15 day itinerary for Colorado New Mexico Wyoming Utah

Itinerary

Planning a 15-day adventure through Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, and Utah sounds like an incredible journey filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor activities. Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and a bit of adventure!

## Day 1: Arrival in Denver, Colorado

• Morning: Arrive in Denver. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Explore the Denver Art Museum and the vibrant LoDo District.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local brewery. Try some Colorado craft beer!

## Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park

• Morning: Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park (about 1.5 hours). Start with the Bear Lake Trailhead.
• Afternoon: Hike around Bear Lake and take the easy hike to Alberta Falls.
• Evening: Return to Denver for dinner. Consider a stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens.

## Day 3: Colorado Springs

• Morning: Head to Colorado Springs (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Garden of the Gods.
• Afternoon: Explore Pikes Peak via the cog railway or drive up for breathtaking views.
• Evening: Dinner in Old Colorado City, a charming historic district.

## Day 4: Santa Fe, New Mexico

• Morning: Drive to Santa Fe (about 5 hours). Enjoy the scenic route.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the Plaza and the Palace of the Governors.
• Evening: Savor New Mexican cuisine at a local restaurant. Don’t miss the green chile!

## Day 5: Santa Fe

• Morning: Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the Loretto Chapel.
• Afternoon: Explore the art galleries on Canyon Road.
• Evening: Attend a local music or art event if available.

## Day 6: Taos, New Mexico

• Morning: Drive to Taos (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Afternoon: Explore the art scene and the historic Taos Plaza.
• Evening: Dinner at a local eatery, perhaps try some posole!

## Day 7: Durango, Colorado

• Morning: Head to Durango (about 3.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive.
• Afternoon: Visit the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum.
• Evening: Stroll along Main Avenue and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 8: Mesa Verde National Park

• Morning: Explore Mesa Verde National Park (about 1 hour from Durango). Take a guided tour of the cliff dwellings.
• Afternoon: Hike some of the park’s trails for stunning views.
• Evening: Return to Durango for a relaxing evening.

## Day 9: Moab, Utah

• Morning: Drive to Moab (about 2.5 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Visit Arches National Park. Don’t miss Delicate Arch!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Moab and perhaps catch a sunset at the park.

## Day 10: Canyonlands National Park

• Morning: Head to Canyonlands National Park (Island in the Sky district).
• Afternoon: Explore the viewpoints and take a short hike, like the Mesa Arch trail.
• Evening: Return to Moab for dinner and relax.

## Day 11: Salt Lake City, Utah

• Morning: Drive to Salt Lake City (about 4 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps try some fry sauce!

## Day 12: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

• Morning: Drive to Jackson Hole (about 4.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains.
• Afternoon: Explore the town square and visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art.
• Evening: Dinner in Jackson, and if you’re up for it, check out some local nightlife.

## Day 13: Grand Teton National Park

• Morning: Head to Grand Teton National Park. Start with a visit to Jenny Lake.
• Afternoon: Hike to Hidden Falls or take a scenic drive through the park.
• Evening: Return to Jackson for dinner and enjoy the beautiful mountain views.

## Day 14: Yellowstone National Park

• Morning: Drive to Yellowstone National Park (about 1.5 hours). Start at the South Entrance.
• Afternoon: Visit Old Faithful and the surrounding geothermal features.
• Evening: Stay overnight in or near the park. Enjoy a picnic dinner if the weather permits!

## Day 15: Yellowstone to Denver

• Morning: Explore more of Yellowstone, perhaps the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
• Afternoon: Begin your drive back to Denver (about 8 hours). Stop for lunch along the way.
• Evening: Arrive in Denver for your final night. Celebrate your adventure with a nice dinner!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Pack Layers: Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• Stay Hydrated: Especially when hiking at higher elevations.
• Check Park Conditions: Some areas may have seasonal closures or require reservations.

This itinerary offers a mix of culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. Enjoy your adventure through these stunning states! If you have any specific interests or activities in mind, let me know, and I can tailor the itinerary even more! Safe travels! 🌄✨