7-Day Family Friendly Adventure Road Trip to Mesa Verde National Park

Day 1: Explore Durango

Durango, Colorado

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast at The Diner, famous for its pancakes and breakfast burritos.
Located in downtown Durango, easily accessible by foot or vehicle.
USD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Experience a historic steam train ride through the breathtaking landscapes of the San Juan Mountains.
Board the train at the Durango Depot, just a short drive from the diner.
USD50 per person, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Steamworks Brewing Company

Enjoy delicious burgers and local brews at this family-friendly restaurant with patio seating.
Located a short walk from the train station.
USD70, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Animas River Trail

Take a leisurely walk or bike along the scenic Animas River Trail that runs through the heart of Durango.
An easy drive or walk from your lunch location.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at the Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn

Settle into your comfortable family accommodations after a day of exploration.
Located in the downtown area.
USD150, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at El Moro Spirits and Tavern

Savor locally sourced dishes and a family-friendly atmosphere before a good night’s rest.
Short drive from the hotel.
USD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Mesa Verde Exploration

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the hotel to fuel your adventurous day ahead.
Available in the hotel lobby.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Mesa Verde National Park

Hit the road to Mesa Verde, a 1-hour drive filled with gorgeous scenery.
Follow US-160 W towards Mancos.
Fuel Cost, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Visitor Center

Start by exploring the Visitor Center for park maps and educational exhibits about the cliff dwellers.
Follow the signs to the park entrance.
USD20 per vehicle, 1 hour

11:30AM

Cliff Palace Tour

Join a ranger-led tour of Cliff Palace, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the park.
Book tickets at the Visitor Center.
USD10 per person, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Far View Lodge

Recharge with lunch at Far View Lodge, offering spectacular views and tasty menu options.
Located within the park.
USD60, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hiking the Petroglyph Point Trail

Explore the Petroglyph Point Trail, featuring ancient rock carvings and stunning vistas.
Trailhead is near the museum.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Campground

Have a cozy dinner under the stars with an evening picnic at the park campground.
Prepare meals at the campsite.
USD30, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Stargazing at Mesa Verde

End your day by stargazing in one of the darkest skies in the country.
Settle by your campsite for breathtaking views.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Insights

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Campground

Wake up to a simple breakfast prepared at your campsite, energizing you for the day.
Self-prepared.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Spruce Tree House

Explore the accessible Spruce Tree House site, rich in history and stunning views.
Drive to the designated parking area near the site.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Attend a Cultural Demonstration

Watch a cultural demonstration at the park, showcasing traditional Native American techniques.
Check the visitor schedule for times.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at the Far View Lodge Snack Bar

Enjoy a quick and nutritious lunch at the park's snack bar providing easy options for families.
Located at Far View Lodge.
USD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Mesa Top Loop Road

Enjoy a leisurely drive along the Mesa Top Loop Road, stopping at various lookout points.
Begin drive near the lodge.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Durango

Leave Mesa Verde and head back to Durango to rest for the night.
Drive back via US-160 E.
Fuel Cost, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Smiley Cafe

Features local favorites, perfect for the family looking to unwind after a long day.
Short drive from your accommodations.
USD70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Travel to Telluride

Telluride, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at Best Western before your journey to Telluride.
Complimentary breakfast option.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Telluride

Embark on the picturesque drive to Telluride through scenic mountain roads.
Take US-550 N to get to Telluride.
Fuel Cost, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Telluride Historical Museum

Learn about the fascinating history of Telluride at this well-curated museum.
Located in the town center.
USD10 per person, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Last Dollar Saloon

Grab a family meal at this iconic saloon famous for its casual vibe and comfort food.
In close proximity to the museum.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ride the Telluride Gondola

Enjoy breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains and Telluride area on your gondola ride.
The gondola station is a short walk from the saloon.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hiking the Bear Creek Trail

Enjoy a family-friendly hike along Bear Creek, featuring waterfalls and striking scenery.
Access the trailhead near the gondola station.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at the Telluride Mountain Lodge

Relax at your lodge overlooking the stunning mountain landscape.
Easy access from the trail.
USD200, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at The Cornerhouse Grille

Wind down with a delicious family meal featuring seasonal ingredients and local flavors.
A short walk from your lodge.
USD75, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Adventure in Telluride

Telluride, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lodge

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at Telluride Mountain Lodge.
Included in your stay.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Imogene Pass

Take a scenic 4x4 tour or hike up to Imogene Pass for astounding views.
Book a tour or drive from the town center.
USD100 per person for a tour, Half-day

1:00PM

Lunch at the Telluride Brewing Company

Enjoy casual lunch options alongside local brews in a fun atmosphere.
Return back to town for lunch.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Hiking to Bridal Veil Falls

Experience hiking to the stunning Bridal Veil Falls, the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado.
Access via the road leading to the falls.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Telluride

Head back to your lodge to unwind after a day of excitement.
Drive or walk back.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Peaks Resort

Enjoy a delightful dining experience at The Peaks with stunning views.
Short drive from the lodge.
USD80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Scenic Drive to Ouray

Ouray, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lodge

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at Telluride Mountain Lodge before heading out.
Included with your stay.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Ouray

Traverse the scenic roads from Telluride to Ouray, admiring the breathtaking views.
Follow the signs towards Ouray on CO-550.
Fuel Cost, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Ouray Hot Springs Pool

Relax and rejuvenate at the family-friendly hot springs, perfect for all ages.
Located near the town center.
USD30 per adult, discounted for children, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Secret Garden

Take a break at this charming café with a locally-inspired menu and beautiful patio.
Short walk from the hot springs.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Ouray Alpine Loop

Experience the stunning views while driving the historic Alpine Loop.
Follow the signs for the loop road.
USD10 vehicle pass, 3 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at The Box Canyon Lodge

Unwind in your cozy lodge room with mountain views.
Located centrally in Ouray.
USD150, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Bon Ton Restaurant

Wind down with a comforting family meal featuring local ingredients.
Easy walking distance from your lodge.
USD70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Montrose Farewell

Montrose, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Start your day with breakfast, included with your stay at The Box Canyon Lodge.
Available in the lobby.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Montrose

Take a leisurely drive from Ouray to Montrose, enjoying the scenic views.
Follow US-550 S toward Montrose.
Fuel Cost, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit theUte Indian Museum

Delve into the cultural heritage of the Ute tribe, perfect for families.
Located just off the main road in Montrose.
USD6 per person, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Coffee Trader

Relax at this local eatery known for its fresh ingredients and homemade pastries.
A quick drive from the museum.
USD40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Stroll in Cerise Park

Take a leisurely walk in Cerise Park, letting the kids run around in the playground.
Located nearby the café.
Free, 1 hour

2:00PM

Head to Montrose Airport

Wrap up your adventure and head to Montrose Airport for your travel back home.
A short drive to the airport.
USD30 for parking, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability