Denver → Moab (Arches & Canyonlands) From Peaks to Arches

Trip Snapshot:

Distance & time: ~65 miles to Estes Park; about 1.5–2 hours (each way) from Denver.
Best time: June–September for full Trail Ridge Road access; late September for golden aspens and elk rut. (Fall is gorgeous, but summer offers the most activities).
Ideal for: Families, first-time Colorado visitors, wildlife watchers, anyone looking for a mountain getaway.
Quick route: Denver → US‑36 West via Boulder → Estes Park (gateway town) → RMNP (Bear Lake Road & Trail Ridge Road loop) → return via US‑34 through Loveland or backtrack same way.
Top 3 highlights: Jaw-dropping panoramas on Trail Ridge Road • Serene Bear Lake nature walk • Elk grazing in Moraine Park valley.

Route Overview: The journey from the Mile High City to the high Rockies is relatively short but packed with scenery. You’ll drive from Denver up through Boulder (maybe stop for a coffee on Pearl Street with Flatirons views) and continue into the foothills. Estes Park is the charming mountain town at the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). In peak season (roughly late May through mid-October), RMNP requires timed-entry reservations during the day one type of permit for the Bear Lake Road area and one for the rest of the park, so plan ahead. Once inside, prepare for breathtaking altitude: Trail Ridge Road, the park’s famous highway, crests over 12,000 feet and is one of America’s highest continuous paved roads. Weather can change fast up there, so start early and dress in layers. This trip can be a long single day or an overnight in Estes Park to really soak it in.

Top Stops & Experiences:

Rocky Mountain National Park (Beaver Meadows Entrance)(Family-friendly) Stop by the RMNP official visitor center just past the entrance for maps, restroom break, and to check daily conditions. Rangers can tell you about any wildlife sightings, trail closures, or weather alerts. Grab a Junior Ranger booklet if you have kids. From here, you can access both major park areas: Bear Lake Road to the left and Trail Ridge Road straight ahead. RMNP is all about alpine scenery, so have your camera ready even near the entrance you might spot mule deer or a herd of elk. (Note: Timed entry permits are required 5am–6pm in summer have a print or screenshot of your reservation ready for the ranger.)
Trail Ridge Road(Family-friendly) A bucket-list scenic drive often called “Highway to the Sky.” This 48-mile road connects Estes Park to Grand Lake over the Continental Divide and reaches 12,183 feet at its summit. It’s typically open from around Memorial Day to mid-October (closures depend on snow; early June or late fall can be iffy). Along the way, stop at pullouts like Many Parks Curve (views of the valley you just drove up), Rainbow Curve (great for autumn colors below), and Forest Canyon Overlook (panorama of peaks and a glimpse of long valleys). Above tree line, you’ll see fragile tundra stay on trails to protect it. At the top, Rock Cut offers a short path to mushroom-like rock formations. You’ll likely feel the thin air take it slow and drink water. The road is safe and paved, but drive cautiously, especially if afternoon thunderstorms build. This drive truly lets you “ride the Rockies” from montane forests to windswept alpine heights.
Alpine Visitor Center(Family-friendly) At 11,796 feet elevation, this is the highest visitor center in the National Park system. It’s along Trail Ridge Road near the top, usually open late May–mid-Oct. It’s a perfect place to pause: use the restrooms, browse the small exhibit on tundra wildlife, and grab a cup of hot chocolate (yes, they have a café sometimes with bison chili and other treats). The views out the back deck are sweeping, and you might spot pikas or marmots scurrying among the rocks. Even in mid-summer it can be 40°F and windy up here, so bundle up before stepping outside. (Snow in June? Possible!) It’s a surreal feeling to be in a “visitor center” almost 2 miles up in the sky. Don’t over-exert yourself altitude sickness is real.
Bear Lake(Family-friendly) On the park’s east side, Bear Lake Road leads to a string of picturesque subalpine lakes. Bear Lake itself is a postcard-perfect alpine lake sitting at 9,450 ft, with a flat 0.5-mile loop trail that anyone can do. In 15–20 minutes you circle the lake, catching reflections of Hallett Peak on calm days. It’s often busy; on peak days the Bear Lake parking fills by 8am, so you may have to park at the Park & Ride and take a free shuttle. Don’t let that deter you the shuttle is convenient. Bear Lake is a fantastic introduction to RMNP’s beauty without a strenuous hike. In winter, the trail is often snow-packed (fun for snowshoeing). Bonus: from the same trailhead, you can venture to Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake… but those require more time and moderate effort. For families, Bear Lake itself is the crowd-pleaser.
Timed-Entry Reservations(Family-friendly info) Just a note on logistics: RMNP has implemented a timed-entry reservation system in summer to manage crowds. There are two types: one that covers the whole park except Bear Lake Road, and one that includes Bear Lake Road. If you want to do Bear Lake (which you likely do), reserve the “Bear Lake + Park Access” slot. These are booked on recreation.gov well in advance, with additional slots released the day prior. Know your entry window (typically a 2-hour arrival window) and have that reservation ready to show. After initial entry, you can stay as long as you want. If you couldn’t snag a Bear Lake permit, you can still enter the rest of the park after a certain time (often after 2pm) or before 5am, but Bear Lake Road will be off-limits during the day without the specific permit. Planning ahead avoids disappointment.
Grand Lake (west side of RMNP)(Family-friendly) If you do Trail Ridge Road as a through-trip, you’ll descend to the park’s quieter west side and emerge near the town of Grand Lake. It’s a peaceful lakefront village with old-school boardwalks and ice cream parlors. A great lunch or stretch stop: have a sandwich or scoop of homemade ice cream on the Grand Lake boardwalk while looking out at the state’s largest natural mountain lake. This side of the park is known for moose sightings keep eyes peeled along the Colorado River in the Kawuneeche Valley (early morning or dusk are best). You can make a loop by returning to Denver via US-34 to Granby and either over Berthoud Pass (US-40) or even head south to I-70. It’s a longer route back but very scenic. If you prefer, you can also backtrack over Trail Ridge to return to Estes enjoying the views from the opposite direction.

Where to Eat & Stay:
– Food: In Estes Park (the gateway town on the east side), you have plenty of casual options: Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ for hearty barbecue, Bird & Jim for a modern Colorado take (think bison short ribs or trout), or classic Estes Park Pie Shop for comfort food and pie. For a quick bite, grab a sandwich at Scratch Deli before heading into the park. At the Alpine Visitor Center, the cafe serves snacks (don’t expect gourmet up there, but the hot cocoa does hit the spot). Grand Lake has quaint eateries like Sagebrush BBQ or Grand Pizza if you go that way. Also, pack some snacks or a picnic picnicking at a scenic turnout (with a view of valleys thousands of feet below) is unforgettable. Just remember to pack out all trash to keep the park pristine.
– Lodging: Estes Park makes an excellent base if you turn this into an overnight. The famous Stanley Hotel is there a historic 1909 hotel known for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining. It’s reportedly haunted but very charming (even if you don’t stay, you can tour it). Other options include cozy cabins along the Fall River or YMCA of the Rockies for family-friendly, activity-filled stays. In-park camping is available at several campgrounds (like Moraine Park Campground), but they book up months in advance. On the west side, Grand Lake and nearby Granby have lodges and cabins (often more availability than Estes). If doing a day trip from Denver, no lodging needed but start early to maximize mountain time.

Detours & Extensions:

Boulder (add 2–4 hours): On your way from Denver, you pass near Boulder via US-36. It’s worth a detour if time permits walk the Pearl Street Mall pedestrian street for shops and buskers, or drive up to Chautauqua Park for a quick view of the Flatirons (those dramatic slanted rock slabs). Even a lunch or coffee in Boulder gives a taste of Colorado college-town life. It’s a nice halfway point to stretch your legs.
Old Fall River Road (add 1–2 hours, seasonal): If you’re visiting RMNP mid-July to September and want a bit of adventure, you can ascend into the park via Old Fall River Road. This historic 9-mile road is a one-way uphill gravel road that starts near the Endovalley picnic area and ends at the Alpine Visitor Center. It’s a slow, narrow, winding drive through forests and tundra, with no guardrails but incredibly scenic and uncrowded. You’ll pass Chasm Falls (short walk from the road) and likely see marmots sunning on rocks. A regular car can handle it fine; just go slow. It closes by early October or with first snow and requires confidence to drive (probably skip if you have a brand-new driver or fear of heights). If you take this up, you can then drive down Trail Ridge Road, making a loop.

Practical Tips:

Altitude awareness: The elevation in RMNP ranges from ~7,500 ft at entrances to 12,000+ ft on Trail Ridge. That’s high! To avoid altitude sickness: stay hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol the night before, and pace yourself. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, descend to lower elevation. Even walking up stairs at Alpine Visitor Center can leave you winded totally normal. Take it easy on hikes above 10k until you’re acclimated.
Weather: Afternoon thunderstorms are very common in summer at altitude. Start hikes early (off trails by early afternoon ideally) to avoid lightning risk. Trail Ridge Road can get very cold/windy keep a fleece or jacket in the car even if it’s hot in Denver. In fall, bring layers for 30°F swings. Always check the daily weather and Trail Ridge status at the visitor center or on the NPS website. If storms roll in, don’t risk ridge-top overlooks lightning strikes the high alpine regularly. Wait it out or stick to lower elevations until it passes (usually quick).
Wildlife: RMNP is teeming with wildlife. Keep your distance: at least 25 yards from most wildlife, and 100 yards from bears or moose. Never approach or feed animals for example, if you encounter elk in Moraine Park, admire from afar or from your car. Bison aren’t in this park (they are in South Dakota’s Custer SP see itinerary #9), but elk certainly are, especially in evenings. Also, drive carefully at dawn/dusk; animals may cross roads unexpectedly. Use pullouts to watch them without blocking traffic.
Parking & shuttles: Bear Lake Corridor is the busiest part of RMNP. If visiting between late May and early October, strongly consider using the park’s shuttle system. Park at Park & Ride (near Glacier Basin) and hop on the Bear Lake shuttle; they come every 10–15 minutes. It saves the stress of finding a spot at Bear Lake or trailheads like Glacier Gorge. Also, having a timed-entry permit doesn’t guarantee parking, so the shuttle is a nice backup plan. Elsewhere, you’ll find parking at overlooks easily if you go early. Trail Ridge Road overlooks have small lots; just be patient if they’re full spots open up frequently as people move on.

Rentals & Logistics: A midsize SUV is a popular choice for Colorado road tripping it handles mountain highways well and gives you a bit of clearance for uneven parking areas or the optional Old Fall River gravel road. However, any car can make it up Trail Ridge Road (you’ll see plenty of sedans and even RVs up there). If visiting outside of summer, check if your rental has all-season or snow tires unexpected snow can occur, and RMNP occasionally has chain requirements (mostly in early spring or late fall). Depart Denver via US-36 through Boulder for a scenic approach; alternatively, I-25 to Loveland then US-34 up the Big Thompson Canyon is another route (gorgeous canyon drive, but check if fully open as it occasionally closes for repairs or weather). Fuel up in Estes Park (no gas inside RMNP). Cell service is spotty in the mountains, so don’t rely on Google Maps once in the park download offline maps or carry a park map. Lastly, bring that national parks pass if you have it, or you’ll pay ~$30/car entry (well worth it). With your gear, snacks, and layered clothing packed, you’re set for an epic alpine adventure!

Denver → Moab (Arches & Canyonlands) From Peaks to Arches

Trip Snapshot:

Distance & time: ~65 miles to Estes Park; about 1.5–2 hours (each way) from Denver.
Best time: June–September for full Trail Ridge Road access; late September for golden aspens and elk rut. (Fall is gorgeous, but summer offers the most activities).
Ideal for: Families, first-time Colorado visitors, wildlife watchers, anyone looking for a mountain getaway.
Quick route: Denver → US‑36 West via Boulder → Estes Park (gateway town) → RMNP (Bear Lake Road & Trail Ridge Road loop) → return via US‑34 through Loveland or backtrack same way.
Top 3 highlights: Jaw-dropping panoramas on Trail Ridge Road • Serene Bear Lake nature walk • Elk grazing in Moraine Park valley.

Top Stops & Experiences:

Rocky Mountain National Park (Beaver Meadows Entrance)(Family-friendly) Stop by the RMNP official visitor center just past the entrance for maps, restroom break, and to check daily conditions. Rangers can tell you about any wildlife sightings, trail closures, or weather alerts. Grab a Junior Ranger booklet if you have kids. From here, you can access both major park areas: Bear Lake Road to the left and Trail Ridge Road straight ahead. RMNP is all about alpine scenery, so have your camera ready even near the entrance you might spot mule deer or a herd of elk. (Note: Timed entry permits are required 5am–6pm in summer have a print or screenshot of your reservation ready for the ranger.)
Trail Ridge Road(Family-friendly) A bucket-list scenic drive often called “Highway to the Sky.” This 48-mile road connects Estes Park to Grand Lake over the Continental Divide and reaches 12,183 feet at its summit. It’s typically open from around Memorial Day to mid-October (closures depend on snow; early June or late fall can be iffy). Along the way, stop at pullouts like Many Parks Curve (views of the valley you just drove up), Rainbow Curve (great for autumn colors below), and Forest Canyon Overlook (panorama of peaks and a glimpse of long valleys). Above tree line, you’ll see fragile tundra stay on trails to protect it. At the top, Rock Cut offers a short path to mushroom-like rock formations. You’ll likely feel the thin air take it slow and drink water. The road is safe and paved, but drive cautiously, especially if afternoon thunderstorms build. This drive truly lets you “ride the Rockies” from montane forests to windswept alpine heights.
Alpine Visitor Center(Family-friendly) At 11,796 feet elevation, this is the highest visitor center in the National Park system. It’s along Trail Ridge Road near the top, usually open late May–mid-Oct. It’s a perfect place to pause: use the restrooms, browse the small exhibit on tundra wildlife, and grab a cup of hot chocolate (yes, they have a café sometimes with bison chili and other treats). The views out the back deck are sweeping, and you might spot pikas or marmots scurrying among the rocks. Even in mid-summer it can be 40°F and windy up here, so bundle up before stepping outside. (Snow in June? Possible!) It’s a surreal feeling to be in a “visitor center” almost 2 miles up in the sky. Don’t over-exert yourself altitude sickness is real.
Bear Lake(Family-friendly) On the park’s east side, Bear Lake Road leads to a string of picturesque subalpine lakes. Bear Lake itself is a postcard-perfect alpine lake sitting at 9,450 ft, with a flat 0.5-mile loop trail that anyone can do. In 15–20 minutes you circle the lake, catching reflections of Hallett Peak on calm days. It’s often busy; on peak days the Bear Lake parking fills by 8am, so you may have to park at the Park & Ride and take a free shuttle. Don’t let that deter you the shuttle is convenient. Bear Lake is a fantastic introduction to RMNP’s beauty without a strenuous hike. In winter, the trail is often snow-packed (fun for snowshoeing). Bonus: from the same trailhead, you can venture to Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake… but those require more time and moderate effort. For families, Bear Lake itself is the crowd-pleaser.
Timed-Entry Reservations(Family-friendly info) Just a note on logistics: RMNP has implemented a timed-entry reservation system in summer to manage crowds. There are two types: one that covers the whole park except Bear Lake Road, and one that includes Bear Lake Road. If you want to do Bear Lake (which you likely do), reserve the “Bear Lake + Park Access” slot. These are booked on recreation.gov well in advance, with additional slots released the day prior. Know your entry window (typically a 2-hour arrival window) and have that reservation ready to show. After initial entry, you can stay as long as you want. If you couldn’t snag a Bear Lake permit, you can still enter the rest of the park after a certain time (often after 2pm) or before 5am, but Bear Lake Road will be off-limits during the day without the specific permit. Planning ahead avoids disappointment.
Grand Lake (west side of RMNP)(Family-friendly) If you do Trail Ridge Road as a through-trip, you’ll descend to the park’s quieter west side and emerge near the town of Grand Lake. It’s a peaceful lakefront village with old-school boardwalks and ice cream parlors. A great lunch or stretch stop: have a sandwich or scoop of homemade ice cream on the Grand Lake boardwalk while looking out at the state’s largest natural mountain lake. This side of the park is known for moose sightings keep eyes peeled along the Colorado River in the Kawuneeche Valley (early morning or dusk are best). You can make a loop by returning to Denver via US-34 to Granby and either over Berthoud Pass (US-40) or even head south to I-70. It’s a longer route back but very scenic. If you prefer, you can also backtrack over Trail Ridge to return to Estes enjoying the views from the opposite direction.

Detours & Extensions:

Boulder (add 2–4 hours): On your way from Denver, you pass near Boulder via US-36. It’s worth a detour if time permits walk the Pearl Street Mall pedestrian street for shops and buskers, or drive up to Chautauqua Park for a quick view of the Flatirons (those dramatic slanted rock slabs). Even a lunch or coffee in Boulder gives a taste of Colorado college-town life. It’s a nice halfway point to stretch your legs.
Old Fall River Road (add 1–2 hours, seasonal): If you’re visiting RMNP mid-July to September and want a bit of adventure, you can ascend into the park via Old Fall River Road. This historic 9-mile road is a one-way uphill gravel road that starts near the Endovalley picnic area and ends at the Alpine Visitor Center. It’s a slow, narrow, winding drive through forests and tundra, with no guardrails but incredibly scenic and uncrowded. You’ll pass Chasm Falls (short walk from the road) and likely see marmots sunning on rocks. A regular car can handle it fine; just go slow. It closes by early October or with first snow and requires confidence to drive (probably skip if you have a brand-new driver or fear of heights). If you take this up, you can then drive down Trail Ridge Road, making a loop.

Practical Tips:

Altitude awareness: The elevation in RMNP ranges from ~7,500 ft at entrances to 12,000+ ft on Trail Ridge. That’s high! To avoid altitude sickness: stay hydrated, avoid excessive alcohol the night before, and pace yourself. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, descend to lower elevation. Even walking up stairs at Alpine Visitor Center can leave you winded totally normal. Take it easy on hikes above 10k until you’re acclimated.
Weather: Afternoon thunderstorms are very common in summer at altitude. Start hikes early (off trails by early afternoon ideally) to avoid lightning risk. Trail Ridge Road can get very cold/windy keep a fleece or jacket in the car even if it’s hot in Denver. In fall, bring layers for 30°F swings. Always check the daily weather and Trail Ridge status at the visitor center or on the NPS website. If storms roll in, don’t risk ridge-top overlooks lightning strikes the high alpine regularly. Wait it out or stick to lower elevations until it passes (usually quick).
Wildlife: RMNP is teeming with wildlife. Keep your distance: at least 25 yards from most wildlife, and 100 yards from bears or moose. Never approach or feed animals for example, if you encounter elk in Moraine Park, admire from afar or from your car. Bison aren’t in this park (they are in South Dakota’s Custer SP see itinerary #9), but elk certainly are, especially in evenings. Also, drive carefully at dawn/dusk; animals may cross roads unexpectedly. Use pullouts to watch them without blocking traffic.
Parking & shuttles: Bear Lake Corridor is the busiest part of RMNP. If visiting between late May and early October, strongly consider using the park’s shuttle system. Park at Park & Ride (near Glacier Basin) and hop on the Bear Lake shuttle; they come every 10–15 minutes. It saves the stress of finding a spot at Bear Lake or trailheads like Glacier Gorge. Also, having a timed-entry permit doesn’t guarantee parking, so the shuttle is a nice backup plan. Elsewhere, you’ll find parking at overlooks easily if you go early. Trail Ridge Road overlooks have small lots; just be patient if they’re full spots open up frequently as people move on.