Scenic One-Day Road Trip from Denver, Colorado to Rocky Mountain National Park

Day 1: Adventure Awaits

Denver, Colorado

7:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze an A.M. Eatery

Start your day off right with the delicious pancakes and a unique breakfast menu at this local favourite.
Head northwest for about 10 minutes to get on US-36.
USD25, 1 hour

8:00AM

Depart for Estes Park

Leave Denver to enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes towards Estes Park.
Follow US-36 directly to Estes Park.
USD0, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Explore Estes Park

Take some time to stroll through the charming downtown area with its quaint shops and bustling atmosphere.
Park in central Estes Park for easy walking access.
USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

Enter the park to immerse yourself in stunning mountain views, wildlife encounters, and a variety of hiking trails.
Take the Bear Lake Road to enter the park.
USD30 (National Park Entry Fee), Half a day

1:00PM

Lunch at the Estes Park Brewery

Savour a local craft beer paired with hearty sandwiches and burgers while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.
Drive back into Estes Park from the park entrance.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Continue Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park

Choose an easy trail like the Bear Lake Trail for stunning scenery or test your skills on a more challenging hike.
Return to the park's Bear Lake area for trail access.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Scenic Drive through the Park

Drive along the Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, for breathtaking views.
Follow Trail Ridge Road as it loops through the park.
USD0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return to Denver

Head back to Denver, reflecting on a day of outdoor adventure and stunning natural beauty.
Take US-36 back toward Denver.
USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Buckhorn Exchange

Finish your day with a delicious meal at this historic restaurant known for its steak and wild game options.
Drive to The Buckhorn Exchange, located in the centre of Denver.
USD50, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Evening Stroll at Denver’s Riverwalk

End your day with a peaceful stroll along the beautiful Riverwalk, soaking in the night lights of the city.
Head to the downtown Riverwalk area.
USD0, 1 hour
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