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14-Day Colorado Adventure: National Parks, Extreme Activities & Nature

Viewed by 68 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Denver

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze

Kickstart your adventure with a delicious breakfast featuring their famous pancake flights.
Head to Snooze in downtown Denver.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Denver Botanic Gardens

Wander through the beautiful landscapes of the Denver Botanic Gardens, enjoying the array of plants and art installations.
Drive 10 minutes from Snooze.
USD15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Forest Room 5

Relax and enjoy a unique lunch experience surrounded by nature-inspired decor and a great menu.
5-minute drive from the gardens.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Red Rocks Park

Explore the stunning rock formations and trails at Red Rocks Park, a perfect introduction to Colorado’s landscape.
Drive 30 minutes from lunch.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Buckhorn Exchange

Enjoy dinner at Denver’s oldest restaurant, famous for its game meats.
Drive 30 minutes back to Denver.
USD50, 2 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll at Union Station

End your day with a leisurely stroll at Union Station, enjoying the ambiance and possibly some live music.
5-minute drive or 10-minute walk.
Free, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Denver

Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park, Colorado

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Egg of Estes

Fuel up with hearty breakfast options at this cozy Estes Park spot.
Drive 1.5 hours to Estes Park.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bear Lake Hike

Start with an adrenaline-pumping hike around Bear Lake, taking in breathtaking views of the mountains.
5-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The View Restaurant

Dine with a spectacular view of the mountains and great American cuisine.
Drive 30 minutes into the park.
USD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Rock Climbing at Lumpy Ridge

Experience a thrilling rock climbing session at the renowned Lumpy Ridge, suitable for various skill levels.
Arranged via local outdoor adventure companies, 20 minutes from lunch.
USD100 (guide fees may apply), 3.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ed’s Cantina & Grill

Enjoy hearty southwestern cuisine to replenish after your adventures.
Drive back to Estes Park.
USD25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Estes Park

Day 3: More Rocky Mountain Fun

Estes Park, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Donut Haus

Indulge in homemade donuts and coffee before another action-packed day.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Chasm Lake Hike

This hike offers magnificent views of Longs Peak and the surrounding landscapes.
Drive to the trailhead (30 minutes).
Free, 5 hours

3:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Chasm Lake

Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature after your hike.
Have a relaxing lunch at your hike spot.
USD15 (packed lunch), 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive through Trail Ridge Road

Experience the stunning views along one of the highest paved roads in North America.
Drive along the scenic route.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Rock Inn

Hike back and enjoy an upscale dinner at this romantic mountain inn.
Drive back to Estes Park.
USD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Estes Park

Day 4: Mountain Adventures

Breckenridge, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Moose

Savor breakfast burritos and coffee at this local hotspot before heading out.
Drive 1 hour to Breckenridge.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Rock Climbing at Breckenridge

Conquer thrilling climbing routes at local rock-climbing spots, guided for safety and support.
Arranged through local guides (near by).
USD100 (guide fees may apply), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Downstairs at Eric's

Refuel with a casual meal of burgers and beers with a vibrant atmosphere.
Short walk from the climbing area.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Scenic Chairlift Ride

Take in the mountain views with a scenic chairlift ride, an exhilarating experience.
Head to the nearest chairlift.
USD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Main Street Breckenridge

Stroll the charming streets, popping in and out of quaint shops and art galleries.
Walk along Main Street.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hearthstone Restaurant

Dine on fine American fare in a rustic setting with stunning views.
Short walk from Main Street.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Breckenridge

Day 5: Excitement in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado

7:30AM

Breakfast at Urban Egg

Grab a delicious breakfast with unique twists on traditional American dishes.
Drive 1.5 hours to Colorado Springs.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Garden of the Gods

Explore the stunning red rock formations, perfect for photography and light hiking.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Trading Post

Experience outdoor dining with fantastic views of the red rocks and casual menu.
Located within Garden of the Gods.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Rock Climbing at Garden of the Gods

Scale the iconic red rock formations with a guided rock-climbing session for all levels.
Arranged through local guides, available in the park.
USD100 (guide fees may apply), 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Margarita at PineCreek

End your day with delightful Southwestern cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Drive back to Colorado Springs.
USD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Colorado Springs

Day 6: Sand Dunes and Relaxation

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

7:00AM

Breakfast at Mountain View Restaurant

A basic but hearty breakfast to keep you energized for the day ahead.
Drive 2 hours to the park.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Great Sand Dunes

Spend the morning climbing the tallest sand dunes in North America.
Short drive into the park from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Picnic at the Dunes

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch while soaking in the unique landscape around you.
Set up at a scenic spot in the park.
USD15 (packed lunch), 1 hour

1:30PM

Sandboarding or Sledding

Experience an adrenaline rush while sandboarding or sledding down the dunes.
Equipment rentals available at the park entrance.
USD25 (rental included), 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Zapata Falls

End the day with a short hike to the beautiful Zapata Falls.
Drive to the falls trailhead (15 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Oasis Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with a mix of local and traditional cuisines.
Drive 30 minutes to Alamosa.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Great Sand Dunes National Park

Day 7: Scenic Drives and Relaxation

Alamosa, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Green Spot Café

Enjoy a fresh farm-to-table breakfast full of local flavors.
Walk from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

San Luis Valley Scenic Drive

Take a leisurely drive through the beautiful, scenic valleys surrounding Alamosa.
Start your drive from downtown Alamosa.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Barista's Bakery

Indulge in homemade pastries and sandwiches for a light lunch.
Return to Alamosa for lunch.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge

Explore the wildlife refuge and capture scenic views of diverse flora and fauna.
Drive 30 minutes west.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at a Local Brewery

Take a break and enjoy some locally brewed craft beers.
Return to Alamosa.
USD20, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Rib Crib

Dig into hearty barbecue after a relaxing day.
Watch for turns back to downtown.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Alamosa

Day 8: Charming Towns and Adventures

Durango, Colorado

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Farmhouse Café

Enjoy locally sourced breakfast ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
Drive 2.5 hours to Durango.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Experience a scenic train ride through the stunning mountains and forests.
Head to the train station.
USD75, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Noodle Company

Dig into delicious handcrafted noodles in a laid-back setting.
Walk to a nearby restaurant after the train ride.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Downtown Durango

Stroll through the historic downtown, checking out shops and local art galleries.
Walk around downtown Durango.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Steamworks Brewing Co.

Enjoy a lively atmosphere and great food, famous for its handcrafted beers.
Short walk from downtown shops.
USD35, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Durango

Day 9: Cultural Wonders

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Baker’s Bridge Café

Start your day with delicious baked goods and coffee.
Drive 1 hour to the park.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Mesa Verde National Park

Discover ancient cliff dwellings and the rich Native American history of the region.
Enter the park after breakfast.
USD25 (entry fee), 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Far View Lodge

Enjoy dining with impressive views and a menu that features local ingredients.
Located inside the park.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Self-Guided Tour of Cliff Dwellings

Take a tour of the cliff dwellings, an absolute must-see in the park.
Follow tour map from the visitor center.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Oaks Grill & Bar

Enjoy delicious grilled dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Drive back to Durango.
USD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mesa Verde National Park

Day 10: Scenic Exploration

Telluride, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Butcher & Baker Café

Indulge in farm-fresh ingredients and locally roasted coffee before a day of exploration.
Drive 1.5 hours to Telluride.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Take the Telluride Gondola

Experience breathtaking views while riding the gondola to the mountain peaks.
Head to the gondola station.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Exploration in Telluride

Explore the charming town of Telluride, visiting shops and local art galleries.
Walk around downtown.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Last Dollar Saloon

Savor delicious bar food and local beer in this historic spot.
Short walk from the main street.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hiking the Jud Wiebe Trail

Immerse yourself in nature with a scenic hike that provides stunning vistas.
Head to the Jud Wiebe Trailhead.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at 221 South Oak

Enjoy an upscale dining experience focusing on farm-to-table cuisine.
Head back into town.
USD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Telluride

Day 11: Wilderness Adventures

Aspen, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Aspen Kitchen

Start your day with seasonal ingredients in a beautiful setting overlooking the mountains.
Drive 1.5 hours to Aspen.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking Maroon Bells

Hike around the iconic Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed mountains in North America.
Drive to the Maroon Bells parking.
USD10 (parking fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Wild Fig

Take a break with Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Head back into downtown Aspen.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Rock Climbing near Aspen

Challenge yourself with a thrilling rock climbing session guided by local experts in the nearby climbing areas.
Arranged through local guides, accessible within 30 minutes.
USD100 (guide fees may apply), 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Casa Tua

Conclude the day with upscale Italian cuisine in a warm ambiance.
Head back to your hotel.
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Aspen

Day 12: Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet Coloradough

Indulge in famous donuts or breakfast burritos to fuel your day ahead.
Drive 1 hour to Glenwood Springs.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Explore the thrilling amusement park with zip-lining and a cave tour.
Head to the park entrance.
USD50, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Pullman

Relish in fresh seasonal fare in a trendy environment.
Short walk from the park.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Glenwood Springs Hot Springs Pool

Spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in the therapeutic hot springs.
Walk to the hot springs.
USD40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Deck

Enjoy a casual dinner overlooking the stunning scenery of Glenwood Springs.
Short walk nearby.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Glenwood Springs

Day 13: Final Adventures

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Denver Biscuit Company

Treat yourself to fluffy biscuits and hearty breakfast options to kickstart your final day.
Drive back to Denver (1 hour).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Rock Climbing at Clear Creek Canyon

Join a guided rock climbing session at the popular Clear Creek Canyon for an exhilarating experience.
Drive 30 minutes to the climbing site.
USD100 (guide fees may apply), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Source

Enjoy an array of artisanal foods and unique flavors in a vibrant marketplace setting.
Drive to The Source (20 minutes).
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore City Park

Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to enjoy the beautiful scenery in City Park.
Drive 10 minutes from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Coors Field

Catch a glimpse of the home of the Colorado Rockies (subject to availability).
Drive 15 minutes from City Park.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Rioja

Delight in an upscale dining experience with a Mediterranean-inspired menu to celebrate your adventure.
Short drive from Coors Field.
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Denver

Day 14: Farewell Colorado

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Root Down

Enjoy a farewell breakfast featuring fresh farm-to-table dishes and stunning views.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Final Shopping in Denver

Grab some last-minute souvenirs and gifts in the downtown area.
Walk around downtown shops.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sam’s No. 3

A casual diner-style lunch to fuel your departure.
Short drive from shopping area.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Coors Field

Catch a glimpse of the home of the Colorado Rockies (subject to availability).
Drive 15 minutes from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Departure

Head to the airport for your departure flight, taking with you the unforgettable memories of Colorado.
Drive to Denver International Airport.
Free, 45 minutes
Find Hotels in Denver
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