How to Get There

Rocky Mountain National Park is about 70 miles northwest of Denver. You can drive there via US Highway 36 or US Highway 34, which will take you to the park’s east entrances at Estes Park or Grand Lake.

You can also take a shuttle bus from Denver or Boulder to Estes Park and then use the park’s free shuttle service to get around.

Where to Stay

Rocky Mountain National Park has five campgrounds that offer a total of 585 sites for tents and RVs. You can reserve a site online or by phone up to six months in advance. The campgrounds are:

• Aspenglen: This campground is located near the Fall River Entrance on US Highway 34. It has 53 sites that can accommodate tents and RVs up to 30 feet long. It has flush toilets, drinking water, and fire grates. It is open from late May to late September.
• Glacier Basin: This campground is located on Bear Lake Road, about six miles south of the Beaver Meadows Entrance on US Highway 36. It has 150 sites that can accommodate tents and RVs up to 35 feet long. It has flush toilets, drinking water, fire grates, and an amphitheater. It is open from late May to late September.
• Moraine Park: This campground is located on Bear Lake Road, about two miles south of the Beaver Meadows Entrance on US Highway 36. It has 244 sites that can accommodate tents and RVs up to 40 feet long. It has flush toilets, drinking water, fire grates, and an amphitheater. It is open year-round.
• Timber Creek: This campground is located near the Kawuneeche Visitor Center on US Highway 34, about 10 miles north of the Grand Lake Entrance. It has 98 sites that can accommodate tents and RVs up to 30 feet long. It has vault toilets, drinking water, fire grates, and an amphitheater. It is open year-round.
• Longs Peak: This campground is located on Longs Peak Road, about nine miles south of the Estes Park Entrance on State Highway 7. It has 26 sites that can accommodate tents only. It has vault toilets, drinking water, and fire grates. It is open year-round.

If you prefer more comfort and convenience, you can stay at one of the lodges or cabins in or near the park. Some of the best options are:

• The Stanley Hotel : This is a historic and elegant hotel that was built in 1909 and inspired Stephen King’s novel The Shining. It offers luxurious rooms and suites with views of the mountains or the valley. It also features a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a museum, and a ghost tour.
• YMCA of the Rockies : This is a family-friendly resort that offers cozy cabins and lodge rooms with private bathrooms. It also offers a variety of amenities and activities such as a pool, a gym, a mini-golf course, a zip line, a climbing wall, horseback riding, archery, and more.
• Grand Lake Lodge : This is a rustic and charming lodge that overlooks Grand Lake and the Continental Divide. It offers comfortable cabins with fireplaces and private decks. It also has a restaurant, a bar, a pool, a hot tub, and a gift shop.

What to Eat

Rocky Mountain National Park does not have any restaurants or grocery stores within its boundaries. You will need to bring your own food and drinks or buy them from nearby towns such as Estes Park or Grand Lake. You can also enjoy some local specialties such as:

• Rocky Mountain trout: This is a fresh and delicious fish that is caught from the streams and lakes in the park. You can grill it over a campfire or order it at some of the restaurants in town.
• Elk burger: This is a lean and flavorful burger made from elk meat that is raised in Colorado. You can find it at some of the cafes and pubs in town.
  • Pie: This is a sweet treat that comes in many flavors such as apple, cherry, peach, blueberry, and more. You can buy it from some of the bakeries and shops in town or make your own with fresh fruits and crusts.

  What to Do

  Rocky Mountain National Park has countless things to do for all levels of adventure and enjoyment.

  You can admire the breathtaking views, hike on the trails, drive on the roads, camp in the wilderness, fish in the waters, watch the wildlife, and more. Some of the top things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park are:

  • Hike to Bear Lake : This is one of the most popular and scenic hikes in the park. It is a short and easy hike that takes you to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by mountains and forests. You can also continue to other lakes such as Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake.
  • Drive on Trail Ridge Road : This is one of the most spectacular and highest roads in the country. It spans 48 miles from Estes Park to Grand Lake and crosses the Continental Divide at 12,183 feet. You can see amazing views of the mountains, valleys, meadows, and tundra. You can also stop at various overlooks and visitor centers along the way.
  • Camp at Moraine Park : This is one of the best campgrounds in the park, as it offers spacious sites, stunning views, and easy access to trails and attractions. You can enjoy the starry night sky, the fresh mountain air, and the sounds of nature. You can also see elk, deer, coyotes, and other animals roaming around.
  • Fish at Grand Lake : This is the largest and deepest natural lake in Colorado. It is a great place to fish for trout, salmon, bass, and other species. You can rent a boat or a kayak from one of the marinas or fish from the shore or a pier. You can also enjoy other water activities such as swimming, sailing, or paddle boarding.

     

    Day 3: Aspen- The Ski Resort Town of Your 4 Day Itinerary Colorado

    

    Aspen is a world-famous ski resort town that attracts celebrities, jet-setters, and outdoor lovers.

    It is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, surrounded by four ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. It is also a cultural and historical hub that offers a variety of museums, galleries, festivals, and events.

    How to Get There

    Aspen is about 200 miles southwest of Denver. You can drive there via Interstate 70 and State Highway 82, which will take you through scenic mountain passes and valleys. You can also fly to Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), which is served by several airlines from major cities such as Denver, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas.

    Where to Stay

    Aspen has a wide range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hotels, motels, condos, cabins, lodges, bed and breakfasts, and more. Some of the best areas to stay in Aspen are:

    • Downtown: This is the center of the action where you can find many attractions such as the Wheeler Opera House , the Aspen Art Museum , the John Denver Sanctuary , and more. It is also where you can enjoy the nightlife, dining, and shopping options of Main Street , Cooper Avenue , and Galena Street .
    • West End: This is a historic and charming neighborhood that features Victorian-style homes and tree-lined streets. It is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Hotel Jerome , the Aspen Historical Society , and the Red Brick Center for the Arts . It is also close to the Aspen Music Festival and School , where you can watch classical concerts and performances.
    • East End: This is a quiet and residential neighborhood that offers a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. It is close to some of the natural attractions such as the Roaring Fork River , the Rio Grande Trail , and the Smuggler Mountain Open Space . It is also near some of the ski lifts and trails that lead to Aspen Mountain.

    What to Eat

    Aspen has a diverse and delicious culinary scene that caters to all tastes and palates. You can find everything from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, from local specialties to international cuisine, from organic options to indulgent treats. Some of the must-try dishes and drinks in Aspen are:

    • Truffle fries: These are crispy fries topped with truffle oil, parmesan cheese, parsley, and salt. They are a simple but addictive snack that goes well with any drink or meal. You can find them at some of the bars and pubs in town, such as Ajax Tavern , Jimmy’s , and Hops Culture .
    • Elk carpaccio: This is a delicate and flavorful dish made from thinly sliced raw elk meat that is seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, capers, arugula, and parmesan cheese. It is a local delicacy that showcases the quality and freshness of Colorado game. You can sample it at some of the upscale restaurants in town, such as Element 47 , Cache Cache , and Pinons .
    • Crepes: These are thin and light pancakes that can be filled with sweet or savory ingredients. They are a popular breakfast or dessert option that originated in France but have become a staple in Aspen. You can choose from a variety of flavors and toppings at some of the creperies in town, such as Creperie du Village , The French Alpine Bistro , and La Creperie du Village .
      • Hot chocolate: This is a warm and comforting drink that is perfect for cold winter days or nights. It is made from rich chocolate, milk, cream, sugar, and sometimes spices or marshmallows. You can enjoy it at some of the cozy cafes and bakeries in town, such as Victoria’s Espresso , Paradise Bakery , and Jour de Fete .

      What to Do

      Aspen has plenty of things to do for all seasons and occasions. You can ski on the slopes, hike on the trails, bike on the roads, shop on the streets, relax in the spas, and more. Some of the top things to do in Aspen are:

      • Ski on Aspen Mountain : This is one of the most famous and challenging ski areas in the world. It has 76 trails that span 675 acres of terrain that range from beginner to expert level. It also has a gondola, a ski school, a restaurant, and a sundeck. You can enjoy stunning views of the town and the mountains as you ski down the slopes.
      • Hike on Maroon Bells : These are two of the most iconic and photographed peaks in Colorado. They are part of the Elk Mountains and rise to over 14,000 feet above sea level. They are surrounded by a glacial valley that features a lake, a creek, a waterfall, and wildflowers. You can hike on one of the trails that lead to the base or the summit of the bells.
      • Bike on Rio Grande Trail : This is a scenic and paved trail that follows the Roaring Fork River from Aspen to Glenwood Springs. It covers 42 miles of flat and downhill terrain that passes through forests, meadows, farms, and towns. You can rent a bike from one of the shops in town or bring your own.
      • Shop on Galena Street : This is one of the most popular and fashionable streets in Aspen. It is lined with boutiques, galleries, jewelers, and designers that offer a variety of goods and services. You can find everything from clothing, accessories, art, antiques, books, souvenirs, and more.

      Day 4: Colorado Springs – The Finale of Your 4 Day Itinerary Colorado

      Colorado Springs is the second-largest city in Colorado and one of the most visited destinations in the state. It is located at the foot of Pikes Peak, one of the most famous mountains in America.

      It is also home to some of the most impressive natural and man-made attractions in the country, such as Garden of the Gods, The Broadmoor, and the United States Air Force Academy.

      How to Get There

      Colorado Springs is about 70 miles south of Denver. You can drive there via Interstate 25, which will take you through scenic plains and hills.

      You can also fly to Colorado Springs Airport (COS), which is served by several airlines from major cities such as Denver, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas.

      Where to Stay

      Colorado Springs has a wide range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hotels, motels,

      condos, cabins, lodges, bed and breakfasts, and more. Some of the best areas to stay in Colorado Springs are:

      • Downtown: This is the heart of the city where you can find many attractions such as the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum , the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center , the Olympic & Paralympic Museum , and more. It is also where you can enjoy the nightlife, dining, and shopping options of Tejon Street , Colorado Avenue , and Old Colorado City .
      • Manitou Springs: This is a historic and charming town that is located at the base of Pikes Peak. It is known for its mineral springs, art galleries, shops, and restaurants. It is also close to some of the natural attractions such as Garden of the Gods , Cave of the Winds , and The Manitou Incline .
      • Broadmoor: This is an upscale and elegant neighborhood that features The Broadmoor , one of the most luxurious and prestigious resorts in the world. It offers exquisite rooms and suites, award-winning restaurants, world-class golf courses, a spa, a lake, and more. It is also near some of the man-made attractions such as Seven Falls , Cheyenne Mountain Zoo , and The Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway .

      What to Eat

      Colorado Springs has a varied and tasty culinary scene that reflects its diverse and adventurous culture. You can find everything from casual diners to fine dining restaurants, from local favorites to international cuisine, from healthy options to indulgent treats. Some of the must-try dishes and drinks in Colorado Springs are:

      • Pikes Peak donut: This is a special donut that is made at high altitude and has a light and airy texture. It is a popular souvenir that is sold at the summit of Pikes Peak. You can enjoy it plain or with toppings such as chocolate, cinnamon, or powdered sugar.
      • Bison burger: This is a lean and flavorful burger made from bison meat that is raised in Colorado. You can find it at some of the cafes and pubs in town, such as The Skirted Heifer , Bingo Burger , and Crave Real Burgers .
      • Rocky Mountain pizza: This is a pizza that is topped with ingredients that are native to or inspired by the Rocky Mountains. You can choose from toppings such as elk sausage, green chili, pine nuts, honey, and more. You can order it at some of the pizzerias in town, such as Beau Jo’s , Fargo’s Pizza Co. , and Poor Richard’s .
      • Craft beer: Colorado Springs is a beer lover’s paradise, as it has more than 30 breweries and brewpubs that produce some of the best craft beers in the state. You can taste a variety of styles and flavors at some of the most popular spots in town, such as Bristol Brewing Company , Phantom Canyon Brewing Company , and Trinity Brewing Company .

      What to Do

      Colorado Springs has plenty of things to do for all ages and interests. You can explore the city’s history, culture, art, nature, sports, and entertainment options. Some of the top things to do in Colorado Springs are:

      • Visit Garden of the Gods : This is one of the most amazing and awe-inspiring natural attractions in the world. It features giant red rock formations that rise from the ground and create a stunning contrast with the blue sky and green trees. You can hike, bike, horseback ride, or rock climb on the trails or roads that wind through the park.
      • • play golf on one of the world-class courses, relax in the spa, swim in the lake, or join one of the many activities and events that the resort offers.
        • Climb Pikes Peak : This is one of the most famous and highest mountains in America. It rises to 14,115 feet above sea level and offers spectacular views of the city and the plains. You can climb to the summit by hiking, biking, driving, or taking the cog railway. You can also visit the visitor center, the gift shop, and the donut shop at the top.
        • Tour the United States Air Force Academy : This is one of the most prestigious and respected military academies in the country. It trains and educates future officers and leaders of the Air Force. You can tour the campus and see some of the attractions such as the Cadet Chapel , the Honor Court , the Falcon Stadium , and the Air Force Academy Museum . You can also watch a parade or a flyover by the cadets.Explore The Broadmoor : This is one of the most impressive and luxurious resorts in the world. It offers everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. You can stay in one of the elegant rooms or suites, dine in one of the award-winning restaurants,

        Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Colorado

        Question	Answer
        What is the best time to visit Colorado?	The best time to visit Colorado depends on what you want to do and see. Generally, the summer months (June to August) are ideal for hiking, camping, rafting, and other outdoor activities, while the winter months (December to March) are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The fall months (September to November) offer spectacular foliage and mild weather, while the spring months (March to May) can be unpredictable but also rewarding with wildflowers and wildlife12
        How do I get around in Colorado?	Colorado has a variety of transportation options for travelers, including airports, highways, buses, trains, shuttles, and rideshares. The most convenient way to explore the state is by car, as it allows you to access many scenic routes and remote destinations. However, if you prefer not to drive or want to avoid traffic and parking hassles, you can also take advantage of public transit systems in major cities like Denver and Boulder, or use buses and shuttles to reach mountain resorts and national parks. You can also fly to different regions of the state from Denver International Airport or other regional airports34
        What are some other destinations in Colorado?	Colorado has a wealth of attractions and places to visit, ranging from natural wonders to cultural landmarks. Some of the most popular destinations in Colorado include Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Garden of the Gods, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Pikes Peak, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver Art Museum, Colorado Springs Olympic & Paralympic Museum, Aspen Music Festival and School, Telluride Film Festival, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, and Dinosaur National Monument56
        How do I book tours and activities in Colorado?	There are many ways to book tours and activities in Colorado, depending on your preferences and budget. You can use online platforms like TourRadar or Viator to compare and book a variety of tours and activities in Colorado, from sightseeing tours to adventure trips. You can also contact local tour operators like Aspire Tours or Wildland Trekking directly to customize your itinerary and get expert guidance. Alternatively, you can join free or low-cost tours offered by visitor centers or volunteer organizations in different cities and towns78
        What are some popular beaches in Colorado?	Although Colorado is landlocked, it has many beaches along its lakes and reservoirs that offer fun and relaxation in the summer. Some of the best beaches in Colorado are Medano Creek at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Ridgway State Park Beach at Ridgway Reservoir, Steamboat Lake State Park Beach at Steamboat Lake, Grand Lake Beach at Grand Lake, Blue Mesa Reservoir Beach at Curecanti National Recreation Area, Chatfield State Park Beach at Chatfield Reservoir, Boulder Reservoir Beach at Boulder Reservoir, Cherry Creek State Park Beach at Cherry Creek Reservoir, Jackson Lake State Park Beach at Jackson Lake, and Horsetooth Reservoir Beach at Horsetooth Reservoir910
        Can you recommend any ski resorts near Denver?	Denver is close to many ski resorts that cater to different levels of skiers and snowboarders. Some of the best ski resorts near Denver are Winter Park Resort (67 miles), Keystone Resort (70 miles), Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (77 miles), Eldora Mountain Resort (47 miles), Echo Mountain (36 miles), Copper Mountain Resort (78 miles), Breckenridge Ski Resort (80 miles), Loveland Ski Area (53 miles), Vail Mountain Resort (97 miles), and Beaver Creek Resort (108 miles). These ski resorts offer a variety of terrain, lifts, amenities, lodging options, and snow conditions1112
        What is a good tour operator for Colorado?	A good tour operator for Colorado is one that provides quality service, knowledgeable guides, diverse itineraries, reasonable prices, and positive reviews from past customers. Some examples of good tour operators for Colorado are Southwest Adventure Tours (specializing in multi-day tours of national parks and monuments), Rocky Mountain Food Tours (offering culinary walking tours in Colorado Springs), Intrepid Travel (offering small group adventure tours with local leaders), Trafalgar (offering guided coach tours with cultural experiences), Adventure Out West (offering jeep tours, zipline tours, Segway tours, and more in various locations), and Mile High Bike Tours (offering bike tours of downtown Denver)1314

        ¹: The best times to visit Colorado – The Points Guy ²: Best time to visit Colorado – Lonely Planet ³: How to get around in Colorado – Lonely Planet ⁴: Getting to Colorado & Getting Around | Colorado.com ⁵: 18 Best Places to Visit in Colorado | U.S. News Travel ⁶: 17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Colorado, USA ⁷: 10 Best Colorado Tour Companies & Operators 2023/2024 – TourRadar ⁸: Home | Tour Colorado ⁹: Best beaches in Colorado -Lonely Planet – Lonely Planet ¹⁰: 10 Best Beaches in Colorado | PlanetWare ¹¹: The 6 Best Closest Ski Resorts Near Denver, 2023/24 – SnowPak ¹²: 10 Best Ski Resorts near Denver, 2023 | PlanetWare ¹³: Just Book it Colorado | Colorado Tours & Activities ¹⁴: Colorado Tourism – Official Colorado Vacation Guide | Colorado.com

        Conclusion

        Colorado is a state that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. It has a variety of destinations and attractions that appeal to all kinds of travelers.

        You can enjoy urban culture, natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and more. In this article, we have shown you how to plan a 4 day itinerary Colorado that covers some of the best places to visit in the state.

        We hope that this guide will help you plan your own trip and have a wonderful time in Colorado.