The Rocky Mountain National Park is a paradise for outdoor adventurers with its incredible landscape, wildlife, and over 350 miles of trails to explore. It is a perfect destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. Make sure to visit the 14,259-foot Longs Peak and take the Trail Ridge Road scenic drive to enjoy spectacular views and alpine tundra.
The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is the highest suspension bridge in America with stunning views of the Arkansas River and surrounding mountains. You can experience thrill activities such as ziplining, aerial gondola rides, and the Skycoaster. The park also features an animal sanctuary, a carousel, and the Plaza Theatre.
Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts the best-preserved cliff dwellings and archaeological sites of the Ancestral Pueblo people. You can explore the ancient cliff dwellings, take ranger-led tours, and experience the park's natural beauty through hiking and biking trails.
Garden of the Gods is a unique geological wonder with towering sandstone rock formations dating back millions of years. You can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the park's 21 miles of trails and marvel at the red rock formations, scenic vistas, and abundant wildlife. The park also offers rock climbing and guided nature walks.
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting in the Royal Gorge section of the Arkansas River, with its Class IV rapids and breathtaking scenery. You can choose from half-day to full-day guided tours that cater to all levels of rafting experience. The tours usually include a picnic lunch and wetsuit and gear rental.
Driving is the best way to get around Colorado, and renting a car is recommended as public transportation is scarce, especially in some rural areas. The estimated total distance covered in this itinerary is around 865 miles, and the estimated total driving time is 16 hours. Gas prices in Colorado are around $3 per gallon. Car rental rates depend on the type of car and the rental company and can start from $30 per day for an economy car.
If you have more time, you can add other adventure activities such as hiking in the Maroon Bells or Pikes Peak, skiing in Aspen or Vail, or hot air ballooning in Steamboat Springs. If you have fewer days, you can skip one or more places or modify the itinerary to fit your preferences. Remember to pack sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and clothing layers as the weather can change quickly in most parts of Colorado.
The Denver International Airport (DEN) is the main airport serving Colorado and one of the busiest airports in the US. It is located around 25 miles (40 km) northeast of downtown Denver and offers many transport options, including car rentals, taxis, and shuttle services. Other major airports are the Colorado Springs Airport (COS) in Colorado Springs and the Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) in Grand Junction.