Colorado offers the ultimate summer road trip destination, with breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, big city hits and charming mountain towns. By starting and ending your trip in Loveland, you’ll travel through picturesque landscapes, where each stop provides its own unique flavor of the Centennial State’s natural beauty. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, an art lover or someone who enjoys a small-town charm, this loop is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Loveland: Begin your journey here
Start your adventure in Loveland, known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation and welcoming community. Take in the free public art installations around town or explore the nearby trails at Devil’s Backbone Open Space for a quick outdoor escape. Stock up on adventure gear at local spots like JAX Outdoor Gear before hitting the road. Don’t forget to stop by the Loveland Visitors Center, where you can capture unique photo ops at the Love Lock sculptures.
For a relaxing night before kicking off your journey, stay at one of Loveland’s hotels for an amenity-filled stay or a cozy vacation rental for a unique feel. This will give you the perfect recharge for the road ahead.
Estes Park: A charming mountain escape
Your first stop after Loveland takes you to Estes Park, about 45 minutes away. This charming mountain town serves as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S. Whether you’re an avid hiker, wildlife enthusiast or simply looking to take in the breathtaking scenery, Estes Park is a must-see. Make sure to book your timed entry reservation for Rocky Mountain National Park, required from May 22 to mid-October.
While in town, take a scenic drive or embark on one of RMNP’s famous hiking trails like Bear Lake or Alberta Falls. Estes Park also offers a variety of lodging options, from charming inns to the historic Stanley Hotel, where you might experience some paranormal activity.
Grand Lake: A hidden gem
From Estes Park, make your way west to Grand Lake via the breathtaking Trail Ridge Road. Even if you don’t plan to spend time in the Park, you will need a timed entry pass to drive Trail Ridge Road. Open only in summer, this spectacular drive takes you to what feels like the top of the world, providing stunning panoramic views of the Rockies. Grand Lake, nestled at the base of the mountains, offers visitors a chance to relax and take in the beauty of Colorado’s largest natural lake.
In Grand Lake, you can rent a boat, fish or simply stroll through the picturesque historic downtown for unique shopping and dining options. Stay the night at a lakeside cabin or lodge, such as the Grand Lake Lodge or Western Riviera Lakeside Lodging, where you can enjoy tranquil views of the lake and mountains.
Breckenridge: Classic ski-town experience (summer edition)
If you don’t need to rush back to the Front Range, Breckenridge offers a lively mountain-town experience with a distinctly Colorado feel. In the summer, wildflowers line the trails and the town buzzes with outdoor activity. Spend a few hours hiking or biking, then wander Main Street for local shops, art galleries and casual dining. It’s the kind of place where you may plan a quick stop and end up staying longer.
Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs: Natural wonders and local character
Heading further south opens up a different side of Colorado. In Colorado Springs, towering red rock formations at Garden of the Gods create one of the state’s most recognizable landscapes. Nearby, Manitou Springs offers a more eclectic, small-town feel, with local shops, mineral springs and a walkable downtown that invites you to slow down and explore.
If you’re looking to make the most of your time in the area, a few standout experiences include:
- Hiking the Manitou Incline for a challenging climb with rewarding views
- Exploring the historic Penny Arcade in Manitou Springs for a nostalgic, quirky stop
- Touring Cave of the Winds for a mix of underground exploration and adventure activities
- Visiting the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum for an interactive look at Team USA history
- Spending time at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, one of the most unique mountainside zoos in the country
- Driving or taking the cog railway up Pikes Peak for iconic summit views
Whether you’re seeking adventure, history or something a little unexpected, this stretch of the trip offers a memorable change of pace before heading back north.
Denver: A city stop with Colorado flavor
If you’re craving a mix of culture and convenience, Denver makes an easy and worthwhile stop. It’s a chance to shift gears from mountain views to city energy, with plenty of ways to explore depending on your pace.
If you have time to dive in, a few standout experiences include:
- Immersing yourself in the surreal, interactive world of Meow Wolf Denver
- Exploring world-class collections at the Denver Art Museum
- Strolling the 16th Street Mall for shops, dining and people-watching
- Discovering colorful street art, galleries and breweries in the RiNo Art District
- Visiting Elitch Gardens for a classic amusement park experience
- Letting kids explore hands-on exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Denver
- Walking through Union Station, a historic landmark filled with restaurants, shops and local charm
- Relaxing in City Park with skyline views and easy access to the Denver Zoo or Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Whether you spend a few hours or several days, Denver offers a dynamic stop that adds a different layer to your Colorado road trip.
Boulder: Where mountains meet a laid-back lifestyle
Agriculture remains at the heart of The Ranch. The campus serves as a hub for 4-H programs, dog activities and livestock events. We are proud to host many of these events at no charge as a way of investing back into our community. These programs help young people learn the responsibility of raising animals and gain a deeper understanding of agriculture and the farm-to-table connection.
At the same time, we celebrate and preserve Western culture through a full calendar of equine and rodeo events. Our arenas host everything from reining and roping competitions to the CSU Rodeo and Colorado high school rodeos.
That combination of honoring our agricultural heritage while hosting concerts, expos and large-scale entertainment creates a unique experience that reflects the spirit of northern Colorado. Visitors can come for a traditional fair or livestock event and return for a concert, conference or family show, creating an experience that is distinctly Loveland.
End your adventure with Loveland’s charm
After your journey through Colorado, return to Loveland and wind down with great food and one last sunset along the Front Range. Whether you want to explore more of the local art scene, enjoy a craft beer at one of the many breweries, or simply relax in one of Loveland’s picturesque parks, you’ll be glad to end your adventure in the heart of northern Colorado.