What to do in Colorado in the summer? There’s something almost magical about Colorado in the summer. When the snow finally melts from the mountain peaks, the state bursts into life with wildflowers, glacial lakes, sun-drenched hiking trails, and high-alpine adventures.
Whether you love to explore charming mountain towns, want to hike through national parks, or soak in hot springs beneath the stars, a summer vacation in Colorado is a refreshing escape into nature. This 7-day Colorado summer vacation itinerary is the perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and culture, designed for travelers who want a little bit of everything.
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Colorado in the Summer – Colorado Summer Vacation Itinerary – Things to do in Colorado in the summer
Let’s dive into the ultimate Colorado Summer Vacation Itinerary—complete with scenic routes, why each place is worth visiting, and mid-budget stays to make your summer unforgettable.
Start your Colorado summer vacation in the state capital, Denver. This urban city, which is surrounded by nature, is a great place to acclimate to the altitude and dive into Colorado’s cultural scene.
Day 1: Arrive in Denver – The Mile-High Gateway
Denver combines mountain views with vibrant street art, music, outdoor breweries, and easy access to nature. In summer, city parks buzz with festivals, and you can rent bikes to cruise the Cherry Creek Trail or relax at Washington Park.
Things to do in Denver
- Spend your afternoon at the Denver Botanic Gardens, a lush oasis blooming in full color during summer.
- In the evening, enjoy a rooftop dinner in LoDo (Lower Downtown) or catch an outdoor concert at Civic Center Park.
Overnight stay: Stay at The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block, which is chic, central, and within walking distance from Union Station.
Tour to book: Try a Denver History and Highlights Walking Tour for a crash course in the city’s past and hidden gems.
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Day 2: Denver to Estes Park – Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park
Distance: 65 miles | Time: 1.5 hours via US-36 W
On Day 2, drive north to Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the crown jewels of Colorado in summer. The route winds through scenic foothills before arriving in this cozy mountain town.
Estes Park offers easy access to high-alpine lakes, epic hiking trails, and wildlife viewing in the national park. Elk and moose sightings are common, mainly when animals graze freely in summer.
Things to do in Estes Park
- Spend your day hiking Bear Lake Trailhead, an easy 1-mile loop around a picturesque alpine lake.
- For more of a challenge, tackle Emerald Lake Trail, a 3.5-mile round trip with postcard-worthy views.
- Don’t miss driving part of Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., offering jaw-dropping views above 12,000 feet.
Overnight stay: Book a room at The Ridgeline Hotel, which offers modern comforts and is close to both the town and the park entrance.
Tour to book: A Wildlife Safari Jeep Tour inside Rocky Mountain National Park is a fun way to spot elk, marmots, and perhaps even a black bear.
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Day 3: Estes Park to Glenwood Springs – Hot Springs and Canyon Views
Distance: 200 miles | Time: 4.5 hours via I-70 W
Today is a longer drive but one of the most scenic stretches of your trip. Head west on I-70 through the rugged Colorado Rockies, passing through Loveland Pass and Vail before reaching Glenwood Springs.
This mountain town is home to the world’s largest hot springs pool, making it a perfect place to relax after hiking.
Things to do in Glenwood Springs
Summer is ideal for enjoying the Glenwood Canyon bike trail, rafting the Colorado River, or hiking to Hanging Lake, a turquoise gem suspended above a canyon wall.
Note: You’ll need a permit to hike Hanging Lake. Reserve in advance as summer slots fill up quickly.
Overnight stay: Check into Hotel Glenwood Springs, conveniently located near the hot springs and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
Tour to book: Book a Whitewater Rafting Tour in Glenwood Canyon—a thrilling and scenic summer adventure.
Day 4: Glenwood Springs to Aspen – Glamour in the High Country
Distance: 40 miles | Time: 1 hour via CO-82 E
Drive south into the Roaring Fork Valley and arrive in Aspen, a glamorous yet laid-back mountain town nestled in the heart of the Rockies.
Though famous for skiing, Aspen is peaceful, green, and vibrant in summer, with outdoor music, farmers’ markets, and wildflower-strewn trails.
Things to do in Aspen
- The crown jewel is Maroon Bells, arguably the most photographed mountains in North America.
- Hike the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail or paddleboard the reflective lake surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks.
- Downtown Aspen also offers exceptional dining, boutique shopping, and art galleries—all surrounded by alpine beauty.
Overnight stay: Try Aspen Mountain Lodge, which offers cozy rooms and complimentary breakfast within walking distance of downtown.
Tour to book: A guided e-bike tour to Maroon Bells is a fantastic, eco-friendly way to explore the area in summer weather.
Day 5: Aspen to Ouray – The Switzerland of America
Distance: 200 miles | Time: 5 hours via CO-133 S and US-550 S
Wind through some of Colorado’s most stunning scenery as you head south toward Ouray, nicknamed “the Switzerland of America” for good reason.
Tucked into a box canyon, Ouray is a gem with rugged mountain peaks, natural hot springs, and cascading waterfalls. Summer brings with it wildflower hikes and one of the most scenic drives in the state: the Million Dollar Highway. Visit Box Canyon Falls, hike to Cascade Falls, or soak in Ouray Hot Springs under the open sky.
Mid-budget overnight stay: Stay at Hotel Ouray, a charming boutique property with a historic feel and modern touches.
Tour to book: A 4×4 Jeep tour on Yankee Boy Basin offers epic views of alpine tundra and is packed with wildflowers during summer.
Day 6: Ouray to Durango – Western Charm Meets Outdoor Adventure
Distance: 70 miles | Time: 2 hours via US-550 S
Drive the jaw-dropping Million Dollar Highway from Ouray to Durango, a southwestern Colorado town known for its Wild West roots and outdoor adventure scene.
Durango is home to the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which chugs through scenic canyons and pine forests. In summer, tubing down the Animas River, hiking the Colorado Trail, or visiting the nearby Mesa Verde National Park (1 hour away) are all fantastic options.
Mesa Verde is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and summer is perfect for touring the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings built into canyon walls—a fascinating cultural and historical experience.
Overnight stay: Stay at The Strater Hotel, an 1887 landmark with antique furnishings and a central location.
Tour to book: Book the Durango & Silverton Train Ride, or take a Mesa Verde Guided Tour for in-depth historical insights.
Day 7: Durango to Colorado Springs – Wrap Up With a Bang
Distance: 300 miles | Time: 6 hours via US-160 E and I-25 N
For your final leg, head east across southern Colorado to Colorado Springs, where desert meets alpine and adventure awaits.
Colorado Springs is home to Garden of the Gods, a surreal red rock formation park with hiking trails, rock climbing, and photo ops galore. Just 20 minutes away is Pikes Peak, where you can drive or take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the summit at 14,115 feet.
Things to do in Colorado Springs
- Manitou Springs, a quirky town full of mineral springs and artisan shops,
- The Broadmoor Seven Falls is a cascading waterfall in a granite box canyon.
Overnight stay: The Academy Hotel is known for its great amenities and value near major attractions.
Tour to book: A Jeep Tour of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak offers panoramic views and fun insights into the area’s geology.
What to do in Colorado in the Summer?
A Colorado summer vacation is the perfect escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and families alike. From glacial lakes and red rock canyons to historical towns and hot springs, Colorado in summer is a kaleidoscope of landscapes, activities, and unforgettable memories. The routes between each destination are just as scenic as the places themselves—making the journey part of the experience.
Useful Tips – Colorado Summer Vacation Itinerary
- Altitude awareness: Many towns and parks are at high elevations. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol on your first day, and give yourself time to acclimate.
- Pack layers: Mountain mornings and evenings can be chilly in summer.
- Book ahead: Summer is peak season—reserve tours, hikes (like Hanging Lake), and hotels in advance.
- Driving tips: Some mountain roads are narrow or steep. Be confident in your driving skills or consider local tours.
- Wildlife safety: Keep your distance from elk, moose, and bears. Store food properly when hiking.
From the bustling energy of Denver to the tranquil mountain vibes of Aspen, the historic charm of Durango to the hot springs of Ouray, this 7-day Colorado Summer Vacation Itinerary is your passport to the perfect summer escape. If you’re wondering what to do in Colorado in summer, look no further. The Centennial State offers the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation, making it one of the best summer vacation ideas in the U.S.
So pack your hiking boots, your swimsuit, and your camera. Colorado in the summer is calling—an adventure you’ll never forget.
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