Scenic Colorado and Arizona Road Trip: Yuma, Pagosa Springs, Buena Vista, and Westminster

Day 1: Yuma to Pagosa Springs

Yuma, AZ to Pagosa Springs, CO on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Lutes Casino

Enjoy a hearty classic American breakfast at Lutes Casino, a historic café known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious breakfast plates.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Depart Yuma for Pagosa Springs

Start your scenic drive from Yuma, AZ heading northeast towards Pagosa Springs, CO; the journey covers approximately 350 miles and will take around 6.5 hours.
USD0, 6h30m

4:00pm

Check-in at Pagosa Springs accommodation

Settle into your lodging and relax after the drive, preparing to explore the charming mountain town the next day.
Varies, 1h

5:30pm

Dinner at Alley House Grille

Dine on locally sourced American and Southwestern cuisine in a cozy setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Pagosa Springs Exploration

Pagosa Springs, CO on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Red Rooster Cafe

Start your day with a gourmet breakfast featuring fresh pastries, local eggs, and specialty coffee at this cozy café open from 7:00am to 2:00pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Pagosa Hot Springs

Relax in the natural geothermal mineral waters at the historic Pagosa Hot Springs, open daily from 6:00am to 9:00pm, known for therapeutic benefits and scenic views.
USD30, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Lost Cajun

Experience flavors of Louisiana with authentic Cajun dishes like jambalaya and crawfish étouffée in a casual setting from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Hike Treasure Falls

Enjoy a short 0.5-mile hike to the stunning 75-foot Treasure Falls waterfall located just 8 miles from town, accessible until sunset.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Browse downtown Pagosa Springs shops

Explore quaint boutiques, galleries, and local craft stores in the town center.
Varies, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Rockwood

Savor modern American cuisine in an upscale mountain lodge atmosphere. Open from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Pagosa Springs to Buena Vista

Pagosa Springs, CO to Buena Vista, CO on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Main Street Bagels

Grab fresh bagels and coffee at this popular local spot from 7:00am to noon before heading out.
USD10, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Buena Vista

Enjoy a picturesque 2.5-hour drive northeast through the Rocky Mountains to Buena Vista, renowned for outdoor adventure and stunning views.
USD0, 2h30m

10:30am

Check-in and quick rest

Arrive and settle into your Buena Vista lodging.
Varies, 30m

11:00am

Visit Cottonwood Hot Springs

Relax in natural hot pools surrounded by forest; open daily from 9:00am to 9:00pm. The mineral springs provide a peaceful retreat.
USD15, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Eddyline Brewery

Enjoy craft beers and pub fare on the patio in a lively atmosphere with mountain views. Open from 11:30am to 9:00pm.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Arkansas River Trail

Take a leisurely 2-hour walk or bike ride along this scenic trail that runs through Buena Vista, perfect for spotting wildlife and mountain vistas.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Downtown Buena Vista stroll and shopping

Visit local shops, gear outfitters, and art galleries in the charming town center.
Varies, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Sauce

Dine on wood-fired pizzas and creative entrees crafted with local ingredients, open from 4:00pm to 9:00pm.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 4: Buena Vista to Westminster

Buena Vista, CO to Westminster, CO on May 22, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at River John's Restaurant

Enjoy a classic American breakfast with hearty portions before your drive, open from 6:30am to 2:00pm.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Westminster

Embark on a 2.5-hour eastward drive to Westminster, a suburb north of Denver known for parks, dining, and cultural attractions.
USD0, 2h30m

11:00am

Check-in at Westminster accommodation

Settle into your hotel and prepare to explore local highlights.
Varies, 30m

11:30am

Visit Butterfly Pavilion

Explore the indoor tropical rainforest and interact with hundreds of butterflies, open from 10:00am to 5:00pm. A delightful family-friendly experience.
USD15, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Wildfire

Dine on American grill classics in a warm, inviting atmosphere, open from 11:00am to 9:00pm.
USD30, 1h

2:45pm

Explore Standley Lake Regional Park

Spend the afternoon enjoying walking trails, fishing, and scenic views at this large regional park open from dawn to dusk.
USD5, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Melting Pot

Relax with a unique fondue dining experience featuring a variety of cheeses, meats, and chocolates, open from 4:00pm to 10:00pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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