Three-Day Road Trip Through Western Colorado
It has been a long first half of the year; we can all agree on that. We have been cooped up inside, monitoring too many hours of Zoom meetings and trying to stay sane with DIY crafts on Pinterest — and it’s all become a little mind numbing. It may be time to step away from your daily COVID routine and pack your bags for an adventurous three-day road trip throughout western Colorado.
This recommended itinerary is especially ideal for those living in or visiting Denver and the Front Range, as it’s a good way start getting acquainted with the western half of the state.
Buena Vista
The trip begins in Buena Vista — the perfect place to dip into Colorado’s hot water springs or adventure through waterfalls.
Photo Courtesy of The Official Site of Colorado Tourism
Play: Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort sits between the towns of Buena Vista and Salida, Colorado. The resort offers daily rates, varying throughout the week, which allows access to a variety of pools and hot springs alongside Chalk Creek. If you are in need of a little extra self-care, Mount Princeton offers a great selection of relaxing spa services, too. If you do plan on using the pools, there are new limitations including capacity limits, closed locker rooms and ongoing disinfectant cleaning. Please keep in mind a mask is currently required on the pool decks and public spaces.
Eat: There is no better way to end a great day than with an even better meal. Stop by Wesley and Rose at the Surf Hotel for drinks and a bite to eat. Their menu features delicious handmade pizzas and beautifully crafted cocktails. The Surf Hotel says they are happy to be open during these unusual times and are following all precautionary steps, like taking staff’s temperatures, to ensure the safety and health of their customers.
Photo Courtesy of Sam Smith
More: Save room for popcorn and candy because Comanche Drive-In is the last stop in Buena Vista. Surrounded by the peaks of Arkansas Valley, Comanche Drive-In has been entertaining movie-lovers since 1967.
Glenwood Springs
Distance from Buena Vista: 120 miles
Day two begins in the car, so turn up the tunes and pull out your map because we are driving northeast to Glenwood Springs.
Play: Hike the 1.2 mile Hanging Lake Trail and experience the beautiful scenery of western Colorado. The trail is known to be steep and rocky but the view of the waterfall makes it worth all the while. In order to comply with social distancing, the park now requires reservations in advance, so spots are limited.
Photo Courtesy of The Official Site of Colorado Tourism
Eat: Refuel after your hike with The Pullman in downtown Glenwood Springs. Their menu features mouth-watering items like their pork belly pretzel sliders. Don’t forget to save room for dessert because there is no way you can turn down their salted chocolate pie. The Pullman is offering reservations only and do require customers to wear a mask unless seated at their table.
More: If the morning hike was not enough activity for you, be sure to pack along or rent kayaks for exploring the Colorado River that travels through Glenwood Canyon. Grizzly Creek to Two Rivers Park is the perfect 5-mile stretch of water filled with Class II and III rapids. It’s always smart to hire a guide company to stay safe on your adventure.
Grand Junction
Distance from Glenwood Springs: 85 miles
For the final day of your road trip, drive an hour and half from Glenwood Springs to Grand Junction.
Play: Monument Canyon Trail offers two hikes: one is five miles, the other is 12 miles. These loops both offer spectacular views along the red sandstone rocks.
Eat: Café Sol is the perfect lunch spot in town. They serve freshly made soup daily along with their healthy and local menu. They also put their best efforts into remaining eco-friendly by recycling, composting and sourcing locally.
Photo Courtesy of The Official Site of Colorado Tourism
More: Finish your trip at Two Rivers Winery and enjoy award-winning wine in their tasting room. You can even buy a bottle as a souvenir from your trip.
Photo Courtesy of The Official Site of Colorado Tourism
Remember, a road trip is best complete with rocking tunes, good company and of course, lots of snacks. Don’t forget your masks and hand sanitizer for any places that may require you to do so during the pandemic.
Safe travels!