Embarking on a road trip through Colorado’s stunning national parks is a fantastic way to experience the state's diverse landscapes and natural beauty. Here’s a comprehensive guide to our journey, covering the highlights of each destination and tips for making the most of your visit.
Days 1-3: Colorado Road Trip - Rocky Mountain National Park
Where to Stay:
Wildwood Inn, Estes Park
Murphy's River Lodge
Holiday Inn Estes Park
Start your Colorado adventure at Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). Estes park's location is perfect for accessing the park’s attractions and immersing yourself in nature.
What to Do:
Trail Ridge Road: Drive along this scenic route, which is one of the highest paved roads in North America. The views are spectacular, with several pullouts for photo opportunities and short hikes.
Bear Lake: A popular starting point for many hikes, Bear Lake offers stunning views and easy access to trails such as the Emerald Lake Trail and Alberta Falls.
Alpine Visitor Center: Visit this high-altitude center for exhibits on the park’s alpine environment and incredible panoramic views.
For a more detailed guide on our activities and experiences in Rocky Mountain National Park, check out our dedicated post here.
Where to Stay:
Fairfield Inn & Suites
Holiday Inn Express
Camp: Montrose KOA
On Day 4, travel to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, staying at the Montrose KOA or a nearby hotel. This park is renowned for its dramatic and steep canyon walls, offering a different perspective on Colorado’s natural beauty.
Stargazing at Black Canyon:
The park is an International Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. Venture into the park at night to witness the incredible night sky—a truly memorable experience.
Daytime Exploration:
Enter the park to explore the canyon’s lookout points. Drive through and stop at various viewpoints such as the South Rim Drive and the Painted Wall.
Tips:
Safety First: The canyon’s sheer cliffs can be daunting, so keep a close eye on children and pets.
Visitor Center: Stop by the visitor center for maps, advice on trails, and information about the park's unique geology.
Day 6: Travel to Mesa Verde National Park
Scenic Drive through Telluride:
The drive from Montrose to Mesa Verde National Park will be one of the highlights of your trip. The route through Telluride is particularly scenic, offering some of the most breathtaking views of the entire journey.
Days 6-8: Mesa Verde National Park
Where to Stay:
Far View Lodge
Retro Inn at Mesa Verde
Hampton Inn Mesa Verde
Camp: Mesa Verde RV Resort
Exploring Mesa Verde:
We spent Day 6 exploring Mesa Verde National Park, known for its ancient cliff dwellings and archaeological significance. Key sites include:
Cliff Palace: The largest cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde, offering guided tours that provide insight into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.
Balcony House: A more adventurous tour that includes a ladder climb and a narrow tunnel.
Day Trip to Hovenweep and Canyons of the Ancients:
On Day 7, we took a day trip to Hovenweep National Monument and Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. If you have an off-road vehicle, the drive to see ancient hieroglyphics is highly recommended. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region and are less crowded than Mesa Verde.
Days 8-9: Great Sand Dunes National Park
Where to Stay:
Rustic Rook Resort
Great Sand Dunes Lodge
Camp: Zapata Falls or Boondock in the shade of Blanca Peak
Exploring the Dunes:
On Day 8, we visited Great Sand Dunes National Park, known for its impressive sand dunes set against a backdrop of mountains. We spent the afternoon exploring the dunes and even boondocked in the desert. Taking a jeep trail away from the main parking lot allowed us to find a secluded spot where we could let our dogs run free and enjoy the solitude.
Activities:
Sandboarding/Sledding: Rent a sandboard or sled from a nearby shop and experience the thrill of sliding down the dunes.
Medano Creek: Depending on the time of year, you might be able to wade or play in the creek that runs along the base of the dunes.
Days 9-12: Colorado Springs
Where to Stay:
Cheyenne Mountain Resort
The Mining Exchange
Quality Inn and Suites Garden of the Gods
Best Western Plus Executive Residency Fillmore Inn
Camp: Garden of the Gods RV Resort
Must-See Attractions:
While not a national park, a trip to Colorado Springs wouldn’t be complete without visiting:
Pikes Peak: Drive or take the cog railway to the summit of Pikes Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Garden of the Gods: Explore this public park known for its stunning red rock formations. There are numerous hiking trails and photo opportunities throughout the park.
Final Thoughts:
This Colorado road trip offers a diverse range of experiences, from the towering peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park to the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde. Each destination provides unique opportunities for exploration and adventure, making this journey one to remember.
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