, Basecamp Boulder is a boutique lodge with a unusual, outdoor-themed design. It sits near Pearl Road! 

• Emerald Lake Path: In the event you’re up for a bit extra of a hike, head out on the Emerald Lake Path. This 3.5-mile spherical journey hike takes you previous Nymph Lake and Dream Lake earlier than arriving on the beautiful Emerald Lake, all surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. I
• Wild Basin Space: For these trying to escape the crowds, the Wild Basin space on the southeastern aspect of the park gives some less-traveled trails and delightful surroundings. The hike to Ouzel Falls is about 5.4 miles spherical journey. It takes you thru forested paths, with a number of smaller waterfalls alongside the way in which.
• Holzwarth Historic Website: In the event you’re keen on a little bit of historical past, try the Holzwarth Historic Website. It’s a preserved homestead that provides a glimpse into formative years within the Rockies.
• Longs Peak: For the adventurous, Longs Peak is the very best summit within the park, standing at 14,259 ft. The hike to the summit is a strenuous 14.5-mile spherical journey with over 5,000 ft of elevation achieve. It’s not for the faint of coronary heart, however in case you’re an skilled hiker, it’s a bucket-list climb. Begin early (like 3 AM early) to keep away from afternoon thunderstorms, that are widespread in the summertime.

In the event you’re visiting within the fall, RMNP is known for its elk rut. This takes place from late September to early October. Throughout this time, you’ll be able to hear the eerie bugling of bull elk as they compete for mates. Moraine Park is a superb spot to witness this pure spectacle!

• Excessive Dune on First Ridge: In the event you’re searching for a shorter hike than Star Dune however nonetheless need unimaginable views, Excessive Dune on First Ridge is a superb possibility. It’s about 2.5 miles spherical journey and takes you to the highest of one of many highest dunes close to the car parking zone. From the highest, you’ll get sweeping views of the complete dune discipline and the encircling mountains.
• Zapata Falls: Only a quick drive from the park, Zapata Falls is a hidden gem that’s nicely definitely worth the aspect journey. The hike to the falls is simply about half a mile, however it may be a bit difficult, particularly in spring when the creek is flowing robust. You’ll need to wade via the creek to succeed in the falls, so put on footwear you don’t thoughts getting moist.
• Mosca Go Path: In the event you’re within the temper for a forested hike, the Mosca Go Path is a gorgeous possibility. This 7-mile spherical journey path takes you thru a lush canyon with loads of shade and a extra gradual incline. It’s a pleasant break from the sand and gives a special perspective on the park’s various landscapes.
• Tenting at Piñon Flats Campground: If you wish to absolutely immerse your self in the fantastic thing about the dunes, think about tenting at Piñon Flats Campground. The websites are spacious, and plenty of supply unimaginable views of the dunes and mountains.

Listed here are a few stable choices for lodging close to Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park:

• Nice Sand Dunes Lodge: Situated simply exterior the park entrance, this lodge gives comfy rooms with superb views of the dunes and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It’s the closest possibility if you wish to be proper close to the motion.
• Piñon Flats Campground: For these trying to camp, this campground contained in the park gives a incredible expertise. You’ll be surrounded by nature with easy accessibility to the dunes and glorious stargazing alternatives at evening.
• Alamosa: In the event you favor staying in a city with extra facilities, Alamosa is about half-hour away and gives quite a lot of accommodations, together with Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hampton Inn. It’s a great base in order for you extra eating choices.

Durango is an enthralling, historic city in southwest Colorado, and after a scenic 3-hour drive from Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park, you’ll end up in a spot that feels prefer it’s straight out of an Outdated West film. Durango is known for its well-preserved downtown, full of outlets, eating places, and historic accommodations, but it surely’s additionally an journey hub.

In the event you’re visiting in the summertime, the Animas River is ideal for rafting or tubing, and the prepare journey to Silverton gives a number of the finest mountain views you’ll discover wherever.

Right here’s spend your two days right here:

• San Juan Nationwide Forest: Surrounding Durango, this huge forest gives countless alternatives for out of doors adventures. You’ll be able to hike, bike, or drive via the scenic mountain passes. In the event you’re up for a problem, the Hermosa Creek Path is an area favourite, providing beautiful views and a real backcountry expertise.
• Purgatory Resort: In the event you’re visiting within the winter, Purgatory Resort is the place to be for snowboarding and snowboarding. It’s about half-hour north of Durango and gives a mixture of runs for all ranges, plus some breathtaking mountain views. In the summertime, the resort transforms into an journey park. Anticipate actions like mountain biking, an alpine slide, and scenic chairlift rides.
• Durango Sizzling Springs Resort & Spa: The Durango Sizzling Springs Resort gives quite a lot of swimming pools with completely different temperatures, plus spa providers in case you’re within the temper for some further pampering. It’s a good way to unwind and benefit from the lovely mountain environment.

Day Journey Concept: Though technically not in Durango, Mesa Verde Nationwide Park is simply a 45-minute drive away, and it’s a must-visit in case you’re within the space. The park is known for its well-preserved cliff dwellings, constructed by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years in the past.

You’ll be able to take a guided tour of websites like Cliff Palace and Balcony Home, the place you’ll study concerning the historical past and tradition of the individuals who as soon as lived right here.

This park is a UNESCO World Heritage web site, and it’s completely fascinating to discover. The cliff dwellings are tucked into the perimeters of steep canyons, and you may’t assist however marvel how individuals managed to reside and thrive in such a rugged panorama.

After a simple 1-hour drive from Durango, you’ll end up in a world of historical cliff dwellings, constructed over 700 years in the past by the Ancestral Puebloans. The park is a mixture of straightforward scenic drives, quick hikes, and guided excursions, so there’s one thing for everybody

Right here’s what to see:

• Cliff Palace: That is the biggest and most well-known cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde. The guided tour takes you proper into the center of the dwelling, the place you’ll climb ladders and stroll via slender passages to see the assorted rooms and kivas (ceremonial chambers).
• Balcony Home: In the event you’re up for a little bit of journey, the Balcony Home tour is for you. This tour is a little more strenuous, involving climbing a 32-foot ladder. You’ll even be crawling via a brief tunnel, and navigating alongside cliff edges. The payoff is price it—you’ll get to discover a well-preserved dwelling with some unimaginable views of the canyon under. Simply be ready for a little bit of a exercise!
• Spruce Tree Home: Spruce Tree Home is the third-largest cliff dwelling within the park and one of many best-preserved. It’s often a self-guided web site, permitting you to discover at your personal tempo. It’s a simple stroll from the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum!
• Mesa Prime Loop Highway: This 6-mile scenic drive takes you to a number of overlooks and quick trails that supply views of various cliff dwellings and archaeological websites. The interpretive indicators alongside the way in which present loads of context concerning the historical past and tradition of the Ancestral Puebloans.

• Far View Websites Complicated: This space is house to a number of historical villages that after housed tons of of individuals. As you wander via the ruins, it’s straightforward to think about what life was like right here over a thousand years in the past. The stroll is flat and straightforward, making it accessible to most guests. It’s additionally a fantastic spot to get pleasure from a picnic whereas taking in views of the encircling mesas.
• Petroglyph Level Path: In the event you’re up for a hike, the Petroglyph Level Path is a 2.4-mile loop that provides incredible views of Spruce Canyon. The spotlight of the path is a big panel of petroglyphs that provide you with a glimpse into the non secular world of the Ancestral Puebloans.
• Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum: This museum is a must-stop earlier than or after exploring the park. It’s full of artifacts, dioramas, and reveals that provide you with a deeper understanding of the Ancestral Puebloans who as soon as lived in Mesa Verde. Plus, because it’s situated proper subsequent to Spruce Tree Home, it’s handy to go to each in a single journey.

• Bear Creek Path: In the event you’re searching for a gorgeous hike that’s not too strenuous, the Bear Creek Path is an area favourite. The trailhead is true on the town, and it takes you up via a lush canyon to Bear Creek Falls. It’s about 5 miles spherical journey, with reasonable elevation achieve, and the views alongside the way in which are beautiful.
• Mountain Village: In the event you take the gondola up, be sure that to spend a while exploring Mountain Village. It’s obtained a extra fashionable, resort-style really feel in comparison with the historic city under, but it surely’s nonetheless tremendous charming. There are some nice eating places and outlets up right here, plus you’ll be able to entry much more mountain climbing and biking trails.
• Alta Lakes: Only a quick drive from Telluride, Alta Lakes is a shocking space with a number of alpine lakes surrounded by rugged peaks. It’s a fantastic spot for a day journey, whether or not you’re into fishing, kayaking, or simply wish to soak within the views. There are some tough roads getting up there, so a 4WD automobile is really helpful.

In case your go to coincides with considered one of Telluride’s many festivals, you’re in for a deal with. The city hosts all the pieces from music festivals like Telluride Bluegrass to movie festivals and even a Mushroom Competition!

These are in all probability essentially the most photographed mountains in North America, and for good purpose—they’re completely beautiful. The dual peaks of Maroon Bells are mirrored in Maroon Lake, making a picture-perfect scene that’s even higher in individual.

The Maroon Lake Scenic Path is a simple, flat stroll that takes you across the lake with unimaginable views the entire method. In the event you’re up for extra of a hike, the Crater Lake Path is a superb possibility, taking you deeper into the wilderness. Within the fall, the complete space lights up with golden aspen bushes, making it a must-see.

Nestled within the Roaring Fork Valley and surrounded by the Rockies, Glenwood Springs gives all the pieces from scenic hikes to charming downtown strolls, making it a fantastic closing cease in your highway journey.

Simply a simple 1-hour drive from Aspen, this city is all about leisure and having fun with the pure fantastic thing about the world. Glenwood Springs is known for its sizzling springs, however there’s much more to it than simply soaking in heat water (though that’s undoubtedly a spotlight!).

Take a look at my favourite issues to do in Glenwood Springs:

The Glenwood Sizzling Springs Pool is the primary attraction on the town and the world’s largest sizzling springs pool. It’s a fantastic place to soak your drained muscular tissues in any case these hikes, with an enormous pool fed by pure sizzling springs.

The pool is open year-round, so you’ll be able to get pleasure from a heat dip even in the midst of winter. There’s additionally a separate remedy pool that’s a bit hotter in case you actually wish to loosen up. I like to recommend going within the night when it’s a bit quieter and the mountain views are significantly beautiful.

In the event you’re searching for a extra intimate sizzling springs expertise, Iron Mountain Sizzling Springs is the spot. It’s a set of smaller, extra non-public swimming pools proper alongside the Colorado River. Every pool has a special temperature, so you’ll find the one which’s simply best for you. The riverside setting makes it really feel like a hidden gem, and it’s the right place to unwind and benefit from the view.

• Hanging Lake: That is considered one of Colorado’s most iconic hikes, and for good purpose. The path is a steep 1.2-mile climb (2.4 miles spherical journey) that results in a panoramic turquoise lake with waterfalls cascading into it. And heads up! You’ll have to get a allow upfront to do that hike, because it’s a very fashionable spot.
• Glenwood Caverns Journey Park: This isn’t your typical amusement park! Glenwood Caverns is situated on high of a mountain and gives a mixture of cave excursions, thrill rides, and beautiful views. You’ll be able to take a guided tour via the caves to see some unimaginable formations. Afterwards, you’ll be able to hop on a curler coaster that actually hangs off the sting of the mountain. The gondola journey as much as the park alone is definitely worth the journey, with panoramic views of the complete valley.
• Glenwood Canyon: In the event you’re within the temper for a scenic drive, Glenwood Canyon is totally lovely. The canyon is carved by the Colorado River, and the views are spectacular, particularly within the fall when the leaves are altering. There are a number of pull-offs alongside I-70 the place you’ll be able to cease and take within the surroundings. You too can hop on the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, a paved path that runs alongside the river and is ideal for a peaceable stroll or bike journey.
• Downtown Glenwood Springs: Right here you’ll discover a mixture of native outlets, cafes, and eating places. Cease by Rifle Falls State Park for a brief detour. It’s a bit of out of city however gives a cool triple waterfall that’s definitely worth the journey. On the town, Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse is a superb spot for dinner in case you’re within the temper for a great steak.

The drive again is about 2.5 to three hours, relying on the route you’re taking and what number of scenic stops you resolve to make alongside the way in which. Right here’s a have a look at your choices:

Essentially the most simple method again to Denver is to hop on I-70 East. This route takes you straight via Glenwood Canyon once more, so that you’ll get to get pleasure from these unimaginable canyon views yet another time.

If you wish to squeeze in a bit extra journey, think about taking Independence Go again towards Denver. This route is simply accessible within the hotter months (often late Could via October) and is among the most scenic drives in Colorado.

You’ll move via the beautiful Independence Go after which join with US-24. Finally, you’ll merge onto US-285, which can take you again to Denver. It’s a bit longer than the I-70 route, however the views are nicely price it.

Earlier than you pack up and begin your Colorado journey, listed below are a number of necessary issues to contemplate to make your journey easy and gratifying.

Beginning your Colorado highway journey is all about choosing the proper spot. Denver is the go-to for most individuals—it’s the state capital, has a serious airport, and gives easy accessibility to the Rockies. In the event you’re nearer to the south, Colorado Springs is a superb different.

That is very true in case you’re within the southern points of interest just like the Nice Sand Dunes. For these coming from the west, Grand Junction is ideal, providing you with fast entry to Colorado’s wine nation and the beautiful Colorado Nationwide Monument.

Regardless of the place you begin, Denver, Colorado Springs, or Grand Junction are stable choices to kick off your journey.

Selecting the very best time on your highway journey is dependent upon what you wish to expertise:

• Spring (April to June): Nice for wildflowers and avoiding summer time crowds, however count on unpredictable climate—pack layers!
• Summer season (July to September): Peak season with heat climate, open trails, and festivals. Excellent for out of doors actions however count on extra crowds.
• Fall (September to October): Cooler temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer crowds make this the very best time to go to. My favourite!
• Winter (November to March): Superb for snowboarding and winter sports activities, however be ready for chilly and potential highway closures.

If I needed to decide one season, fall wins for its mixture of magnificence, climate, and tranquility.

How lengthy to spend in your highway journey? Right here’s a fast information:

In the event you’ve obtained a bit of further time and wish to discover extra of what Colorado has to supply, listed below are a number of incredible spots so as to add to your itinerary:

In the event you’re quick on time however wish to hit the highlights, right here’s a condensed 5-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Denver: Discover the town’s high points of interest like Union Station, the Denver Artwork Museum, and Purple Rocks Park. Take pleasure in dinner at one of many stylish downtown spots.
• Day 2: Boulder: Hike in Chautauqua Park, stroll Pearl Road, and go to the Celestial Seasonings Tea Manufacturing facility.
• Day 3: Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park: Drive Path Ridge Highway, hike round Bear Lake, and revel in wildlife recognizing.
• Day 4: Colorado Springs: Go to Backyard of the Gods, take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, and discover Manitou Springs.
• Day 5: Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park: Hike the dunes, splash in Medano Creek (seasonal), and take within the distinctive landscapes.

Completely! Right here’s a pattern 7-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Denver: Discover the town’s highlights.
• Day 2: Boulder: Dive into the out of doors scene and native tradition.
• Day 3: Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park: Expertise the park’s beautiful magnificence.
• Day 4: Colorado Springs: Uncover the town’s pure wonders.
• Day 5: Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park: Marvel on the dunes and revel in distinctive out of doors actions.
• Day 6: Durango: Experience the Durango & Silverton Slim Gauge Railroad and discover the historic city.
• Day 7: Mesa Verde Nationwide Park: Go to the traditional cliff dwellings earlier than heading again to Denver.

A snug, fuel-efficient automotive is ideal for this journey. A midsize automotive will deal with many of the roads simply tremendous, however in case you plan to discover off-the-beaten-path areas or go to in winter, a small SUV with all-wheel drive may be a better option.

Sure, there are a number of toll roads in Colorado, primarily across the Denver metro space. The E-470 toll highway is often used to bypass visitors or attain Denver Worldwide Airport. You’ll wish to test in case your rental automotive features a toll cost possibility or pay on-line afterward.

When you can go to main cities like Denver and Colorado Springs utilizing public transportation, having a automotive is the easiest way to completely expertise Colorado’s various landscapes and attain extra distant areas. If driving isn’t an possibility, think about becoming a member of guided excursions for particular areas, however remember the fact that a automotive gives essentially the most flexibility and comfort.

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