4 Colorado National Parks: 10 Night Epic Road Trip Itinerary
Colorado is one of those states that is just made for road trips. With towering mountains, open skies, alpine lakes, red rock canyons, and old mining towns that look like they’re straight out of a Western. Around every bend in the road is another breathtaking view. Whether you’re hiking in the Rockies or winding down in a wild west saloon, this state has an atmosphere of adventure about it.
With the highest average elevation of any U.S. state, Colorado is just inviting you to get outside and explore its rugged peaks and wide open spaces.
In summer 2024, we spent 11 days exploring all four of Colorado’s national parks on an unforgettable Colorado road trip. In this post, we’re sharing our full itinerary, along with all the tips and recommendations we picked up along the way to help you plan your own adventure.
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Navigation Menu
- Packing Recommendations
- FAQs
- When is the best time to visit Colorado?
- Is Colorado expensive?
- Apps / resources for national park info and campsite booking
What are the National Parks in Colorado?
Colorado is home to 4 of the 63 U.S. National Parks, including one of the least visited in the country (outside of Alaska) – Black Canyon of the Gunnison, which sees only around 335,000 visitors a year. In contrast, Rocky Mountain National Park ranked as the 5th most visited park in 2024, welcoming a massive 4.1 million visitors! Below, you’ll find a short overview of each of Colorado’s national parks and what makes them special.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain is Colorado’s most iconic national park, packed with towering peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife like elk and marmots. With over 350 miles of trails, there’s no shortage of hikes for every level. Don’t miss a drive along Trail Ridge Road (aka the “Highway to the Sky”), one of the highest paved roads in the U.S. It’s a dream spot for hikers, photographers, and anyone who’s into epic mountain views.
Step back in time when you visit Mesa Verde National Park. It’s home to some of the best preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in the country, including the incredible Cliff Palace. This park is all about history, archaeology, and getting a glimpse into a civilization that lived here more than 700 years ago.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Great Sand Dunes is one of the most unique landscapes in Colorado, massive sand dunes rising dramatically in front of snow-capped mountains. It’s home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, and it really feels like another planet! There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re sandboarding, hiking, or cooling off in Medano Creek. It’s also an official International Dark Sky Park, so after sunset, you’ll be treated to an incredible view of the night sky.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison might be one of the least visited national parks in the U.S., but that just adds to its appeal. With steep, dramatic cliffs and dark, narrow canyons carved by the Gunnison River, it feels raw, rugged, and untouched. If you’re a keen hiker, you’ll love the peaceful trails, you might even have them all to yourself. It’s the perfect park for geology lovers and those craving solitude, stargazing, and jaw-dropping views without the crowds.
How to plan a Colorado Road Trip
This was Eve’s third time planning a U.S. road trip, and each time we learnt something new, especially about being realistic with timing. It’s tempting to try and cram in everything, but trust us: building in rest days or buffer days is a game changer. Things don’t always go to plan (we’ve dealt with everything from a gas leak in the campervan, a cracked windscreen and a popped tyre – all on separate trips), so having a little flexibility means you won’t miss out if things need to move around.
We always start with a good old Excel spreadsheet, I LOVE a spreadsheet! First, I map out all the key dates, from our arrival and departure to when we’re picking up the campervan.
Top Tip:
Many campervan rental companies won’t let you drive off on the day you land, especially after a long-haul flight, because of jet lag and safety concerns. Always double check their policy before finalising your itinerary.
When I’m planning the route, I usually trawl through travel blogs, forums, and road trip guides to gather a list of the must-see spots, hidden gems, and how long people tend to spend in each place. I also look closely at daily driving distances, because while it’s technically possible to drive 8–9 hours in a day, it’s exhausting and can knock you out for the next one. If you need to cover big distances, try to spread it out. We recommend doing long distance drives (7–9 hours), no more than once in a 10–14 day trip if you can help it.
Another thing I like to do is plan logistics around Walmart Supercentres, showers, running water, and laundry facilities. It sounds basic, but it makes a huge difference when you’re on the road. If you know you’ll be off-grid for a few nights, book a campsite with proper amenities every few days. Trust me, by day 7, a shower and a chance to wash your socks will feel like luxury.
Top Tip:
Before travelling, make sure to download Google Maps of the area so you can access it offline. You won’t always have signal! Also, jot down the full addresses of nearby Walmarts, supermarkets, campervan pick-up location, and campsites on your printed itinerary. That way, if you lose signal (which happens more than you’d think), you’ll still be able to find your way without any stress.
Also, don’t underestimate the altitude, especially in Colorado. We came from the UK (basically sea level) and gained over 1,600 meters the moment we landed. Between jet lag and altitude, the first few days can feel a bit rough. Don’t pressure yourself to start straight away with big hikes, ease into it with something gentle, and give your body time to adjust.
Finally, leave room for spontaneity. Some of our favourite moments weren’t planned at all. A random scenic pull-off, a local diner, a quiet trail no one told us about, those are the things that make memories!
How many days do you need to see Colorado National Parks?
If you’re hoping to visit all four of Colorado’s national parks, we’d recommend at least 10 days. The parks are quite spread out, so you’ll need to factor in decent driving time between them. Each one offers something completely different, and they’re best enjoyed at a slower pace with time for scenic drives, a few hikes, and a rest day or two.
If you’re based in the U.S., a long weekend trip to just one or two parks may be possible, but if you’re travelling from further afield, it’s worth coming for as long as you can. We would’ve loved to spend more time exploring, but like many people, we had to work around limited time off and budget constraints. That said, even with 10 days, it was an unforgettable adventure!
Where can I hire a Campervan to explore Colorado?
Having rented three campervans for U.S. / Canadian road trips, and owned one back home in the UK for the last five years, we’ve learnt a thing or two about what makes a good van and a stress-free rental experience. Native Campervans were hands down the best we’ve used so far.
From the moment we booked, everything was straightforward. We hired ‘The Biggie’ van, it was clean, spacious, easy to drive, and came with all the kit they promised, no hidden extras or faff. Pick-up and drop-off were smooth, and the customer service was genuinely brilliant.
Top Tip: We booked with Native but through Motorhome Republic as they had a New Years deal on rentals at the time, so worth checking!
Best Campervan Rental Companies in Colorado
If you’re starting your road trip from Denver, there are quite a few campervan rental companies to choose from, but Native Campervans were a clear standout for us. Others worth checking out include Escape Campervans (known for their fun painted exteriors and budget-friendly options) and Outdoorsy (a bit like Airbnb for campervans). Just make sure to compare what’s included in the price, mileage limits, and insurance coverage.
What size and features worked for us
We rented a mid to large van that gave us enough space to move around comfortably but was still easy to drive and park, ideal for national park campsites and winding mountain roads. There were a few features that made a big difference:
An induction hob (so easy to keep clean!)
Swivel front seats to open up the living space
A bed that stayed made up (no daily faffing with bedding)
Magnetic blackout shades that were so easy to use
Multiple fans and roof vents (game changer in the heat of summer!)
Internal access between the front and back, handy in bad weather
A surprisingly spacious fridge and mini freezer (perfect for a stash of ice lollies!)
It’s the little comforts like these that really make van life feel more like home!
Packing essentials for a campervan trip
Even though Native supplied most of what we needed, not all companies do, so it’s worth checking or bringing a few extras just in case:
(Most importantly!) Marshmallow roasting forks or skewers (also handy for campsite kebabs)
Dishwashing liquid, sponge & tea towel
Bedding & pillows
Matches or firelighters for campfires
Camp chairs for sitting outside
Dustpan and brush – you’ll be surprised how much dust you bring in!
Bin liners (a lot of campsites are pack-in/pack-out)
Pots & pans – one company we used previously didn’t supply these!
4 National Parks: Epic 10 Night Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
Here’s a look at our 10-night, 11-day Colorado road trip itinerary, feel free to use it as a starting point to create your own version! Everyone travels differently, so take what works for you, leave what doesn’t, and don’t be afraid to mix it up.
We also recommend checking out a few other blogs for extra inspiration before locking in your plans. Below, we’ve shared exactly where we camped, how to book in advance, any ranger-led tours we joined, and a few standout stops (plus any we’d skip next time). Hopefully, this helps you piece together your perfect adventure!
Day 1 - Pick Up the Camper!
After picking up our campervan, our first stop (a must for any UK traveller), Walmart! It’s always a bit of an adventure stocking up there. Then we hit the road and drove about an hour and 15 minutes to Garden of the Gods RV Park, where we settled in for our first night with a campfire!
Top Tip: Before you hit the road, note down the nearest supermarket to your campervan pick up spot. It’s a great chance to stock up on essentials, and if you’re feeling a bit nervous about driving the van, you can practise in the big, open car park!
Campground Recommendation
Where: Garden of the Gods RV Park
Cost: £60.72 (Aug 2024)
Facilities: Two pools, playground, games room, laundry facilities, free wifi and onsite shop.
Top Tip: Plan your trip as early as possible if you plan to visit in summer, the campgrounds get booked up fast, so book as many as you can (if not all) before you go!
Day 2 - Great Sand Dunes National Park
Today we ease into the road trip with a relaxed morning at the stunning Garden of the Gods, followed by an epic afternoon of sandboarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park. From towering red rock formations to the tallest dunes in North America, it’s a day of incredible landscapes and adventure!
After your first night in the van, you’re likely still feeling a bit jet-lagged or just generally tired, so take the morning slow. Just a 5-minute drive from the campsite is the incredible Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This huge public park is packed with dramatic red rock formations, perfect for a gentle stroll and some jaw-dropping views. Keep an eye out for climbers scaling the rocks above! If geology’s your thing, don’t miss the Gateway to Geology Trail.
From there, it’s about a 2 hour 40 minute drive to Great Sand Dunes National Park and your first driving section of the road trip. The drive takes you across wide open plains that seem to stretch forever, before the mountains start to rise in the distance. It’s a beautiful route, so make sure you’ve got a good playlist downloaded!
Top Tip:
Think about the time you are arriving at Great Sand Dunes NP, we didn’t head off first thing because the dunes get super hot during the day. If we’d left in the morning, we would’ve arrived around midday, which would be peak heat, not ideal for hiking or sandboarding.
We’d recommend aiming to arrive at the dunes in the late afternoon, when the temperature begins to cool. Before heading into the park, stop by the Oasis Store to rent sandboards or sleds (it’s the closest shop to the park and campground – 7800 Highway 150 North, Mosca, CO 81146, open 8am–8pm) . Don’t forget your ID and bank card for the deposit.
By the time we made it onto the dunes, it was around 4pm, and the cooler temps made all the difference. We could comfortably walk in socks, and had an amazing time boarding down the sandy slopes. Sandboarding takes a bit of practice, but once you get going, it’s faster than you’d think! Climbing back up the dunes is a real leg workout though but it’s all part of the fun.
Top Tip:
Make sure to wear socks or shoes when sandboarding, many hire places won’t allow you to go barefoot with the sand boards.
Don’t miss sunset at the campsite, it really is something special. Make sure you arrive and get set up by late afternoon so you can kick back and enjoy the show with your dinner. As the sun sets the wide open Colorado plains are bathed in deep reds and fiery oranges. It honestly felt like watching the sun go down over the savannah. A perfect way to end the day.
Once the sun’s gone down, don’t forget to look up, with no light pollution and clear skies, we were treated to a sighting of the Milky Way stretching right across the night sky.
Campground Recommendation
Where: Zapata Falls Campground
Cost: £15.34 (Aug 2024)
Facilities: NO SHOWERS & NO RUNNING WATER, fire pit, picnic bench.
We booked spot 14, which is RV Non Electric. It was a good distance from the dop toilet to avoid any unwanted smells and the view from this spot was incredible!
Top Tip: This campsite was definitely a bit buggy! Don’t forget to bring bug spray, and if you can, pack a citronella candle to light in the evenings, it really helps keep the bugs at bay.
Food and Cooking Recommendations
This campsite is ideal for a BBQ, which we found was the easiest way to cook in the evenings. It’s lovely to sit around the fire as the temperature drops and the bugs start to appear. We’d recommend picking up plenty of BBQ bits from Walmart, some burgers, salad, and buns make for a simple, tasty meal with hardly any washing up.
Day 3 - Mesa Verde National Park
If you haven’t already, don’t forget to drop your sandboards back at the Oasis Store before hitting the road!
Today’s drive is around 4 hours from Great Sand Dunes National Park to Mesa Verde National Park, our second national park of the trip. As you drive further south west, the scenery starts to change, with big skies, wide open plains, and hints of desert creeping in.
Mesa Verde is known for its historic cliff dwellings, built by the Ancestral Puebloans more than 700 years ago. The most famous site, Cliff Palace, was built between 1190 and 1280 CE and was once home to around 100 people. It’s the largest cliff dwelling in North America, and seeing it in person is really something.
Top Tip:
You’ll need to book onto a ranger-led tour if you want to visit the cliff dwellings up close, they book up quickly, especially if you’re after a specific time. Tours are released 14 days in advance at 8am MDT, so it’s worth setting a reminder.
We were surprised by how much there is to see and how vast the park is, you could spend a couple of days exploring if you wanted to. There’s ranger tours, scenic drives, breath-taking viewpoints, and some good hiking trails. Just be prepared for the heat, a lot of the dwellings sit below the road level in sheltered spots, so it can feel like a bit like a furnace down there.
Also worth knowing: the dwellings aren’t close to the park entrance, it takes around 75 minutes to reach the start of the tour, so make sure you allow enough time to get there. It does make for a fairly long day, especially when you’re heading back to your campsite afterwards, but it’s absolutely worth it.
Campground Recommendation
Where: Morefield Campground
Cost: £31.53 (Aug 2024)
Facilities: Fire pit, picnic benches, shop, showers, laundry facilities
The pitches are nicely spaced out and surrounded by trees, so you can find a fairly private spot. We even had families of deer wander through our camp a couple of times, which made it even more memorable!
The site operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s worth arriving early to give yourself time to find a pitch you like. The shop, showers, and laundry facilities are just up the road from the pitches. We drove up there shortly after arriving, but made sure to mark our spot by clipping our name tag on the pitch post! You could walk it, but depending on where you’re parked, it can be a bit of a trek.
Best of all, it’s only an 11-minute drive from the park entrance, which was a godsend after the 75 minute journey back from Cliff Palace. Being that close meant we could get set up, unwind, and enjoy the evening without rushing to get to a further campsite.
Day 4 - Million Dollar Highway
Today is about soaking up the incredible scenery of Colorado as you cruise through the mountains and embracing your inner cowboy/girl!
If you’re up early and feeling fresh, you could start the day with a morning hike in Mesa Verde National Park. We had every intention of doing this, but after a full on few days and knowing we had a long drive ahead we decided to give ourselves a slow start instead.
Next stop Silverton, a charming old mining town that feels like it’s straight out of a western. Wander the main street, browse quirky little shops, and grab a coffee or bite to eat. We stopped at Gold Block Brewery and can confirm the pizza and garlic bread were delicious. If you’ve got extra time in your itinerary, you could explore Animas Forks, a nearby ghost town, or the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, both make great additions if you have time or want to stay an extra day.
Once fuelled up, it’s time to take on one of Colorado’s most iconic scenic drives, The Million Dollar Highway. This really is a drive you won’t forget in a hurry! It’s the kind of road that makes you say “wow” around every bend, with dramatic valleys, deep gorges, and enormous mountains. It genuinely feels like driving through a postcard.
Take your time with this, this one isn’t just a drive from A to B, there are lots of pull ins where you can stop for photos (or just to take it all in). We even spotted a moose down in the valley!
Fun Fact:
No one’s quite sure how the “Million Dollar Highway” got its name, some say it could be the cost to build it, the value of gold ore rumoured to be buried in the road itself, or just the price you’d pay for those jaw-dropping mountain views.
Campground Recommendations (or not)
Where: Ourey KOA
Cost: £63.53 (Aug 2024)
Facilities: Shop, wifi, laundry, picnic table
KOAs aren’t for everyone, but after booking a few US road trips, we’ve found the KOA membership worth it financially, especially with the discounts adding up over time. It’s always worth doing the maths to check if it works for your itinerary before booking. For us, the consistency is a big plus (usually), you know what you’re getting, which can be a real comfort after a long day of driving.
That said, this particular KOA did the job for one night, but we wouldn’t stay again. While the facilities were fine, our allocated pitch (it was either 58, 59 or 60) had absolutely no privacy, boxed in on all four sides, we had no privacy for dinner and relaxing. It made getting out in the morning quite a faff and actually the whole experience quite stressful. If you do stay here, we’d definitely recommend asking for a more private spot when you check in.
Our first choice was Base Camp 550, but unfortunately it was minimum 2 night stay.
Where: Base Camp 550
Cost: ~£87 (Aug 2025 for 2 nights)
Facilities: Showers (quarter operated), toilets, picnic tables, wifi
Food and Cooking Recommendations
For those evenings when sitting around the campfire just isn’t possible, whether it’s bad weather, no privacy, or you’re just too tired. It’s always handy to have a few easy meals ready to go that don’t require much effort (or washing up!).
We like to keep tins of tuna and sweetcorn in the van, great in sandwiches or stirred through pasta with a bit of mayo for an easy, filling dinner.
Having a few basics stashed away makes a big difference on the longer travel days. You’ll thank yourself later!
Day 5 - Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
We kicked off the day with plans to hike the Dinosaur Footprints Trail near Ouray. However, after checking the log book at the Silver Shield Trailhead, we found out there had been a bear sighting less than an hour before we arrived, they’d turned back as the bears were blocking the trail, so we decided to do the same! A good reminder that this is bear country.
Top Tip:
If you’re worried, you can pick up bear spray from the hardware store in Ouray, although it’s not cheap (around $60) and you can’t bring this back to the UK.
We stopped for a coffee in town, but to be honest, Ouray felt much quieter and less atmospheric than Silverton. So, we decided to change plans and head straight to our next National Park.
This marked National Park number three of our Colorado road trip, Black Canyon of the Gunnison. If you’re arriving in the afternoon heat, we’d really recommend the Oak Flat Loop Trail on the South Rim. It’s a peaceful, mostly shaded trail that loops right from the Visitor Centre, ideal for a quieter stroll with some canyon views. We barely saw anyone else on the trail, and the Visitor Centre itself is worth a proper look, especially if you’re into geology. Nick was in his element!
After your hike, drive along the South Rim Road, stopping at the various viewpoints. The canyon is really dramatic, much deeper and more vertical than we expected, and with far fewer crowds than other national parks.
If you’ve still got energy, Warner Point is a great way to finish the day off, it’s about an hour’s return hike. Be aware that parking is limited and it can get really hot, so bring plenty of water. Then don’t miss the stop at the Painted Wall Overlook, one of the most iconic views in the park, on your way out.
Hiking Trail Recommendations
A peaceful and easy-to-moderate loop that starts right from the South Rim Visitor Centre. This trail offers dramatic glimpses into the canyon without requiring a full descent. It winds through shaded woodland with intermittent canyon views, perfect for stretching your legs in the heat or if you’re short on time. We loved how quiet it was, we barely passed anyone else on the trail.
Distance: 2.5km
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
This out and back trail is a brilliant way to end your time at the South Rim. Starting from the final viewpoint on the scenic drive, it offers sweeping views of the canyon, surrounding mesas, and distant mountain ranges. The path is a bit exposed and can get hot, so bring water and sun protection but the views at the end are worth it. Parking is limited, so try to time it for quieter parts of the day.
Distance: 2.5km
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Campground Recommendation
Where: Montrose / Black Canyon of the Gunnison KOA
Cost: £56.54 (Aug 2024)
Facilities: Shop, Laundry Facilities, Pool, Fire Pits, Picnic Benches
This KOA was exactly what we needed, a complete contrast to the night before. It was quiet and peaceful, with spacious, shaded, private pitches. There’s a small on site shop with all the essentials, and the location is convenient too – only about 20 minutes from the Black Canyon South Rim Visitor Centre. A great base for exploring the park and properly recharging after a long day.
Day 6 - Huntsman's Ridge and Aspen
Today is the first proper hike in Colorado on this itinerary! By this point in the trip, you should feel well acclimatised to the altitude, mostly over the jet lag, and ready to stretch your legs a bit more.
The day starts with a scenic 2 hour drive through winding mountain roads, fresh air and dramatic views, the perfect way to start the day.
The Huntsman’s Ridge Trail begins from a small, unmarked dirt car park just off the roadside, it’s easy to miss and has limited space, so an early start is definitely worth it. The first stretch of trail climbs steeply through dense, shady forest and the ground can be quite dusty underfoot. Eventually, the forest gives way to peaceful wildflower meadows and big, open views.
It’s a quieter route, we only passed two other people the whole way up. At the viewpoint, we chatted with another hiker and his dogs, who had just spotted a bear and her cubs minutes ahead of us on the trail. We clearly only just missed them! That definitely added a bit of adrenaline to the descent, we made lots of noise and were very grateful to have our bear spray on hand that day.
This trail doesn’t pop up on many “top hikes” lists, but honestly, it was truly picturesque. The steep climb, is rewarded with beautiful panoramic views, and the ideal warm up hike before some of the tougher hikes later in the trip, particularly in Rocky Mountain National Park.
In the afternoon, we’d originally planned to explore Aspen, maybe grab a coffee and wander around. But wow… the traffic was bad. We hit a full-on gridlock heading into town, and once we finally made it in, we couldn’t find anywhere even remotely campervan friendly to park. It felt touristy, hectic and busy, very different from the laid back charm of Silverton earlier in the trip. We ended up posting a few postcards and then calling it a day, heading straight to our next campsite instead.
Hiking Trail Recommendations
A hidden gem, offering a peaceful trail, sweeping views, and a sense of adventure. A steep forested climb opening out into beautiful wildflower meadows and panoramic mountain scenery. Quiet, uncrowded, and full of wildlife. This is an out and back hike too, meaning you can go as far as you like before turning back. Don’t forget the bear spray!
Distance: up to 6.4km (out and back)
Time: 3 hours
Elevation: ~513 metres
Difficulty: Moderate / Strenuous
Best Time To Hike: March – September
Toilets: No
Starting Point: Dirt Car Park just after McClure Pass summit.
Campground Recommendation
Where: Gateway RV Park
Cost: £29.19 (Aug 2024)
Facilities: Shower, toilets, picnic bench.
This site was a practical stop on our route, chosen more for its budget friendly price and convenient location than atmosphere. The host was very friendly, and the facilities (showers, toilets, etc.) were clean and well maintained. That said, it’s probably not the kind of place you’d want to settle in for more than a night.
Our pitch had no shade, which made the heat a bit tough to manage, and some spots (like ours) back onto a fairly busy road, so it wasn’t the quietest night’s sleep. There’s a river nearby which initially looked like a nice place to sit and relax, but when we walked down, it wasn’t quite what we expected, with rubbish and signs that people were living along the banks. So we decided to give it a miss and head back to the van. All in all, the site served its purpose for a night’s stopover.
Day 7 - Independence Pass and Leadville
Today’s all about scenic roads, epic views, and charming western towns. We cruised along another of Colorado’s iconic drives, the breathtaking Independence Pass, part of the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway. The road winds its way up to 12,095 ft as it crosses the Continental Divide between Aspen and Leadville, and it’s truly something.
At the top of the pass there’s a car park (with toilets), and from there you can walk to the panoramic viewpoints. If you’ve got more time, there are also hiking trails that start from here. We would have loved to follow the ridgeline walks, especially starting at such a high elevation!
Top Tip:
Independence pass is closed usually during winter, so check before you travel! Typically open May – October.
Next stop, a short drive down the pass is the historic mining town of Leadville, which sits at over 10,000 ft above sea level. It’s full of charm and a great spot to grab lunch, wander around, and let your body keep adjusting to the altitude.
Main Street has free 4-hour parking, and we found it easy to park even with the campervan.
Coffee stop recommendation
Before & After Café –Eve had an amazing iced chocolate milk and Nick went for a cortado. Lovely spot to sit in the window and watch the people on main street. They also sell tasty fresh bakes!
Lunch stop recommendation
Check out the Silver Dollar Saloon, a 19th-century bar that’s been serving since 1879. The food was great and walking inside honestly felt like stepping into a western film.
Leadville has some amazing thrift shops, I would’ve bought loads if we’d had more baggage allowance!
After exploring, it’s just a 30-minute drive to Frisco, another small town with all the essentials.
Top Tip: Frisco is a great place to restock supplies, there’s both a Walmart and Whole Foods if you need to top up before heading on.
Campground Recommendation
Where: Peak One
Cost: £27.57 (Aug 2024)
Facilities: Drop toilets, NO Showers, picnic bench and fire pit.
This campsite is peaceful, quiet, and nicely tucked away by the lake perfect if you’re after a relaxing, scenic stopover. It’s also very budget-friendly, which is always a bonus!
Unfortunately, the toilets were out of order when we visited, so we had to make do with portaloos. If the facilities had been open, we’d have rated it much higher, but even so, it’s a solid choice for a short, tranquil stay.
Day 8-10 - Rocky Mountain National Park
Onto the 4th and final National Park in Colorado – Rocky Mountain National Park!
If you’re entering from the Frisco/Grand Lake side, we highly recommend stopping by the Holzwarth Historic Site. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs and wander through old pioneer cabins, with rangers there to tell you about it’s rich history.
Top Tip:
Don’t forget to book your timed entry permit – it’s required to access the park between May and October, and slots can book up quickly during peak season. We had an 11am slot on our first day to allow for the drive and then 10am & 8am the following days, which worked well for us.
From there, continue climbing the scenic Trail Ridge Road to the Alpine Visitor Centre, perched at 11,796ft, it’s the highest facility of its kind in the entire U.S. National Park system! The views are truly breath-taking (quite literally at this altitude!), and if you’re lucky, you might even spot herds of elk sunbathing on the tundra.
From the visitor centre, there’s a short but rewarding trail, the Alpine Ridge Trail. It’s less than half a mile but climbs steeply to over 12,000ft, so take it slow, most people will feel the effects of the altitude here.
Afterward, we stopped at a couple of scenic viewpoints, including Rock Cut and Forest Canyon Overlook, both well worth it for the dramatic landscapes.
Depending on your energy, the rest of the afternoon is perfect for either soaking up more views in the park or heading back to your campsite to relax by the pool, catch your breath, and plan your hikes for the days ahead. We’ve listed the hikes we did below with all the key info if you’re looking for ideas on how to spend the next few days in the National Park.
Hiking Trail Recommendations
This five lake hike is great for most fitness levels as you can turn back at any point and still have seen some stunning scenery.
The route starts at Bear Lake, which you’ll reach by parking at the Park & Ride shuttle area and taking the free shuttle to the trailhead. From Bear Lake, follow the clearly marked trail to Nymph Lake, where you’ll spot clusters of water lilies floating in the peaceful waters. Continue to Dream Lake for mountain reflections and alpine views, then on to Emerald Lake, a stunning endpoint if you’d prefer to head back at this point.
But if you’re feeling good, return to Dream Lake and take the trail up to Lake Haiyaha, the vibrant blue water is breathtaking and worth the extra effort. It’s also the perfect place to stop, cool off, have a bite to eat and soak up the scenery.
On your way back, pop into the Discovery Centre near the shuttle stop – great for local info and a few souvenir postcards.
Think about aiming to do this hike very early or later in the day, as mid-morning parking is a nightmare and the trail gets very busy. If possible, go on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
Distance: ~10km
Time: ~4-5 hours
Elevation: ~300metres
Difficulty: Moderate / Strenuous
Top Tip:
You’ll need a Bear Lake Corridor timed entry permit to access this part of the park, these are in high demand, so set a reminder and book as far in advance as possible.
Hiking Trail Recommendations
If you’re looking for a quieter trail, this one’s for you, we barely saw anyone, even on a weekend! This is a one-way hike, so you’ll need to catch the shuttle back at the end so make sure to check the return shuttle times before setting off.
You can tackle this hike in either direction, but we started at Bear Lake Trailhead due to shuttle timings. From there, the path climbs steadily through forest before winding down a rocky stretch with sweeping views of Odessa Lake below. There’s a short detour to reach the lake shore itself, then you rejoin the main trail to head towards Fern Lake.
When we visited in August 2024, the effects of the 2012 wildfire were still visible, so large sections of the trail are completely exposed. In full sun, this made for a hot and dusty hike, so bring plenty of water and sun protection!
Fern Lake is a great rest stop, peaceful and scenic, perfect for a snack break. From there, the trail descends through the valley, passing Fern Falls, where a refreshing and welcome spray hits the trail.
Eventually you’ll reach a small car park, and just beyond that, the shuttle stop to take you back to your starting point.
Distance: 15.4km
Time: 4-5 hours
Elevation: ~603 metres
Difficulty: Strenuous
Campground Recommendation
Where: Estes Park Campground at St Mary’s Lake
Cost: £45.28 per night (Aug 2024)
Facilities: Pool, onsite shop, laundry facilities, showers (2$ in quarters) and toilets.
We really enjoyed our stay here, the campsite was spacious, peaceful, and offered plenty of privacy. It had everything we needed, from clean facilities to a handy little shop, plus a pool for relaxing after a day of hiking. The location was ideal too, only a short drive to Rocky Mountain National Park and close to town for stocking up on supplies. The perfect base for exploring the area!
Day 11 - Denver
Time to head home!
Today marks the end of your Colorado road trip adventure. It’s time to return the campervan and take a moment to reset before your flight home. If time allows, spend a few hours exploring Denver – grab a final coffee, wander around Larimer Square or the RiNo Arts District, or pick up some last-minute souvenirs. After days immersed in nature, it’s a fun contrast to enjoy the buzz of the city for a few hours.
Whether you’re heading straight to the airport or squeezing in one final walk around a park, take a moment to reflect – you’ve covered four national parks, countless hikes, mountain passes, and wild landscapes. Not a bad way to spend a holiday!
If you have even more time...
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison – North Rim Far less visited than the South Rim
- Westcliffe – Designated Dark Sky Community
- Crested Butte – A stunning detour for hikes in summer, remote and less touristy.
- Boulder – A lively town with good food and access to great hikes.
- Great Sand Dunes Hot Springs – About an hour from the dunes.
- Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – Historic steam train journey through mountain scenery.
- Telluride – Gorgeous mountain town with great hikes, gondola rides, and beautiful waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls.
- Maroon Bells – Iconic twin peaks reflected in a lake, one of the most photographed spots in Colorado. Requires shuttle booking in summer.
- Bishop Castle – A wild hand-built stone castle with turrets, dragons, and no entry fee.
- The Paint Mines Interpretive Park – Otherworldly pastel-coloured clay hoodoos.
Packing Recommendations
Depending on the time of year you go think about if you need to pack for hot sun, chilly nights, high-altitude hikes, and some time in town too. Here’s a packing list to help get you started!
For a more detailed and printable version check out our detailed packing list for Alta Via 1 in the Italian Dolomites, a multi-day hiking adventure!
- Comfortable hiking boots or trail shoes (already broken-in!)
- Hiking socks
- Lightweight daypack
- Water bottles
- Packable waterproof jacket (you do get summer storms in the mountains!)
- Hiking trousers & shorts
- Hiking t-shirts
- Fleece or warm layer for chilly mornings and evenings
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Sunglasses (polarised)
- Suncream & SPF lip balm (the sun is stronger at altitude)
- Bug spray (essential!)
- Bear spray (buy this locally as you can’t fly with this)
- Headtorch
- Trekking poles (optional, but we find useful on steeper trails)
- Travel towel
- Camp chairs (if not provided with campervan)
- Lighter/matches for campfires
- Tupperware/sandwich bags for packed lunches on the trail
- Wet wipes (you’ll want these for when there’s no showers!)
- Power bank
- Earplugs (for noisy campgrounds)
- A couple of outfits for towns or if you plan to eat out.
- Swimsuit (for hot springs or campsite pools)
- Sandals or flip flops
- Book or Kindle
- National Parks Pass
- First aid kit (plasters, ibuprofen, antihistamines etc.)
FAQ's
When is the best time to visit Colorado?
It really depends on what kind of trip you’re after! Summer (June to September) is ideal for road trips, hiking, and exploring the national parks, trails are open, the days are long, and the weather’s generally warm and dry.
Autumn brings golden trees and fewer crowds, making it a dreamy time for photographers and quieter getaways. Winter is all about snow, perfect if you’re into skiing or snowy mountain vibes. Spring can be a bit unpredictable with lingering snow and some closed trails, but it’s also quieter and budget friendly.
We visited in summer and loved having clear trails and blue skies, but the altitude and heat can make hikes a little tougher, so be sure to pace yourself and stay hydrated!
Is Colorado expensive?
Colorado can definitely be done on a budget, but costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re visiting during peak season or staying in popular areas like Estes Park or Aspen. Campsites and national park entry fees are generally reasonable, and travelling by campervan helped us save on both accommodation and food. That said, fuel, park passes, and the odd treat can increase the budget.
Overall, we found it fairly affordable, especially compared to big cities or coastal destinations. Planning ahead, cooking your own meals, booking campsites early, and bringing your own kit makes a big difference!
Apps / resources for national park info and campsite booking
Having the right tools makes road trip planning (and the trip itself!) so much smoother. Here are a few of our favourites:
- Our Recommendations:
- Recreation.gov – Essential for booking campsites, ranger tours, and timed entry permits for many U.S. national parks.
- NPS App – The official National Park Service app has up to date info on trail closures, maps, and visitor centre details.
- Google Maps (Offline) – Download your route and campsite areas offline so you’re never stuck without directions.
- Some others we’ve not used but heard of:
- The Dyrt – Great for finding and reviewing campsites, including more off-grid and free camping spots.
- Campendium – Especially helpful for campervans and RV travel—user reviews, dump stations, hookups, and more.
- iOverlander – Useful for finding water fill-up points, wild camping, and amenities.
We also kept a printed copy of our itinerary with campsite addresses, just in case we lost signal on the road.
Thanks for sticking with us through our Colorado road trip adventure! We hope our tips, itinerary, and favourite spots help make your planning easier and maybe even inspire you to discover something new along the way.
For more of our travels and behind-the-scenes fun, follow us on Instagram below, or explore more of our favourite destinations here.
Thanks for reading,
Eve and Nick