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Colorado Explorer

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Colorado Explorer

Was From $ 2,880 AUD
Now From $ 2,592 AUD
Sale!

Description

Few are immune to the pull of Colorado. If you’re in search of show-stopping mountain views, unique desert formations, scenic hiking trails and a flourishing food scene, this welcoming state will tick all your boxes. Let a local leader show you what they love about Colorado as you journey across the state over six days. Discover the artistic side of Denver, hike through spectacular scenery in Rocky Mountain National Park, wash away your worries in Steamboat Springs and get a taste of the Wild West at the Colorado National Monument. But be warned – once you visit Colorado, you’ll want to keep coming back.

Trip Name
Colorado Explorer
Last Updated
2022-09-30
Days
6
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Denver’s creative side will be revealed to you on a walking tour through the colourful River North Arts district, taking in vibrant murals and mind-bending 3D installations.
  • Take a walk on the wild side as you explore the picturesque landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park, with fresh air, wildlife and mountain views abound.
  • Get to know the charming mountain town of Steamboat Springs – from fantastic local beer to relaxing hot springs, this place has a little something for everyone.
  • Explore the unique landscapes of the Colorado National Monument, ending the day with a barbecue dinner while watching the sun set over the desert.
  • Walk in the 150-million-year-old footsteps of dinosaurs at the Dinosaur National Monument, home to a fascinating display of the bones of ancient creatures.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It is important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary seasonally to ensure our travellers have the best experience. Your tour leader will keep you up to date with any such changes once on tour. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your leader know you are interested in the Group Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Denver
Welcome to Colorado! Your adventure begins in Denver, where a meeting will take place at 9am this morning for you to link up with your local leader and fellow travellers. Colorado’s capital has a flourishing food and music scene, but the best way to get to know the city is by admiring its art. After your meeting, head to the River North (RiNo) Arts District, a hub for colour and creativity. Here your leader will introduce you to a vibrant collection of works, from graffiti and murals to fascinating 3D installations, and explain how local artists have brought this beloved neighbourhood back to life. In the early afternoon, leave the rush of the city behind and make the 2-hour drive to the super-scenic Estes Park, at the gates of Rocky Mountain National Park, chock-full with towering peaks and breathtaking scenes. Settle into your hotel and enjoy some time to get to know the area, then regroup in the evening for a spine-tingling experience. The vast Stanley Hotel is famed for being the inspiration for Stephen King’s 1977 horror novel, The Shining, and is known for being a hotbed of paranormal activity. Set off on a walking tour through the hotel after dark with the guidance of a storyteller who will share tales of the hotel’s past – whether you’re a believer or not, this is sure to be an experience you won’t forget!
Day 2 - Rocky Mountain National Park
Rise and shine! After breakfast this morning it’s time to head into the Rocky Mountain National Park, undoubtedly the state’s most scenic spot. Have your camera at the ready for a drive through the park, as spectacular scenes stream past the window. After the drive, hit one of the best-loved trails in the park for a gentle hike to Bear Lake. This 1-kilometre loop will reward you with some truly unforgettable views, including Bear Lake itself, framed by glorious mountains. Now you’re warmed up, set off on a 5.5-kilometre loop trail in Moraine Park. This is one for the wildlife lovers – birds and elk are commonly spotted along this route, and if you’re lucky you may even spot some cute little critters like marmots or pikas. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries – your leader will be on hand to offer suggestions, whether you feel like getting active or taking it easy.
Day 3 - Steamboat Springs
Hit the road and make tracks for Steamboat Springs (approximately 4 hours), a charming town sitting in Yampa Valley. There’s plenty to see along the way – stop off for a 1-kilometre loop hike to Adams Falls, passing through shady forests of aspen and pine before arriving at the rushing waterfall. Stop along the way for a picnic lunch and enjoy your peaceful surroundings. You’ll also pay a visit to the pretty little town of Grand Lake where you can stretch your legs with a walk around the settlement. Arrive in Steamboat Springs in the late afternoon and perhaps head to one of the town’s inviting bars to toast to the day’s adventures.
Day 4 - Steamboat Springs
Get up and get those legs moving – today starts with a gorgeous post-breakfast hike to Spring Creek, taking in stunning scenery and vibrant wildflowers. The rest of the day is yours to get to know the area. You may like to join your leader on the popular Steamboat Brew Trail, hitting three of the town’s best breweries to sample some of Colorado’s finest beer, hire a mountain bike to explore the area on two wheels, or simply relax and unwind in one of the town’s famous hot springs. Your leader will have plenty of tips on how to have an amazing afternoon here.
Day 5 - Grand Junction
Start the day with a drive to the Colorado National Monument (approximately 3.5 hours). A real change of scenery from the forests and mountains you’ve explored so far, the sandstone monoliths of this arid landscape conjure up images of America’s Wild West. You’ll have the chance to discover the unique formations on foot by taking a short hike in the area, then it’s on to Palisade. Here you’ll have some time to grab some lunch before popping into a local family-owned winery to sample their delicious range of reds, whites and roses and learn about wine production in Colorado. Drive on to the city of Grand Junction, where you will stay overnight. You will have a little free time to stroll down the bustling Main Street. As evening falls, pick up some seriously tasty food, then drive up the iconic Rim Rock road to watch the sunset as you tuck into your dinner.
Day 6 - Salt Lake City
It’s the last day of your adventure, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had. Drive through quintessential Western scenery and cross into Utah (approximately 5.5 hours), stopping off at Dinosaur National Monument, where dinosaurs roamed 150 million years ago. Pay a visit to the fascinating Quarry Hall, home to around 1500 ancient bones of dinosaurs who once ruled these parts, then take a short hike and enjoy a picnic lunch. Continue on to Salt Lake City in Utah, arriving at around 5pm, at which point your adventure will come to an end.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
02-10-202207-10-2022AUD $ 2,592-

Accommodation

Hotel (5 nights)

Transport

Private vehicle

Map