8-Night Road Trip from Dallas, TX to Pagosa Springs, CO via Sterling and Grand Junction

Day 1: Depart Dallas

Dallas, TX on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Yolk

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yolk, known for fresh, creative dishes and great coffee to fuel your road trip.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Sterling, CO

Begin the approximately 9-hour drive with intermittent stops for rest and food along the way, heading north-northwest from Dallas towards Sterling.
USD0 (fuel costs vary), 9h0m

6:30pm

Check-in at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sterling

Settle into your hotel after the long drive to relax and prepare for the next day of exploring.
USD120, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Lamesa Restaurant

Enjoy a classic steak or seafood dinner at Lamesa, a popular local spot known for its homestyle meals and comfortable atmosphere.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Explore Sterling

Sterling, CO on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Pantry

Enjoy a classic American breakfast made fresh and hearty at this local favorite, perfect before a day of exploring Sterling.
USD12, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Overland Trail Museum

Discover the history of Sterling and the Old West through well-curated exhibits including pioneer artifacts and railroad history. Open 9am-5pm.
USD5, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Kiowa Park

Take a relaxing walk around Sterling's main park featuring picnic areas and playgrounds, a great spot to unwind and enjoy local nature.
USD0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Black Lantern

Enjoy a casual lunch with local burgers, sandwiches, and craft beers in a charming, rustic atmosphere.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Drive to nearby NS Sculpture Garden

Visit this peaceful outdoor garden featuring unique metal sculptures, perfect for photos and a quiet stroll. Open during daylight hours.
USD0, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to hotel and relax

Enjoy some downtime before dinner to rest or explore downtown Sterling at your leisure.
USD0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Callahn's Firehouse Grill

Dine on hearty American fare in a historic firehouse setting offering steaks, seafood, and salads.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Travel to Grand Junction

Grand Junction, CO on May 22, 2025

7:00am

Coffee and light breakfast at Swift Coffee Co.

Grab a quick cup of artisanal coffee and a pastry to start your day before the drive.
USD10, 0h45m

7:45am

Drive Sterling to Grand Junction

Enjoy the scenic 4.5-hour drive west to Grand Junction, crossing beautiful Colorado landscapes.
USD0 (fuel varies), 4h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at 626 on Rood

Relish contemporary American cuisine with local ingredients in an elegant setting in downtown Grand Junction.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Colorado National Monument

Explore this stunning natural monolith featuring breathtaking red rock canyons and scenic drives. Visitor Center open 8am-5pm.
USD10 per vehicle, 3h0m

5:30pm

Check-in at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Grand Junction

Relax and refresh after your drive and afternoon adventure with comfortable accommodations.
USD140, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Bin 707 Foodbar

Taste excellent New American dishes with a focus on local ingredients and an impressive wine selection.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Explore Grand Junction

Grand Junction, CO on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Main Street Bagels

Enjoy fresh bagels, bagel sandwiches, and coffee at this popular local spot to fuel your adventure day.
USD10, 1h0m

9:30am

Hike at the Colorado Riverfront Trail

Engage in a leisurely walk or bike ride along this peaceful trail offering river and nature views, open year-round.
USD0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Ale House

Enjoy pub-style food and a wide selection of craft beers in a lively atmosphere on Grand Junction’s main street.
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Western Colorado Botanical Gardens

Discover the beauty of local and exotic plants, including themed gardens and walking trails. Open 9am-5pm.
USD5, 2h0m

4:00pm

Relax at your hotel

Take a break and prepare for the scenic drive the next day to Pagosa Springs.
USD0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Crafted: The Art of the Taco

Indulge in creative and flavorful tacos alongside unique cocktails in a fun, cozy setting.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 5: Travel to Pagosa Springs

Pagosa Springs, CO on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Daily Bread

Start with a wholesome breakfast at this charming bakery and café featuring fresh breads and breakfast classics.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive Grand Junction to Pagosa Springs

Drive approx 4.5 hours south through scenic Colorado landscapes en route to the hot springs town of Pagosa Springs.
USD0 (fuel varies), 4h30m

1:30pm

Check-in at The Springs Resort & Spa

Settle in at this popular resort featuring natural hot springs pools and spa amenities with beautiful mountain views.
USD180, Overnight

2:30pm

Relax at the Pagosa Hot Springs

Enjoy soaking in the naturally heated pools ranging from cool to very hot in a beautiful outdoor setting. Open daily 6am-11pm.
USD25, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Alley House Grille

Sample upscale American cuisine with seasonal ingredients in a cozy, rustic-chic atmosphere downtown.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 6: Pagosa Springs Activities

Pagosa Springs, CO on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pagosa Baking Company

Start with fresh pastries, bagels, and coffee at this beloved local bakery with excellent homemade goods.
USD12, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Piedra River Trail

Take a scenic hike along the Piedra River Trail for beautiful mountain and river views. Trail access is open year-round.
USD0, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Rockwood Restaurant

Enjoy a casual lunch spot with eclectic menu options and outdoor seating in a relaxed mountain atmosphere.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Pagosa Springs Center for Arts and Culture

Experience local art exhibits, music, and cultural events. Open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm.
USD0 (donations welcome), 1h30m

4:30pm

Afternoon soak at Hot Springs or Spa Treatment

Return to the hot springs for a sunset soak or treat yourself to a spa massage at The Springs Resort.
USD25-100, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Leather Britches Grille

Dine on Southwestern-inspired dishes and steaks in a warm, inviting atmosphere with friendly service.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 7: Relax in Pagosa Springs

Pagosa Springs, CO on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Roots Bistro & Cellar

Enjoy farm-to-table breakfast with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy bistro setting.
USD18, 1h0m

9:30am

Day at your leisure

Spend the day relaxing at your resort, strolling through downtown, or exploring nearby nature trails like the Wolf Creek Trail.
USD0, All day

12:00pm

Lunch at Alley House Grille

Return for a casual lunch featuring fresh sandwiches and salads with a local twist.
USD20, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Canine Kitchen

Try unique pizza flavors and hearty entrees in a fun, dog-friendly dining spot popular with locals.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 8: Departure day

Pagosa Springs, CO on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Have a final relaxing breakfast at a nearby café to savor the small-town mountain atmosphere before departure.
USD12, 1h0m

9:30am

Check-out and depart

Prepare for your onward travels from Pagosa Springs, wishing you a safe and pleasant journey.
USD0, N/A
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