📍 United States

COLORADO ROCKIES LOOP: ALPINE PEAKS TO ANCIENT CLIFF DWELLINGS

Alpine tundra giving way to towering dunes, canyon shadows plunging into darkness, cliff dwellings guarding secrets. Colorado dazzles, vertically.

≈ 10
Days
1521
Km
5
Stops
📖 4 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Taste Lima and its ceviche, then glide to Paracas and its bird-filled cliffs. Race down Huacachina's dunes, reach Arequipa and its white stone, then follow Colca Canyon to meet the condors. End on Lake Titicaca with the Uros, before Cusco and Machu Picchu, where Inca stone touches the clouds.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Denver

mile high city launches rocky mountain adventures

🔍

Discover

1
Denver Union Station precinct and LoDo warm‑up walk.
🎯

Activities

Provisioning for altitude and variable mountain weather.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 109.4 km
Travel time: 1h49
2
Day

Estes Park

elk wander beneath rocky mountain gateway village

🔍

Discover

1
Rocky Mountain NP orientation at Beaver Meadows VC; Trail Ridge Road overlooks (seasonal).
🎯

Activities

Short lakeside walk near Estes Park.
🚗
Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 422 km
Travel time: 8h27
3
Day

Montrose

black canyon's painted wall plunges into shadow

🔍

Discover

1
Great Sand Dunes — climb the main field from the Dune Access area; watch for wind and midday heat.
🎯

Activities

Medano Creek wading (seasonal flow).
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 173.9 km
Travel time: 2h10
4
Day

Durango

narrow gauge steam climbs toward silverton mines

🔍

Discover

1
Black Canyon of the Gunnison — South Rim overlooks from the Visitor Center area and along the rim road.
🎯

Activities

Photography of near‑vertical schist walls in golden light.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 173.9 km
Travel time: 2h10
5
Day

Montrose

black canyon's painted wall plunges into shadow

🔍

Discover

1
Mesa Verde — Chapin Mesa Museum and ranger‑led dwelling access (ticketed, seasonal).
🚗
Next stop
⏱️ Long drive (5h+)
Distance: 371 km
Travel time: 7h26
6
Day

Alamosa

sand dunes tower against sangre de cristo backdrop

🔍

Discover

1
Optional Animas River walk or Silverton narrow‑gauge rail vibe (timing dependent) before turning north.
🎯

Activities

Durango Historic Downtown evening stroll.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 271.2 km
Travel time: 3h23
7
Day

Denver

mile high city launches rocky mountain adventures

🔍

Discover

1
Return across mountain passes with weather‑safe pacing; optional Georgetown stop.

🗺️ Itinerary map

🗺️ Nearby itineraries

🛡️ Travel advice - United States

Check official recommendations

UK Foreign Travel Advice →

❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather across most regions (15-25°C) with blooming landscapes, moderate crowds, and excellent conditions for national parks and cities. Ideal for diverse activities nationwide.

Autumn (September-October): Excellent temperatures with spectacular fall foliage, harvest festivals, and comfortable weather. Perfect for outdoor activities, cultural events, fewer crowds than summer.

Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest weather but highest crowds and prices. Excellent for northern regions, challenging in southwestern deserts, perfect for beaches and national parks.

Winter (December-February): Variable conditions from tropical Florida to snowy Colorado. Perfect for skiing, southern destinations, indoor attractions, lowest prices outside holiday periods.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 8 and 12 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in United States?

Continental diversity with iconic landmarks, cultural melting pot, and endless possibilities. Experience natural wonders, vibrant cities, and authentic American dreams from coast to coast. The country offers incredible diversity with modern amenities and cultural richness. United States provides life-changing experiences with natural beauty and cultural authenticity.