When we first began planning our Colorado road trip, it was overwhelming.Undaunted, we were excited to embark on this journey. But how do you get started creating the perfect 10-day itinerary? It was important to use that we make the most of our time exploring these natural wonders. I wanted to include all 4 of the National Parks, including as many adventures along the way. With the right preparation and research, we created our exciting adventure!
This road trip itinerary for all four Colorado National Parks covers 10-days. For us, it was all about checking out the vast mountains of Rocky Mountain National Park, diving into the old ruins of Mesa Verde National Park, scaling the Great Sand Dunes National Park, and exploring the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
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Our 10 Day National Park Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
This comprehensive 10-day National Park road trip itinerary highlights the best of Colorado, featuring the majestic Rocky Mountains and the serene high desert of Great Sand Dunes. This journey is ideal for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Each day, we had remarkable experiences. This unforgettable adventure features exciting hikes and peaceful nights under the stars. Our plan combines the perfect mix of thrilling activities, peaceful moments, and stunning natural scenery.
Note: I am a planner and usually have most of my reservations six months in advance for our road trips.
Annual Pass for $80- With the America the Beautiful National Park and Federal Recreational Lands Pass you can access over 2 000 federal recreation sites all over the country. This pass will save you money in the long run, especially if you plan on visiting multiple parks throughout the year. Plus, you’ll be supporting the preservation and maintenance of these beautiful natural areas. So go ahead and invest in the Annual Pass – it’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors!
Day 1: Arrive in Denver Drive to Estes Park
We were fortunate to secure an early morning flight departing from Orlando International Airport (MCO). After picking up our rental SUV, we had the entire day ahead of us to explore the peak-to-peak scenic highway. Following the continental divide, the scenic 55-mile route links Black Hawk to Estes Park. The road not only provides breathtaking views along the way, depending on your preference, you can choose to explore ghost towns at Hesse and Apex, or the historic gold mine City of Black Hawk now turned casino haven. The peak-to-peak also provides easy access to Golden Gate Canyon State Park and Wild Basin in Rocky Mountains. Both have many hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. You’ll also want to photograph iconic landmarks at Lily Lake, including the Saint Catherine’s Chapel.
Explore Estes Park: Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park
As we got comfy in our snug cabin at Loveland Heights Cottages, we couldn’t wait to check out the town of Estes Park. This charming mountain gateway city was the perfect starting point for our adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park. First off, we managed to snag a parking spot right by the Riverwalk, which is tough to find around town. The Estes Park Riverwalk is a picturesque walking path that runs alongside the Big Thompson River and Fall River in downtown. The main street hugs the river’s edge, lined with a charming assortment of local shops, cafes, and outdoor outfitters. Needing to stock-up on provisions for our trip into the park, we found everything we needed.
Before heading back to the cabin to map out our routes and plan which trails we’d tackle first, we strolled past the historic Stanley Hotel. I felt a shiver run down my spine. This hotel is where Stephen King’s found his inspiration for the classic horror novel, “The Shining.” It would have been amazing to take part in one of the ghost tours. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time. Instead, we made our way back to the cabin to plan our hiking routes for the next day. We even had time to fly fish in the Big Thompson river right outside our cabin.
Day 2: Explore Rocky Mountain National Park: Bear Lake Corridor
Timed Entry Reservations at Rocky Mountain National Park: Trail Ridge Road and the Bear Lake Corridor require timed-entry passes from mid-May to mid-October. These tickets are in high demand. Plan your visit at recreation.gov early to secure a time slot. Review the park information here.
The Bear Lake Corridor was our focus today. It is a ten-mile stretch that begins near the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station and finishes with the spectacular Bear Lake. The beautiful area is a natural reserve that consists of some of the most beautiful spots on earth, such as Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, and Moraine Park. We started our day by taking a hike around the 0.5-mile loop of Sprague Lake, and where I saw the fly anglers casting their lines to catch the rainbow trout swimming there. The glassy surface of the lake perfectly mirrored the towering mountain peaks- Hallett Peak, Flattop Mountain, and Notchtop Mountain.
Making our way to Bear Lake, we first walked the Bear Lake Nature Trail loop. Following along the winding trails, the path leads you deeper into the heart of the Rockies. Here you will encounter a succession of picturesque lakes, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. Each one was more breathtaking than the last.
Note: Remember to bring more water than you think you will need (2 bottles per person) and don’t forget sunscreen.
Afternoon Hiking Albert Falls
In the late afternoon, we tackled the 1.6-mile out-and-back hike to Albert Falls. With each step, the incline grew steeper, testing the limits of our stamina as we navigated the uneven, rocky path. I had to stop to catch our breath. The last stretch required us to scramble over boulders, but it was worth it to get better pics. Today’s exploration leaves us with a profound appreciation of Rocky Mountain National Park, etching memories that will linger long after your visit.
Day 3: Drive the Trail Ridge Road: Estes Park to Grand Junction
Today, we plan to drive the Trail Ridge Road overnighting in Grand Junction. Waking early in anticipation of a long day, we venture into Estes Park to begin the day with a hearty breakfast. From Estes Park, head south on Highway 36, which leads to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park and then connects to Trail Ridge Road (U.S. Highway 34). Beginning at the Fall River Visitor Center, the Trail Ridge Road stands as the nation’s highest uninterrupted paved highway. It is a testament to both human ingenuity and the splendor of the natural world, providing an experience that is truly memorable as you travel through Rocky Mountain National Park. Here is a comprehensive guide highlighting the key must-stop points along this breathtaking route.
Trail Ridge Road Must See Viewpoints
The breathtaking vistas along Trail Ridge Road are not for the faint of heart, as the high-altitude drive requires steady nerves and a sense of adventure.
- Many Parks Curve Overlook (9,640 ft): The scenic vista features a blend of forested areas and open meadows, with distant mountain peaks such as the iconic Longs Peak visible on the horizon.
- Rainbow Curve Overlook (10,875 ft): From this lofty vantage point, visitors can gaze down upon the winding curves of Trail Ridge Road, creating a truly awe-inspiring scene.
- Lava Cliffs Overlook (12,080 ft): My favorite from here visitors can gaze upon ancient volcanic formations that date back millions of years, the result of intense Miocene Epoch eruptions.
- Gore Range Overlook (12,048 ft): Incredible views of the never summer mountains. The breathtaking panorama leaves visitors speechless.
- Alpine Visitor Center (11,796 ft): Situated roughly midway between Estes Park and Grand Lake, the visitor center offers a variety of amenities, including souvenirs, snacks, supplies, and hot food.
- Milner Pass/Poudre Lake (10,758 ft): Continental Divide-Rivers east of the divide empty into the Atlantic, while those to the west flow into the Pacific.
- Holzwarth Historic Site (8,944 ft): In the summer, guests can tour the site’s historic buildings. Step back in time and experience early homesteading and tourism in the park.
- Kawuneeche Valley Visitor Center (8,720 ft): it serves as a crucial hub for visitors exploring the park’s western regions.
Grand Lake to Grand Junction. is approximately 150 miles. The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. Grand Junction lies in the heart of Colorado’s Western Slope. This is where we will stay overnight at Camp Eddy.
Day 4: Drive Grand Junction to Black Canyon of the Gunnison NP
Setting out from the city of Grand Junction, we take I-70 East exiting onto Highway 50 East toward Montrose. Continuing on Highway 50 to the turnoff for the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The car winds its way through the mountainous terrain. It is not long before the landscape transforms from the arid desert landscapes of the Colorado Plateau into the dramatic, steep-walled canyons. The closer we get to the park, anticipation builds for the chance to explore the Black Canyon.
After a stop at the South Rim Visitor Center, we set out on a scenic drive of the 12 overlooks. The must see stops are: Chasm View, Pulpit Rock Overlook, Sunset View, and Painted Wall View. Most overlooks have breathtaking vistas of the sheer black cliffs that plummet 2,000 feet below with catching glimpses of the Gunnison River.
Drive the East Portal Road
Unhitching the trailer, we set up camp at the South Rim Campground. We did the short Oak Flat Loop Trail. Looking down into the canyon from this vantage point, the Gunnison River appears as a mere ribbon of blue water.
With camp setup, we drive the East Portal road. As we slowly wind our way down the narrow, twisting 16% grade road into the canyon, the canyon walls rise on either side. Descending nearly 2,000 feet from rim to river gave us a new perspective on the sheer scale and grandeur of the Black Canyon. There are a few pull-offs along the switchbacks where you can stop to take in the views and photograph the canyon from different angles. The road ends at the East Portal of the Gunnison Tunnel. The historic Gunnison Tunnel was an engineering marvel, constructed to divert water from the Gunnison River for irrigation.
Fishing the Gunnison’s “Gold Medal Waters”
Downstream, the river transforms into a raging torrent of churning whitewater, is a magnet for adventurous whitewater rafters and kayakers. The river is a coveted spot for anglers as these renowned “Gold Medal Waters” are a fisher’s paradise. The Gunnison river is a coveted spot for anglers as these renowned “Gold Medal Waters” are an angler’s paradise. This river really tested our skills. After hooking a lively brown trout, I battled it for several minutes before successfully landing the fish. I paused to admire its vibrant colors and gracefully released it back into the river, eager to return soon and try my luck again.
Ah, what a perfect day it was in Black Canyon of the Gunnison! Sitting around the campfire roasting marshmallows under the twinkling stars was truly an unforgettable experience that we will cherish forever.
TIP: For early risers, witnessing the sunrise over the Black Canyon when the sun’s rays illuminate the Painted Wall is a breathtaking experience.
Day 5: Drive the Million Dollar Highway to Mesa Verde National Park
The drive from Ouray to Silverton is 25-miles and can take around 1-2 hours, depending on road conditions and stops. Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” is a good place to have breakfast. Open year-round the Million Dollar Highway is part of U.S. Route 550, running between Silverton and Ouray in Colorado. This scenic route winds through the rugged San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, hugging the contours of the mountainsides with multiple hairpin turns. While you cannot deny the beautiful ebony-hued cliffs that reach up towards the sky in the high-altitude passes, the sheer drop-offs with no guardrail gave me sweaty palms and had my pounding heart. The glacial valleys and green forests make this one drive unforgettable.
We are eager to reach Durango to ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad, a true gem of the American Southwest. The vintage steam locomotives carrying passengers between Durango and Silverton its journey back in time. Running along the Animas River, it follows in the footsteps of miners, ranchers, and pioneers who first settled this remote region. This daytime excursion was a visual feast for the senses climbing nearly 3,000 feet in elevation, passing cascading waterfalls, and mountain meadows. There was even time in our schedule for a trip through the museum and a stop at the Durango Fish Hatchery.
Day 6: Tour the Cliff Dwellings: Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserves the incredible cliff dwellings and archaeological wonders of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Visitors can take guided tours or explore select areas independently. We were fortunate to tour the park’s three major attractions – Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Long House – all in one day. Staying at the on-site Far View Lodge maximized our time and experience at this remarkable destination. Campers can stay in the campground however, it is still a 1-hour drive to reach Chapin Mesa.
TIP: Weather can be rather unpredictable. My advice is to pack rain gear, sunscreen, and have a good pair of hiking shoes. Flip-flops are not convenient when climbing ladders.
Booked online, we started our day with the Balcony House Earlybird tour. It was my favorite of the three guided hikes we experienced in the park. The tour meets in the parking lot overlooking the Balcony House alcove. On this tour, you’ll climb ladders, crawl through tunnels and explore ancient rooms built into the cliffs. This complex encompasses 38 rooms. The breathtaking views and incredible craftsmanship of the Ancestral Puebloans are truly awe-inspiring. Bring plenty of water! Balcony house experiences the full sun in the morning.
Next we explored Cliff Palace. The largest of the cliff dwellings. Walking through the massive structure, I imagined what life was like for the Ancestral Puebloans. Remarkably, over 800 years ago, this dwelling was home to 100-120 families, each occupying rooms measuring just 6 feet by 8 feet. Cliff Palace complex features approximately 150 rooms, including 21 ceremonial kivas and multiple storage chambers.
Chapin Mesa Hiking Trails
Back in the car, we headed to the Spruce Tree House. Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum has beautiful dioramas depicting everyday life for the cliff dwellers. The Far View Sites Complex you can tour the mesa-top farming villages at your leisure as they are all self guided. There is an audio tour for the Mesa Top Loop Road, which we downloaded before arriving in the park.
The park has nearly 30 miles of park trails. We only had time for a few trails, but I recommend doing the Spruce Canyon Trail. A mostly shaded 2.3-mile loop takes you by the Spruce Tree House (currently closed). Today there is no one else trekking this trail. We have it all to ourselves. If you are up for a challenge, add the popular Petroglyph Point Trail (counter clock-wise route). Same distance, mostly in the sun, has sweeping views of the canyon. The petroglyphs are pretty cool, too. Just remember to pack some snacks and have water when hiking these trails.
Note: During the 2024 season, the Wetherill Mesa area of Mesa Verde National Park will be closed to the public to allow for the ongoing construction of a new visitor contact station in that region.
Afternoon Exploring Wetherill Mesa
Our afternoon finished with a tour of the Long House, Step house and Badger House. The drive out onto Wetherill Mesa is about an hour. There is a 3/4 mile hike into the start point of this tour where we met our ranger guide. The paved loop trail also leads to the trails, overlooks and other houses. We met our tour guide walking the last 0.5-mile to the Long House. He regaled us with spellbinding stories of the Ancient Puebloans. Each tour was vastly different. I learned a lot on each of the three tours. Definitely worth taking the time to do, if you can squeeze them all in.
Note: All Ranger-Led tours require a tour reservation. You can purchase Tour tickets only on recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. Tickets are available 14 days in advance, 8:00 am MST, on a rolling daily window. Square Tower House now requires a guided ranger tour.
Day 7: Mesa Verde National Park to Great Sand Dunes National Park
Traveling from Mesa Verde National Park to Great Sand Dunes National Park is about a 220-mile drive, which typically takes around 4.5 hours by car unless you are us and make frequent stops along the way. The route primarily follows US-160 E and CO-112. Once we passed Durango on Highway 160, you are driving through the beautiful scenery of the San Juan Mountains.
Cruising down the highway, it’s impossible to overlook the striking Chimney Rock spire. This iconic landmark is part of the Chimney Rock National Monument where you can explore ancient Puebloan ruins like the Great House and other smaller structures with just a quick hike from the visitor center. We only spent a short time here, but it was a pleasant reprieve.
Climbing Wolf Creek Pass
Wolf Creek Pass, a steep stretch of road perched atop the Continental Divide, connects Pagosa Springs and South Fork, Colorado. Navigating through this winding mountain pass must be really scary, especially when it’s snowy outside. It made me recall that C. W. McCall’s country hit “Wolf Creek Pass” brought widespread fame to the pass, vividly depicting its treacherous winter driving conditions. Wolf Creek Ski Area at the top of the pass typically receives some of the highest snow totals in Colorado, which makes it a favorite among powder enthusiasts. At the Treasure Falls trailhead, we stopped to stretch our legs. The 0.6 miles round-trip hike leads to a 100-foot cascading waterfall. After our quick break, we continued on our journey, feeling rejuvenated.
Fishing the Rio Grande in South Fork
As we made our way down the pass, we stumbled upon the delightful town of South Fork. Situated next to the South Fork of the Rio Grande River, we couldn’t pass up the chance to try our luck at fishing in these Gold Medal Waters. We found a spot on the shore to cast our fly lines and ended up catching several brown and rainbow trout.
After our fruitful fishing adventure, we grabbed a bite to eat at Ramon’s, a cozy, family-owned Mexican restaurant. The food was delicious, and the service at this establishment was exceptional.
We make the short drive to our overnight camping destination at the Oasis Campground. A mere 1-mile west of Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center, we could see the iconic sand dunes. They seem to stretch for miles along the horizon. I must say the dark skies at night are truly amazing here. I must tell you, the night sky at Great Sand Dunes is incredible. When the sun sets and the darkness creeps in, the stars come out in full force. The sky is filled with twinkling lights, and you can even see the Milky Way stretching across the sky. It’s a breathtaking sight that you won’t want to miss. A tad cool, just remember to grab a blanket to enjoy the show.
Day 8: Great Sand Dunes National Park to Colorado Springs
After exploring the rugged cliffs of Mesa Verde, we were struck by the dramatic contrast of the vast, rolling sand dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park. It was amazing to witness Colorado’s incredible diversity of landscapes – from towering 700-foot dunes to the snow-capped peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains that formed a stunning backdrop as we approached the park on that cloudless day, their peaks glistening in the sunlight.
One of the best ways to explore the Great Sand Dunes National Park area is by walking. You can really appreciate the beauty of the landscape when you’re on foot. Don’t forget to climb Star Dune while you’re there. It’s the tallest dune in the park and offered us some amazing views from the top. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes for your hike. The sand can reach 105-degrees in the sun. If you have kids, renting a sandboard is another way to experience the dunes. As you exit the park, a short hike will lead you to Zapata Falls. The trail is not too difficult, making it perfect for taking a lunch break. To me, there is nothing more peaceful than a cascading waterfall on a hot day. Not to mention a quick cool down.
Packing up camp, we headed out for our next layover at Mueller State Park near Colorado Springs. Taking US-160 E and I-25 N. Although the state park is a 45-minute drive from Manitou Springs, it feels a world away. In the shadow of Pike’s Peak, our site had grand views of Sentinel Peak. Evergreens separate the sites, making it feel private and it was surprisingly quiet.
Day 9: Discover Colorado Springs: Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak
I have always had a passion for wolves and longed to see one up close. With Colorado Wolf Adventures, you can schedule a guided walk through the stunning Garden of the Gods. Our morning walk with one of these majestic creatures was a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The 1.5-mile trek took us around an hour to complete.
A Walk with a Ghost (Colorado Wolf Adventure)
As we met our knowledgeable guides just inside the Garden of the Gods, they quickly introduced us to Ghost, the wolf who would accompany us. Immediately, we set off on our journey, with the handlers providing fascinating insights about wolves and Ghost in particular. I felt spellbound, just being in the presence of Ghost. Stopping for a photo op, we took in the dramatic views of Pikes Peak, “America’s Mountain.” This walk was the highlight of our road trip. For me, this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
After our morning walk, I felt excited as we decided to explore the Garden of the Gods. The stunning rock formations towered above us, leaving us in awe of their incredible size. We couldn’t resist the urge to climb some of the smaller formations, snapping a few pictures to capture the moment. Spending the rest of our morning in such a magnificent place was truly a blessing. We felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such a cool adventure together.
Day 10: Colorado Springs to Denver
Today, we’re embarking on an early drive to the summit of Pikes Peak. During our previous visit, we took the tramway, which was an enjoyable experience. This time, we’ve secured a timed entry pass to drive all the way to the top. First, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast at Uncle Sam’s Pancake House, an institution in Manitou Springs.
We’re thrilled to take in the breathtaking vistas from the comfort of our vehicle. The forecast promises ideal weather, although I am a little worried with the twists and turns and no guardrails. I’m sure it will be a little nerve-wracking, but I do plan to savor the scenery.
We stopped at several lookout points and even got in some short hikes on the way up. The views from Crystal Reservoir were just beautiful. Just before reaching the summit, we pulled over to watch bighorn sheep standing on the shoulder of the road. Reaching the summit, clouds moved in, creating a haze that was not great for pictures. I thought the hard part was over, but coming back down is more nerve racking as I was worried about the truck’s brakes. Luckily, we have the best driver.
Eager to uncover hidden treasures, we spent the afternoon browsing the colorful, inviting storefronts of Manitou Springs. It was the perfect way to enjoy a leisurely afternoon of discovery. I was looking for interesting items that reflected this road trip while supporting the local businesses. I stumbled upon the perfect item of metal art at the Artists Co-op. A trout welcome sign will be an excellent reminder of this trip. Tomorrow we head to Denver, ending our Colorado road trip.
Final Thoughts: The Best 10 Day National Park Colorado Trip Itinerary
This trip has been a remarkable adventure. Our 10-day itinerary was fantastic! It’s an outstanding balance covering four incredible national parks, each offering unique wonders. I love we had a mix of high-altitude mountains, desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and towering canyons. If you have an extra day, we recommend adding a stop at the Colorado National Monument or spending more time exploring one of the state parks. Our itinerary allows for both active days and relaxation, ensuring you have a well-rounded trip. Safe travels and enjoy your incredible Colorado adventure!
Are you planning a Colorado road trip and feeling a bit unsure about it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Feel free to ask any questions or share your concerns in the comments below.
