To experience the best of the U.S. via the great open road, look to Colorado.

In short, it’s the perfect place for the ultimate road trip.

As of May 24, 2024, you must reserve a timed pass to enter Rocky Mountain National Park.

Downtown Denver

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Without further ado, here’s our handy guide to everything you should do on a Colorado road trip.

Whatever you do, confirm your last activity is getting in your car and driving northwest.

This part of the itinerary is optional, but definitely encouraged if you have the time.

Flatirons seen from Boulder, Colorado

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Trail Ridge Road

If you’re road-tripping between May and October, you’re in luck.

Refuel, then it’s onto the next oasis.

They’re also both tucked away in furtive, but gorgeous, canyons.

Mountains around Estes Lake

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Either way, we’re venturing south.

The result is extraordinarily dramatic and incredibly enlightening.

Check out its elaborate rooms and the decorative plasters, all of which have withstood erosion and time.

Trail Ridge Road - A stormy Spring day view of a narrow section of Trail Ridge Road winding at top of mountains. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

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Historic street sidewalk in Colorado on Grand Avenue and Italian restaurant

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San Miguel River, Telluride, Colorado

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Cliff Palace is seen from the trail approaching the site in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

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Durango & Silverton Train, Colorado

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Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

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Royal Gorge in Canon City, Colorado

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Garden of the Gods framed by twisted Juniper Trees

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