Rocky Roads & Enchanting Towns: Family Adventure Across Colorado & Beyond ??

Enjoy a captivating family road trip exploring the heart of the American countryside! Journey along scenic byways through Colorado and neighboring states, stopping in charming towns, discovering parks, playing in theme parks, shopping at local malls, tasting street food, and relaxing in farm stays. Experience memorable family fun while driving iconic routes and immersing in authentic small-town Americana.

Trip Plan in Estes Park, Colorado, Glenwood Springs, Colorado, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Moab, Utah, Heber City, Utah

  • 1 4 days in Estes Park, Colorado, United States
    • Denver International Airport Estes Park, Colorado, United States
    • 118 km | 1 hours 23 minutes
  • 2 4 days in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, United States
    • Estes Park, Colorado, United States Glenwood Springs, Colorado, United States
    • 318 km | 3 hours 45 minutes
  • 3 3 days in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, United States
    • Glenwood Springs, Colorado, United States Steamboat Springs, Colorado, United States
    • |
  • 4 3 days in Moab, Utah, United States
    • Steamboat Springs, Colorado, United States Moab, Utah, United States
    • |
  • 5 3 days in Heber City, Utah, United States
    • Moab, Utah, United States Heber City, Utah, United States
    • |
  • 6 Return
    • Heber City, Utah, United States Salt Lake City International Airport
    • |

Estes Park is a scenic mountain town in Colorado, known as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, offering outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and charming local shops.

May 15 | May 18

Day # 1 in Estes Park, Colorado (Thu May 15)
Estes Park Downtown
#1 Explore Downtown Estes Park and Riverwalk

02:00 PM - 05:00 PM Estes Park Downtown

Arrive at Estes Park, settle in, and take a relaxing walk along the scenic Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park, with local shops, cafes, and art galleries. Try the famous saltwater taffy and stop for ice cream at one of the riverside parlors.

The Grubsteak Restaurant
#2 Dinner: Local Colorado Cuisine

06:00 PM - 08:00 PM The Grubsteak Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at The Grubsteak Restaurant, a top family choice for burgers and classic Colorado dishes, great atmosphere, and options for kids.

Day # 2 in Estes Park, Colorado (Fri May 16)
Bear Lake Trailhead (Rocky Mountain National Park)
#1 Explore Rocky Mountain National Park (Bear Lake Corridor)

08:00 AM - 04:00 PM Bear Lake Trailhead (Rocky Mountain National Park)

Spend a full day exploring Rocky Mountain National Park via the Bear Lake Corridor: easy family hikes to Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, and Dream Lake. Stop at scenic pull-outs. Enjoy a picnic lunch with mountain views. Wildlife spotting is common. Park shuttle recommended.

Estes Park Aerial Tramway
#2 Estes Park Aerial Tramway

05:00 PM - 07:00 PM Estes Park Aerial Tramway

Ride the vintage tramway for panoramic views of Estes Park. Once at the top, feed the friendly chipmunks and take in the sunset.

Day # 3 in Estes Park, Colorado (Sat May 17)
The Stanley Hotel
#1 Visit the Stanley Hotel & Grounds Tour

09:00 AM - 12:00 PM The Stanley Hotel

Take the famous family-friendly Stanley Hotel tour, known for its history (and 'The Shining')—explore the grounds, and enjoy morning pastries in the café.

Estes Park Trolley
#2 Ride the Estes Park Trolleys

01:00 PM - 03:00 PM Estes Park Trolley

Hop on the local trolley for a guided journey through Estes neighborhoods and scenic points. Excellent for kids, with fun stories about the area's history.

Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Taphouse
#3 Dinner at Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Taphouse

04:00 PM - 06:00 PM Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Taphouse

Popular Estes Park family spot for American BBQ and a variety of kid-friendly dishes.

Day # 4 in Estes Park, Colorado (Sun May 18)
Estes Mountain Village
#1 Explore Mountain Village at Estes Park

09:00 AM - 12:00 PM Estes Mountain Village

Mini-golf, fun local shops, fudge house, and kids’ playground; plenty of snacks and souvenirs. Great for a relaxed morning.

Sombrero Stables
#2 Family Horseback Riding Experience

01:00 PM - 03:00 PM Sombrero Stables

Join a guided, gentle horseback ride through meadows and pine forests just outside Estes Park. Designed for families and riders with no experience.

May 15 | May 18hotel iconThe Estes Park Resort
Day # 1 in Estes Park, Colorado (Thu May 15) 02:00 PM - 05:00 PMactivity icon Explore Downtown Estes Park and Riverwalk5 minutes
06:00 PM - 08:00 PMactivity icon Dinner: Local Colorado Cuisine1 minutes5 minutes
Day # 2 in Estes Park, Colorado (Fri May 16) 08:00 AM - 04:00 PMactivity icon Explore Rocky Mountain National Park (Bear Lake Corridor)34 minutes
05:00 PM - 07:00 PMactivity icon Estes Park Aerial Tramway27 minutes
Day # 3 in Estes Park, Colorado (Sat May 17) 09:00 AM - 12:00 PMactivity icon Visit the Stanley Hotel & Grounds Tour6 minutes
01:00 PM - 03:00 PMactivity icon Ride the Estes Park Trolleys5 minutes
04:00 PM - 06:00 PMactivity icon Dinner at Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Taphouse21 hours 18 minutes
Day # 4 in Estes Park, Colorado (Sun May 18) 09:00 AM - 12:00 PMactivity icon Explore Mountain Village at Estes Park1 minutes1 minutes
01:00 PM - 03:00 PMactivity icon Family Horseback Riding Experience1 minutes5 minutes

Glenwood Springs is a picturesque city in Colorado, famous for its hot springs, outdoor recreation, and proximity to the Rocky Mountains.

May 19 | May 21

متوسط درجة الحرارة خلال فترة الإقامة: ℃14.0
Pleasant weather for outdoor activities! Hiking and biking are popular. Pack layers as temperatures can fluctuate.
Day # 1 in Glenwood Springs, Colorado (Mon May 19)
Colorado River Overlook
#1 Drive to Glenwood Springs, Scenic Stops at Colorado River Valley

09:30 AM - 12:00 PM Colorado River Overlook

Check out of Estes Park, drive to Glenwood Springs with scenic stops along the Colorado River Valley for family photos and picnics.

Downtown Glenwood Springs
#2 Explore Downtown Glenwood Springs & Ice Cream Break

02:00 PM - 04:00 PM Downtown Glenwood Springs

Walk through Glenwood’s historic downtown, enjoy shops or a visit to the local fudge & ice cream parlor. Relax after your drive.

The Pullman
#3 Dinner beside the River

05:00 PM - 07:00 PM The Pullman

Have dinner along the river at The Pullman, one of Glenwood Springs' best for locally sourced food.

Day # 2 in Glenwood Springs, Colorado (Tue May 20)
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool
#1 Glenwood Hot Springs Resort Pool

09:00 AM - 02:00 PM Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

Spend the day at the world-famous hot springs pool—enormous family pools, a kid-friendly splash zone, water slides, and relaxation areas. Towels and locker rooms available.

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
#2 Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

03:00 PM - 05:00 PM Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Take the tram to the mountaintop theme park: explore cave tours, roller coasters, scenic rides, and activities ideal for families.

Day # 3 in Glenwood Springs, Colorado (Wed May 21)
Glenwood Adventure Company
#1 Family Rafting Trip

09:00 AM - 01:00 PM Glenwood Adventure Company

Raft the Colorado River with reputable guides in Glenwood. Great fun, beautiful canyons, and a safe family route (min. ages vary by season).

Glenwood Springs Mall
#2 Shopping & Lunch at Glenwood Springs Mall

02:00 PM - 04:00 PM Glenwood Springs Mall

Local shopping mall for regional brands and souvenir stores. Multiple dining options for lunch.

May 19 | May 21hotel iconHotel Colorado
Day # 1 in Glenwood Springs, Colorado (Mon May 19) 09:30 AM - 12:00 PMactivity icon Drive to Glenwood Springs, Scenic Stops at Colorado River Valley36 minutes
02:00 PM - 04:00 PMactivity icon Explore Downtown Glenwood Springs & Ice Cream Break33 minutes
05:00 PM - 07:00 PMactivity icon Dinner beside the River2 minutes7 minutes
Day # 2 in Glenwood Springs, Colorado (Tue May 20) 09:00 AM - 02:00 PMactivity icon Glenwood Hot Springs Resort Pool2 minutes6 minutes
03:00 PM - 05:00 PMactivity icon Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park4 minutes21 minutes
Day # 3 in Glenwood Springs, Colorado (Wed May 21) 09:00 AM - 01:00 PMactivity icon Family Rafting Trip9 minutes
02:00 PM - 04:00 PMactivity icon Shopping & Lunch at Glenwood Springs Mall11 minutes

Steamboat Springs is a popular ski resort city in northern Colorado, known for its hot springs, winter sports, and beautiful mountain scenery.

May 22 | May 24

متوسط درجة الحرارة خلال فترة الإقامة: ℃7.5
The weather becomes more unpredictable, with rain and snow possible. Hiking trails are opening up at lower levels. Bring layers and be prepared for changes.
Day # 1 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado (Thu May 22)
Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway
#1 Drive to Steamboat Springs via Scenic Flat Tops Trail

09:00 AM - 11:00 AM Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway

Drive from Glenwood Springs to Steamboat via Flat Tops Scenic Byway for amazing high country views, meadows, and photo opportunities.

Main Street Steamboat Springs
#2 Stroll Main Street Steamboat Springs, Farmers Market

12:00 PM - 01:00 PM Main Street Steamboat Springs

Lunch break, then explore Saturday farmers market (if visit aligns), and specialty local shops with handmade crafts and sweet treats.

Old Town Hot Springs
#3 Soak in Old Town Hot Springs

03:00 PM - 05:00 PM Old Town Hot Springs

Relax and soak in outdoor mineral hot pools and swim with slides for the kids.

Day # 2 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado (Fri May 23)
Howelsen Hill Alpine Slide
#1 Steamboat Alpine Slide

09:00 AM - 12:00 PM Howelsen Hill Alpine Slide

A fun-filled ride for all ages—the longest alpine slide in Colorado. Open seasonally, check dates.

Yampa River Botanic Park
#2 Yampa River Botanic Park Picnic & Play

01:00 PM - 04:00 PM Yampa River Botanic Park

Beautiful gardens, walking trails, and picnic spots; perfect for kids and relaxation.

Day # 3 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado (Sat May 24)
Saddleback Ranch
#1 Horseback Riding and Ranch Visit

08:00 AM - 01:00 PM Saddleback Ranch

Morning family ranch experience with horseback riding, feed-the-animals, and hay rides at this working ranch near Steamboat. Western breakfast included.

F.M. Light & Sons
#2 Lunch & Shopping, Wild West Souvenirs

02:00 PM - 04:00 PM F.M. Light & Sons

A legendary western store for family-friendly cowboy hats, boots, and unique gifts from Steamboat.

May 22 | May 24hotel iconThe Steamboat Grand
Day # 1 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado (Thu May 22) 09:00 AM - 11:00 AMactivity icon Drive to Steamboat Springs via Scenic Flat Tops Trail3 minutes17 minutes
12:00 PM - 01:00 PMactivity icon Stroll Main Street Steamboat Springs, Farmers Market8 minutes
03:00 PM - 05:00 PMactivity icon Soak in Old Town Hot Springs2 minutes6 minutes
Day # 2 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado (Fri May 23) 09:00 AM - 12:00 PMactivity icon Steamboat Alpine Slide10 minutes
01:00 PM - 04:00 PMactivity icon Yampa River Botanic Park Picnic & Play6 minutes
Day # 3 in Steamboat Springs, Colorado (Sat May 24) 08:00 AM - 01:00 PMactivity icon Horseback Riding and Ranch Visit28 minutes
02:00 PM - 04:00 PMactivity icon Lunch & Shopping, Wild West Souvenirs20 minutes

Moab is a charming city in southeastern Utah, known for its stunning red rock landscapes and serving as a gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

May 25 | May 27

متوسط درجة الحرارة خلال فترة الإقامة: ℃18.0
Warm and sunny, perfect for all outdoor activities including rafting on the Colorado River. Crowds start to increase.
Day # 1 in Moab, Utah (Sun May 25)
Rabbit Ears Pass Overlook
#1 Drive To Moab, Stop at Rabbit Ears Pass

09:00 AM - 11:00 AM Rabbit Ears Pass Overlook

Leave Steamboat, drive to Moab, stop at Rabbit Ears Pass for a scenic family photo and mountain viewing.

Grandstaff Canyon Trailhead
#2 Explore Grandstaff Canyon Trail

01:00 PM - 03:00 PM Grandstaff Canyon Trailhead

Easy family hike into the canyon along a gentle stream, ends at the impressive Morning Glory Natural Bridge. Shaded and fun.

Downtown Moab
#3 Stroll Moab Main Street: Souvenirs and Ice Cream

04:00 PM - 06:00 PM Downtown Moab

Visit Moab’s Main Street for souvenirs, local art, and some of the best homemade ice cream.

Day # 2 in Moab, Utah (Mon May 26)
Arches National Park Visitor Center
#1 Arches National Park Highlights

08:00 AM - 01:00 PM Arches National Park Visitor Center

Morning entry (best light): see Balanced Rock, Double Arch, and an easy hike to Delicate Arch viewpoint. Family photo opportunities & junior ranger activities for kids.

Moab Giants Dinosaur Park
#2 Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

02:00 PM - 04:00 PM Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

Explore interactive dinosaur exhibits, outdoor trails with life-sized dino models, 3D cinema & playground—educational and fun for all ages.

Day # 3 in Moab, Utah (Tue May 27)
Canyonlands National Park
#1 Canyonlands National Park: Island in the Sky

09:00 AM - 01:00 PM Canyonlands National Park

Family adventure to Island in the Sky district: short overlooks, Mesa Arch hike, panoramic views of Utah desert, and visitor center’s interactive exhibits.

NAVTEC Expeditions
#2 Off-road Adventure: 4x4 Tour

02:00 PM - 04:00 PM NAVTEC Expeditions

Book a family-friendly, guided 4x4 tour (2-hr sampler) with NAVTEC to experience red rock backcountry spots most visitors miss.

May 25 | May 27hotel iconHoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton
Day # 1 in Moab, Utah (Sun May 25) 09:00 AM - 11:00 AMactivity icon Drive To Moab, Stop at Rabbit Ears Pass1 minutes5 minutes
01:00 PM - 03:00 PMactivity icon Explore Grandstaff Canyon Trail9 minutes
04:00 PM - 06:00 PMactivity icon Stroll Moab Main Street: Souvenirs and Ice Cream12 minutes
Day # 2 in Moab, Utah (Mon May 26) 08:00 AM - 01:00 PMactivity icon Arches National Park Highlights11 minutes
02:00 PM - 04:00 PMactivity icon Moab Giants Dinosaur Park10 minutes
Day # 3 in Moab, Utah (Tue May 27) 09:00 AM - 01:00 PMactivity icon Canyonlands National Park: Island in the Sky8 minutes
02:00 PM - 04:00 PMactivity icon Off-road Adventure: 4x4 Tour8 minutes

Heber City is a picturesque town in northern Utah, known for its scenic mountain views, outdoor recreation, and proximity to attractions like the Heber Valley Railroad and Deer Creek Reservoir.

May 28 | May 29

متوسط درجة الحرارة خلال فترة الإقامة: ℃11.5
Pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor adventures like fishing and biking. Wildflowers are in bloom! Lightweight jackets are recommended.
Day # 1 in Heber City, Utah (Wed May 28)
Price Canyon Overlook
#1 Drive to Heber City: Scenic Byway via Price Canyon

09:00 AM - 11:00 AM Price Canyon Overlook

Head north towards Heber City via one of Utah’s most picturesque canyons. Photo stops and wildlife sighting opportunities on the route.

Heber Valley Railroad
#2 Visit Heber Valley Historic Train

12:00 PM - 02:00 PM Heber Valley Railroad

Take a scenic train ride on the historic Heber Valley Railroad—fields, mountain scenery, and themed family rides.

Kohler Creamery Farm
#3 Local Farm Experience & Hayride

03:00 PM - 05:00 PM Kohler Creamery Farm

Tour a real Utah family dairy farm: meet the cows, taste artisan cheese, and join a hayride through green pastures.

Day # 2 in Heber City, Utah (Thu May 29)
Deer Creek State Park
#1 Stroll and Picnic at Deer Creek State Park

08:00 AM - 11:00 AM Deer Creek State Park

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Utah: lakeside walk, family picnic, gentle hiking trails, and playground. Watch boats and local wildlife.

Heber Valley Artisan Cheese Shop
#2 Shopping at Heber Valley Artisan Cheese

11:30 AM - 01:00 PM Heber Valley Artisan Cheese Shop

Before departure, visit the famed cheese shop for local cheeses, honey, jams, and Utah-made souvenirs. Taste samples and pick up treats for your trip home.

May 28 | May 29hotel iconHoliday Inn Express Heber City, an IHG Hotel
Day # 1 in Heber City, Utah (Wed May 28) 09:00 AM - 11:00 AMactivity icon Drive to Heber City: Scenic Byway via Price Canyon1 minutes2 minutes
12:00 PM - 02:00 PMactivity icon Visit Heber Valley Historic Train4 minutes
03:00 PM - 05:00 PMactivity icon Local Farm Experience & Hayride5 minutes
Day # 2 in Heber City, Utah (Thu May 29) 08:00 AM - 11:00 AMactivity icon Stroll and Picnic at Deer Creek State Park11 minutes
11:30 AM - 01:00 PMactivity icon Shopping at Heber Valley Artisan Cheese13 minutes

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