Need help with itinerary.

Question

Ambitious trip, I already know, also not the best time of year, can’t be helped, I’m tying this on to a Las Vegas convention!

Coming in from Moab on Friday morning of Memorial Day weekend. ( yes I know!). I am also aware of the possible changing weather conditions that time of the year. I’m trying to book( or not book which is dicey) only places to stay with decent cancellation policies. My husband and I just want to optimize what we can see in Colorado. Maybe throw in some experiences/ hikes as well. Work in progress:

Moab ( leave early a.m.) to Glenwood Springs with a stop at a winery near Pallisade. If possible, do Hanging Lake trail. I was told to call the Tuesday before the weekend to see if this is possible. Talked to the tourism people. If we can fit it in, do a late afternoon/ evening hot spring soak. I’m think Iron Mountain, World side.

Next morning, drive to Aspen. Hoping to do the Maroon Bells. Spend day exploring/ overnight there. ( if I can find accommodations that aren’t outrageous. )

Then on towards Leadville via Independence Pass, working our way towards Vail. This will be end of May. Hoping we won’t have to re- route back towards Glenwood Springs? Over night stay in Vail?

Next heading to Estes Park. I know Rocky Mountain NP will be limited. No, I don’t have any reservations yet. Stay overnight in Estes Park. Depending may be just 1 night.

We fly out early evening Tuesday after Memorial Day. Thinking we can drive towards Denver airport and stop for lunch or at see Boulder on the way. Will plan to be be at airport way before rush hour.

Sorry for the long post. Thanks for any help.

Answer

Your itinerary is ambitious but doable if you focus on the main highlights and keep flexibility in mind, especially given the Memorial Day weekend crowds and possible late-spring weather in the mountains. Here’s a detailed approach to optimize your trip:

Day 1 – Friday: Moab to Glenwood Springs

Leave early from Moab to maximize your day in Colorado. A stop in Palisade at one of the wineries is a great idea; Chateau Chantal or Grande River Vineyards are well-known options. Expect about 6–7 hours of driving including stops.

Hanging Lake trail requires advance planning. Reservations or timed entry may be needed, so calling the Tuesday before your visit is smart. If possible, aim for a morning hike to avoid crowds and afternoon thunderstorms.
After the hike, soak in Glenwood Hot Springs or Iron Mountain Hot Springs. Evening soak is perfect after a long drive.
Overnight in Glenwood Springs. Consider booking a hotel with flexible cancellation due to unpredictable weather or timing changes.

Day 2 – Saturday: Glenwood Springs to Aspen

Drive from Glenwood to Aspen (about 1.5–2 hours). Focus on the Maroon Bells area in the morning. Early start is recommended as parking can be limited.

If Maroon Bells shuttle or parking is full, consider alternative short hikes near Aspen, such as Smuggler Mountain or Rio Grande Trail.
Spend the rest of the day exploring downtown Aspen or nearby scenic drives like Independence Pass if conditions allow.
Overnight in Aspen. Lodging options like The Gant or Limelight Hotel may offer reasonable rates with flexible cancellations.

Day 3 – Sunday: Aspen to Vail via Independence Pass

Independence Pass is high elevation, typically open by late May but check road conditions ahead of time. Drive west to Twin Lakes/Leadville area for a quick stop, then head to Vail.

Scenic stops along the way include Twin Lakes, Leadville historic district, and possibly a short hike in the Sawatch Range.
Overnight in Vail. Since it’s Memorial Day weekend, book early if possible, or choose lodging slightly outside town (East Vail or Avon) for more availability.

Day 4 – Monday: Vail to Estes Park

Drive north through I-70 to connect with US-40 to Estes Park (roughly 3–4 hours). The Rockies may still have snow at higher elevations, so plan for limited access in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Option: Explore lower elevation trails like Bear Lake or Lily Lake.
Overnight in Estes Park. Book a hotel or lodge with flexible cancellation due to limited availability around Memorial Day.

Day 5 – Tuesday: Estes Park to Denver Airport

Drive from Estes Park to Denver International Airport (~1.5–2 hours). You could stop in Boulder for lunch or a short stroll along Pearl Street Mall before heading to the airport.

Leave Estes Park mid-morning to allow plenty of time for airport check-in and traffic considerations.
Optionally, explore nearby outdoor spots along the way, such as Chautauqua Park in Boulder.

General Tips:

Weather: Late May can be unpredictable in the mountains; pack layers and check road closures for Independence Pass and Trail Ridge Road.
Accommodations: Prioritize flexible cancellation policies, especially for Aspen, Vail, and Estes Park.
Driving: Some mountain roads are narrow and winding; plan for slower travel times than GPS suggests.
Experiences: Keep hiking flexible based on weather; short hikes of 1–2 hours may be preferable to full-day treks given your tight schedule.

With this plan, you can enjoy key Colorado highlights, scenic drives, and a few short hikes, while leaving some room for adjustments based on weather and road conditions.