4 Day Itinerary Colorado: The Amazing Guide for an Epic Road Trip

by Meghdut
4 Day Itinerary Colorado

4 Day Itinerary Colorado: The Ultimate Guide for an Epic Road Trip

4 Day Itinerary Colorado

Colorado is a state of stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and outdoor adventure.

Whether you want to explore the majestic Rocky Mountains, the scenic Colorado Plateau, or the vibrant cities and towns, Colorado has something for everyone.

In this article, we will show you how to plan an amazing 4 day itinerary Colorado that covers some of the best attractions and activities in the state. You will discover the best time to visit, how to get around, where to stay, what to eat, and what to do in each destination.

Plus, we will share some tips and tricks to make your trip more enjoyable and memorable.

Key Takeaways

  • The best time to visit Colorado is from June to September for hiking, camping, rafting, and other outdoor activities; or from December to March for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
  • The best way to get around Colorado is by car, as it gives you the most flexibility and convenience to explore different places. You can rent a car from Denver International Airport or other major cities.
  • The best places to visit in Colorado in 4 days are Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen, and Colorado Springs. These destinations offer a mix of urban culture, natural scenery, and outdoor adventure.
  • The average cost of a 4 day trip to Colorado is about $1,000 per person, excluding airfare. This includes transportation, accommodation, food, and activities. You can save money by camping, cooking your own meals, and choosing free or low-cost attractions.

Estimated Costs of Transportation, Accommodation, Food, and Activities

Item Cost per day Cost for 4 days
Car rental $50 $200
Gas $15 $60
Accommodation $150 $600
Food $40 $160
Activities $25 $100
Total $280 $1,120

Note: These are average costs based on mid-range options. Prices may vary depending on the season, location, and availability.

Statistics about Last Five Years Travellers Incoming with Pictures

Colorado is one of the most popular travel destinations in the United States. According to the Colorado Tourism Office 1, the state welcomed a record-breaking 86.9 million visitors in 2019, generating $24.2 billion in spending and supporting 181,300 jobs.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of visitors dropped by 31% in 2020, resulting in a loss of $10 billion in spending and 50,000 jobs 2. The tourism industry is expected to recover gradually in 2021 and beyond as travel restrictions are lifted and consumer confidence returns.

 

 

Day 1: Denver – The Start of Your 4 Day Itinerary Colorado

Denver

Denver is the capital and largest city of Colorado. It is also known as the Mile High City because of its elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level.

Denver is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a variety of cultural attractions, entertainment options, dining venues, and shopping districts.

 

It is also a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and other natural wonders.

How to Get There

Denver is easily accessible by air, as it is home to Denver International Airport (DEN), one of the busiest airports in the world. You can fly to Denver from many domestic and international destinations with various airlines.

You can also drive to Denver from neighboring states such as Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona.

Where to Stay

Denver has a wide range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hotels, motels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, campgrounds, and more. Some of the best areas to stay in Denver are:

What to Eat

Denver has a rich and diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural and adventurous spirit. You can find everything from classic American fare to international cuisine, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, from food trucks to farmers markets. Some of the must-try dishes and drinks in Denver are:

What to Do

Denver 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 Denver are:

  • Visit the Denver Zoo 31: This is one of the most popular attractions in Denver, where you can see more than 4,000 animals from around the world. You can admire exotic creatures such as lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, gorillas, penguins, and more. You can also enjoy interactive exhibits, shows, feeding sessions, and special events.
  • Explore the Denver Museum of Nature & Science : This is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the country, where you can learn about natural history, science, and technology. You can see fascinating displays of fossils, dinosaurs, wildlife, gems, minerals, mummies, space, and more. You can also watch IMAX films and planetarium shows.
  • Experience Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre : This is a unique natural attraction that features massive red rock formations that create an amazing outdoor concert venue. You can catch live performances by some of the world’s most famous artists or join yoga classes or fitness programs. You can also hike or bike on the scenic trails or visit the visitor center and museum.
  • Enjoy Elitch Gardens Theme & Water Park : This is a fun-filled attraction that offers thrilling rides, slides, shows, games, and more for the whole family. You can ride roller coasters such as Twister II or Mind Eraser or splash around in water attractions such as SlideZilla or Castaway Creek. You can also watch live entertainment or join seasonal events.

Day 2: Rocky Mountain National Park-The Highlight of Your 4 Day Itinerary Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most spectacular national parks in the country. It covers more than 400 square miles of stunning mountain scenery that includes snow-capped peaks glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, meadows, forests, and wildlife.

It is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife watching, scenic driving, and more.

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

      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:

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