Rocky Mountain & Sand Dunes 4-Day Nature Relaxation Itinerary

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Day 1: Rocky Mountain Exploration

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA

8:00AM

Arrive at Rocky Mountain National Park

Start your day with a scenic drive through Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the US, offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.
Trail Ridge Road is accessible by car from the park entrance and takes about 2 hours to drive without stops.
Park entrance fee: $25 per vehicle, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Smokin' Dave's BBQ & Taphouse

Enjoy some delicious BBQ ribs and pulled pork sandwiches at this local favorite restaurant in Estes Park.
Drive to Estes Park from Trail Ridge Road, approximately 1 hour drive.
$$, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking at Bear Lake

Embark on a serene hike around the picturesque Bear Lake, surrounded by lush forests and stunning mountain views.
Bear Lake Trailhead is a short drive from Estes Park, about 20 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Dunraven Inn

Indulge in a cozy dinner at Dunraven Inn, known for its delicious Italian cuisine and charming ambiance.
Head back to Estes Park for dinner, approximately 30 minutes drive from Bear Lake.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 2: Rocky Mountain Adventure

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA

9:00AM

Rock Climbing at Lumpy Ridge

Experience the thrill of rock climbing at Lumpy Ridge, a popular spot for climbers of all levels amidst stunning rock formations.
Drive to Lumpy Ridge Trailhead from your accommodation, about 15 minutes away.
Equipment rental: $$, 3 hours

12:00PM

Picnic at Gem Lake

Enjoy a relaxing picnic at Gem Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and a tranquil alpine lake.
Hike to Gem Lake from Lumpy Ridge Trailhead, approximately 1.5 hours round trip.
Picnic supplies: $, 2 hours

3:00PM

Wildlife Viewing at Moraine Park

Drive to Moraine Park for a chance to spot elk, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat against the stunning backdrop of the Rockies.
Moraine Park is a short drive from Gem Lake, approximately 30 minutes away.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Cascades Restaurant

Savor a gourmet dinner at Cascades Restaurant, offering a fine dining experience with a view of the mountains.
Head back to Estes Park for dinner, approximately 30 minutes drive from Moraine Park.
$$$$, 2 hours
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Day 3: Sand Dunes Serenity

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado, USA

9:00AM

Arrive at Great Sand Dunes National Park

Start your day by exploring the towering sand dunes and the unique ecosystem of the park, with views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the background.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is accessible by car and takes about 4.5 hours to drive from Rocky Mountain National Park.
Park entrance fee: $25 per vehicle, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Oasis Restaurant

Enjoy a casual lunch at Oasis Restaurant near the park, known for its delicious burgers and sandwiches.
Drive to Oasis Restaurant from the park entrance, approximately 15 minutes away.
$$, 1 hour

2:00PM

Medano Creek Relaxation

Spend the afternoon relaxing by Medano Creek, a seasonal stream near the sand dunes, perfect for wading and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Drive to Medano Creek from Oasis Restaurant, approximately 20 minutes away.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at San Luis Valley Pizza Co.

Feast on delicious wood-fired pizzas at San Luis Valley Pizza Co., a local favorite that offers a variety of toppings and flavors.
Head back to the nearby town for dinner, approximately 30 minutes drive from Medano Creek.
$$, 2 hours
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Day 4: Sand Dunes Adventure

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado, USA

9:00AM

Sandboarding on the Dunes

Experience the thrill of sandboarding on the sandy slopes of the dunes, with equipment available for rent locally.
Rent sandboarding equipment near the park entrance, a short drive from your accommodation.
Equipment rental: $$, 3 hours

12:00PM

Picnic at Zapata Falls

Hike to Zapata Falls for a refreshing picnic near a stunning waterfall, hidden within a rocky canyon.
Drive to Zapata Falls Trailhead from the dunes area, approximately 30 minutes away.
Picnic supplies: $, 2 hours

3:00PM

Star Gazing at night

Savor the beauty of the night sky with a session of stargazing at the dunes, away from city lights for a clear view of the stars.
Stay near the dunes area for a night-time experience.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Green Spot

Enjoy a vegetarian-friendly dinner at The Green Spot, offering a variety of plant-based dishes with a focus on sustainability.
Head back to the nearby town for dinner, approximately 30 minutes drive from the dunes area.
$$, 2 hours
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Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed