There’s something magical about a Colorado road trip itinerary.
The state’s roads cut through some of the most dramatic scenery in America.
You’ll see snow-dusted peaks, desert canyons, quirky little towns, and steaming hot springs.
Colorado is made for road trips.
I’ve explored the state in different seasons, and every time I leave, I feel like I’ve only scratched the surface.
Whether planning a weeklong epic adventure or looking for shorter Colorado weekend getaways, this guide will give you the building blocks for your trip.
I’ve included national parks, scenic byways, small towns, and a sample loop at the end to help you put it all together.
I have created it so you can pick and mix what works for you.
Colorado Road Trip Itinerary: Recommended Stops
Rocky Mountain National Park And Estes Park
No Colorado travel guide is complete without Rocky Mountain National Park.
It’s the most visited park in the state and a place that never gets old, no matter how many times you drive through.
The star attraction is Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in the U.S.
It climbs to over 12,000 feet (3,650 m). At the top, you are greeted with a view of alpine tundra that seems to go on forever before disappearing into the mountains on the horizon.
In summer, you can hike family-friendly trails like Bear Lake or the more challenging Sky Pond.
In winter, the park transforms into a snow globe.
It is ideal for snowshoeing or simply watching elk graze in the quiet meadows.
Estes Park, the gateway town, is worth an overnight stop.
Wander its shops, grab a cinnamon roll at a café, or take a tour of the Stanley Hotel, said to have inspired The Shining.
Look Here: Rocky National Park Day Trip & Lunch
Glenwood Springs and the Hot Springs of Colorado
Nothing says Colorado like a soak in a natural hot spring after a long day on the road.
Glenwood Springs is perhaps the most famous, with massive outdoor pools fed by mineral water.
If you want something more rustic, head south to Pagosa Springs, where pools line the San Juan River.
These hot springs in Colorado are perfect for a bit of indulgence during your road trip.
In winter, the contrast of steaming water and snowy mountains is unforgettable.
In summer, they’re a soothing break from hiking or biking.
This is one of my favorite things to do in Colorado.
The Million Dollar Highway
Driving the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton is one of those drives everyone should do once.
This stretch of U.S. Route 550 is famous (and slightly infamous) for its hairpin turns, cliff-edge drops, and views that make you want to stop every five minutes.
Ouray, nicknamed the “Switzerland of America,” is a gem of a small town with ice climbing in winter and endless hiking trails in summer.
Silverton, once a rugged mining town, now feels like stepping back into the Wild West with its saloons and old-time storefronts.
This section alone makes the case for Colorado being one of the best states for road tripping.
Mesa Verde National Park
No Colorado travel guide would be complete without recommending that you include Mesa Verde.
This UNESCO World Heritage site preserves ancient cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people.
Climbing ladders into 700-year-old dwellings is an experience you won’t forget, and the park’s ranger-led tours give powerful context to the history.
The surrounding Four Corners region is also worth a visit.
Where else can you stand in four states at once?
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Rolling dunes higher than skyscrapers, backed by snowy peaks? That’s Great Sand Dunes National Park.
It is one of Colorado’s most surreal landscapes.
You can sled or sandboard down the dunes, splash in Medano Creek in late spring, or simply watch the sunset turn the sand golden.
Nearby Alamosa makes a good overnight base, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a star-filled sky since the park is an International Dark Sky Park.
Here is a list from the National Park Service of all the National Parks in Colorado for your convenience.
Colorado’s Scenic Byways
Colorado has 26 designated Scenic Byways, and you could plan an entire Colorado road trip itinerary just around them.
Some of the best are: Peak to Peak Highway, offering stunning fall colors near Boulder and Estes Park.
The San Juan Skyway is a loop that includes the Million Dollar Highway plus Telluride.
Highway of Legends consists of winding roads through volcanic peaks and historic coal towns.
Each byway shows a different side of the state, from alpine meadows to desert canyons.
My suggestion is to pick the one that appeals to you the most and prioritize that one first.
Quirky Colorado Small Towns
One of my favorite parts of any road trip is stumbling into a town I didn’t expect to love. Colorado is full of them.
A few of my favorites are Crested Butte, is the wildflower capital in summer, a ski haven in winter.
Salida is an artsy river town with galleries, cafés, and kayaking.
Leadville is the highest incorporated city in the U.S., with a rich mining history.
These make for perfect Colorado weekend getaways, whether you’re planning a short escape or stringing them together on a longer loop.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Often overlooked, Black Canyon is dramatic and wild.
Sheer cliffs drop into a narrow gorge carved by the Gunnison River, and viewpoints like Painted Wall leave you speechless.
My advice is to make sure you give this one a visit.
Hiking down into the canyon is possible (though strenuous), while the rim drives are accessible for anyone who just wants to admire the views.
And the views are stunning.
Look here: Black Canyon Kayak Half Day Tour
Colorado Road Trips: Essentials Packing List
Here are my tips on how to pack lightly. using a carry-on when traveling. And WHY it is almost a necessity!
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors.
These RFID sleeves are another solution.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday.
It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.
I never leave home on a trip without a non-disposable water bottle.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you as well.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great for a daily go-pack.
These quick-dry slip-on Aqua shoes will be useful when visiting spas or hot springs.
These men’s quick-dry trunks are essential.
For women, this one-strap one-piece bathing suit is amazing.
Consider bringing along quick-dry super-absorbent microfiber towels.
This wet-dry bag with handles is a good option.
These unisex polarized sunglasses come in many lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable, too.
If you like aviator-style sunglasses, these polarized aviators may interest you.
As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from your qualifying purchases.
Seasonal Tips for Your Colorado Road Trip
Summer in Colorado (June through August) is the most popular time to visit, with warm days and clear skies.
In the mountains, highs usually range from 70–85°F (21–29°C), while lower valleys can be hotter.
This is the ideal season for hiking alpine trails, driving over mountain passes, and exploring national parks when everything is fully open.
Fall (September into October) brings crisp air and stunning scenery.
Temperatures cool to around 50–70°F (10–21°C), and whole mountainsides turn gold with aspens.
This is one of the most enchanting times for a road trip, especially if you’re chasing fall color along routes like the Peak to Peak Highway or the San Juan Skyway.
Winter in Colorado (November through March) turns the state into a snowy wonderland.
Highs in mountain towns hover between 30–45°F (-1–7°C), though lower valleys can be milder.
While many come for skiing, winter road trippers find magic in soaking at hot springs, snowshoeing in national parks, or just wandering through festive small towns lit up for the holidays.
Spring (April and May) is perhaps the most unpredictable season. You’ll find valley wildflowers blooming with temperatures between 40–65°F (4–18°C), while snow still lingers in higher elevations.
It’s a quieter time to explore, but you will want to be flexible with the weather, which can swing between sunshine and late snowstorms.
No matter the season, packing layers is essential.
The altitude and rapid shifts in weather mean it’s best to bring sunscreen, extra water, and a warm layer even if you’re traveling in midsummer.
Choosing Your Own Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
Your Colorado road trip itinerary could stretch across weeks or a few days.
Pair Rocky Mountain National Park with a soak in Glenwood Springs for a quick loop.
Or go big with a southern sweep that takes in Mesa Verde, the Million Dollar Highway, and Great Sand Dunes.
Pick the spots you want to visit most and then work out your itinerary from there.
Here are 10 Unforgettable Things To Do in Colorado (That Aren’t Skiing)
Sample 7-Day Colorado Road Trip Loop
Want a starting point? Here’s a flexible week-long loop:
- Day 1–2: Denver to Estes Park, explore Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Day 3: Drive to Glenwood Springs, soak in hot springs.
- Day 4: Continue south to Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
- Day 5: Drive the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton.
- Day 6: Head to Mesa Verde National Park.
- Day 7: Swing back east to Great Sand Dunes before returning to Denver.
This route hits the highlights but leaves room for you to linger in the towns or parks that speak to you most.
10 Unforgettable Things To Do in Colorado (That Aren’t Skiing)