Answer: Silverton is a small mountain town, and renting a Jeep is a popular option for exploring the surrounding San Juan Mountains, including scenic byways and rugged backcountry roads. Since you read negative reviews on one company, it’s smart to consider a few reliable options that are well-regarded by travelers.

Answer: Yes, it is possible to buy an RTD AB1 ticket to Boulder at Denver International Airport without using an app. Here’s what you need to know:

Answer: Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, just outside Denver, generally offers free parking for most events, including soccer games. However, the convenience of parking depends heavily on when you arrive, as the lots can fill quickly during popular matches.

Answer: Denver has a vibrant arts scene with plenty of unpretentious shops and galleries where you can find unique, locally made art or jewelry within your budget. Here are some recommendations to help you find something memorable in the $50-$75 range.

Answer: Visiting Colorado in May is a great choice for nature, hot springs, and light hiking. At that time of year, some high-altitude passes may still have snow, but many scenic drives and lower-elevation areas are accessible. Your friend’s suggestions of Telluride, Ouray, Crested Butte, and Steamboat Springs are all excellent choices for outdoor adventures and hot springs.

Answer: Driving from Denver to Beaver Creek in July offers a wonderful opportunity to explore some of Colorado’s most scenic byways and charming mountain towns. While you can’t see everything in one drive, prioritizing a few key stops will make the trip memorable.

Answer: Breckenridge is a fantastic winter destination, especially during Christmas, and offers a wide range of activities beyond skiing. Since your focus is on relaxation and family-friendly winter experiences, many of your listed items are possible either in town or nearby.

Answer: Thanksgiving skiing in Colorado can be a wonderful experience, especially in years when snow conditions are favorable. Early season skiing often means lighter crowds, festive holiday ambiance, and the opportunity to enjoy the mountains before the peak winter rush.

Answer: Spending Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in Breckenridge offers a mix of cozy mountain dining and festive holiday experiences. Since you’re traveling with a family group and enjoyed buffet-style dining previously, there are several options to consider, though reservations are strongly recommended as holiday spots fill quickly.

Answer: When planning a visit to Mesa Verde National Park, your choice of base can impact your convenience, dining options, and overall experience. The three main nearby communities to consider are Mancos, Cortez, and Durango, each with distinct advantages and considerations.

Answer: Visiting Colorado for the full months of August and September gives you a fantastic window to explore the state’s diverse landscapes, from high mountain passes to desert canyons, all while enjoying road cycling in ideal late summer and early fall conditions. Here’s a detailed guide to help plan your trip:

Answer: For a middle-aged couple visiting Colorado in early March without interest in skiing, choosing between Breckenridge, Frisco, and Vail depends on your preferences for atmosphere, dining, shopping, and optional outdoor adventures like snowmobiling.

Answer: The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park is a popular destination both for its history and its association with “The Shining.” Visiting the hotel can be a fun and memorable experience, whether or not you’re particularly interested in the paranormal.

Answer: Hi there,

Answer: If you are looking for short-term rentals in Aspen but prefer not to use Airbnb or VRBO, there are several reputable local rental agencies that specialize in vacation homes, condos, and luxury properties. These agencies typically provide direct bookings, professional management, and concierge services to make your stay seamless.

Answer: Visiting Vail in mid-January over MLK weekend can be a wonderful experience for families with kids, offering a mix of skiing, winter activities, and kid-friendly entertainment. Since your group includes children aged 3–10, it’s a good idea to balance ski time with other activities that keep younger kids engaged and allow adults to relax.

Answer: Traveling between Telluride and Montrose in October without renting a second car is doable, but options are somewhat limited compared to peak ski season. There are a few shuttle and transportation services that cater to travelers moving between Telluride and Montrose, though schedules may be reduced in the fall.

Answer: Colorado Springs offers several guided jeep tours that are family-friendly and can accommodate young children. When traveling with kids ages 5 and 7, it’s important to look for tours that emphasize safety, slower pace, and the option for a private vehicle or small group to ensure a comfortable experience.

Answer: Arriving at Denver International Airport (DEN) at 12:30 AM with an infant and toddler can indeed be challenging since most airport shops and restaurants are closed. However, there are ways to make your layover manageable and even comfortable, especially on a budget.

Answer: With three nights to get from Cotopaxi to Denver and your family’s interests in mind, you can craft a scenic and enjoyable route through central Colorado’s mountains while balancing outdoor adventure with relaxation for your wife and daughters. Since you’ll have already spent a night in Colorado Springs before heading to Cotopaxi, a northwestern loop works well.

Answer: For a one-night stay in Colorado Springs with young children, you’ll want a hotel that balances convenience, comfort, and access to family-friendly attractions. Staying near Garden of the Gods or close to the downtown area offers both scenic views and easy access to casual dining.

Answer: Hi Dave,

Answer: Snowmass Village is well known for its winter activities beyond skiing, and tubing is one of the more family-friendly options. Whether it’s worth driving from Glenwood depends on what you’re looking for — it’s more of a fun, casual experience than an adrenaline-packed adventure.

Answer: Visiting Winter Park without a car is definitely feasible, especially if you plan carefully around train and shuttle options. The Zephyr train to Fraser is a scenic and convenient choice, and there are established shuttles from the Fraser/Winter Park train station to most accommodations in Winter Park and Fraser.

Answer: Great question. Short answer: probably not a ton of snow on the ground in Denver or Boulder right now, at least not in deep, persistent coverage — but you should be cautious, and “boots vs. shoes” depends on where exactly you’re walking and how much melting or refreezing has happened.

Answer: Welcome to Breckenridge! Given your foot issue, it’s wise to minimize walking in ski boots. Fortunately, Breckenridge has several options for locker rentals and ski storage near the lifts, which will allow you to change into your boots and store your shoe bags without long walks.

Answer: The portion of the California Zephyr from Denver to Glenwood Springs is widely considered one of the most scenic train rides in the United States. You will travel through the high plains, the Rocky Mountains, and alongside the Colorado River, with views of rugged cliffs, rolling valleys, and snow-capped peaks in April/May. The train offers panoramic windows which make it easy to enjoy the scenery without any physical exertion, which is perfect for a relaxed, scenic experience.

Answer: Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the most iconic outdoor venues in the U.S., known for its stunning natural rock formations and excellent acoustics. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your experience.

Answer: Hi there,

Answer: Elk Fest in Estes Park is a popular annual event that draws many visitors for the elk rut and related festivities. The weekend itself is typically the busiest period, with heavy foot and vehicle traffic, crowded restaurants, and full parking lots at key elk viewing spots.

Answer: For a multigenerational July trip to Colorado with your group, you’ll want a base that balances accessibility to light-to-moderate hikes, outdoor activities like ATVing, and a charming town where older family members can relax. Since Estes Park is fully booked or expensive, there are a few excellent alternatives that offer a similar mountain experience without the extreme crowds.

Answer: For a safe and comfortable overnight stay in Colorado Springs on your way to Canon City and the Royal Gorge, there are several excellent hotel options that are centrally located, well-reviewed, and convenient for solo travelers.

Answer: The Crawford Hotel, located directly inside Denver’s historic Union Station, is widely praised for its unbeatable location, making it extremely convenient for both sightseeing and transportation. Guests consistently highlight the ease of access to downtown Denver attractions, as well as the ability to walk to restaurants, shops, and cultural spots. Being at Union Station also provides direct links to the airport, light rail, and regional transit, which is ideal for those arriving by plane or planning day trips.

Answer: The walkway from Red Hawk condos and townhomes to the Keystone gondola is a convenient route for guests wanting direct access to the ski lifts without driving or taking a shuttle. However, whether it is open can depend on the season, weather conditions, and any maintenance or construction projects at the resort.

Answer: Boulder is a charming city with plenty to do even if you’re not comfortable hiking alone, especially in January when it can be chilly. You can enjoy scenic drives, cultural sites, and indoor activities while still experiencing the beauty of the area.

Answer: Early to mid-June in Southwest Colorado can be a bit tricky for dispersed camping, especially at higher elevations. Snow can linger in some areas, roads may still be muddy, and some forest service roads may not yet be fully passable for larger RVs. That said, it is not impossible, but you will need to plan carefully and remain flexible.

Answer: Your planned road trip from Denver to Phoenix in late April is doable, but there are a few considerations regarding timing, routes, and vehicle requirements.

Answer: Traveling from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Breckenridge in the winter months requires some planning due to snow and mountain driving. Since you’re looking for cost-effective options and are open to sharing a shuttle, here’s a detailed overview:

Answer: Denver International Airport (DEN) is large, and because you’re arriving at the far end of Concourse B and departing from the lower gates of Concourse A, the walk plus train transfer can feel long—especially with mobility limitations. A 56-minute connection is technically “legal,” but whether it’s comfortable depends on timing, walking speed, and whether your inbound flight arrives on time.

Answer: Traveling from Sandusky, Ohio to Hotchkiss, Colorado in a 40-foot motorhome with a toy hauler is definitely doable, but there are a few important considerations when crossing the Rockies, especially along Highway 70 to Highway 133.

Answer: Hi there,

Answer: Colorado is one of the premier ski destinations in the United States, offering a range of resorts suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers. Traveling from New Zealand in December or early January, you’ll likely hit the peak season, so planning ahead is key for accommodation, lift passes, and transport.

Answer: Denver’s recent drone shows—typically held downtown near Civic Center Park, Union Station, or Ball Arena—are generally visible from surrounding neighborhoods, but the clarity and quality of the view depend heavily on your exact line of sight. Since you’re staying in the LoHi/Jefferson Park area, you’re actually in a fairly good position because the neighborhood sits slightly elevated above downtown and many buildings have rooftop decks with skyline views.

Answer: Choosing airport parking at Denver International Airport (DIA) depends on your priorities—security, convenience, and cost. Since you’ve experienced issues with Pikes Peak lot and found Park DIA declining in service, exploring alternatives is reasonable.

Answer: Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a wonderful destination for families, and visiting in the last week of May can be a great time, though higher elevation trails may still have some snow or muddy sections. With a 3-year-old and an 8-year-old, stroller-friendly trails and short, accessible hikes are key for a comfortable experience.

Answer: Here are some well-regarded B&Bs in or near Manitou Springs, plus some thoughts on which might align (or not) with your memories.

Answer: For a cozy, snow-filled winter getaway in the U.S. in February without skiing, there are several destinations that offer plenty of snow, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, and charming ambiance with fireplaces and scenic winter landscapes. The key is to look for resorts and towns that cater to winter activities beyond skiing.

Answer: When planning an overnight stay west of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park while traveling toward Moab, you have several towns to consider, each offering a slightly different experience in terms of lodging, scenery, and amenities.

Answer: Traveling from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Breckenridge with 2 adults and 2 children offers several options depending on budget, convenience, and comfort. The drive is approximately 80-90 miles and takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours under normal conditions, but winter or holiday traffic can extend the time.

Answer: Mesa Verde National Park, like other National Park Service sites, can be significantly impacted during a federal government shutdown. Operations, access, and available services may be limited depending on the extent and duration of the shutdown. Here’s what typically occurs:

Answer: Both Denver and Golden make great bases for a 3-day trip, but the better choice depends on how you want to balance nightlife, breweries, concert logistics, and outdoor sightseeing. Since you’re visiting in January, it's also worth factoring in driving times and winter road conditions.

Answer: It sounds like you had a very frustrating experience at the Mountainside Inn, and unfortunately your comments reflect issues that other travelers sometimes encounter with older lodging options in Telluride. Because Telluride is a small mountain town with limited space, parking can be tight, streets often undergo seasonal repairs, and older properties vary significantly in quality. Still, clear communication and accurate room descriptions should always be expected, and the concerns you raise are understandable.

Answer: Seeing the northern lights (aurora borealis) from Durango is extremely rare because it is quite far south compared to the usual aurora zone, which is generally much closer to the Arctic Circle. However, very strong solar storms can occasionally make them visible at more southern latitudes. October can have some geomagnetic activity, so it’s worth trying if conditions are right.

Answer: Visiting Vail during President's Day week is peak season, so parking and logistics in the village can require some planning, especially in the late afternoon and evening.

Answer: Good question. I looked into it — if you’re staying near Union Station in downtown Denver, here’s a rundown of the closest Old Navy stores and which one might be “best” in terms of size and selection.

Answer: Your 5-day Colorado itinerary is ambitious but definitely doable, especially if you’re prepared for some long drives and the altitude. Here’s a detailed review with some suggestions and tips to make it smoother, especially for altitude acclimation and maximizing your experience.

Answer: With three full days in Colorado and a preference for moderate drives and hikes, you can enjoy some of the state’s iconic scenery without exposing your wife to high-elevation switchbacks. Since you have a rental car and can be flexible with your base, I suggest dividing your days by region to minimize stressful driving while still seeing highlights.

Answer: Colorado offers a wealth of scenic locations for a mountain and ranch-style getaway, with opportunities for horseback riding, lake views, and immersive nature experiences. Near Colorado Springs and throughout the central Rockies, there are several ranches and mountain lodges that cater to visitors looking for a combination of adventure and relaxation.

Answer: Salida, Colorado, and the surrounding Chaffee County area have several beautiful waterfalls that are accessible for short hikes or scenic drives. Most are nestled in the mountains and can be combined with other sightseeing or outdoor activities.

Answer: Day 8 – Driving from Aspen to Paonia via Marble and Kebler Pass is a beautiful journey, particularly in late September when fall colors are emerging. Marble is famous for its historic marble quarries and the charming small town feel. A short stop at the Marble Museum or a brief walk around the town can be a great photo opportunity. Kebler Pass is renowned for its aspen groves, and the road itself offers multiple pull-offs perfect for scenic photography. Since the road is unpaved but generally well-maintained, take your time and enjoy the views.

Answer: What you experienced at the Lodge at Vail is almost certainly a combination of routine mountain-town winter operations and early-morning resort maintenance rather than anything unusual or intentional. Vail Village can be surprisingly noisy in the mornings because the resort has to prepare the mountain and walkways before guests wake up.

Answer: Renting a car directly in Breckenridge can be slightly trickier than at the Denver airport, but there are several options and tips that can help you arrange a smooth rental experience.

Answer: Your plan to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park with your elderly mother in a Class B motorhome is very doable, especially if you are prioritizing scenic drives and roadside viewpoints over hiking. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your questions and logistics:

Answer: Choosing between The Antlers and the Marriott on Tech Center Drive depends on your priorities, especially with a young child and the desire for a pool.

Answer: Hi there,

Answer: Your plan already has a fantastic flow from the Utah parks into western Colorado, and with Memorial Day weekend, your instincts are right: higher-elevation destinations (like Rocky Mountain National Park, Vail, or Breckenridge) can still have snowy trails, lingering mud, seasonal closures, and very unpredictable weather. But you will have plenty of excellent options that fit into your timeframe of Friday → late Monday before a 6pm Denver departure.

Answer: Buena Vista is a charming small town in the Arkansas River Valley, known for its outdoor recreation and beautiful mountain scenery. Staying overnight here is a great idea if you want a relaxed stop before continuing to Colorado Springs.

Answer: Your trip report from June 9th to 25th across Colorado and parts of Utah sounds like a wonderfully well-planned and diverse adventure. Flying into Denver via British Airways was smooth, with an easy immigration process. Using the train into Denver was efficient and cost-effective, especially with the convenience of being near the Mint House apartment and a Whole Foods for meal preparation.

Answer: Thank you — that’s a wonderful trip window, and 12 days gives you a great chance to explore Colorado’s scenery, wildlife (including birds), and quieter spots in more depth, especially in early spring. Given that you want to minimize driving and focus on a few areas rather than looping widely, here are two suggested itineraries (plus a hybrid), plus practical advice for March travel.

Answer: For a 2-3 day mountain getaway after a Red Rocks show, there are several charming options along I-70 or nearby main roads that offer both mountain scenery and activities for teens. Your goal of combining hiking, whitewater rafting, and a quaint mountain town with good food is very achievable within an hour to 90 minutes drive from Red Rocks.

Answer: If you have a timed entry for Bear Lake from 10:00–12:00, it is important to plan your arrival at the park accordingly. The timed entry system is designed to control traffic congestion and ensure parking availability at popular trailheads, so you must enter the park and reach Bear Lake within your window.

Answer: Parking in Telluride with a truck and an 18' travel trailer can be a bit tricky due to the narrow streets and limited downtown parking, but there are several options to consider for safely leaving your vehicle while you explore the town and ride the gondola.

Answer: Good news — most standard rental cars are fully allowed on the Pikes Peak Highway, and the vast majority of visitors who drive up the mountain are in regular sedans, SUVs, or minivans from rental companies. The road is paved all the way to the summit, and there are no special vehicle requirements such as 4WD, high clearance, or off-road capability.

Answer: Dillon is a small town on the shores of Lake Dillon, and while the large amphitheater doesn’t have events during your stay, there are a few options for live music nearby. Downtown Dillon and the surrounding area have some bars and restaurants that occasionally host live performances, especially during the summer months.

Answer: Your itinerary looks ambitious but very exciting, with a great mix of adventure, hiking, scenic drives, and iconic Colorado experiences. Since you have 8 days, your plan covers a lot of ground and includes some of Colorado’s most signature spots. Here’s a detailed assessment and suggestions:

Answer: At Mesa Verde National Park, the Wetherill Mesa area has some specific access rules to help manage traffic and preserve the archaeological sites. In early June, visitors typically have the option to drive the Wetherill Mesa Road, but there are a few important details to note.

Answer: Colorado Springs can offer some surprisingly cozy options for enjoying an outdoor heated pool or hot tub even in March, especially since the city’s elevation and climate often allow for mild winter-spring weather compared to higher mountain towns like Breckenridge. Here’s a breakdown of some options and considerations for your trip:

Answer: It sounds like you had quite an intense experience in the snow at Wildernest! Big thanks to the people who stepped in to help—moments like these really show the strength and kindness of the local community.

Answer: Your Ouray trip from August 21–27, 2025, sounds like a well-planned adventure with a mix of scenic drives, light to moderate hikes, wildlife sightings, and local dining experiences. Here’s a detailed breakdown and some highlights based on your report:

Answer: Salida and Buena Vista in Chaffee County offer a perfect mix of outdoor activities, scenic drives, and small-town charm, making them ideal for a multigenerational family trip. With kids, teens, and grandparents in your group, you can balance adventure with relaxation.

Answer: Keystone and Dillon are great places to visit over New Year’s even if you’re not skiing. The area becomes a festive winter playground with plenty of non-ski activities, so you’ll have no trouble filling your days with fun and scenic experiences.

Answer: Short answer: you’re not missing anything obvious — recreation.gov alerts are useful but frustrating because (a) the system notifies lots of people at once, (b) recreation.gov does not hold or auto-complete bookings for you, and (c) most last-minute slots (including the “night before” release and true cancellations) are claimed in seconds. That makes the process feel like a scramble. Below I explain how the system actually works, why your alerts often lead to “no availability,” what real options you have (including the night-before 7:00 p.m. release and shuttle exemptions), and practical tactics that improve your odds.

Answer: Golden, Colorado, is a charming town with plenty of options for shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, making it a great place for a family Thanksgiving. Here’s a detailed guide to cover your list:

Answer: The Alpine Loop from Lake City, including Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass, is a high-elevation route through the San Juan Mountains. Snow conditions in early to mid-June can vary significantly year to year, but generally, snow lingers at higher elevations well into June, especially on the north-facing slopes and in shaded areas.

Answer: Downtown Denver has faced some safety challenges over the past few years, particularly related to property crime, panhandling, and occasional violent incidents. The city has been actively seeking ways to address these issues, and the recent announcement about bringing police on horseback is part of a broader "Safe Downtown Action Plan."

Answer: The Armstrong Hotel in Fort Collins offers a basic, budget-friendly stay in a prime location within Olde Town, near Colorado State University. Based on your review, the hotel seems well-suited for short visits, concerts, or single-night stays, particularly for travelers who prioritize location over in-room amenities.

Answer: When comparing Park Place and Beaver Run in Breckenridge for a family holiday, especially if you’re looking for a 2-bedroom condo suitable for grandparents, there are a few key points to consider regarding location, amenities, and overall experience.

Answer: Driving from Great Sand Dunes National Park to Durango and then on to Mesa Verde in February can be manageable but requires caution. The main concern is winter conditions in the mountains, as snow, ice, and occasional chain requirements can occur even with snow tires on your Chevy Volt. Roads in and around Durango, particularly US-160 and state highways leading into Mesa Verde, can be icy or snow-packed, especially in early morning or late evening. Weather can change rapidly in this region.

Answer: Hi there,

Answer: If you’re looking for up-to-date, practical advice for Aspen and Snowmass—like grocery tips, transportation, and tours—TripAdvisor forums are a start but often not very active for very current discussions. There are other communities and resources that travelers find helpful:

Answer: The drive from Vail to Denver International Airport (DEN) typically covers about 100-110 miles, depending on your exact starting point in Vail and the route you take. The most common route is via I-70 East, which is a direct highway through the mountains and along the Front Range.

Answer: If you are concerned about altitude sickness and want to enjoy the natural beauty of the western United States without immediately jumping to high elevations, there are several options where you can base yourself at lower elevations while still accessing scenic mountain or park areas.

Answer: Your planned Colorado road trip looks well-paced and thoughtfully covers a lot of the state’s highlights. Since you are active and have extensive road trip experience, this itinerary should provide a rich mix of scenic drives, historic towns, and natural beauty. Here are some detailed considerations and suggestions for optimizing the trip:

Answer: Connecting with traditional Native American healing practices while visiting Estes Park can be a meaningful and respectful experience if approached with awareness and sensitivity. Estes Park itself is near the ancestral lands of several Native peoples, and while formal sweat lodges or ceremonies may not be widely advertised publicly, there are ways to connect respectfully with these traditions.

Answer: Your itinerary looks ambitious but very scenic! I’ll break it down by days and give recommendations for accommodations, activities, and practical tips for February travel in Colorado, especially with a 7-year-old.

Answer: Finding New Year’s Eve activities for teens in Boulder can be a bit tricky since most nightlife events are 21+, but there are still plenty of options for an 18-year-old to enjoy a fun and safe evening in the city.

Answer: A 1 hour and 40 minute connection at Denver International Airport (DEN) is generally considered adequate for domestic-to-international flights, but several factors can influence whether this is a comfortable connection time for you.

Answer: For a 5–6 day trip to Colorado in late November or December, prioritizing Crested Butte and Telluride, while still seeing other iconic mountain towns, requires a balance between minimizing driving and maximizing time to enjoy activities like skiing, snow sports, and Christmas festivities. Late November–December is early ski season, so some resorts may not be fully open yet, but towns like Breckenridge, Vail, and Aspen still offer festive activities, winter walking streets, and charming town centers.

Answer: Driving from the Black Canyon of the Gunnison to Colorado Springs covers roughly 5–6 hours without stops, but there are several interesting places to break up the drive or even stay overnight if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Here are some detailed suggestions:

Answer: Visiting Telluride and staying in Mountain Village makes transportation surprisingly easy, and most travelers choose not to rent a car—especially in winter. The area is designed to be car-free once you arrive, and the free gondola system makes getting around seamless. Roads between Montrose and Telluride can be snowy and icy right after New Year’s, so skipping the rental is often safer and much less stressful.