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Summary

This 7-day Colorado road trip itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation. From the steep inclines of Colorado Springs to the ice climbing in Ouray, each day is packed with unique experiences. The journey includes breathtaking hikes, thrilling adventure sports, serene hot springs, and scenic drives, making it ideal for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Day 1: Exploring Colorado Springs

Kick off your Colorado adventure with breathtaking hikes and iconic sights in Colorado Springs, including the challenging Manitou Incline and the scenic Garden of the Gods.

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Manitou Incline

A steep, challenging hike offering rewarding views and bragging rights.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "How Hard Is The Manitou Incline?", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIK8-ZoP48Y", "channel": { "name": "Learning To Travel"}, "published_date": "Jan 10, 2022", "length": "7:02" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Meet the Community of The Manitou Incline in Colorado ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcOa5ca7oNs", "channel": { "name": "Salomon TV"}, "published_date": "Aug 20, 2019", "length": "12:55" }</div>

Tips

Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon thunderstorms.

Garden of the Gods

Iconic park with stunning sandstone formations and hiking trails.

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Tips

Visit at sunrise or sunset for spectacular views.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (719) 634-6666
🌐   Website: https://gardenofgods.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1 hour
📍   Address: Colorado Springs, CO 80904
🔗   Profiles: Instagram

🏞️ Day 2: Canon City Adventures

Experience the thrill of Royal Gorge with its suspension bridge, zipline, and sky coaster, and explore the climbing haven of Shelf Road.

🌉 Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge

The Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge offers a breathtaking experience, providing unique canyon views and adrenaline-pumping activities.

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Tips

Try the zipline for an unforgettable and exhilarating experience, soaring above the stunning canyon landscape.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (719) 275-7507
🌐   Website: https://royalgorgebridge.com/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: 4218 Co Rd 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212
🔗   Profiles: Facebook YouTube Pinterest X (Twitter) Instagram

Day 3: Breckenridge Exploration

Discover the charm of Breckenridge with its great hikes, delicious dining, and vibrant shopping scene.

Quandary Peak

One of the easier 14ers, offering panoramic views.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "QUANDARY PEAK | Colorado 14ers | My FULL experience!", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYiFEa4mVN4", "channel": { "name": "Laura Leanne"}, "published_date": "Jul 30, 2020", "length": "7:26" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Quandary Peak Hike", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bRwUvf-DS4", "channel": { "name": "Brian Frey"}, "published_date": "Nov 9, 2021", "length": "4:02" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Quandary Peak - What To Expect", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfoYveHtlbo", "channel": { "name": "GlobalTreks"}, "published_date": "Nov 29, 2018", "length": "7:48" }</div>

Tips

Start early to secure parking and avoid afternoon storms.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (970) 668-4060
🌐   Website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recreation/recarea/?recid=40645&actid=91
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: Mc Cullough Gulch Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424

🏞️ Day 4: Glenwood Springs Adventure

Enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities in Glenwood Springs, from the serene Hanging Lakes to the relaxing hot springs.

🏞️ Hanging Lakes

A stunning natural wonder, known for its clear turquoise waters. The Hanging Lakes trail is a moderate hike that rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the cascading waterfalls and the unique hanging gardens. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are a sight to behold, offering a serene and picturesque setting.

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Tips

Arrive early or visit off-season to avoid crowds. It's advisable to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes for the trail. Additionally, respecting the natural environment by not swimming or standing on the fallen logs in the lake is crucial to preserve its pristine condition.

🏞️ Day 5: Colorado National Monument

  • Explore the lesser-known but equally stunning Colorado National Monument, with its dramatic canyons and fascinating trails.

🏞️ Canyon Rim Trail

Offers breathtaking views of the canyon and is perfect for all skill levels. The trail winds around the canyon, providing awe-inspiring vistas and opportunities to marvel at the sheer vertical drops.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Hike The Lower Monument Trail For Gorgeous Colorado ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTIKSiEAZeU", "channel": { "name": "Learning To Travel"}, "published_date": "Feb 6, 2023", "length": "7:25" }</div>

Tips

Don't miss the sunset views from the overlooks, as the changing colors of the canyon are a sight to behold.

Day 6: Ouray, the Switzerland of America

Immerse yourself in the outdoor paradise of Ouray, with its renowned ice climbing, scenic jeep trails, and soothing hot springs.

Ouray Ice Park

A world-famous destination for ice climbing enthusiasts.

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Tips

Rent equipment in town if you're a beginner or book a guided tour.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (970) 325-4288
🌐   Website: http://ourayicepark.com/
📍   Address: 280 Co Rd 361, Ouray, CO 81427
🔗   Profiles: X (Twitter) Instagram

Day 7: Diverse Colorado Finale

Conclude your road trip with a choice of destinations, from the dramatic Black Canyon of the Gunnison to the historic town of Durango.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison

A spectacular deep canyon offering stunning vistas and serene nature.

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Tips

Drive through the South Rim for easily accessible breathtaking views.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: (970) 641-2337
🌐   Website: https://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm
📍   Address: Colorado
🔗   Profiles: Facebook YouTube X (Twitter) Instagram