Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 53 travelers

7-Day Adventure Itinerary in Colorado

Sunday, October 8: Arrive in Denver

Begin your adventure in the picturesque city of Denver. In the morning, explore the lively Union Station area with its vibrant shops and cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science to learn about Colorado's natural wonders. As the evening approaches, head to Larimer Square for a taste of Denver's culinary delights.

  • Union Station: $0, 2 hours
  • Denver Museum of Nature & Science: $20, 3 hours
  • Larimer Square: Cost varies, 2 hours
Monday, October 9: Rocky Mountain National Park

Embark on a thrilling day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. Start your morning by driving to the park and take in the breathtaking views along Trail Ridge Road. Spend your afternoon hiking to iconic spots like Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. As the day ends, enjoy a sunset picnic at Moraine Park.

  • Rocky Mountain National Park entrance fee: $25 per vehicle, 8 hours
  • Dream Lake hike: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Emerald Lake hike: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Moraine Park: $0, 1 hour
Tuesday, October 10: Mesa Verde National Park

Explore the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park. Begin your day with a guided tour of Cliff Palace, Balcony House, or Long House in the morning. In the afternoon, hike the Petroglyph Point Trail and admire the Native American rock art. As the sun sets, capture the stunning views from Park Point.

  • Mesa Verde National Park entrance fee: $30, 8 hours
  • Cliff Palace tour: $5, 1 hour
  • Petroglyph Point Trail: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Park Point: $0, 1 hour
Wednesday, October 11: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Experience the surreal beauty of Great Sand Dunes National Park. Start your day by hiking to the top of the tallest sand dune, Star Dune, for panoramic views. In the afternoon, rent sandboards or sleds to glide down the dunes. As the evening sets in, relax at the nearby Zapata Falls.

  • Great Sand Dunes National Park entrance fee: $25, 8 hours
  • Hike to Star Dune: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Sandboard or sled rental: $20, 2 hours
  • Zapata Falls: $0, 1 hour
Thursday, October 12: Garden of the Gods

Marvel at the stunning rock formations in Garden of the Gods. Start your day with a morning hike in the park, exploring trails like the Gateway Trail and Siamese Twins Trail. In the afternoon, rock climb or boulder among the red rocks. As the day comes to an end, catch the sunset at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center.

  • Garden of the Gods: $0, 6-8 hours
  • Rock climbing or bouldering: $25 (equipment rental), 2-3 hours
  • Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center: $10, 1 hour
Friday, October 13: Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Experience the thrill of walking across the highest suspension bridge in the United States at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Start your day with a scenic drive to the park. In the morning, stroll across the bridge and take in the breathtaking views of the gorge. In the afternoon, ride the Royal Rush Skycoaster for an adrenaline rush. As the evening approaches, enjoy a relaxing dinner at the on-site restaurant.

  • Royal Gorge Bridge and Park admission: $27, 6 hours
  • Royal Rush Skycoaster: $30, 1 hour
  • Dinner at the on-site restaurant: Cost varies, 1 hour
Saturday, October 14: Colorado Springs

End your adventure in Colorado Springs, where outdoor adventure meets urban charm. In the morning, hike to the summit of Pikes Peak or take the Cog Railway for a scenic journey. In the afternoon, visit the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum to learn about the history of Olympic athletes. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant downtown area for shopping and dining.

  • Pikes Peak admission: $15, 6-8 hours
  • Cog Railway: $58, 3 hours
  • U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: $25, 2 hours
  • Downtown Colorado Springs: Cost varies, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, Colorado offers numerous hidden gems and local favorites. Consider off-roading in the rugged trails of Taylor Park, hiking the challenging Manitou Incline, or exploring the lesser-known Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts will love the adrenaline-pumping activities like white-water rafting in the Arkansas River or zip-lining through the treetops in Denver's Confluence Park.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Colorado adventure here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version