17 day itinerary for Rocheuses

Itinerary

A 17-day adventure in the Rocky Mountains sounds like a fantastic family getaway! The Rockies are filled with stunning landscapes, wildlife, and plenty of activities that everyone can enjoy. Here’s a fun and family-friendly itinerary that balances outdoor adventures, relaxation, and some educational experiences. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Denver, Colorado

• Morning: Arrive in Denver. Settle into your hotel and grab a hearty breakfast at a local café.
• Afternoon: Visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. It’s interactive and great for kids!
• Evening: Stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens. Enjoy a picnic dinner in the gardens.

## Day 2: Denver to Estes Park

• Morning: Drive to Estes Park (about 1.5 hours). Stop at a scenic viewpoint along the way.
• Afternoon: Explore the charming town of Estes Park. Visit local shops and grab lunch at a family-friendly restaurant.
• Evening: Check into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening by Lake Estes.

## Day 3: Rocky Mountain National Park

• All ## Day: Spend the day in Rocky Mountain National Park. Start with the Bear Lake Trailhead for easy hikes like Bear Lake and Nymph Lake. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
• Evening: Return to Estes Park for dinner. Try a local pizzeria!

## Day 4: More Rocky Mountain National Park

• Morning: Head to the Alpine Visitor Center. Take the Trail Ridge Road for breathtaking views.
• Afternoon: Hike the short but beautiful Tundra Communities Trail. Keep an eye out for wildlife!
• Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local steakhouse.

## Day 5: Estes Park to Glenwood Springs

• Morning: Depart for Glenwood Springs (about 3 hours). Stop at the scenic town of Leadville for lunch.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Glenwood Springs and visit the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool for some relaxation.
• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in town.

## Day 6: Adventure Day in Glenwood Springs

• Morning: Go white-water rafting on the Colorado River (family-friendly options available).
• Afternoon: Visit the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Enjoy the rides and cave tours.
• Evening: Have a casual dinner and enjoy some ice cream for dessert!

## Day 7: Glenwood Springs to Aspen

• Morning: Drive to Aspen (about 1 hour). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Afternoon: Explore downtown Aspen. Visit the Aspen Art Museum for some culture.
• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try some local cuisine!

## Day 8: Aspen Outdoor Fun

• All ## Day: Spend the day hiking. The Maroon Bells are a must-see! Hike the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail for stunning views.
• Evening: Relax and enjoy a family game night at your accommodation.

## Day 9: Aspen to Breckenridge

• Morning: Depart for Breckenridge (about 2 hours). Stop for breakfast in a quaint mountain town.
• Afternoon: Explore Breckenridge’s historic downtown. Visit the Breckenridge Welcome Center.
• Evening: Dinner at a local brewery with a family-friendly atmosphere.

## Day 10: Breckenridge Adventure

• All ## Day: Enjoy a day of outdoor activities! Try mountain biking or take a scenic chairlift ride. In winter, skiing is a fantastic option.
• Evening: Relax with a movie night at your accommodation.

## Day 11: Breckenridge to Rocky Mountain National Park

• Morning: Head back to Rocky Mountain National Park (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the Wild Basin area. Hike to Copeland Falls for a family-friendly adventure.
• Evening: Dinner in Estes Park.

## Day 12: Estes Park to Boulder

• Morning: Depart for Boulder (about 1 hour). Stop at the Flatirons for a family hike.
• Afternoon: Explore Pearl Street Mall. Enjoy street performances and grab lunch.
• Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Boulder.

## Day 13: Boulder to Colorado Springs

• Morning: Drive to Colorado Springs (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Garden of the Gods.
• Afternoon: Explore the park and take a family-friendly hike. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures!
• Evening: Dinner in Colorado Springs.

## Day 14: Pikes Peak Adventure

• All ## Day: Take the Pikes Peak Highway to the summit. Enjoy the views and have a picnic at the top.
• Evening: Return to Colorado Springs for dinner and relax.

## Day 15: Colorado Springs to Denver

• Morning: Head back to Denver (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Denver Zoo.
• Afternoon: Explore the zoo and have lunch at the zoo café.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a fun family restaurant.

## Day 16: Day Trip to Mount Evans

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Mount Evans. Drive up the highest paved road in North America and enjoy the stunning views. Hike around the summit area.
• Evening: Return to Denver for a relaxing evening.

## Day 17: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Denver.
• Afternoon: Depart for home, filled with wonderful memories of your Rocky Mountain adventure!

This itinerary offers a mix of outdoor activities, relaxation, and family bonding time. Make sure to check the weather and any seasonal activities that might be available during your visit. Enjoy your trip to the Rockies! 🌲🏞️