5 day trip in CO after Rocky Mtn

Question

We will be at Rocky Mountain NP for 3 days then a concert at Red Rocks. We are looking for things to do for 5 days after that in CO. Thoughts of Vail, Breckenridge, Telluride, Ouray, Black Canyon, etc. We will be there on June 6-12. looking for Suggestions to enjoy CO. We already did Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods(and Rocky Mtn NP and Red Rocks)

Answer

After your time at Rocky Mountain National Park and the Red Rocks concert, you have a fantastic opportunity to explore some of Colorado’s most scenic mountain towns and natural attractions. Since you already covered Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, I’d suggest focusing on high-altitude alpine towns, historic mining towns, and a mix of outdoor activities that don’t require long hikes unless desired.

Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary with a balance of sightseeing, scenic drives, and charming towns:

Day 1: Vail – Drive from the Denver/Red Rocks area to Vail (~2 hours). Vail offers beautiful alpine scenery, European-style village charm, and outdoor activities. You can take a scenic gondola ride, stroll the pedestrian village, or enjoy riverwalk trails. If you like, book a spa or explore local galleries and shops.
Day 2: Breckenridge – Short drive from Vail (~1 hour). Breckenridge is a historic mining town with a vibrant main street and great food scene. You can explore the town, take a short hike or ride the Breckenridge Gondola for panoramic views, or rent bikes for easy trails around town.
Day 3: Ouray – Head southwest to Ouray (~4–5 hours). Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray features hot springs, stunning mountain vistas, and charming Victorian architecture. Soak in the hot springs and enjoy short, accessible walks around town. A drive along the Million Dollar Highway is highly scenic and can be a highlight.
Day 4: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park – About 1 hour from Ouray. The South Rim Drive offers multiple scenic overlooks where you can enjoy dramatic views of the steep canyon without hiking. Spend a few hours here, then consider heading toward Montrose for lodging or continue toward Telluride (~2.5 hours).
Day 5: Telluride – A beautiful mountain town with historic charm and stunning scenery. Take the free gondola to Mountain Village for incredible views. Even if you only explore the town and nearby scenic points, it’s a memorable way to conclude your Colorado trip before heading back to Denver or your next destination.

Other notes and tips:

Scenic drives in Colorado are a big part of the experience: the drive from Vail to Breckenridge and from Ouray to Telluride are both gorgeous. Allow extra time for stops and photos.
If anyone has mobility concerns or prefers lighter activity, stick to town walks, gondolas, and overlook viewpoints. Most towns have short, easy trails suitable for casual strolls.
Booking hotels or lodges in advance is essential for June, as this is peak summer season. Vail, Breckenridge, Telluride, and Ouray all fill up quickly.
Dining options vary from casual cafes to fine dining; mountain towns often have excellent local cuisine and craft breweries.

This itinerary balances short drives, scenic vistas, charming mountain towns, and easy access to nature, giving you a rich Colorado experience without exhausting hiking or extreme physical activity.

5 day trip in CO after Rocky Mtn

More Colorado (CO) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions