Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado and Utah? This 10-day road trip takes you on a journey through some of the most iconic national parks in the United States. The National Parks in Colorado and Utah offer everything from towering peaks in Rocky Mountains to the otherworldly formations of Arches National Park; there’s truly somehing for everyone. 

This epic journey will take you through towering red rock formations, pristine alpine lakes, and winding canyons, offering unparalleled opportunities for hiking, camping, and simply soaking in the natural beauty. 

10-day Colorado and Utah National Park Road Trip

Looking to combine your Colorado Road Trip and your Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip plans? We have you covered with some of the best places to see in each of the National Parks in Colorado and Utah. We’ll even include some extra places you can visit just incase you’ve already explored the National Parks shared.

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Day 1: Rocky Mountain National Park 

Begin your national parks in Colorado and Utah road trip at the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park. The park is over 415.38 square miles, meaning, there’s a lot to see here. Trade your couch for craggy peaks, your coffee for crisp mountain air, and your worries for wildlife encounters. Whether you’re summiting 14,000-foot mountains or simply strolling through serene forests, this park’s got the goods to satisfy your wanderlust and leave you feeling like a true mountain master.

Rocky Mountain National Park does work on a timed-entry reservation system so it’s important to have one of the following:
1. A reservation for your desired entry time (2 hour entry timeframes),

2. An overnight accommodation reservation for the day (entry after 4PM), or

3. The ability to arrive before or after the timed entry hours 

Morning: Hiking in the Bear Lake Corridor 

Head Straight to Bear Lake Corridor and arrive by 6AM if you want to be able to park your vehicle. After 5AM a vehicle reservation permit is required – you can look into reserving a permit here.

If you’re no much of a hiker, enjoy a scenic drive to Bear Lake and take the .7 mile loop around this popular lake. If you’re more of a short hikes person, you can also check out Sprague Lake and Moraine Park Discovery Center while exploring the Bear Lake Corridor

Afternoon: Hiking on Trail Ridge Road

Drive the breathtaking Trail Ridge Road to and elevation of 12,183 feet elevation. Eleven miles of this incredible highway travel above tree-level meaning the panoramic views are simply incredible. You’ll definitely want to stop at a few pull outs to enjoy the views! 

You’ll certainly want to visit the Alpine Visitor Center, known as the highest National Park system visitor center in North America! Enjoy views and ranger talks, shop for unique National Prk gifts, and even grab a bite to eat at nearly 11,800 feet. 

After spending time in the alpine zone, continue down Trail Ridge road to Poudre Lake. If you time it right and arrive at dusk, there’s a really good chance you’ll be able to do some wildlife watching. We saw a moose, some elk, and a deer here during our stay! This park is where you’ll likely experience the most wildlife on your tour of the national parks in Colorado and Utah.

Day 2: Colorado National Monument

Wake up early and head on toward Grand Junction. The Glenwod Canyon Scenic Drive is an absolute dream, although you can find yourself sitting in traffic along this popular route. The towering canyon walls, split by the Colorado River, will truly have you in awe as you’re led away from the majestic Rocky Mountains and into the primite desert atmosphere of the Western slope.

Morning: Pit Stop in Glenwood Springs 

A pit stop in Glenwood Springs lends itself to so much opportunity! Choose between its many hot springs options or opt for a more adventurous activity. Visit its iconic adventure park, the only Mountaintop amusement park in North America, for incredible caverns and thrill rides with a view.

Glenwood Springs is also known to have a vibrant dining scene with boutique shopping opportunities. No matter why you stop, the Glenwood Canyon region is one of the best places to just soak in the varying beauty of Western Colorado. 

Afternoon: Colorado National Monument Scenic Drive

Hop back on I-70 and in less than two hours time you’ll find yourself in Grand Junction, ready to take on the scenic Rim Rock Drive. The 23-mile Rim Rock Drive offers visitors redrock canyons, crisp blue skies, and glorious views – although this might not fall into the category of national parks in Colorado and Utah, it is a National Park Site and absolutely stunning!

If you’re a hiker or a climber, the Grand Junction area has great access to trails and routes! We road the Lunch Loops Mountain Biking Trails before heading up into the Monument on our scenic drive and really enjoyed the high desert terrain. 

Day 3: Canyonlands National Park

National Parks in Colorado and Utah are so beautiful and all so unique! We’re crossing the border into Utah today and heading to Moab. First stop, Canyonlands National Park! 

Canyonlands is like a giant, rusty playground for grown-ups who never grew out of their love for adventure. With its towering cliffs, mind-bending canyons, and otherworldly rock formations, it’s a place where you can feel like a tiny speck in a vast, ancient landscape. 

Morning: Visit Island in the Sky

Canyonlands is home to three different disctricts. During our trip, we’re going to explore the Island in the Sky. Island in the Sky is a high plateau that sits elevated above the Green and Colorado Rivers. We’ll spend our day above it all, looking down into deep, desert landscapes full of incredible red and orange hues. 

You can’t make a trip to Canyonlands without stopping at Mesa Arch, but be prepared for crowds. This main attraction is a short jaunt from the parking lot, but Island in the Sky is home to some pretty unique hiking opporutnities. 

This primitive desert atmosphere is unforgiving, so it’s important you come prepared. Of all the national parks in Colorado and Utah, I think Canyonlands is the least visited and the least forgiving!

Afternoon: Sunset at Dead Horse State Park

As you exit Canyonlands on Island in the Sky Road, look out for route 313. A right on this road will bring you into the breathtaking Dead Horse Point State Park located high on the rim of the Colorado River.

It’s always neat when a state park offers such incredible views! Althogh it is a popular park, most of the crowds will flock to the National Parks for sunset so you should have a great experience!

Day 4: Arches National Park

Arches National Park is basically Mother Nature’s very own sculpture garden, but instead of marble or clay, she used millions of years and a whole lot of sandstone. There are arches that seem to defy gravity, balancing rocks that make you question your own sanity, and canyons that feel like you’re walking through a giant, red rock maze and we’re going to see it all.

Like Rocky Mountain, Arches National Park works on a timed-entry reservation system so it’s important to have one of the following:
1. A reservation for your desired entry time (2 hour entry timeframes),

2. An overnight accomnodation reservation for the day (entry after 4PM), or

3. The ability to arrive before or after the timed entry hours

Morning: Sunrise at Delicate Arch

Once you’ve entered the park, beeline it to Delicate Arch Trailhead. Located on Delicate Arch Road it’s about a 25 minute drive from the park entrance. This is the park’s most popular trail, at **mileage. Arriving at the viewpoint about 20 minutes before the sun comes up would be best – but early in general is good enough. Delicate Arch may be a main attraction, but it is 100% worth the effort and the crowds (in my opinion).  

Spend the rest of your morning and afternoon really immersing yourself in these natural stone arches and fins. 

Escape the heat under a pavillion at Balances Rock Picnic Area or opt for some easy trails with big views. Double Arch and the Windows Loop trail are easy hikes to look into in the area as well. We 100% recommend checking out double arch – it might just be my favorite of the whole park!

Afternoon: Sunset and Stargazing 

Although your morning hikes will bleed into your afternoon, you’ll want to spend the rest of your day, well into the evening in the park. Arches is an International Dark Sky Park which means the sunset and stars to follow will absolutely wow you. 

You’ll want to check the weather to make sure it’s a clear, cloudless night and avoid nights when there is a full moon. Stay off of your phone and use a red light headlamp to find your way around your viewing area…  we watched sunset and then made dinner in the car while we waited for it to get dark. 

Day 5: Mesa Verde National Park

Where Ancient Dwellings Meet Modern Day “Whoa.” This isn’t your average national park and I know you’re going to be more impressed than you think you will be. 

Picture this: cliff dwellings clinging to canyon walls, 800-year old petroglyphs engraved into the rocks surface, and miles of beautiful hiking trails all rest on top of an 8,500-foot mesa. Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is home to over 4,700 archaeoloriglal sites, including 600 cliff dwellings.

Morning: Book a Cliff Dwelling Tour

You have to book your cliff dwelling tour in advance, but you certainly won’t be disapointed with your choice. There’s a cliff tour for everybody! Including those who forget to book a tour. If you fall into this boat, head over to Wetherill Mesa and explore the Step House. 

​Honestly, if you can squeeze them both in I think it is 100% worth it! They each have their own unique charm and there’s just so much to learn and be wowed by.

Afternoon: Let’s hike! 

If you aren’t already, make your way to Mesa Top Loop to stop by the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, which is the oldest in the National Park system! From here you can opt for a hike, we recommend Petroglyph Point, and be sure to stop by the Cliff Palace Overlook to for incredible views of the largest cliff dwelling in North America.

If it’s still open on your way out, check out the state-of-the-art research center and visitor center at the entrance. It includes exhibits highlighting the modern descendants of the Ancestral Pueblo People, the park’s research collection, and the LEED building’s sustainability features. Additionally, there are several sculptures and other pieces of art that reflect a modern perspective of Mesa Verde’s people and landscape. 

Day 6: Telluride and Ridgway

Today’s a lighter, travel focused day to help set you up for a great day in Black Canyon of the Gunnison tomorrow! We’ll be sure to stop in the National Historic Landmark District of Telluride and the cultural small town of Ridgway.

Morning: Stop in Telluride

Let’s spend the better park of our morning exploring Telluride. Telluride is a picturesque town nestled in a box canyon surrounded by towering peaks in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado.

There’s a lot to do here all year round, though its busy season is definitely winter with its world renowned skiing. It has a unique blend of laid-back mountain charm and sophisticated victorian architecture… I think you’re going to like it!

With a variety of in-town activities and adventurous things to do in the San Juan National Forest, it’s a truly special place that offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to those seeking a relaxing getaway.

Afternoon: Hang Out in Ridgway

Continue your drive until you reach Ridgway, Colorado. A charming mountain town nestled in the Uncompahgre Valley, known for its stunning scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities.

If there’s any gear you need while you’re in town, check out Ridgway Adventure Sports. Everyone inside is super nice and knowledgable! Once you’ve spent time here, continue on toward Black Canyon of the Gunnison to spend the night.

Day 7: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Visit a place where shadows dance on ancient rock walls and the river carves a masterpiece, creating one of the darkest and deepest canyons in North America. The least visited National Park in Colorado sure is beautiful and incredibly unique. 

We’ll be enjoying our time down low by the river and up on the edge to make the most of our time in Black Canyon of the Gunnison!

Morning: Get into the Canyon

Head down to the Gunnison River for a really unique perspective at the towering black canyon walls. You can do the strenuous, techinical hike (that requires a permit) to access a remote part of the river or you can drive down to East Portal.

We mean it when we say the Gunnison Route should only be considered by experienced hikers. The route is difficult to follow, incredible steep at times, and tough to balance on as a lot of it is rock and loose scree. Additionally, you’ll want to be up an out of the canyon before the afternoon Thunderstorms as there is a possibility of flash flooding.

If you make the drive down to East Portal, be sure to check out the historic plaques and learn about what this area once was. It’s very interesting!

Afternoon: Overlooks & Chill

Driving South Rim Road provides numerous pull outs and short jaunts to incredible overlooks. Take it all in by stopping at as many as you can and prepare dinner at Painted Wall View to enjoy the sunset and one of the most popular overlooks in the park.

We love a good overlook dinner or coffee date and the overlooks in Black Canyon of the Gunnison are perfect little additions to an already incredible day in the park! They provide the perfect way to wind down after spending your morning at the river.

Day 8: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a unique and awe-inspiring place in southern Colorado. The diverse landscape includes towering dunes, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and Medano Creek.

Great Sand Dunes National Park is a truly remarkable place where you can experience the power of nature and escape into a world of wonder.

Morning: Take a Hike

Let’s start the day with a hike! There are so many incredible hiking options within the park, but we’re going to share two of our favorites.

There is a campground at the trailhead for Zapata Falls that is absolutely stunning! If you plan to stay there, maybe save this hike for sunset and enjoy less crowds and the perfect light over the snowcapped mountains!

Afternoon: Enjoy the Dunes

As a very tactile person, I couldn’t start my day sandy but I’ll happily end it that way! Let’s get all up in those dunes and have some fun. You can do this by hiking or sliding, your choice…

The dunes are not only beautiful to look at, but also fun to explore. If you’re a backcountry camper, secure a permit to sleep out on the dunes. Great sand Dunes National Park is an interntional dark sky park and you will not be disapointed by the stargazing!

Day 9: Colorado Springs

As we head back toward Denver, we have to pit stop in the second-most populated city in Colorado. Colorado Springs is a vibrant city nestled at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban charm.

There are so many different ways to enjoy this city, here’s three of our favorites.

Looking for a strenuous Colorado Rite of Passage? Check out the Manitou Incline, a popular trail that’s known for its steep grade and sweeping views. If gaining 2,000 feet over 2768 steps in under a mile sounds like your kind of punishment, add this to your list.

Day 10: Bonus Day!

When you’re exploring the national parks in Colorado and Utah, there’s probably going to be a place you wish you could spend just one more day…

We’re leaving you a bonus day so you can personalize your adventure! Whether you use this day to explore the mile high city, Denver Colorado or add a day to one of our National Park visits, it’s entirely up to you! Tell us how you’re going to use day 10 in the comments.

Add to your National Parks in Colorado and Utah Road Trip

Add 5 days to your trip and add Utah’s remaining 3 National Parks to you adventure! Explore the incredible beauty of southern Utah by inserting this portion of the trip after you’ve spent time in Moab.

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park boasts a unique blend of towering white domes, lush orchards, and hidden canyons, creating a diverse and captivating landscape. Whether you’re hiking among the dramatic cliffs, exploring the historic Fruita townsite, or stargazing under the vast night sky, Capitol Reef offers a truly unforgettable experience.

As one of the least visited National Park in Utah, it’s beauty and lack of crowds will leave you wanting to spend more time here – that’s a promise! Here’s two hikes that are bound to take your breath away…

While you’re here you have to complete the 7.9-mile Scenic Drive. There is a $20 fee to enter this area of the park which also includes access to a number of trailheads. Complete the drive with the virtual geology tour to learn more about Capitol Reef along the way.

This Utah National Park is also known for its orchards. Pick everything from apricots and peaches to pears and apples while you’re visiting. Check our their harvest times and regulations to see how they align with your trip.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its otherworldly hoodoos. These towering rock spires that seem to defy gravity are beautifully unique.

A visit to this unique park will leave you awestruck by the sheer scale and beauty of these natural formations and offer countless opportunities for hiking, photography, and stargazing.

Bryce Canyon is truly a treat! Be sure to drive down to Rainbow Point, amazing at sunrise, to gain full perspective of the erroding plateau that is Bryce Canyon.

Pit stop (or stay) at the lodge at Bryce Canyon for some more ellegant National Park gifts and souvineers. The lodge is within walking distance of popular trailhead and overlooks making it a great location to stay at!

Zion National Park 

Zion National Park boasts breathtaking canyons, towering cliffs, and vibrant water features, creating a truly awe-inspiring landscape. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual stroller, or simply seeking stunning scenery, Zion offers unforgettable experiences for all.

Hiking here is a dream because there are so many incredible options. There are hikes through river, over narrow walkways with steep drop offs, and everywhere inbetween. Here are two of my favorites!

Now you’re likely familiar with hikes like Angel’s Landing and the Narrows. Both of those hikes are absolutely worth your time if they’re on your bucket list! Angel’s landing now requires a permit for hiking. The Narrow’s does not require a permit but does have its own limitations with water temperature and flash flood warning.

It’s important to note that the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles during the shuttle season. Luckily, the shuttle system if easy to follow and effective – but you’ll want to catch the first or second shuttle from the Visitor Center or you’ll be waiting for a very long time…

Monument Valley

Your drive form Zion to Mesa Verde will take most of the day, so I would add another day to your trip and take some time to explore some other unique natural areas of the Southwest. 

Whe you leave Zion heading south, your first stop will be Horsehoe Bend in Arizona. This is where the Colorado River takes a sharp turn and carves out a stunning horseshoe-shaped canyon, offering breathtaking views that will leave you speechless.

Now it’s time to explore Monument Valley! Drive the 17-mile scenic drive for $20 per car and witness giant, red rock formations touch the sky. This feels like a road trippers  *initiation* and is totally a photographer’s dream. 

You can also use this time to check out the Four Corners Monument, where Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico meet in a quirky, geo-quadruple playdate. It’s one of those places you just have to see once!

Conclusion

This 10-day road trip through Colorado and Utah’s national parks is a journey that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the otherworldly landscapes of the Southwest, you’ll encounter a diverse array of natural wonders that will leave you in awe.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the magic of these incredible national parks firsthand. Remember to respect the environment, leave no trace, and cherish the opportunity to explore these precious natural treasures.