4-Day Colorado Adventure: Vail, Maroon Bells, Aspen, and Canon City Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Vail Village

Vail, Colorado, USA on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Little Diner

Start your day with hearty American-style breakfast classics at The Little Diner, known for its cozy atmosphere and open early for breakfast service.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk Around Vail Village

Explore the charming pedestrian village filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and scenic mountain views to soak in the alpine atmosphere.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Vail Nature Center

Visit the Vail Nature Center for an easy stroll on nature trails and a chance to learn about local wildlife and ecology.
USD5, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Sweet Basil

Enjoy contemporary American cuisine with fresh local ingredients in an upscale yet welcoming dining environment.
USD35, 1h30m

3:00pm

Gondola Ride to Vail Mountain

Take the scenic gondola ride for panoramic views of the Rockies and maybe hike a short trail near the summit.
USD30, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Mountain Standard

Dine on rustic wood-fired dishes in a lively atmosphere with a focus on local ingredients and creative preparations.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Maroon Bells & Aspen

Maroon Bells and Aspen, Colorado, USA on June 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Erin's Bakery & Coffee House (Vail)

Fuel up with freshly baked pastries and specialty coffee before the early drive to Maroon Bells, opens at 6:30am.
USD12, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive to Maroon Bells

Travel to the iconic Maroon Bells area near Aspen, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Vail with stunning mountain scenery en route.
USD0 (road tolls minimal), 1h30m

9:30am

Hike at Maroon Bells Scenic Area

Take a moderate 3.3-mile hike around Maroon Lake to enjoy breathtaking views of the twin peaks and alpine wilderness.
USD10 parking fee, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Paradise Bakery & Cafe (Aspen)

Casual lunch spot offering fresh sandwiches, soups, and salads; perfect for a light and wholesome meal after the hike.
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Aspen Downtown

Stroll through the stylish town center, visit boutique shops, art galleries, and the Aspen Art Museum (open 11am-5pm).
Free to browse, museum USD10, 2h0m

4:00pm

Drive to Canon City

Begin the approximately 2-hour drive to Canon City to prepare for next day’s adventure in the Royal Gorge area.
USD0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Canon City Brewing Company

Enjoy casual dining with locally brewed beers and hearty American fare in downtown Canon City.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 3: Canon City & Royal Gorge

Canon City, Colorado, USA on June 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Patsy's Pizza & Pasta

Start the day with a generous breakfast menu including eggs and breakfast pizzas, open from 7am onward.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Visit the famous Royal Gorge Bridge, the world’s highest suspension bridge, and explore the surrounding park offering zip lines and gondola rides (9am-5pm).
USD29, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Royal Gorge Brewery

Relax with a casual lunch featuring local brews and a diverse menu near the Gorge area.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Historic Downtown Canon City

Explore local museums, shops, and the scenic Arkansas Riverwalk for a peaceful afternoon.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at Back East BBQ

Indulge in authentic BBQ dishes in a friendly setting, perfect to end the day after active exploring.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 4: Leisure & Return

Canon City and Departure on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Butter-n-Eggs Cafe

Enjoy a classic breakfast in a cozy setting; try their famous pancakes before departure.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Arkansas Riverwalk Trail

Take a gentle walk along the riverbank for fresh air and scenic nature photography opportunities.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Begin Travel Back or Onward

Prepare for travel back home or to your next destination, based on your plans.
Variable, N/A
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