Why Take a Colorado Road Trip?
Colorado is home to some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes in the United States, making it a top destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and road trip enthusiasts. This Colorado road trip itinerary takes you through all four of the state’s stunning national parks—Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison—while incorporating evening drives to maximize your time exploring. Plus, we’ve included some incredible non-National Park destinations to extend your trip!
7-Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
Colorado is a dream destination for nature lovers, and this Colorado road trip is the perfect way to check off four national parks in one epic journey. With varied landscapes ranging from towering sand dunes to high alpine lakes and dramatic canyons, this route showcases the best of the Centennial State. By driving in the evenings, you’ll have more time to explore iconic trails, scenic drives, and cultural sites. Whether it’s your first time visiting Colorado or you’re returning for another adventure, this itinerary ensures a bucket-list-worthy experience.
Day 1: Arrive in Denver & Head to Great Sand Dunes National Park
Arrival: Fly into Denver International Airport (DEN), pick up your rental car, and hit the road toward southern Colorado.
- Drive Time: 4 hours (230 miles)
- Where to Stay: Alamosa, CO (hotels, rental homes, and camping options available)
- Evening Drive: Arrive in Alamosa in the evening and get a good night’s rest before exploring the dunes in the morning.
Day 2: Explore Great Sand Dunes National Park & Drive to Mesa Verde
Spend the morning exploring the tallest sand dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park! Activities include:
- Sandboarding & Sledding – Rent a sand board and glide down the dunes.
- Hike to High Dune – A moderately strenuous 2.5-mile hike with incredible views.
- Medano Creek (seasonal) – If visiting in spring or early summer, enjoy this unique natural beach at the base of the dunes.
Evening Drive: Depart in the late afternoon for Mesa Verde National Park.
- Drive Time: 4.5 hours (250 miles)
- Where to Stay: Cortez, CO (hotels, rental homes, and camping)
Day 3: Mesa Verde National Park & Evening Drive to Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Mesa Verde is famous for its ancient cliff dwellings, offering a fascinating look into Native American history.
- Cliff Palace & Balcony House – Take a guided tour to see these ancient dwellings up close.
- Petroglyph Point Trail – A 2.4-mile hike to see centuries-old rock carvings.
- Mesa Top Loop Road – A scenic drive with viewpoints overlooking archaeological sites.
Evening Drive: Depart in the evening for Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
- Drive Time: 3 hours (170 miles)
- Where to Stay: Montrose, CO (hotels, rental homes, and camping)
Day 4: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park & Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park
Spend the morning marveling at the steep, dramatic cliffs of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
- South Rim Drive – Stop at scenic overlooks like Gunnison Point and Painted Wall.
- Rim Rock Trail – A short hike with spectacular canyon views.
- Inner Canyon Exploration – If you’re up for a challenge, hike down into the canyon (permits required).
Evening Drive: Head to Rocky Mountain National Park to maximize your time there.
- Drive Time: 4.5 hours (250 miles)
- Where to Stay: Estes Park, CO (hotels, lodges, and cabins)
Days 5-7: Rocky Mountain National Park
With three full days, you’ll experience the best of Colorado’s most famous National Park. We also have a more detailed guide just on Rocky Mountain National Park linked here. Please note this park requires an entrance permit.
Day 5: Alpine Lakes & Wildlife Viewing
- Bear Lake Loop – An easy but stunning hike (permits required in peak season).
- Alberta Falls – A short hike to a beautiful waterfall.
- Sprague Lake – A scenic spot for sunrise or sunset photography.
Day 6: High-Elevation Adventures on your Colorado Roadtrip
- Trail Ridge Road – Drive the highest continuous paved road in the U.S.
- Sky Pond Hike – A challenging but rewarding alpine lake hike.
- Moraine Park – A great area for spotting elk, especially in fall.
Day 7: Last Views & Departure
- Emerald Lake Hike – One of the most iconic hikes in the park.
- Enjoy a relaxing morning in Estes Park before driving back to Denver.
- Drive Time to DEN: 1.5-2 hours (70 miles)
Best Time to Take a Colorado Road Trip
- Summer (June-August): Ideal for hiking and accessibility.
- Fall (September-October): Stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
- Spring (April-May): Unpredictable weather but fewer visitors.
- Winter (November-March): Snowy landscapes but limited road access.
Additional Stops for Your Colorado Road Trip
If you have extra time, consider adding these unique destinations:
1. Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs):Stunning red rock formations and scenic hikes.
2. Pikes Peak: Drive or take a cog railway to the summit of this 14,115-foot mountain.
3. Maroon Bells (Aspen): One of the most photographed mountain scenes in the U.S.
4. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park: Walk across one of the highest suspension bridges in the world.
5. Glenwood Hot Springs: Relax in the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool.
6. Boulder & Flatirons: Explore the vibrant town of Boulder and hike the Flatirons.
Final Tips for the Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
- Rent a high-clearance vehicle – Some roads are rugged, especially near Black Canyon.
- Book accommodations early – Estes Park and Mesa Verde fill up quickly.
- Check road closures – Trail Ridge Road and some mountain passes may close due to snow.
- Pack layers – Weather can change rapidly, especially at high elevations.
This Colorado road trip is the perfect way to experience the best of the Centennial State. Whether you’re hiking among towering peaks, sledding down massive dunes, or stepping back in time at ancient cliff dwellings, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.
Ready to hit the road? Check out our other National Park road trip blog posts!
