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Denver to Colorado Springs: Midday Start and Rocky Mountain Adventure Itinerary

Viewed by 56 travelers

Day Day 1: Denver Afternoon Tour

Denver, USA on August 12, 2025

12:00pm

Car Pickup at Denver International Airport

Pick up your rental car from Denver International Airport and get ready for your afternoon exploration.
Varies, 0.5h

12:30pm

Check into Hotel

Head to your hotel to check in, drop off luggage, and refresh before starting your Denver visit.
Varies, 0.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Denver Central Market in RiNo District

Explore this vibrant food hall offering a variety of local and international cuisine to satisfy your appetite. Open from 11am to 9pm.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

RiNo District Murals Walking Tour

Walk around the River North Art District to admire colorful street art murals that showcase Denver’s creative vibe.
Free, 1.5h

4:30pm

Visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Experience the scenic red sandstone formations and iconic music venue, perfect for photos and brief hikes. Open until sunset.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Explore Larimer Square

Stroll and shop in Denver’s historic district filled with boutiques, galleries, and charming eateries.
Free, 1.5h

8:00pm

Dinner at Rioja in Larimer Square

Dine on excellent Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting to cap off your first day. Open until 10pm.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day Day 2: Boulder Exploration

Boulder, USA on August 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Buff Restaurant

Begin your morning with generous portioned classic breakfast items near Boulder; opens at 7am.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Boulder

Take the 1-hour scenic drive north to Boulder to spend the day exploring.
Gas approx USD10, 1h

10:00am

Explore Pearl Street Mall

Visit this lively pedestrian mall filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery

A local favorite offering craft beers and hearty pub dishes near Pearl Street. Open 11am-9pm.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Hike at Chautauqua Park

Enjoy moderate trails and beautiful views of the Flatirons rock formations. Open dawn to dusk.
USD5 parking, 2.5h

5:30pm

Drive Near Rocky Mountain National Park

Travel to your accommodation near the park to settle in for the next days of nature adventures.
Gas approx USD15, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at local lodge

Relax with a mountain-inspired dinner at your lodging or a nearby restaurant.
USD35, 1.5h
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Day Day 3: Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park, USA on August 14, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your lodge

Start the day fueled up with breakfast provided by the lodge or nearby eatery.
Included or USD15, 1h

8:00am

Hike Bear Lake Trail

Take an accessible and scenic hike around Bear Lake, a perfect introduction to the park.
Free, 1.5h

10:00am

Visit Sprague Lake

Enjoy an easy, scenic loop trail around Sprague Lake with mountain views and picnic spots.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch at Sprague Lake

Relax and enjoy a picnic at an iconic spot surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
USD15 for supplies, 1h

1:00pm

Hike to Lily Lake

Experience a peaceful 2-mile round-trip hike to Lily Lake known for tranquil waters and wildlife.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Alpine Ridge Viewpoint

Take in breathtaking panoramic views from Alpine Ridge in the late afternoon light.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Return to Lodge for Dinner

Enjoy an evening meal at your lodge or a nearby restaurant to rest after a day of hiking.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day Day 4: More Rocky Mountain Park

Rocky Mountain National Park, USA on August 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Lodge

Prepare for an active day with a good breakfast at your accommodation.
Included or USD15, 1h

8:00am

Explore Glacier Gorge or Alberta Falls

Choose a moderate hike to Glacier Gorge or Alberta Falls, both showcasing stunning alpine scenery.
Free, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Trail Ridge Store and Café

Enjoy sandwiches and light fare at the highest elevation cafe during your park visit.
USD20, 1h

1:00pm

Trail Ridge Road Scenic Drive

Drive along this spectacular high-altitude road featuring sweeping mountain views and overlooks.
USD35 National Park Entrance Fee, 3h

5:00pm

Dinner at Lodge

Return to your lodge for a final relaxing dinner in the mountains.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day Day 5: Colorado Springs Adventure

Colorado Springs, USA on August 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at the lodge

Enjoy a satisfying breakfast before your drive south to Colorado Springs.
Included or USD15, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Colorado Springs

Take the 1.5-hour drive south towards the city for natural and cultural sightseeing.
Gas approx USD15, 1.5h

10:30am

Visit Garden of the Gods

Explore the iconic red rock formations and scenic trails in this free public park, open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Adam’s Mountain Café

Enjoy California-Mediterranean inspired dishes close to Garden of the Gods; open until 3pm weekdays.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Take a scenic train ride through the dramatic Royal Gorge. Check departure times and book tickets in advance.
USD70, 3h

5:30pm

Pikes Peak Visit

Drive or take the Cog Railway to Pikes Peak for spectacular sunset views. Toll or ticket fees apply.
USD15 toll or USD60 railway, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Margarita at Pine Creek

End your day with southwestern cuisine and mountain views; open until 8pm.
USD35, 1.5h
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