Scenic Colorado Adventure: Vail, Maroon Bells, Aspen & Canon City Itinerary June 18-22, 2025

Day 1: Arrival & Vail Touring

Vail, Colorado, USA on June 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Little Diner

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Little Diner known for its classic Colorado breakfast dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Opens at 7:00am, perfect for a fresh start.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Walk Around Vail Village

Explore the charming pedestrian village with alpine-style shops, galleries, and fountains. It's a great place to soak in mountain town vibes.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mountain Standard

Dine on wood-fired specialties that showcase local produce and flavors in a rustic yet contemporary setting. Open from 11:30am.
USD30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Vail Gondola Ride & Hiking

Take the gondola up for panoramic mountain views, then opt for a light hike on the surrounding trails. Gondola operating hours 9am-5pm.
USD30, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bully Ranch Restaurant & Saloon

Experience western-style dining with a menu featuring steaks and local elk dishes, within walking distance of the village. Open until 10pm.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Maroon Bells & Aspen

Maroon Bells & Aspen, Colorado, USA on June 19, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Westside Cafe

Grab an early breakfast with great coffee and hearty options to fuel your busy day. Opens at 6am.
USD15, 45m

7:00am

Maroon Bells Scenic Drive

Drive from Vail to the Maroon Bells area; be aware the access road is open early June by shuttle only, so plan accordingly with shuttle reservations for this iconic lake and mountain reflection photo spot.
USD15 shuttle fee, 4h

12:00pm

Lunch Picnic at Maroon Lake

Pack a picnic lunch or get ready-made meals from local shops in Aspen before the trip. Enjoy the peaceful mountain lake views during your lunch break.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Aspen Town Stroll & Shopping

Head to downtown Aspen to explore upscale shopping, art galleries, and historic landmarks. A leisurely walk to soak up town charm.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Aspen Art Museum

Discover contemporary art exhibits in this modern museum. It’s free to enter and open until 6pm on Thursdays through Sundays.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes emphasizing local meats and cheeses, perfect for a cozy meal in Aspen’s trendy dining scene. Open until 9pm.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 3: Aspen Outdoors & Culture

Aspen, Colorado, USA on June 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Victoria's Espresso & Wine Bar

Start the day with quality coffee and light breakfast options in a cozy setting. Opens at 7am.
USD12, 45m

9:00am

Hike the Smuggler Mountain Trail

A moderate 3-mile round trip hike offering excellent views over Aspen and the surrounding mountains. Start early to avoid afternoon heat.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Big Wrap

Casual eatery offering health-conscious wraps and salads, perfect to refuel after a hike. Open from 11am.
USD15, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Wheeler Opera House

Tour this historic venue known for performances and architecture. Check for guided tours or performances during your visit; typically open 1pm-5pm.
USD10 for tour, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at John Denver Sanctuary

Enjoy peaceful strolls in this tranquil sanctuary commemorating the famed singer with beautiful sculptures and gardens.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Element 47

Elegant dining featuring Colorado-sourced ingredients in a refined setting inside The Little Nell hotel. Reservations recommended. Open till 10pm.
USD70, 2h
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Day 4: Travel & Explore Canon City

Canon City, Colorado, USA on June 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Glenwood Canyon Brewpub

Enjoy breakfast with craft beers and robust American fare as you prepare for your trip south. Opens at 7am.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Drive from Aspen to Canon City

The scenic drive south to Canon City takes approximately 3 hours, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes.
Fuel approx. USD40, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Royal Gorge Brewery

Located in Canon City, this spot offers excellent craft beers paired with casual but tasty American dishes. Open from 11am.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Explore one of the highest suspension bridges in the US and enjoy breathtaking views of the Royal Gorge. The park is open daily from 10am to 6pm in June.
USD27, 3h

5:00pm

Check-in at Hotel Canon City

Relax and refresh at your accommodation in central Canon City after the busy day exploring.
USD120 (approx.), 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Angelo's Pizza

End your day with classic Italian pizza and pasta in downtown Canon City, a favorite among locals. Open until 9pm.
USD20, 1h
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Day 5: Canon City & Departure

Canon City, Colorado, USA on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe 123

Start your day with a freshly brewed coffee and breakfast dishes in a cozy café. Opens at 7am.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

Canon City Historical Museum

Dive into local history at this small museum showcasing exhibits about the area's past and development. Open between 9am-4pm, Tuesday-Saturday.
USD5, 1.5h

11:30am

Hiking or ATV Ride in Royal Gorge Area

For adventure enthusiasts, additional hiking trails or guided ATV rides provide a thrilling and scenic outdoor experience around Royal Gorge.
USD45, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at El Chico Mexican Restaurant

Enjoy flavorful Mexican dishes that offer a festive and filling lunch before your departure. Open until 3pm.
USD20, 1h
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