The Perfect Colorado Road Trip
Dramatic mountain peaks, winding alpine roads, cascading waterfalls, breathtaking lakes, towering canyons and beautiful golden foliage. The centennial state has so much to offer it’s unbelievable! If you’re thinking about embarking on a Colorado road trip, read on to find out more!
Our 7-day Colorado road trip was our first trip together! We lived in Whistler and spent every day in the mountains but it wasn’t long before we were due to embark on our separate adventures to Central America.
We were eager to see some more spectacular mountain scenery before we left this side of the world and what better place than Colorado with the magnificent Rocky Mountains?!
From the snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes of the Rocky Mountain National Park to the dramatic red rock formations of the Garden of the Gods, Colorado has some of the most epic mountain scenery in the world!
We’d have loved to have had more than a week to explore; this state just keeps on giving. Nevertheless, during our week, we saw so many jaw-dropping landscapes and it gave us a great taster of what the centennial state is all about. So, read on to find out more about your Colorado road trip!
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Day 1 - Denver
Our Colorado road trip starts and ends in Denver, the lively state capital.
With a vibrant arts scene, numerous breweries and quirky cafes, Denver is a lively and trendy city and with its close proximity to the Rocky Mountain National Park, adventure is right on your doorstep!
Before heading straight for the mountains, however, there are some great things to do in Denver to give you a taste of what this city has to offer.
You could spend days eating and drinking your way around the city!
Denver’s dining scene is extremely forward-thinking and serves cuisines from the four corners of the world in ways you couldn’t imagine. Whatever you fancy and more you’ll be able to find.
The Mile High City is also littered with rooftops and lush green patios with views over the skyline and out to the Rocky Mountains. You couldn’t ask for a better location to sample some delicious food.
One of the top rooftops in Denver for sunset is The Woods, located in The Source Hotel. Sipping on craft cocktails and New Belgium Brews as you soak up one of the best views in Denver makes this one of the most popular spots in the city so a booking is recommended.
If you’re not sure what you’re craving, or you’re in a group and you all fancy something different, head to Avanti; a large diverse food hall housed in modified shipping containers each with its own dining option. There’s also a large rooftop deck with an amazing view of the downtown Denver skyline.
One of Denver’s best patios is Improper City where you can start your day at the coffee bar and end it after work in the huge taproom. The patio has some very impressive graffiti art and there’s also games and food trucks.
Renowned for its craft beer scene, one of the best things to do in Denver is a brewery walking tour. You’ll visit some of Denver’s most popular neighbourhoods, hear about the craft beer scene and learn how the unique handcrafted ales and lagers are made as well as try a selection.
As well as the many dining options to tick off, one of the top things to do in Denver is to visit the Red Rocks Amphitheatre!
Around various areas of Colorado, you’ll stumble across very impressive gigantic rock formations. The Red Rock Amphitheatre is an awesome concert venue that’s built into some of these rocks!
Check out their schedule here to see if there’s anyone you fancy seeing. If not, it’s still a very impressive sight to see and surrounding it are numerous hiking and biking trails.
Day 2 - Rocky Mountain National Park
We set off early, eager to get into the Rockies! From Denver, it’s an hour and a half to Estes Park; the closest town to the National Park with hotels and nearby camping options.
We set up camp in Moraine Park Campground and from here there are a vast amount of walking trails in the park varying in length and difficulty.
We’d recommend the Cub Lake Trail Loop as a nice and relaxing hike which starts and ends at the campsite. Unfortunately, a wildfire in 2012 has left much of the area damaged but there’s an abundance of wildlife to keep your eyes peeled for including, elk, moose and deer.
This hike is 7.7km and with not much elevation gain is fairly easy. The lake is surrounded by a thick pine forest and in the summer the surface is covered with lily pads!
Day 3 - Rocky Mountain National Park
Emerald Lake
Today, you’re going to be doing one of the most popular hikes in the Rocky Mountain National Park so get up early!
Starting at Bear Lake, the trail will lead you past the gorgeous Nymph and Dream Lakes and onto the jaw-dropping Emerald Lake nestled below jagged mountain peaks.
The hike is 5.6 kilometres with an elevation gain of 650 feet so it’s fairly easy but it passes some absolutely stunning scenery!
Our Top Tip: this is a very popular hike due to its ease so get here early. It may also be worth using the free park shuttle to reach the trailhead during peak season.
Trail Ridge Road
After hiking up to Emerald Lake, you’re going to drive onto Glenwood Springs over the Trail Ridge Road.
Our Top Tip: if you’re here in spring or autumn, check the conditions as if there’s a lot of snow, the road will be closed.
Driving the Trail Ridge Road was a real highlight of our Colorado Road Trip! Spanning 77 kilometres from Estes Park on the east to Grand Lake on the west, you want to set aside a few hours for this spectacular drive.
No one’s driving quickly, everyone’s taking in their surroundings.
Within just five minutes, we’d seen moose, elk, deer, and a coyote! This road is something really special!
The road reaches more than 12,000 feet elevation offering incredible views from high alpine tundra to towering mountain peaks. There are various turnouts you can stop to have a break and take some photos.
The Alpine Visitor Centre is located about halfway with a cafe overlooking the mountains.
Depending on the time of year, you may experience extreme weather changes. We started off the drive in shorts and t-shirts after our sunny hike and at the top, we were in a snowstorm!
Once you reach the end of the Trail Ridge Road, continue onto Glenwood Springs.
Day 4 - Glenwood Springs and Aspen
Hanging Lake
Today you’re going to visit one of the most popular and beautiful places in Colorado!
The hike to Hanging Lake is quite steep and rocky but at only 1.9 kilometres it doesn’t take long. There are also plenty of places to stop for a rest with incredible views through Glenwood Canyon and the Colorado River flowing through it.
Hanging Lake is set in the heart of Glenwood Canyon in the White River National Forest. It’s easy to see why it’s one of Colorado’s most popular hikes with its stunning scenery, gentle waterfalls and emerald waters.
In 2011, it was named a National Natural Landmark!
Our Top Tip: you need a permit to enter Hanging Lake and in peak season you must park at the Welcome Centre and use the shuttles. You can purchase permits here.
Maroon Bells
Leave Glenwood Springs around lunch and make your way to Aspen. Your next stop on your Colorado road trip is the most photographed peaks in North America; Maroon Bells!
Explore this glacial valley surrounded by the 14,000 feet peaks of Maroon Bells. On a calm day, Maroon Lake will leave you hypnotised with its wildflower fields and the mirror images of the snow-capped peaks of Maroon Bells.
If you’re here in the fall, you’ll be rewarded with the incredible golden fall foliage; the dreamiest time of year to visit!
Our Top Tip: there’s limited accessibility to Maroon Bells by car but it’s super easy to take the bus. Park at the Aspen Highlands Ski Area and here you can purchase a bus ticket. Buses run from 8am to 5pm from mid-June to early October.
Independence Pass
Your campsite this evening is at Twin Lakes, an hour’s drive from Aspen.
Yet another one of Colorado’s stunning drives is the Independence Pass. This is part of Highway 82 and passes over the continental divide between Aspen and Leadville.
Like the Trail Ridge Road, this is a seasonal road closing late October/early November, so plan your trip accordingly.
If you’re lucky enough to have longer than a week for your Colorado road trip, spend some time in this area. There’s an abundance of hiking, biking and visiting ghost towns to do!
The summit of the continental divide is 12,095 feet above sea level and 51 kilometres long. There are many places to stop en route to take photos of the scenic views. Driving this road in the fall allows you to experience incredible golden colours!
Our Top Tip: if you’re doing your Colorado road trip after mid-September, some campsites is lesser-known areas may all be closed for the season. We found this to be the case at Twin Lakes.
Luckily we found a day site next to the lake to pitch our tent on. Not sure if this is allowed but it was getting dark, the weather was horrendous and there was no one around.
Day 5 - Twin Lakes and Colorado Springs
Twin Lakes
This morning was our favourite morning on our Colorado road trip.
We woke up absolutely freezing, got out of the tent and saw we were only just below the snow line! It was such a beautiful and peaceful location so on went the woollies and we made a cup of tea to warm us up!
If the campsites aren’t closed when you visit, we recommend staying at Lakeview Campground. Although it was closed, we could still see the incredible views over the lakes from up here.
Continue on to Mt Elbert Forebay; a reservoir offering excellent fishing and stunning views!
Your next stop on your road trip is Colorado Springs; approximately 2 hours from Twin Lakes.
Colorado Springs – Cave of the Winds
On your way to Colorado Springs, stop at the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park. Ours was a bit of a spontaneous visit as we didn’t know what it was but saw signs for it.
The view is unreal!
There’s a cafe with a balcony overlooking the mountains where you can soak up the magnificent landscape.
If you fancy some adrenaline-fuelled activities, there are also cave tours, zip-lining, virtual reality theatre, wind walker challenge course, the terror-dactyl, the bat-a-pult and via Ferrata. Have a look here for more info.
Colorado Springs – The Broadmoor Seven Falls
This afternoon, it’s time to explore the Broadmoor Seven Falls. The natural beauty of these falls is found in South Cheyenne Canyon and they’re the only waterfall in Colorado to make National Geographic’s list of international waterfalls!
The approach to the waterfall is so beautiful it’s been nicknamed ‘the grandest mile of scenery in Colorado’.
The natural box canyon that creates the falls’ magnificent drop is surrounded by the Pillars of Hercules rising 900 feet above the ground.
There aren’t actually seven waterfalls. The name refers to the falls plunging 181 feet in seven leaps. They can either be viewed from the top of the 224 stairs to its left or from the Eagle’s Nest viewing platform accessed by an elevator.
This area is so much more than a waterfall. Climb the stairs to the side of the falls and you’ll find hiking trails and stunning views over the canyon. For those looking for a thrill, check out the zip-lining!
You’ll need to purchase a ticket for the falls which can be done at the gate. Adults are $12 (over 13) and children are $7. Park at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road and take the shuttle. Both are complimentary.
Day 6 - Colorado Springs and Denver
Garden of the Gods
Your main plan today is to visit one of Colorado’s most amazing natural wonders; the Garden of the Gods.
This registered National Natural Landmark is one of a kind and rewards visitors with towering sandstone rock formations protruding through the earth. This is an absolute must-see on your Colorado road trip!
This geological wonder also has an incredible backdrop of Pikes Peak.
Around the park are 24 kilometres of hiking trails, biking trails, horse-riding, segway and jeep tours and rock climbing. It’s easy to spend a full day here and we wouldn’t recommend anything less than half a day.
Hikes vary in length and difficulty and you can grab a free map from the Visitor Centre.
The Visitor Centre in itself is an exciting attraction!
With interactive exhibits and the Geo-Trekker theatre experience, you can learn how the incredible red rock formations got there. As if this place couldn’t get any better, the park and the trails are all completely free!!
Our Top Tip: the trickiest aspect of visiting the Garden of the Gods is parking. It gets very busy quite early so you may have to drive around the car park a few times until you find a space.
Alternatively, during peak season, make use of the free shuttles. Park at the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site and the shuttle operates a four-stop loop around the park.
Denver
Mid-afternoon, it’s time to drive the hour back to Denver where your Colorado road trip began.
After your active week, a cocktail in one of the Mile High City bars is well deserved. The Hyatt Regency at the Colorado Convention Centre is a great option and offers fantastic views over the city and out to the Rocky Mountains.
Day 7 - Depart
This morning your Colorado road trip unfortunately comes to an end. Drop your car off and head back to the airport for your onward flight.
To Know Before You Go
What currency do I need for my Colorado road trip?
Colorado uses the American dollar. At the time of writing 1 USD is 0.83 GBP.
Do I need a visa?
As a UK passport holder, you are required to have an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) visa waiver. This entitles us to 90 days in the US for tourism.
What plug do I need?
In the US there are 2 types of plugs. Type A with two flat parallel pins and type B with two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. The US also operates on a 120V voltage. In the UK it’s 230V so you may need a voltage converter for your electricals.
When is the best time to go to Colorado?
The best time for this Colorado road trip is between June and October when the weather is warmer and the snow has melted. There’s plenty of skiing and winter activities from December to April if that’s more your thing.
We hope this post has been helpful in helping you plan your Colorado road trip. If there’s any other information you’d like, feel free to drop us a comment or contact us.