Colorado National Parks: 7 Day Alpine Getaway

Standing at the top of that massive dune, board in hand, I could feel the wind whipping sand against my legs. The slope looked way steeper from up here, but there was no turning back. I shifted my weight, leaned forward, and suddenly I was flying down, the sand hissing beneath me. By the time I hit the bottom, I was grinning like a kid on a rollercoaster, already thinking, 'Okay, one more run.'

@camillalxy, Your AAdventure Guide

Essential Information

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Denver (DEN) -> Alamosa

Kick off your Colorado adventure by landing at Denver International Airport and picking up your rental car. The scenic 4-hour drive to Alamosa offers views of vast plains backed by rugged mountain ranges—keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Enjoy a hearty local dinner in Alamosa and rest up for tomorrow's dunes adventure.

Day 2 - High Dune on First Ridge -> Sandboarding -> Cortez

Wake up early for the surreal beauty of Great Sand Dunes National Park. Hike to High Dune on First Ridge for sweeping desert views framed by towering peaks, and splash around Medano Creek if water flows permit. Don't miss the thrill of sandboarding before heading out on a stunning 4-hour drive to Cortez through breathtaking high desert landscapes.

Day 3 - Cliff Palace Guided Tour -> Mesa Top Loop Road -> Montrose

Discover ancient history at Mesa Verde, where the guided Cliff Palace tour takes you into one of the most iconic ancestral Puebloan dwellings. Drive the Mesa Top Loop Road for panoramic views of this UNESCO World Heritage site. After lunch, head through winding mountain passes to Montrose, where charming local eateries await.

Day 4 - South Rim Road -> Scenic Short Hikes -> Aspen

Explore the dizzying depths of Black Canyon's South Rim Road, stopping at overlooks like Painted Wall and Gunnison Point. Stretch your legs on short trails like Warner Point for sweeping vistas or the Oak Flat Loop for a closer canyon view. Continue on a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Aspen, where dinner at a cozy local restaurant completes your day.

Day 5 - Downtown Aspen -> Estes Park

Begin your morning with a leisurely stroll through Aspen's charming downtown before starting the 5-hour drive to Estes Park. The route winds through mesmerizing mountain roads and picturesque valleys, making for an unforgettable journey. Arriving by evening, unwind with dinner at a local bistro and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

Day 6 - Alpine Lake Hikes -> Alberta Falls -> Trail Ridge Road -> Alpine Ridge Trail

Start early for a serene hike to Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes, where crystal-clear alpine waters reflect towering peaks. Enjoy a picnic lunch by Bear Lake before a short trek to Alberta Falls. Cap your adventure with scenic stops along Trail Ridge Road, including a brisk walk on Alpine Ridge Trail for panoramic views above the treeline.

Day 7 - Departure from DEN

Savor one last mountain breakfast in Estes Park before the peaceful 1.5-hour drive back to Denver. Relish the lingering beauty of the Rockies before returning your rental car and boarding your flight home. Don't forget to share your photos and experiences with us to be featured on Voyagers' social media. We'd love to hear your stories!

This Trip Is Best For

First-time visitors: "I've never been to Colorado outdoors and want to see all the highlights." 

Easygoing hikers: "I appreciate a mix of relaxed schedules with moments of adventure."

Travel photographers: "I love capturing beautiful landscapes and taking stylish travel photos."

Experience seekers: "I crave adventures that take me through ever-changing landscapes."

Independent explorers: "I prefer traveling without a guide and am comfortable with basic navigation."

How To Autopilot

1. Pay a deposit to receive the full itinerary and secure your spot if you'd like to join a group.

2. Answer a few questions from us to be matched with compatible group members. 

3. Pay the balance to meet your group and get ready for your self-guided adventure together.

• Once you've met your group, no refunds will be issued for cancellations.
  
• Each additional participant you bring gets 10% off the balance for everyone in the same party, until your party size reaches the max group size of the trip.

For just $14 or less, you'll be ready to go with an actionable itinerary AND travel buddies you'll get along with.

That's like HOURS ⏰ of trip planning and HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS 💰 on travel agency SAVED ✅

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