Exploring the Centennial State: Your Ultimate 7-Day Colorado Itinerary
Curated By
Gillian Spatz
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Colorado
Adventure Travel
Nature Escapes
Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel
Mountains
Outdoors
Hiking
Curator’s statement
Dive into the heart of the American West with our immersive seven-day Colorado itinerary, a journey that encapsulates the state's stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and outdoor adventures. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the bustling streets of Denver and the serene landscapes of Aspen, this itinerary is meticulously crafted to offer a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Whether you're hiking through national parks, sampling craft beers, or soaking in hot springs, our Colorado itinerary promises a diverse and unforgettable experience, showcasing the best that Colorado has to offer in just one week.
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
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Day 1: Denver
Morning: Explore downtown Denver, visit the Denver Art Museum or take a stroll through the historic Larimer Square.
Afternoon: Head to the Denver Botanic Gardens or tour the Coors Brewery in nearby Golden.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Denver's acclaimed restaurants and catch a show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.
Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park
Morning: Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park and spend the day exploring its scenic trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, stopping at overlooks and hiking trails along the way.
Evening: Stay overnight in Estes Park and dine at a local restaurant with views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3: Boulder
Morning: Drive to Boulder and hike in the iconic Flatirons or explore the trails in Chautauqua Park.
Afternoon: Visit the Pearl Street Mall for shopping, dining, and street performers.
Evening: Experience Boulder's vibrant food scene with dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant.
Day 4: Colorado Springs
Morning: Drive to Colorado Springs and visit the Garden of the Gods for stunning rock formations and scenic vistas.
Afternoon: Explore the Manitou Cliff Dwellings or take a hike in the nearby Pike National Forest.
Evening: Relax and unwind at a local brewery or enjoy dinner with views of Pikes Peak.
Day 5: Royal Gorge Region
Morning: Head to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park for thrilling activities such as zip-lining, gondola rides, and bridge walks.
Afternoon: Take a scenic train ride through the Royal Gorge or go whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant and camp under the stars or stay in a nearby lodge.
Day 6: Durango
Morning: Drive to Durango and take a historic steam train ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Afternoon: Explore downtown Durango with its shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Evening: Attend a performance at the historic Henry Strater Theatre or enjoy dinner at a local eatery.
Day 7: Mesa Verde National Park
Morning: Visit Mesa Verde National Park and explore the ancient cliff dwellings and archaeological sites.
Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the park's highlights or hike one of the scenic trails.
Evening: Head back to Durango for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your week of adventures in Colorado.
Need to Know
As you venture into this seven-day Colorado itinerary, you'll find yourself enriched with the spirit of the West, having traversed the diverse terrains and experienced the warm hospitality and adventurous soul of Colorado. This seven-day adventure leaves no stone unturned, from the heights of the Rockies to the depths of ancient canyons, ensuring your journey through Colorado is as enriching as it is exhilarating.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Discover Telluride, Colorado: A Guide to Mountain Adventure and Charm.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Colorado.
Travel Advisor
Gillian Spatz
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