4 day itinerary from Denver?

Question

Hello, I'm considering a last-minute trip to CO next week on June 26-July 1. We are a family of 2 adults and 2 teens and we would be flying into Denver and renting a car. We have already been to RMNP, Colorado Springs, Mesa Verde and Steamboat Springs, so we're interested in other areas, maybe Breckenridge or Boulder or other towns. We're interested in hiking up to 5 miles per day, maybe rafting and seeing other scenic or historical areas. We would still need to book hotels, but we're not too picky, and we can stay in a different place each night. Is flooding an issue in CO now? Thanks for any ideas!

Answer

For a 4-day Colorado itinerary from Denver with a family of two adults and two teens, focusing on hiking, scenic towns, and some adventure like rafting, there are several excellent options beyond the areas you’ve already visited. Late June is generally a good time for hiking and outdoor activities, though afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains, so plan hikes for mornings when possible. Flooding is not a widespread issue currently, but it’s always a good idea to check local weather updates before heading out.

Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances scenic drives, hiking, and adventure, with a different base each night:

Day 1 – Denver to Boulder
- Pick up your rental car in Denver and drive to Boulder (approx. 45 minutes).
- Hike the Flatirons via Chautauqua Park trails (easy-to-moderate, up to 5 miles round trip).
- Explore downtown Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall for dining and local shopping.
- Overnight in Boulder.
Day 2 – Boulder to Estes Park
- Drive to Estes Park (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Hike in the areas just outside the national park, such as Lumpy Ridge or Gem Lake Trail (moderate, scenic, under 5 miles).
- Optional: Take a short wildlife tour or guided nature walk.
- Overnight in Estes Park.
Day 3 – Estes Park to Breckenridge
- Drive along Peak-to-Peak Highway for scenic views, stopping for photos and short walks.
- Arrive in Breckenridge (approx. 3 hours drive).
- Afternoon hike around Boreas Pass or Mohawk Lakes Trail for a moderate, scenic hike.
- Explore historic Main Street in Breckenridge for dining and local shops.
- Overnight in Breckenridge.
Day 4 – Breckenridge to Buena Vista or Salida for Rafting
- Drive to Buena Vista (approx. 1.5 hours) for whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River.
- Most rafting trips last 2–4 hours and can accommodate families with teens.
- Optional short hike nearby, like Cottonwood Pass Trail or Collegiate Peaks viewpoints.
- Overnight in Buena Vista or Salida before returning to Denver the next morning (approx. 2 hours drive).

Additional tips:

Book accommodations and rafting tours in advance, especially for last-minute trips in summer.
Start hikes early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
Pack layers, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for all outdoor activities.
Consider flexible options if mountain passes or river levels affect driving or rafting plans.

This itinerary allows you to experience Colorado’s scenic small towns, moderate hiking trails, and adventure activities while keeping driving manageable each day.

4 day itinerary from Denver?

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