The Facts:
Start Location: Central City
Distance: 225 miles
Suggested Duration: 5–7 days
Map of Route
Itinerary Summary: This picturesque itinerary actually leads you across two regions, the Front Range and a portion of Northwest Colorado. While every stop along this route is noteworthy, perhaps the best known among them is Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. In addition to the park, high-mountain vistas, lush forests and a century of Colorado lore await along the 225-mile route.
Destinations Include
Day One
Start your journey in Black Hawk/Central City. These classic western towns, relics of the Gold Rush, provide the opportunity to try your luck at numerous casinos. While you're here, catch a performance at the historic Central City Opera House—the fifth-oldest in the country—then spend the evening at a quaint hotel. From here, follow State Highway 119 and US Highway 6 to I-70 west towards Idaho Springs. If you’re getting hungry, make a quick pit stop and enjoy BeauJo’s famous pizza. Take the US 40 west exit toward Granby and follow it north to Grand Lake.
Day Two
Arrive in Grand Lake for a fun-filled day on Colorado’s largest natural body of water, where you can boat and waterski against the breathtaking landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park. That evening, cozy up in a traditional log cabin or get reenergized at a local restaurant.
Day Three and Four
From Grand Lake, head north on US 34 to Rocky Mountain National Park. Explore the abundant wildlife in this pristine mountain setting, where there are over 359 miles of hiking trails to choose from. As you continue east on US 36 to Estes Park, you'll pass over Trail Ridge Road Scenic and Historic Byway. Situated at 12,183 feet, it's the highest paved through-road in the country. Stop in Estes Park for dinner, then spend the evening at the famed Stanley Hotel—this supposedly haunted hotel was the inspiration for Stephen King’s novel, “The Shining.”
Day Five
Next, drive to Ft. Collins by taking US 34 east to Highway 287 north. Once there, enjoy a quiet morning casting a fly on the Cache la Poudre River. Spend the afternoon enjoying Old Town Square’s great shopping and charming restaurants—and don't forget to check out the local microbreweries. That evening, dine at a local restaurant and spend the night at a bed and breakfast.
Day Six and Seven
In the morning, grab some breakfast, then hop in your car and take I-25 south to CO-119 toward Boulder. Visit the Boulder Chautauqua, one of only three remaining Chautauquas in the United States, it first opened in 1898. You can experience this national historic landmark by hiking the area, attending musical performances, or participating in arts and cultural programming—and make sure to eat at the historic dining hall. For a more radical view of Boulder, hike the Flatirons. If you want a relaxed Boulder experience, shop unique stores and try the fantastic restaurants on Pearl Street.
Insiders Tip:
Visit Estes Park in the fall for a one-of-a-kind experience. You can observe hundreds of bull elk descend among this quiet mountain town, bugling as they vie for the attention of the females.
Travel Information
Colorado Welcome Center, Fort Collins
I-25 at exit 268
970-491-3583