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Nature Escape: 3-Day Rocky Mountain Adventure

Viewed by 73 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze an A.M. Eatery

Start your day with delicious pancakes and creative egg dishes at this local favorite in Denver.
Driving from hotel to the restaurant.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Denver Botanic Gardens

Wander through the serene landscapes, filled with diverse plant species and lovely walking paths.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

11:15AM

Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park

Enjoy the scenic 1.5-hour drive to the national park, where breathtaking views await.
Follow US Highway 36.
Cost of gas USD 10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Estes Park Brewery

Refuel with a hearty burger or fresh salad accompanied by a local craft beer at this cozy brewery.
15-minute drive from the park entrance.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Bear Lake Trail

Hike this easy and stunning 0.6-mile loop to witness magnificent views of Bear Lake and its surrounding peaks.
15-minute drive to Bear Lake Trailhead.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Alberta Falls

Enjoy a 1.6-mile round trip hike to witness the beautiful 30-foot waterfall surrounded by wildflowers.
Continue from Bear Lake Trail.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Check into Lodging

Unwind at a cozy lodge or cabin in Estes Park, with stunning nature views.
Drive back to Estes Park accommodations.
Varying Rates, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cliff House Lodge

Savor a delightful dinner with Colorado-inspired dishes and lovely mountain views.
5-minute drive from your lodging.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Denver

Day 2: Scenic Drives & Hiking

Estes Park, Colorado

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Egg of Estes

Enjoy a classic breakfast with omelets and thick pancakes to gear up for the day.
5-minute drive.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Trail Ridge Road

Take one of the highest paved roads in North America for stunning alpine scenery.
Drive directly to Trail Ridge Road entrance.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Trail Ridge Road Scenic Drive

Stop at various viewpoints along the way, including Forest Canyon Overlook and the Alpine Visitor Center.
Follow Trail Ridge Road.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Picnic at Alpine Visitor Center

Enjoy a prepared picnic lunch with breathtaking views surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Visit the visitor center before your picnic.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Tundra Communities Trail

Hike the easy 1-mile loop trail that introduces you to the unique alpine ecosystem.
Access Trailhead near the Alpine Visitor Center.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Drive to the Moraine Park Area

Head down Trail Ridge Road towards Moraine Park for diverse wildlife spotting.
Continue on Trail Ridge Road, follow signs.
Free, 30 minutes

3:30PM

Moraine Park Discovery Center

Explore exhibits about the park’s wildlife and geology before venturing outdoors.
Walking distance from parking area.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Hike the Moraine Park Loop

Enjoy a 1-mile loop trail offering serene views of the valley, excellent for wildlife spotting.
Access from the Discovery Center parking.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Peak Bistro & Brewery

Relax with delicious pizza and craft beers after a day of hiking and exploration.
15-minute drive back to Estes Park.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Estes Park

Day 3: Finale at Grand Lake

Grand Lake, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Wild Rose Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast including homemade pastries and fresh coffee.
Drive 30 minutes to Grand Lake.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Grand Lake

Stroll along the picturesque lakeside path surrounded by majestic mountains.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hike the East Inlet Trail

Embark on a scenic hike through lush forests leading to beautiful views of the inlet and the mountains.
Drive to the East Inlet Trailhead (about 20 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Grand Lake Lodge

Enjoy a delightful meal with stunning views of Grand Lake and the mountains beyond.
Drive back to Grand Lake town.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Rocky Mountain National Park East Entrance

Experience the park's diverse ecosystems and enjoy short walks from the parking area.
Drive to the East entrance (about 25 minutes).
USD 10 for park entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive back to Denver

Admire the scenic views on the return route to Denver, reflecting on a wonderful nature escape.
Follow US Highway 34 back to Denver.
Cost of gas USD 15, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Buckhorn Exchange

Indulge in a unique dining experience with wild game and steak in a historic setting.
Drive to the restaurant in Denver.
USD 50, 2 hours

8:30PM

Return Rental Car and Depart

Wrap up your adventure by returning your rental car and heading to the airport for your flight home.
Drive to Denver International Airport.
Varying Rates, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Grand Lake
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