Towering mountains, winding scenic highways, and breathtaking national parks make Colorado a dream destination for road-trippers. Whether you’re traveling through Colorado to chase golden aspen leaves in fall, hike wildflower meadows in summer, or admire snow-covered peaks in winter, the state offers unmatched scenery and adventure.
From high-altitude drives along Trail Ridge Road to the dramatic switchbacks of the Million Dollar Highway, every turn reveals a new adventure. Historic towns like Durango and Aspen offer a glimpse of the Old West, while Denver and Colorado Springs blend culture with outdoor thrills.
With a rental car, you can explore at your own pace, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints and uncovering hidden gems along the way. This guide covers the most scenic routes, must-visit destinations, and essential travel tips to help you plan the perfect Colorado road trip. Buckle up—your adventure starts here!
RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ROAD TRIP IN COLORADO
Table of contents
- Planning your Colorado road trip: What you need to know
- The most scenic drives in Colorado
- Must-visit destinations along your Colorado road trip
- Where to stay: The best accommodations for every traveler
- Example 7-day Colorado road trip itinerary
- Final travel tips and things to know before you go
1. Planning your Colorado road trip: What you need to know
A successful road trip begins long before you hit the gas pedal. Colorado’s high-altitude terrain, unpredictable weather, and remote stretches of road require a little more preparation than your average drive. Whether you’re traveling for a few days or embarking on a week-long journey, knowing what to expect will make all the difference.
Where to start your trip
Most travelers begin their Colorado road trip in either Denver or Colorado Springs.
- Denver: A vibrant city with great food, museums, and nightlife. It’s also the perfect base for picking up a rental car and heading straight for the mountains.
- Colorado Springs: A quieter alternative, ideal for travelers who want to start with nature right away. Highlights include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Manitou Springs.
Choosing the right vehicle
Colorado’s varied terrain means choosing the right car is key.
- SUV/4WD: Best for mountain roads, winter conditions, and backcountry routes.
- Sedan: Fine for city travel and major highways but not recommended for unpaved roads.
- Convertible: Perfect for paved scenic routes in Colorado, letting you enjoy wide-open views.
Check out these driving tips for Colorado to ensure a safe and smooth trip.
What to pack for the road
The weather in Colorado can change quickly, so pack layers, even in summer.
- Clothing: Lightweight clothing for warm days, but jackets, hats, and gloves for chilly mountain mornings.
- Gear: A GPS or offline maps, as cell service is limited in remote areas.
- Essentials: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Altitude medication may also be useful.
2. The most scenic drives in Colorado
Wondering what to see in Colorado? With its towering peaks, winding canyon roads, and open highways stretching into the horizon, it offers some of the most breathtaking drives in the country.
Trail Ridge Road – the gateway to the Rockies
No Colorado road trip is complete without a drive along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. Winding through Rocky Mountain National Park, this route climbs to over 12,000 feet, offering panoramic views of alpine tundra, rugged peaks, and abundant wildlife. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of chances to stop for hiking, photography, and breathtaking viewpoints. The best time to visit is from late May to October, as snow closures are common in the winter months.
Million Dollar Highway – a thrilling mountain pass
For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping drive, the Million Dollar Highway delivers. Stretching between Ouray and Silverton, this historic route winds through the San Juan Mountains, offering dramatic drop-offs, tight switchbacks, and unparalleled views of towering peaks. The road is famous for having no guardrails, making it both a thrilling and unforgettable experience. It’s best driven in the summer or early fall when the roads are clear and the turning foliage creates an unforgettable landscape.
San Juan Skyway – a journey through history and nature
Connecting Durango, Telluride, Silverton, and Ouray, the San Juan Skyway is a 233-mile loop that takes you through mountain passes, lush valleys, and historic mining towns. This drive is a photographer’s dream, particularly in fall, when the landscape transforms into a sea of orange and gold aspens.
3. Must-visit destinations along your Colorado road trip
A Colorado road trip isn’t just about the stunning drives—it’s also about where you stop along the way. The state is home to bustling cities, historic towns, breathtaking national parks, and hidden gems that make every leg of the journey exciting.
Denver – A city to explore before hitting the road
Most Colorado road trips start in Denver, the state’s capital and a vibrant city that perfectly blends urban culture with outdoor adventure. Before heading into the mountains, take some time to explore Denver’s thriving food scene, historic landmarks, and outdoor attractions.
- Top attractions: Visit Red Rocks Amphitheater, walk around Union Station, and explore the Denver Art Museum.
- Foodie highlights: Try green chili-smothered burritos or bison burgers, both Colorado specialties. RiNo (River North Art District) is the place to go for excellent local fare and bustling food halls.
- Why stop here? Denver is the perfect spot to acclimate to the altitude before heading into the mountains.
Rocky Mountain National Park – A nature lover’s paradise
Around a 90-minute drive from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most iconic stops on any Colorado road trip. Home to majestic peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, this park is a must for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.
- Best hikes: Emerald Lake Trail, Sky Pond, and Bear Lake Loop offer breathtaking views.
- Scenic drives: Trail Ridge Road takes you to over 12,000 feet with spectacular panoramic landscapes.
- Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for elk, moose, and bighorn sheep—they roam freely in the park.
Aspen and Maroon Bells – Colorado’s postcard-perfect scenery
No Colorado road trip is complete without a stop in Aspen, known for its luxury resorts, top-tier dining, and incredible mountain views. But the real highlight? Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed spots in the U.S.
- Why visit? Stunning views, world-class hiking, and a lively town atmosphere.
- Must-do: Drive or take a shuttle to Maroon Bells Scenic Area and enjoy a hike around Maroon Lake.
- Local eats: Try the famous Aspen Hickory House Ribs or dine at Element 47 for gourmet cuisine.
Durango and Mesa Verde – Where history meets adventure
For a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, Durango and Mesa Verde National Park are unmissable stops.
- Durango: A charming Old West town with a historic downtown, lively bars, and the famous Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a steam-powered train ride through the mountains.
- Mesa Verde: One of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the U.S., home to Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings dating back over 700 years.
Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak – Red rocks and mountain views
Just south of Denver, Colorado Springs is home to some of the most breathtaking rock formations and high-altitude drives in the state. When considering what to do or see in Colorado Springs, visiting Garden of the Gods and taking a scenic drive up Pikes Peak should be at the top of your list!
- Garden of the Gods: A free park with towering red rock formations and great hiking trails.
- Pikes Peak Highway: A drive up to 14,115 feet, offering panoramic views across the state.
- Local favorite: Visit Manitou Springs, a quirky mountain town known for its natural mineral springs and historic charm.
4. Where to stay: The best accommodations for every traveler
A road trip through Colorado means choosing from a mix of luxury resorts, cozy lodges, and budget-friendly options. Whether you want to wake up in a forest cabin, enjoy five-star service, or camp under the stars, here are the best accommodation options for every kind of traveler.
Luxury hotels and resorts
For those looking to relax in style, Colorado has some of the best high-end lodges and resorts in the country.
- The Broadmoor (Colorado Springs): A historic 5-star resort with world-class dining, golf, and spa services.
- The Little Nell (Aspen): A luxurious mountainside hotel with ski-in/ski-out access and fine dining.
- Gateway Canyons Resort: A hidden gem in western Colorado, perfect for those seeking seclusion and scenic desert landscapes.
Cozy cabins and boutique stays
For a more authentic Colorado experience, consider staying in a cabin, boutique lodge, or locally owned inn.
- Gravity Haus (Breckenridge and Vail): A modern yet cozy mountain lodge with an adventurous spirit.
- Dunton Hot Springs (Dolores): A luxury ghost town turned into a stunning retreat with private hot springs.
- Mountain Goat Lodge (Salida): A charming farmstay where you can experience true Colorado hospitality.
Budget-friendly motels and camping options
For road trippers on a budget, there are plenty of affordable stays and campgrounds across the state.
- Motel Options: Comfortable well-rated chains like La Quinta, Comfort Inn, and Best Western can be found in most cities.
- Best camping spots:
- Moraine Park Campground (Rocky Mountain National Park): Experience stunning mountain views on the east side of the park.
- Piñon Flats Campground (Great Sand Dunes National Park): Sleep under the stars near the famous sand dunes.
- Ridgway State Park: Perfect for those exploring the beauty of the San Juan Mountains.
5. Example 7-day Colorado road trip itinerary
Planning a week-long road trip through Colorado? Here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary that hits all the major highlights while keeping the journey balanced with adventure and relaxation.
| Day | Route | Driving Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Denver & explore | Minimal | Stroll through LoDo, visit Red Rocks Park, enjoy dinner in the city. |
| Day 2 | Denver → Rocky Mountain NP → Estes Park | 1.5 hours | Drive Trail Ridge Road, hike Bear Lake or Emerald Lake, overnight in Estes Park. |
| Day 3 | Estes Park → Aspen via Independence Pass | 3.5–4 hours | Scenic mountain drive, visit Maroon Bells, explore downtown Aspen. |
| Day 4 | Aspen → Black Canyon of the Gunnison → Montrose | 3.5 hours | Stop at Gunnison Point, Painted Wall Overlook, stay overnight in Montrose. |
| Day 5 | Montrose → Durango → Mesa Verde NP | 4–4.5 hours | Ride the Durango & Silverton Railroad, explore Mesa Verde’s cliff dwellings. |
| Day 6 | Durango → Million Dollar Highway → Ouray | 1.5–2 hours | Breathtaking drive, soak in Ouray Hot Springs, overnight in Ouray. |
| Day 7 | Ouray → Colorado Springs → Denver | 6–6.5 hours | Visit Garden of the Gods, drive up Pikes Peak, return to Denver. |
6. Final travel tips and things to know before you go
Before setting off on your Colorado road trip, here are a few final tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
- Book accommodations in advance, especially in peak season (summer and fall).
- Be prepared for altitude changes—take it easy on high-elevation hikes and stay hydrated.
- Download offline maps, as some remote areas have limited cell service.
- Check road conditions, especially in winter, as mountain passes may close due to snow.
- Respect nature—stick to trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
A Colorado road trip is one of the most scenic and rewarding adventures in the U.S. With breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and endless outdoor activities, it’s the perfect way to experience the diverse beauty of the Centennial State. So pack your bags, plan your route, and hit the open road—Colorado is waiting!
RENT A CAR FOR YOUR ROAD TRIP IN COLORADO
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• Volcano road trips in the U.S.
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• Winter road trip to the Grand Canyon
