The Final Colorado Street 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. Try 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 town. It’s particularly stunning in the summertime when the flowers are in full bloom, however even in winter, the tropical conservatory is a heat escape.
• Pink Rocks Park & Amphitheatre: No journey to Denver is full with out visiting Pink Rocks. This pure amphitheater is world-famous for its unimaginable acoustics and beautiful setting. Even when there’s no live performance, you may hike the paths across the park or simply marvel on the views. When 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 Pink Rocks, head to the charming city of Golden. It’s an important spot for a leisurely lunch and a tour of the Coors Brewery. Afterward, stroll alongside Clear Creek, the place you may see kayakers and tubers having fun with the water.
• Mount Evans Scenic Byway (Seasonal): When 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. You should definitely test highway situations earlier than you go—it’s solely open seasonally.

Boulder is the type of place that looks like a breath of contemporary air—actually and figuratively. From Denver, it’s a simple hour’s drive through US-36 West. Nestled proper on the base of the Flatirons, this city is thought 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 affords incredible views over Boulder and the encompassing space. There are a number of picnic spots and straightforward mountain climbing trails just like the Vary View Path. In winter, it’s an important 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 beautiful, enjoyable method to take pleasure in Boulder’s pure magnificence.
• College of Colorado Boulder Campus: Take a stroll across the CU Boulder campus—it’s stunning, with its sandstone buildings and views of the Flatirons. The CU Heritage Heart in Previous Fundamental affords a glance into the historical past of the college and the world.
• Fiske Planetarium: For one thing a bit completely different, take a look at 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 exhibits to laser gentle exhibits set to music.

Recommended Lodging: When you’re trying to splurge a bit, St. Julien Resort & Spa affords unimaginable views of the Flatirons and is only a quick stroll from Pearl Avenue. This luxurious resort additionally has an important spa if you happen to’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 resort with a unusual, outdoor-themed design. It sits near Pearl Avenue! 

• Emerald Lake Path: When 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 facet of the park affords some less-traveled trails and exquisite 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 Web site: When you’re excited about a little bit of historical past, take a look at the Holzwarth Historic Web site. It’s a preserved homestead that gives a glimpse into youth 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 acquire. It’s not for the faint of coronary heart, however if you happen to’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.

When 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 may 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: When you’re on the lookout for a shorter hike than Star Dune however nonetheless need unimaginable views, Excessive Dune on First Ridge is a superb choice. 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 your entire dune discipline and the encompassing mountains.
• Zapata Falls: Only a quick drive from the park, Zapata Falls is a hidden gem that’s properly well worth the facet journey. The hike to the falls is just about half a mile, however it may be a bit tough, particularly in spring when the creek is flowing robust. You’ll must wade by the creek to achieve the falls, so put on footwear you don’t thoughts getting moist.
• Mosca Move Path: When you’re within the temper for a forested hike, the Mosca Move Path is a stupendous choice. 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 affords a unique perspective on the park’s various landscapes.
• Tenting at Piñon Flats Campground: If you wish to totally immerse your self in the great thing about the dunes, take into account 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 strong choices for lodging close to Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park:

• Nice Sand Dunes Lodge: Positioned simply exterior the park entrance, this lodge affords snug rooms with wonderful views of the dunes and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It’s the closest choice if you wish to be proper close to the motion.
• Piñon Flats Campground: For these trying to camp, this campground contained in the park affords a incredible expertise. You’ll be surrounded by nature with quick access to the dunes and wonderful stargazing alternatives at night time.
• Alamosa: When you favor staying in a city with extra facilities, Alamosa is about half-hour away and affords a wide range of inns, together with Fairfield Inn & Suites and Hampton Inn. It’s an excellent base if you would like 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 Previous West film. Durango is known for its well-preserved downtown, filled with retailers, eating places, and historic inns, but it surely’s additionally an journey hub.

When you’re visiting in the summertime, the Animas River is ideal for rafting or tubing, and the prepare experience to Silverton affords a few of the finest mountain views you’ll discover anyplace.

Right here’s tips on how to spend your two days right here:

• San Juan Nationwide Forest: Surrounding Durango, this huge forest affords limitless alternatives for out of doors adventures. You possibly can hike, bike, or drive by the scenic mountain passes. When you’re up for a problem, the Hermosa Creek Path is an area favourite, providing beautiful views and a real backcountry expertise.
• Purgatory Resort: When 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 affords a mixture of runs for all ranges, plus some breathtaking mountain views. In the summertime, the resort transforms into an journey park. Count on actions like mountain biking, an alpine slide, and scenic chairlift rides.
• Durango Scorching Springs Resort & Spa: The Durango Scorching Springs Resort affords a wide range of swimming pools with completely different temperatures, plus spa companies if you happen to’re within the temper for some further pampering. It’s an effective way to unwind and benefit from the stunning mountain environment.

Day Journey Thought: Though technically not in Durango, Mesa Verde Nationwide Park is just a 45-minute drive away, and it’s a must-visit if you happen to’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 possibly can take a guided tour of web sites 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 website, and it’s completely fascinating to discover. The cliff dwellings are tucked into the edges of steep canyons, and you may’t assist however surprise how individuals managed to dwell and thrive in such a rugged panorama.

After a simple 1-hour drive from Durango, you’ll end up in a world of historic cliff dwellings, constructed over 700 years in the past by the Ancestral Puebloans. The park is a mixture of simple 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 most important and most well-known cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde. The guided tour takes you proper into the guts of the dwelling, the place you’ll climb ladders and stroll by slim passages to see the varied rooms and kivas (ceremonial chambers).
• Balcony Home: When 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 by 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 beneath. 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 normally a self-guided website, permitting you to discover at your personal tempo. It’s a simple stroll from the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum!
• Mesa High Loop Street: 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 residence to a number of historic villages that after housed a whole lot of individuals. As you wander by the ruins, it’s simple 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 an important spot to take pleasure in a picnic whereas taking in views of the encompassing mesas.
• Petroglyph Level Path: When you’re up for a hike, the Petroglyph Level Path is a 2.4-mile loop that gives incredible views of Spruce Canyon. The spotlight of the path is a big panel of petroglyphs that offer you a glimpse into the religious 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 offer you 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: When you’re on the lookout for a stupendous 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 by a lush canyon to Bear Creek Falls. It’s about 5 miles spherical journey, with average elevation acquire, and the views alongside the way in which are beautiful.
• Mountain Village: When you take the gondola up, be certain that to spend a while exploring Mountain Village. It’s obtained a extra trendy, resort-style really feel in comparison with the historic city beneath, but it surely’s nonetheless tremendous charming. There are some nice eating places and retailers up right here, plus you may entry much more mountain climbing and biking trails.
• Alta Lakes: Only a quick drive from Telluride, Alta Lakes is a surprising space with a number of alpine lakes surrounded by rugged peaks. It’s an important spot for a day journey, whether or not you’re into fishing, kayaking, or simply need to soak within the views. There are some tough roads getting up there, so a 4WD automobile is really useful.

In case your go to coincides with one among 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 Pageant!

These are most likely 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 particular person.

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

Nestled within the Roaring Fork Valley and surrounded by the Rockies, Glenwood Springs affords all the pieces from scenic hikes to charming downtown strolls, making it an important remaining 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 great thing about the world. Glenwood Springs is known for its scorching springs, however there’s much more to it than simply soaking in heat water (though that’s undoubtedly a spotlight!).

Try my favourite issues to do in Glenwood Springs:

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

The pool is open year-round, so you may take pleasure in a heat dip even in the midst of winter. There’s additionally a separate remedy pool that’s a bit hotter if you happen to actually need to chill out. I like to recommend going within the night when it’s a bit quieter and the mountain views are notably beautiful.

When you’re on the lookout for a extra intimate scorching springs expertise, Iron Mountain Scorching Springs is the spot. It’s a group of smaller, extra personal swimming pools proper alongside the Colorado River. Every pool has a unique temperature, so you could 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 one among 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 wide ranging turquoise lake with waterfalls cascading into it. And heads up! You’ll must get a allow upfront to do that hike, because it’s a highly regarded spot.
• Glenwood Caverns Journey Park: This isn’t your typical amusement park! Glenwood Caverns is situated on high of a mountain and affords a mixture of cave excursions, thrill rides, and beautiful views. You possibly can take a guided tour by the caves to see some unimaginable formations. Afterwards, you may hop on a curler coaster that actually hangs off the sting of the mountain. The gondola experience as much as the park alone is well worth the journey, with panoramic views of your entire valley.
• Glenwood Canyon: When you’re within the temper for a scenic drive, Glenwood Canyon is completely stunning. 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 may cease and take within the surroundings. You may also hop on the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path, a paved path that runs alongside the river and is ideal for a peaceable stroll or bike experience.
• Downtown Glenwood Springs: Right here you’ll discover a mixture of native retailers, cafes, and eating places. Cease by Rifle Falls State Park for a brief detour. It’s a little bit out of city however affords a cool triple waterfall that’s well worth the journey. On the town, Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse is a superb spot for dinner if you happen to’re within the temper for an excellent steak.

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

Essentially the most easy manner again to Denver is to hop on I-70 East. This route takes you straight by Glenwood Canyon once more, so that you’ll get to take pleasure in these unimaginable canyon views another time.

If you wish to squeeze in a bit extra journey, take into account taking Independence Move again towards Denver. This route is just obtainable within the hotter months (normally late Could by October) and is without doubt one of the most scenic drives in Colorado.

You’ll cross by the beautiful Independence Move after which join with US-24. Ultimately, 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 properly price it.

Earlier than you pack up and begin your Colorado journey, listed below are just a few necessary issues to contemplate to make your journey easy and pleasurable.

Beginning your Colorado highway journey is all about selecting the best spot. Denver is the go-to for most individuals—it’s the state capital, has a significant airport, and affords quick access to the Rockies. When you’re nearer to the south, Colorado Springs is a superb various.

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

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

Selecting the very best time in your highway journey relies on what you need to expertise:

• Spring (April to June): Nice for wildflowers and avoiding summer season crowds, however anticipate unpredictable climate—pack layers!
• Summer season (July to September): Peak season with heat climate, open trails, and festivals. Good for out of doors actions however anticipate 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): Preferrred 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:

When you’ve obtained a little bit further time and need to discover extra of what Colorado has to supply, listed below are just a few incredible spots so as to add to your itinerary:

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

• Day 1: Denver: Discover town’s high points of interest like Union Station, the Denver Artwork Museum, and Pink Rocks Park. Take pleasure in dinner at one of many fashionable downtown spots.
• Day 2: Boulder: Hike in Chautauqua Park, stroll Pearl Avenue, and go to the Celestial Seasonings Tea Manufacturing unit.
• Day 3: Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park: Drive Path Ridge Street, 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 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 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: Trip the Durango & Silverton Slender 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 cushty, fuel-efficient automobile is ideal for this journey. A midsize automobile will deal with a lot of the roads simply nice, however if you happen to plan to discover off-the-beaten-path areas or go to in winter, a small SUV with all-wheel drive is likely to be a more sensible choice.

Sure, there are just a few 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 need to test in case your rental automobile features a toll fee choice or pay on-line afterward.

Whilst you can go to main cities like Denver and Colorado Springs utilizing public transportation, having a automobile is one of the best ways to totally expertise Colorado’s various landscapes and attain extra distant areas. If driving isn’t an choice, take into account becoming a member of guided excursions for particular areas, however understand that a automobile affords essentially the most flexibility and comfort.

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