The Ultimate 10-Day Colorado National Park Road Trip

Colorado is a magical state with wonderful diversity. The state’s national parks offer quintessential mountain views, massive sand dunes, ancient cliff dwellings, and dizzyingly steep canyons.

This 10 day road trip will start and end in Denver and touch all four National Parks — Rocky Mountain, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes — and many great towns in between. Come see what makes this state so incredible on this 10 day Colorado national park road trip!   

A Few Quick Things To Know About Your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Elevation 

In terms of elevation you will be all over the topographic map. At any point in the trip you could be at 5,000 feet above sea level or 10,000 feet. With this large elevation variance comes extreme changes in temperatures. Plan to pack layers and always keep a light jacket in your pack, no matter how warm it is when you start your day. Also know there’s usually snow on the peaks until mid-June. 

Weather

As mentioned above, pack layers, temperature can vary widely depending on your elevation. Know that severe afternoon storms are common during Colorado’s summers, especially at high elevations. If you’re planning to hike, bike, kayak, etc. you’ll need to be out early in the morning.

This Colorado road trip itinerary is designed for a summer visit. Mountain road conditions can be very unpredictable Fall – Spring.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is characterized by headaches, nausea, dizziness, and loss of breath. It may take days for your symptoms to subside if you’re not able to get to a lower elevation. If concerned that you may be affected by this, spend a day or two in Denver before heading out on your road trip. This will give your body some time to acclimate before heading to higher elevations. 

Buy A Park Pass in Advance  

Each National Park has a daily entrance fee per vehicle, usually about $35/ park. Instead of paying each park’s fee purchase an annual park pass, America The Beautiful. This pass give you unlimited access to any U.S. National Park for an entire year, the cost is $80.

You can purchase a pass online with approved retailers such as REI (you can purchase through this link) or in person when visiting a national park. 

Fun Fact: Did you know Katharine Lee Bates wrote America The Beautiful from the summit of Colorado’s Pikes Peak?

Colorado National Park Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Rocky Mountain National Park & Estes Park

Day 1 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park : 1.5 hours (65 miles)

Where to Stay: Estes Park 

The first day of the road trip kicks off in Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the state’s most popular attractions and the first stop on our Colorado road trip itinerary. Thanks to its stunning views, ample wildlife, and close proximity to Denver, it’s no surprise so many find themselves here.

When visiting RMNP you’ll need a time specific reservation, you can secure that here. These sell out quickly and need to be purchased up to a month in advance so be sure to plan accordingly.

For a complete guide, check out Rocky Mountain National Park: One Day Guide.

Go For A Hike In Rocky Mountain National Park

For your first day in Rocky Mountain National Park I recommend spending the day hiking. This is one of the best ways to see the park!

Two of the easiest hikes are Bear Lake and Alberta Falls, .7 miles and 1.6 miles respectively.

Nymph, Dream, & Emerald Lakes can all be seen on a 4.2 mile hike, with an option to add Lake Haiyaha for a total of 6.2 miles. In my opinion this hike offers the best bang for your buck, great views and fairly easy hiking.

Advanced hikers up for a trek in the 10 mile range check out Odessa Lake & Fern Lake or Sky Pond. 

Note: Trailhead parking lots fill very quickly, if you’re not here at sunrise utilize the park’s shuttle, it’s convenient and easy to use! 

Drive Through The Park

If you’d prefer not to hike consider a driving tour of Rocky Mountain National Park instead!

Guide Along is an audio tour downloaded to your phone which will guide you through Rocky Mountain National Park. Not only does it supply tons of information about the park but it also provides tips about where to pull over for the best viewpoints and easy, accessible trails worth stopping for.

The guided audio follows your GPS, therefore provides information and tips in real time and allows you to set the pace of the tour!

Be sure to download the tour before heading to the park, it’ll then work even when you no longer have cell service.

I’ve used Guide Along tours for many national parks and couldn’t recommend it more!

The audio tour is only a few dollars. You can purchase it here: Guide Along Rocky Mountain National Park.

Spend The Afternoon In Estes Park

After a morning of hiking spend your afternoon enjoying beautiful Estes Park.

Explore the many locally owned shops downtown, tour the Stanley Hotel which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining, and take a walk along the river.

If you’re up for it, head back into the park for sunset at Forest Canyon Overlook, be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife!

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Estes Park

Where To Stay In Estes Park 

Stephen King fans will love staying at the The Stanley Hotel. This beautiful, historic hotel is supposedly haunted. Whether or not that’s true I can’t say for sure, but I do know it books out far in advance so you’ll want to book this ASAP.

If you’d rather pass on the haunted hotel I recommend staying at Riverwood on Fall River. This hotel offers charming, riverside cabins with private decks, all within walking distance of downtown Estes Park. 

For more ideas check out: Top Hotels In Estes Park or Best Estes Park Cabins On The River.

Tip: Estes Park is very popular throughout summer be sure book your accommodations well in advance.

Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park & Grand Lake 

Day 2 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Estes Park to Grand Lake: 1.5 hours (46 miles), Rocky Mountain National Park Pass Required

Where to Stay: Grand Lake

On the second day of the road trip we’ll drive through Rocky Mountain National Park via Trail Ridge Road which will bring us to our second destination, Grand Lake. Since the drive only takes 2 hours, either plan on doing some hiking in RNMP before hitting the road or plan to spend your afternoon in Grand Lake. 

Drive Trail Ridge Road

Start off day two of the Colorado national park road trip by driving the stunning Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park.

Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuously paved highway in the United States and tops out at 12,183 feet above sea level. The highway stretches 48 miles between the park’s east (Estes Park) and west (Grand Lake) entrances. The road features aspen groves, forests thick with ponderosa pines, and alpine tundra.

During your drive be sure to stop at the many viewpoints, the Continental Divide, and the Alpine Visitor Center, which is the highest elevation Visitor Center in the National Park System.

Plan for about 2.5 hours to complete the drive, this includes time for stops. Remember, you’ll need another time specific reservation for day two, you can secure that here.

If you didn’t use the GyPSy Guide yesterday consider downloading the location based audio tour for your second day in Rocky Mountain National Park. The tours are full of great information and tips!

Note: Trail Ridge Road is typically open Memorial Day – Labor Day. It may open late or close early due to weather. 

Arrive In Grand Lake, Colorado 

Trail Ridge Road ends at Grand Lake which is where you’ll spend night two of this Colorado road trip!

Grand Lake has incredible mountain views and is an excellent spot to see wildlife, not to mention it’s a lot quieter than Estes Park. I’d definitely consider it an underrated Colorado destination!

Things To Do In Grand Lake

Not surprisingly most of the area’s lure is the lake! Rent a kayak, stand-up paddle board, or pontoon for a fun day on the water. You could also spend a day relaxing by the water, but don’t plan on swimming, the snowmelt-fed lake is very cold year-round.

If you’d prefer to stay on land, Adam’s Falls is a quick hike near town.

End your day strolling the shops and restaurants along Grand Avenue. 

You May Also Like: The Best Summer Things To Do In Grand Lake, Colorado.

Where To Stay In Grand Lake 

I recommend booking one of the cabins at Grand Lake Lodge or The Gateway Inn. The area also has a good selection of Airbnb’s and VRBO’s. If you’re having trouble finding accommodations in the small town of Grand Lake check out nearby Granby.

Day 3: Vail, Colorado  

Day 3 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Grand Lake to Vail: 2 hours (108 miles)

Where to Stay: Vail Village

Vail is an upscale mountain resort town located at the base of Vail Mountain, just off I-70. Since it’s only a 2 hour drive from Grand Lake you’ll have a full day to explore the town. While here you have options for an adventure filled day or a one of relaxation.

Relax In Vail 

This European-inspired ski town has world class shopping, spas, golfing, picture-worthy architecture, and high elevation botanical gardens. This gives you plenty of options for a nice relaxing day on your Colorado national park road trip. 

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Vail, Colorado In The Summer

Go For A Hike Or Bike Ride

The resort town also has excellent hiking and biking trails in the area. I recommend hiking Booth Falls, or Pitkin Lake trail if you’re up for a longer hike.

Bike enthusiasts will love Colorado Trail or the paved Gore Valley Trail.  

Ride The Gondola 

Whether your time in Vail is spent relaxing or exploring I’d recommend riding the gondola for a unique experience and great mountain views. Although the gondola is typically used for skiing and snowboarding it operates in the summer months and provides great views of the surrounding mountains. As well as access to dining, hiking, and biking trails. 

Where To Stay In Vail 

Vail Village is the best area to stay. There are plenty of modern hotels here within walking distance to dining, nightlife, and shopping. While Vail may be known for its expensive lodging, summer can be a great time to snag a good deal at a luxury hotel. My favorite hotels in Vail are The Arrabelle at Vail Square, Grand Hyatt Vail, and The Sebastian. 

Alternative Option: If Vail isn’t appealing or you’d prefer a more budget friendly option, check out Breckenridge. Breck, as it’s referred to by locals, has a charming and laidback downtown with shops, dining, and entertainment options. You’ll also find excellent hiking and biking trails in the area, my favorite hike near Breckenridge is McCullough Gulch Waterfall.  

Day 4: Glenwood Springs, Colorado  

Day 4 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Vail to Glenwood Springs: 1 hour (61 miles)

Where to Stay: Glenwood Springs

Day 4 involves a quick drive from Vail to Glenwood Springs. A portion of this drive is through Glenwood Canyon, which is one of the most gorgeous sections of highway in Colorado, in my opinion!

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs itself is a large mountain town surrounded by White River National Forest. This former mining town is most known for its excellent hot springs and immediate proximity to stunning Glenwood Canyon. 

Hike Hanging Lake 

One of Colorado’s most popular hikes, Hanging Lake, is just 15 minutes from downtown.

It’s a short trail, only 1.2 miles, but boasts a steep 1,000 foot elevation change in that short distance. The effort is well worth it as you’ll be rewarded with a small waterfall feeding into a stunning turquoise lake.

Due to popularity, permits are required and need to be purchased in advance, you can do that at Visit Glenwood – Hanging Lake Permits. 

Soak In The Hot Springs

While in Glenwood Springs visiting the hot springs is a must. Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Glenwood Hot Springs Pool are the area’s most popular options.

Be aware the springs are sulfur… so, they’re stinky, but worth it! The naturally heated, mineral water will be great for for any sore muscles caused by the road trip’s many adventures.

The springs are open day and night, usually closing around 10 pm. I recommend soaking in the evening or at night so you can enjoy hiking and exploring town during the day. Plus the nighttime tickets are usually discounted.

Additional Things To Do In Glenwood Springs 

If time permits also consider the following activities in Glenwood Springs:

• Browsing local shops in downtown Glenwood Springs.
• Book a cave tour.
• Bike the stunning Glenwood Canyon.
• White water raft the Colorado River.

Where To Stay In Glenwood Springs

My favorite lodging in Glenwood is Hotel Colorado. This historic hotel has been in service since 1893 and was a popular hotel for former president, Teddy Roosevelt. The hotel exudes old time class and charm. Whether in a quiet courtyard or the grand lobby you’ll be sure to find a relaxing spot to unwind at this truly unique hotel.

Alternative Option Or Add On: Glenwood Springs is only an hour (42 miles) from Aspen. Aspen is Colorado’s most famous mountain town thanks to stunning views, the famous Maroon Bells, rowdy nightlife, and celebrity sightings.

Day 5: Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park & Telluride

Day 5 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Glenwood Springs to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, South Rim: 2.5 hours (152 miles) 

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, South Rim to Telluride: 1 hour 40 minutes (77 miles)

Where to Stay: Telluride 

The fifth day of your Colorado national park road trip will involve quite a bit of driving due to Black Canyon National Park’s remote location, you’ll need to start your day early. I’d recommend leaving Glenwood Springs no later than 7 am, doing so will get you to the park by 9:30 am.

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon National Park surrounds a deep, nearly-vertical gorge that’s been carved out over the past 2 million years by the Gunnison River. The rocky, vertigo-inducing cliff sides make for stunning views!

This gorge is so deep and steep that portions of the canyon floor see less than an hour of sunlight per day, a fact which attributed to the canyon’s name.

This park is small, uncrowded, and offers great viewpoints as well as a few short, easy hikes.

Drive South Rim Road & Check Out The Viewpoints

South Rim Road is only 7 miles long, this is where you’ll find the Visitor Center, a few trailheads, and twelve viewpoints each with spectacular view’s of the jaw-dropping canyon.

You’ll have time to stop at each viewpoint if you desire, or simply enjoy the park’s most popular spots Gunnison Point, Pulpit Rock, Painted Wall View, and Sunset View. Each point is a short walk from the parking area.

If you’re getting hungry Sunset View has a nice picnic area. 

Go For A Hike

Warner Point trail is an easy 1.5 mile, relatively flat trail with great views of the canyon and West Elk Mountains. If you’re up for more of a moderate hike check out Oak Flat Loop Trail. This 2 mile loops takes you partway into the canyon for a different perspective of the gorge.

Advanced hikers looking to descend further into the canyon can check out Warner, Gunnison, and Tomichi Routes. Permits are required for all and can be obtained the morning of the hike.

Drive East Portal Road Into The Canyon 

East Portal Road is a steep, 5 mile drive that takes you to the bottom of the canyon. Here you can relax next to the Gunnison River and peer up at the staggering, 2,000 foot canyon walls. This is a great spot to rest and enjoy a bite to eat.

Note: Because of tight curves and steep grades RV’s and trailers are not permitted on this road.

For more ideas, check out Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park South Rim: Top Things To Do & Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park One Day Itinerary.

End Your Day In Telluride

Following your day exploring Black Canyon of the Gunnison head to Telluride for a nice dinner and relaxing evening. Plan to leave the park by 3:30 pm this will have you in Telluride no later than 5:30 pm.

Information on what to do and where to stay in Telluride is included in the segment below. 

Day 6: Telluride

Day 6 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

No Driving

Where to Stay: Town of Telluride or Mountain Village 

The entirety of Day 6 will be spent exploring beautiful, Telluride, Colorado.

Explore Telluride

Telluride is a former mining town turned ski resort situated in a picturesque box canyon surrounded by towering peaks. Sitting at 8,750 feet above sea level, this charming small town calls to those seeking a quiet getaway in the majestic Rocky Mountains. 

Telluride’s stunning and remote location makes it a favorite among many visiting Colorado!

Hike Or Bike Near Telluride

The Telluride area has nearly 100 trails to enjoy hiking or biking. The trails feature everything from waterfalls, towering mountain tops, turquoise lakes, and incredible wildflowers. 

Two hikes I recommend in Telluride are Bear Creek Falls and Blue Lake. Bear Creek makes for a great morning hike whereas Blue Lake will take up a good portion of your morning and afternoon. 

Relax & Explore Town

Telluride may only be eight blocks wide and twelve blocks long, but it’s packed full of cute boutique shops, restaurants, breweries, art galleries, and museums. It’s is a National Historic Landmark District thanks to its preservation of mining boom-town architecture!

Grab a coffee at Ghost Town Coffee Roasters and spend an afternoon wandering the shops and quaint neighborhoods.

Visit The Tallest Waterfall In Colorado

Seeing Bridal Veil Falls is a must on your trip to Telluride! Bridal Veil Falls is a 365-foot free-falling waterfall situated at the end of a box canyon overlooking Telluride. The waterfall can be accessed with a high clearance vehicle or by hiking. Either way, head there early as it can get very crowded. 

For details on how to visit Bridal Veil Falls and more ideas on what to do in Telluride check out my Telluride Summer Guide. 

Where To Stay In Telluride

Telluride is comprised of two sections the Town of Telluride and Mountain Village. The two are connected by a free gondola, making it extremely easy to maneuver between the two areas.

The town of Telluride is limited in way of hotel options however has plenty of charming airbnb and Vrbo’s to choose from.

Mountain Village has much more of a resort feel to it and is characterized by large, luxury hotels encircling a European-style pedestrian village.

The Madeline Hotel & Residences is my favorite hotel in Telluride. 

Alternative Option 1: If you’re looking to extend your Colorado road trip consider adding another day or two in Telluride. 

Alternative Option 2: If you’re looking for more of a budget friendly option check out nearby Ouray, Colorado. 

Day 7: Mesa Verde National Park & Durango

Day 7 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Telluride to Mesa Verde National Park: 1 hour, 40 minutes (82 miles)

Mesa Verde National Park to Durango: 40 minutes (35 miles)

Where to Stay: Durango

On Day 7 we’ll leave Telluride and head to Mesa Verde National Park, eventually spending the night in Durango. There’s quite a bit of flexibility in planning Day 7 since your ending point, Durango, is only 40 minutes from the park. Five hours in this park will be plenty for most so you could potentially spend the morning in Mesa Verde then head to Durango for more activities in the late afternoon.

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is unique in that its main attractions are all ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and archeological sites that date back to 550 A.D. This is not only a National Park but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest archaeological preserve in the United States. 

Tour A Cliff Dwelling

Due to the fragile nature of the park most sites are only viewable from a distance unless you’re with a ranger. Ranger-led tours are typically available late-May through early-October and need to be reserved in advance, you can do so here.

The most popular tours are:

• Balcony House
• Cliff Palace
• Long House

Each excursion lasts about an hour and involves quite a bit of walking in addition to some ladder climbing. I highly recommend joining a tour during your one day in Mesa Verde National Park, this is the best way to truly see the park.   

Explore The Park

Once you’ve completed your tour, or if you’d prefer to stay on your own, check out Cliff Palace Loop and Mesa Top Loop. These are the park’s most popular sections (and the most crowded) so you’ll want to head here early. Each loop will take about 1 hour to drive, depending on how often you stop to explore. 

Cliff Palace viewing area provides a glimpse at the park’s most iconic cliff dwellings. The dwellings can only be viewed from a distance but this is a great way to grasp the grand size of these incredible ancient structures. Stop by Balcony House or do a quick 1.2 mile hike on Soda Canyon Overlook Trail, while completing the Cliff Palace Loop. 

From here head to Mesa Top Loop. Pit House, Square Tower House, and Sun Temple are all worth a stop. Sun Temple is one of the few sites that allows you to explore the structures without a guide.

Visit Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum 

If you enjoy learning about the history and culture of the ancient Puebloan people be sure to stop by Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.

While you’re here the museum has great views at Spruce Tree Overlook and access to Petroglyph Point Trailhead. This is an easy 2.4 mile trail with great views of the surrounding landscape, nearby cliff dwellings, and of course, petroglyphs.

Tip: Spruce Tree Terrace or Far View Area are good spots to stop for a picnic when you get hungry. 

End Your Day In Durango 

Regarding what to do and where to stay in Durango see the segment below. 

Day 8: Durango, Colorado

Day 8 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

No Driving

Where to Stay: Historic Downtown Durango 

Durango is located in the southwest corner of the state and is the final former mining town on our Colorado road trip itinerary. This historic town sitting on the Animas River offers countless activities and stunning mountain views. If you’re looking to add a day or two to your trip this is an excellent place to do so.  

Things To Do In Durango 

While visiting Durango you’ll most definitely want to explore historic downtown with its eccentric shops, ample breweries, and excellent dining options. Also consider the following activities:

• Bike or take a walk along the Animas River.
• Go white water rafting with Wild to Mild Rafting & Jeep Tours.
• Spend an afternoon relaxing at the Durango Hot Springs Resort and Spa.
• If you’re not sick of being in the car, consider driving a portion of the famous Million Dollar Highway.

You May Also Like: Durango, Colorado: Top Things To Do In Summer

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 

Durango’s most famous attraction is undoubtably the scenic train ride which follows along a narrow gauge railroad. This bucket list-worthy trip takes you along the winding Animas River while overlooking the stunning San Juan National Forest. The ride stops in the tiny mining town of Silverton where you can shop, dine, and take in the sites.

This tour will take up a large portion of your day but it’s truly a unique experience and absolutely worth it if you’re in the area. 

You May Also Like: Everything You Need To Know About The Durango Silverton Train

Where To Stay In Durango

I would recommend staying in the downtown area for close proximity to restaurants and libations. Check out historic Strater Hotel or, for a spot right on the Animas River, The Double Tree by Hilton.  

Day 9: Great Sand Dunes National Park  

Day 9 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Durango to Great Sand Dunes: 3 hours, 20 minutes (168 miles)

Where to Stay: Great Sand Dunes Lodge or Alamosa 

The drive from Durango to Great Sand Dunes is not a short one, so this will be another early day on your Colorado road trip. In order to get to the park by 9:30 am you will need to leave Durango at 6 am.  

Additional Option: If you have extra time and wish to break up this drive consider adding a stop in Pagosa Springs. This small town is 1 hour and 10 minutes from Durango and 2 hours and 10 minutes from Great Sand Dunes National Park. Here you can have a relaxing day at the hot springs and explore local waterfalls. 

What To Do In Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park is comprised of sand dunes positioned in a small valley surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains… Sand dunes in the mountains? Yep! And not just any dunes, absolutely massive dunes, the tallest in North America. To witness the curious contrast between sand and mountains in this park is truly magical. 

Note: From the parking lot you have roughly a 15 minute walk through flat sand before reaching the sand dunes. Depending on when you visit you may have to cross a creek to access the dunes, more information on this in the Medano Creek section below.  

Sled The Dunes

The park’s huge dunes are perfect for sledding or boarding! You’ll see kids and adults alike partaking in this fun activity. You do need a special board and wax, regular snow sleds will not work on the coarse sand. Rent your board just outside the park at Great Sand Dunes Oasis, the park does not rent boards, so remember to stop here before entering the park. 

Hike The Dunes

There are no designated trails in this National Park, wander as your heart desires.

Moving through the sand is very difficult and time consuming making for an interesting hiking experience. This laborious activity during a hot summer day can wear you out very quickly. Don’t let this deter you though, the views in this park are one of a kind! Just be prepared and as always, have extra of water on you! 

Tip: Hiking here is extra fun if you bring a sand sled. Summit a dune then descend on your board, you won’t believe how fast these boards go!

Hike Zapata Falls 

Zapata Falls is located just outside of Great Sand Dunes National Park but is absolutely worth a visit! After a short walk through a creek this 1 mile, out-and-back trail ends at a 30 foot waterfall flowing through a narrow chasm.

This is a great hike to do mid-day when you need a break from the shade-less dunes.

Note: The 3.6 mile dirt road leading to the trailhead is very bumpy and best accessed with a high clearance vehicle. 

Medano Creek (seasonal)

Medano Creek is wide, shallow creek that runs seasonally, typically May through early June. When flowing the dunes can only be accessed by crossing this creek.

This creek is special because a phenomenon called “surge flow” occurs here. Which basically means the flat creek creates its own waves. If you prefer a technical explanation this is from the NPS website: “As water flows across sand, sand dams or anti-dunes form on the creekbed, gathering water. When the water pressure is too great, the dams break, sending down a wave about every 20 seconds. In wet years, waves can surge up to a foot high!”

If you’re lucky enough to visit when the creek is flowing know that you’re witnessing one of natures wonders.

Be sure to enjoy some time relaxing by or playing in the water. Just know there will be many others with you, the seasonal creek is very popular especially with children. 

Medano Creek conditions can be viewed on the NPS website.

Park Tip: Whether you hike, sled, play in the creek or do it all you’re guaranteed to be covered in sand at the end of the day. Keep some towels in the car for cleaning off. 

Where To Stay Near Great Sand Dunes National Park 

I recommend staying at Great Sand Dunes Lodge located just outside the park. This isn’t the most glamorous of accommodations but it’s very convenient. Great Sand Dunes National Park is a great place to catch a sunset and an even better place to stargaze. For this reason I’d plan to stay near the park. 

If you’re not able to secure lodging here Alamosa is the closest town at 40 minutes away.

Day 10: Head Back To Denver 

Day 10 of your Colorado National Park Road Trip

Great Sand Dunes National Park to Denver: 3 hours, 45 minutes (240 miles) 

After an action packed 9 days you may be exhausted and ready to head straight home. However if you’re up for it, and time permits, I recommend stopping in Colorado Springs on your way back to Denver.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs the the 2nd largest city in the state located just an hour from Denver. It offers a wide variety of diverse attractions from museums and 5-star resorts to rafting and zip lining.

Things To Do In Colorado Springs

• Walk Garden Of The Gods.
• Visit the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum.
• Visit Cave of the Winds.
• Grab lunch in Manitou Springs.
• Walk the stunning grounds of the 5-star Broadmoor Hotel.
• Ride The Pikes Peak Cog Railroad to the 14,115′ summit.
• River raft through the Royal Gorge, near Colorado Springs.

Be sure to check out these Top Things To Do In Colorado Springs for more ideas!

Additional Option: If you you’d like to extend your Colorado road trip, head to Buena Vista or Salida for a day or two (Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is one of my favorite places to stay in all of Colorado!) This area has excellent hiking, hot springs, and some of the best white water rafting in the state.

There’s really nothing like summer in Colorado. I hope you find this article helpful in planning your Colorado national park road trip. Any questions or additional tips? Leave a comment! 

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Colorado guides or head on over to My Colorado Parks!

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation:

• Colorado Travel Guide (everything to know + tips for planning your trip!)
• Where To Stay Near Colorado National Parks (best base towns)
• All Colorado Guides