23 day itinerary
Colorado
Personalized with:Make it family friendlyMaximum time in national parks
Itinerary
Colorado is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and with 23 days to explore, you can really dive into its stunning national parks and family-friendly activities. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and family bonding. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Arrival in Denver
- Morning: Arrive in Denver. Settle into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Explore the . It’s interactive and perfect for kids!
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the LoDo District. Try the Denver Biscuit Company for some hearty comfort food.
Day 2: Denver to
- Morning: Drive to Estes Park (about 1.5 hours). Stop at the for a quick photo op.
- Afternoon: Enter . Take a scenic drive along (weather permitting) and stop at the .
- Evening: Settle into a cozy cabin or lodge in Estes Park. Enjoy a family dinner at a local eatery.
Day 3:
- All Day: Spend the day hiking! Try the for stunning views and family-friendly paths. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake.
- Evening: Return to Estes Park for some ice cream at a local shop.
Day 4: More
- Morning: Head to the for a hike to . It’s a short and easy hike, perfect for families.
- Afternoon: Visit the historic town of Estes Park. Explore shops and maybe take a ride on the .
- Evening: Enjoy a family game night at your accommodation.
Day 5: Estes Park to Colorado Springs
- Morning: Depart Estes Park and drive to Colorado Springs (about 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the . Walk the easy trails and marvel at the stunning rock formations.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Colorado Springs.
Day 6:
- All Day: Take the Highway to the summit of . Enjoy the breathtaking views and have lunch at the summit house.
- Evening: Return to Colorado Springs and relax at your hotel.
Day 7: Colorado Springs to
- Morning: Drive to (about 2.5 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the dunes! Rent sandboards or sleds for some family fun.
- Evening: Camp under the stars or stay in nearby Alamosa.
Day 8:
- All Day: Spend another day at the park. Hike the Dunes or explore the (if it’s flowing).
- Evening: Enjoy a campfire dinner and share stories.
Day 9: Alamosa to Durango
- Morning: Drive to Durango (about 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the historic downtown area and visit the .
- Evening: Dinner at a local pizzeria.
Day 10: Durango to
- All Day: Take a day trip to (about 1 hour). Explore the cliff dwellings and take a ranger-led tour.
- Evening: Return to Durango for a relaxing evening.
Day 11: Durango to
- Morning: Drive to (about 2 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the Million Dollar Highway.
- Afternoon: Explore the charming town of and visit the hot springs.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 12: to
- All Day: Take a day trip to (about 1 hour). Ride the free gondola for stunning views and explore the town.
- Evening: Return to for the night.
Day 13: to Glenwood Springs
- Morning: Depart for Glenwood Springs (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the for some family fun.
- Evening: Dinner in Glenwood Springs.
Day 14: Glenwood Springs to
- Morning: Drive back to (about 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the park’s less-visited areas, like the .
- Evening: Stay in a lodge near the park.
Day 15:
- All Day: Enjoy a family-friendly hike, such as the Emerald Lake Trail. Bring a camera for those stunning views!
- Evening: Relax and enjoy a family movie night.
Day 16: to Fort Collins
- Morning: Depart for Fort Collins (about 1 hour).
- Afternoon: Visit the . It’s interactive and fun for all ages!
- Evening: Dinner at a local brewery with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Day 17: Fort Collins to Steamboat Springs
- Morning: Drive to Steamboat Springs (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the town and visit the .
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 18: Steamboat Springs
- All Day: Enjoy a day of outdoor activities! Go hiking, biking, or even horseback riding.
- Evening: Relax at your accommodation.
Day 19: Steamboat Springs to
- Morning: Head back to (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore more trails or visit the Bear Lake area again.
- Evening: Stay in Estes Park.
Day 20: Estes Park to Boulder
- Morning: Drive to Boulder (about 1 hour).
- Afternoon: Visit the and hike one of the family-friendly trails.
- Evening: Dinner on Pearl Street and enjoy some street performances.
Day 21: Boulder to Denver
- Morning: Head back to Denver (about 30 minutes).
- Afternoon: Visit the or the .
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a fun family restaurant.
Day 22: Denver
- All Day: Explore any remaining attractions in Denver, like the or the .
- Evening: Pack and prepare for departure.
Day 23: Departure
- Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and maybe a final stroll around the city.
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
This itinerary is packed with family-friendly activities and plenty of time in Colorado’s stunning national parks. You’ll create lasting memories while exploring the beauty of the Rockies! Enjoy your adventure! 🌄✨