6 Days Roadtrip

Question

Greetings,

I am looking for recommendations for a 6/7 day road trip from and back to Denver in mid-April. I'm not worried about fatigue but want to hit all the best spots while I have the chance.

Cheers.

Answer

A 6–7 day road trip from Denver in mid-April can cover a mix of iconic mountain scenery, charming towns, and unique Colorado experiences. April weather can still be variable in the mountains, with snow at higher elevations, so plan for flexibility, especially if you want to visit higher passes or ski areas. Here’s a suggested itinerary and tips for maximizing your trip.

Day 1: Denver → Colorado Springs

Drive about 1.5 hours south to Colorado Springs.
Visit Garden of the Gods for stunning red rock formations.
Optional: Pikes Peak Highway or Cave of the Winds (check for seasonal openings in April).
Stay overnight in Colorado Springs.

Day 2: Colorado Springs → Great Sand Dunes National Park → Pagosa Springs

Drive southwest to Great Sand Dunes National Park (~3 hours). Explore the dunes; you can walk, hike, or try sand sledding.
Continue to Pagosa Springs (~2 hours) to enjoy hot springs in the evening.
Stay overnight in Pagosa Springs.

Day 3: Pagosa Springs → Durango

Drive to Durango (~1.5 hours).
Explore historic downtown, shops, and restaurants.
Optional: Take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (if operating in April; check schedules).
Stay overnight in Durango.

Day 4: Durango → Mesa Verde National Park → Ouray / Silverton

Morning drive to Mesa Verde National Park (~45 min). Explore cliff dwellings and visitor center.
Continue to Ouray (~2.5 hours) or Silverton (~1 hour further). Take the Million Dollar Highway cautiously if driving conditions are clear and the driver is comfortable with heights; otherwise, stay lower elevation.
Stay overnight in Ouray or Silverton.

Day 5: Ouray / Silverton → Telluride → Montrose / Gunnison

Drive to Telluride (~1.5–2 hours). Explore town, gondola rides, and nearby hiking trails (weather permitting).
Continue to Montrose or Gunnison for overnight stay (~2 hours from Telluride), keeping travel distances manageable.

Day 6: Montrose / Gunnison → Vail / Summit County

Drive along scenic passes such as CO-133 (if open) and reach Vail (~3–4 hours). Enjoy alpine scenery, short hikes, or stroll Vail Village.
Optional: Stop at Glenwood Springs for hot springs or lunch.
Stay overnight in Vail or nearby towns.

Day 7: Vail → Denver

Drive back to Denver (~2 hours).
Optionally, stop at Georgetown, Idaho Springs, or Red Rocks Amphitheatre for quick sightseeing on the way.
Return rental car or prepare for departure.

Tips & Considerations:

Check for snow or road closures on mountain passes; April can still bring late-season snowstorms.
Make lodging reservations early, particularly in smaller towns like Pagosa Springs, Durango, and Ouray.
Keep a flexible itinerary; some hikes or mountain roads may be inaccessible.
Pack layers—temperatures can vary dramatically from lower elevations (Colorado Springs) to higher elevations (Ouray, Vail).
Consider a mix of scenic driving and outdoor activities to balance long drives with relaxation.

This route allows you to experience southern Colorado highlights, including national parks, hot springs, alpine towns, and spectacular mountain scenery, while keeping driving distances manageable each day. Adjustments can be made if you prefer to spend more time in certain towns or outdoor activities.

6 Days Roadtrip

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