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Guest post by Dom of Colorado Quests
Colorado is a prime destination for a summer trip, thanks to its warm weather, clear skies, and stunning mountain scenery. From outdoor adventure to quaint mountain towns, there is something for everyone, and this Colorado one-week itinerary for summer will help you maximize your time.
In this post, I cover everything you need to know to have an incredible time on your summer trip to Colorado.
Colorado One Week Itinerary
Colorado is a large state, so it isn’t possible to visit everything it has to offer in one week. But, it is plenty of time to see many of the gems in Colorado and get a great sense of the wide variety of activities available.
To limit the amount of time you need to spend in the car, this itinerary is designed to only require one hour of driving each day. It provides a good mix of participating in outdoor activities and exploring cities and towns so that any type of traveler will enjoy their time.
Let’s dive into the ultimate Colorado one-week summer itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival and Explore Denver
For those traveling to Colorado by plane, Denver International Airport (DIA) is the best airport to fly into. As one of the largest airports in the world by land area, it services flights from all around the globe and provides easy access to Denver. Uber, shuttles, or taxis can bring you to your hotel from Denver, which will take about 45 minutes.
Road trippers can easily access Denver from several major highways that pass through the city — I-25 runs north to south, and I-70 runs east to west. When you arrive, take some time to relax before heading downtown to grab a bite to eat and have a drink.
16th Street Mall has abundant options for dining and shopping, where you are sure to find something that suits your tastes. A trolley passes through the area, and a large walking corridor accommodates the large crowds of pedestrians that visit each night.
After a fun night out, get some much-needed rest to ensure you are prepared for the coming days.
Day 2: Golden Gate Canyon State Park
On day two, head to one of Colorado’s top state parks to experience the beauty of the Colorado mountains in the summer. Golden Gate Canyon State Park is over 12,000 acres, and it is home to more than 35 miles of multi-use trails.
Hiking through the park is one of the most fun activities, with options for every skill level. If you are an experienced hiker, Mule Deer Trail Loop is one of the best long hikes that takes you past many impressive sights. Snowshoe Hare Trail is a mellow loop that is a great option for a more laid-back hike.
Panorama Point is a must-see stop, which you can drive directly to without needing to hike in. From here, you will have stunning panoramic views of many notable peaks of the Rocky Mountains, including Longs Peak, Mount Evans, and Grays Peak.
Anglers will find plenty of places to cast a line — Dude’s Fishing Hole and Slough Pond are two of the best fishing spots. The ponds are regularly stocked during the summer with rainbow trout, so you have a good shot at catching something during your visit. Note that a Colorado Fishing License is required, which you can purchase online before your trip or at the visitor center when you arrive.
When you work up an appetite, head to one of the several picnic areas in the park to unwind and enjoy a meal in nature. Red Barn Group Picnic Area and Round the Bend are both great options, where you will find many covered picnic tables and amenities.
When the day comes to a close, there are several options for spending the night in the park. Reverend’s Ridge Campground offers tent sites, RV sites, cabins, and yurts, along with all the amenities you will need, such as bathrooms, showers, and a laundry facility. For a unique experience, check out the Harmsen Ranch Guest House, which can accommodate up to 8 people.
Day 3: Staunton State Park
Day three has more fun outdoor activities in store at another one of Colorado’s picturesque state parks. Staunton State Park is located just past the idyllic mountain town of Conifer, and it provides access to a ton of fun things to do.
Twenty-nine miles of trails offer the opportunity to go hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. One of the most iconic destinations in the park is Elk Falls. Stop by the base of this waterfall to get up close, or pass by the overlook for a different perspective. Along the way, you will pass by Elk Falls Pond, where a colony of marmots lives, so keep an eye out for these furry animals roaming around the area.
Another can’t-miss spot is Eagle Cliff Overlook which provides an expansive view of lush forest, craggy rock formations, and towering mountains. This is one of the best spots in the park to take pictures, so be sure to bring your camera.
A unique attraction in Staunton State Park is its archery range, where you can test your aim at one of the 17 lanes. A short walk along Mason Creek Trail will bring you there from the lower parking lot, and you can use the facility at no extra charge.
If you are up for the challenge, there are many areas throughout the park where you can try your hand at rock climbing. Fixed hardware and predetermined routes are easy to follow, and there are a range of difficulties to choose from. Staunton Rocks climbing area features the most routes, while Raven Wall and Dines Wall are two other popular choices.
Day 4: Buena Vista and Twin Lakes
After your introduction to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in two state parks, travel further into the mountains on day four where you will be impressed by the vastness of larger peaks. Buena Vista is a small town that has plenty of charm, making it a fun area to explore.
Options for lodging include bed and breakfasts and hotels, while you can find cuisine ranging from sushi to sandwiches at the restaurants downtown. Walk along the sidewalk and take your pick of whichever one catches your eye.
During your time here, you will see several summits that are higher than 14,000 feet and make up the group known as the Collegiate Peaks. Meanwhile, the nearby Arkansas River beckons visitors to raft, fish, and swim.
In the middle of the day, when the weather heats up, make the short trip north to Twin Lakes, where crystal-clear water awaits. Take a dip to cool off, or walk along the banks and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Taking Interlaken Trail is the best way to stroll around the lake, and it makes for an easy hike since there is very little elevation gain. Mountain View Observation Site is the place to head if you are in a hurry since it provides fantastic sights and is easily accessible from the main road.
Day 5: Leadville
An old silver and gold mining town, Leadville is steeped in history. Seventy blocks of its downtown area are designated as a National Historic Landmark thanks to the remnants of its past that can still be seen today.
The walking tour is the perfect way to learn about the history of the town since it passes by many of the notable landmarks. Old churches, saloons, and an opera house are some of the highlights of the tour, which transports you back to the age when this was a bustling city.
For more sites to explore, pay a visit to the Dexter Cabin and Healy House Museum, the House with the Eye Museum, and the Tabor Home. To get active, make your way to the Mineral Belt Trail, an 11.6-mile ADA-accessible path where you will have stellar views the whole way. As an added bonus, there is an outdoor museum nearby where you can learn more about the area.
Back in town, local eats and brews are easy to find, and you can enjoy a meal on the patio outside at many of them. An evening stroll through the streets is the perfect way to end the day as temperatures will cool down to an ideal level.
Day 6: Vail
Day six has a lot in store at the iconic town of Vail. Although known as one of the premier ski resorts in the world, Vail doesn’t shut down in the summer. In fact, many visitors flock to the area during the warmer months to take advantage of the unique combination of outdoor activities and luxurious accommodations.
A can’t-miss activity is riding the scenic gondola that carries you to over 10,000 feet, where you will have sweeping views of the valley, access to hiking, and several options for dining. Dangling above the land below is a thrilling experience that gives you a whole new perspective on the surrounding terrain.
Fun for the whole family is found at Epic Discovery, which is an adventure center with a ton of thrilling activities. A flying coaster, zipline, climbing wall, and bungee trampoline all promise to get your adrenaline pumping and leave you feeling energized.
As a renowned destination, Vail has high-class hotels and spas. This is your chance to treat yourself to a memorable stay at one of the many extravagant establishments and fully experience all that Vail has to offer.
Day 7: Golden and departure
On your final day, stop by Golden before you depart to get a taste of this bustling town. Kids will love the Colorado Railroad Museum, which features many historic trains and educational programs. Another stop to check out is the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, where you will learn about one of the most iconic figures of the Wild West who is buried at the nearby Lookout Mountain.
When you are ready for a bite to eat, stroll around downtown for some window shopping and stop into one of the several boutiques if something catches your eye. This is your chance to buy any last-minute gifts or souvenirs that you want to bring home with you.
Breweries, both large and small, are an integral part of the culture in Golden. Choose a local craft brewery to be welcomed by friendly staff and try their tasty specials. Enjoying a crisp beer under the summer sun with the mountains rising in the background is the perfect way to wrap up your time in Colorado.
What Should I Pack for My Trip to Colorado?
Warm temperatures, a dry climate, and bright blue skies are hallmarks of summer in Colorado, so you will likely have pleasant weather. A short sleeve shirt and shorts are the perfect attire for a day outside, while it is a good idea to carry a light jacket with you since temperatures drop at night.
Although typically shortlived, afternoon rain is common so be sure to bring along a rain jacket or an umbrella in case you run into some showers. Note that the sun is really strong at higher elevations, so sun protection is a must. Bring plenty of sunscreen, a protective hat, and sunglasses.
Another important consideration is that it is especially important to drink plenty of water in Colorado due to the high elevation and dry climate. Pack a water bottle (or two) that you can refill and drink from throughout the day. You will want to have a consistent supply of water, not just wait until the next convenient time to drink.
Final Thoughts on 1 Week Colorado Itinerary
This one-week summer itinerary is jam-packed with stellar views, delicious food, and fascinating towns that will show you why so many people love Colorado. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, there is something for you in the state.
Enjoy your trip!
About the Author
Dom is an avid hiker, camper, and backpacker who has been exploring Colorado for 15 years. He believes that nature has the power to heal and inspire, so he helps people get outside through his blog, Colorado Quests.
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.