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The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

From hiking in national parks to exploring charming towns, here's what to see and do on a road trip through Colorado.

To experience the best of the U.S. via the great open road, look to Colorado. This picturesque state straddling the Rocky Mountains is home to some of the most astounding stretches of highway in the country, connecting mountain resorts and artists' colonies to pioneer towns. In short, it's the perfect place for the ultimate road trip. With that in mind, we've devised a route that hits plenty of spots that make the Centennial State so special.

Our itinerary takes you through three spectacular national parks: Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, and Great Sand Dunes. While the last one doesn't require an admission fee, the first two do ($30 per car, including entry for all passengers, for one day or $35 per car for seven days of access). As of May 24, 2024, you must reserve a timed pass to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. If you're interested in purchasing an America the Beautiful annual pass, which gets you into all U.S. national parks and federal recreational lands, check each park's website below for more information about discounts for seniors, military members, and those with permanent disabilities.

Without further ado, here's our handy guide to everything you should do on a Colorado road trip.

iStockphoto / Getty Images

Colorado's capital and biggest city is inevitably where any road trip should start. Not only is Denver home to the state's largest and busiest airport, and therefore where most travelers arrive, it also acts as a gateway from the plains in the east into the Rocky Mountains. There's plenty to do here before you start your journey: Grab some green chiles at El Taco de Mexico, explore historic Larimer Square, go to one of the city's great museums — the Denver Art Museum and Denver Museum of Nature & Science are great places to start — and perhaps buy yourself a pair of cowboy boots. Whatever you do, make sure your last activity is getting in your car and driving northwest.

Denver's smaller, more free-spirited sibling Boulder is home to the University of Colorado's main campus, which means you can expect a whole lot of restaurants and businesses catering to college students. You'll also find some sublime hiking on and around the Flatirons , an iconic formation formed by dramatic, diagonally tilted slabs of rock.

Tanya Nikolic / Travel + Leisure

Your journey northwest continues to Estes Park, the first destination on this route wholly within the Rocky Mountains. This quaint town has become a popular tourist stop, due to its proximity to some of the region's best rock climbing and mountain trails. Estes Park is also considered the jumping-off point for much of Rocky Mountain National Park , where you can easily spend several days exploring backwoods trails, finding waterfalls, and spotting wildlife. This part of the itinerary is optional, but definitely encouraged if you have the time.

Trail Ridge Road

If you're road-tripping between May and October, you're in luck. The next portion of the route contains what is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in America: Trail Ridge Road , a switchback-saturated stretch of U.S. Highway 34 that crosses over the Continental Divide and is closed during the fall and winter. In the spring and summer, you can pass through some of the region's highest mountains. Witness the sun glinting off glaciers as you weave through dramatic passes and drive along impossibly blue ponds until you reach Grand Lake. Refuel, then it's onto the next oasis.

Glenwood Springs

The aptly named Glenwood Springs is the hot spring capital of the area, with huge natural hot springs bubbling up from the earth. It's just what you want to see after a long drive from Grand Lake, and a particularly scenic remedy for driving-related cramps. The town is located right where the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers meet, in a valley cradled by steep mountain faces.

Telluride and Ouray

Gallo Images / Getty Images

Drive a few hours from Glenwood Springs and you'll enter gold rush territory. Sure, you can try panning in the Uncompahgre or San Miguel Rivers — it's a good way to cool off, but maybe not to get rich — though the real draw in Telluride and Ouray is the history. These little mountain villages are chock-full of relics from the area's Wild West days, from museums like the Ouray Alchemist Pharmacy Museum to mining tours in Telluride. They're also both tucked away in furtive, but gorgeous, canyons. You can hit Telluride, which is larger, more bustling, and artsier (it's also home to the Telluride Film Festival ), or Ouray, which is smaller and more rustic. Either way, we're venturing south.

Mesa Verde National Park

Continuing south, you'll trade the gold rush era for more ancient times at Mesa Verde National Park . These lands in Montezuma County were once inhabited by the cliff-dwelling ancestors of the Pueblo people, who constructed homes out of the sandstone from the cliffs and mesas on which they were built. The result is extraordinarily dramatic and incredibly enlightening. While there are hundreds of these sites throughout the park, the most impressive is Cliff Palace, pictured above, which lies in the shadow of a magnificent rock arch. Check out its elaborate rooms and the decorative plasters, all of which have withstood erosion and time.

Michael Snell / Robert Harding World Imagery / Getty Images

Beginning our turn east, Durango is the first major town on the map after leaving Mesa Verde. It's a great place to stop and rest for a while, combining the laid-back charm of small-town America with a rich history rooted in its importance as a railroad hub. It has also served as the backdrop in many Hollywood Western films , and you can visit several shooting locations from "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid."

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Visuals Unlimited / Getty Images

Drive three hours down Route 160 and you'll arrive in a place that feels so otherworldly, you'll feel like you're on another planet. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve seems totally incongruous with the landscape around it, but that's what makes it so enticing — towering, ivory-colored dunes up to 750 feet tall are an echo of the nearby mountains. Camping here is the move, as the effect of the clear night sky over the dunes is a popular astronomical phenomenon that must be seen to be believed.

There's no better place in Colorado to witness the awe-inspiring force of water than Cañon City, so named for the steep cliffs carved by the Arkansas River. Whether you're looking for a gentle, comfortable sightseeing experience like the Royal Gorge Route Railroad or a more extreme method like rafting, you'll find it here, in addition to plenty of wineries and restaurants where you can luxuriate after feasting your eyes.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is the last stop on your vehicular journey, and it's a bit of a doozy. Not only is this the second-largest city in the state, it's also a stone's throw from two of Colorado's most impressive natural landmarks: Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods . The first can be easily ascended by car via Pikes Peak Highway, and the views from its 14,115-foot summit are truly magnificent — they actually inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write " America the Beautiful ." The second, Garden of the Gods, is a gorgeous public park that combines strikingly red rocks with lush forest scenery.

After indulging in your outdoor activity of choice, end your trip with green chiles at King's Chef Diner and bask in the success of a road trip well spent. If you're returning to Denver to fly home, it's just an hour's drive or so north to reach the airport.

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Best places to visit in colorado.

Colorado's scenic terrain draws millions of travelers looking to get swept up in its natural splendor. With a bevy of cities and towns, each with its own unique outdoor offerings, cultural attractions, things to do and awe-inspiring landscapes, it may be difficult to choose the best place for your next vacation. U.S. News took into account a number of factors, including the variety of attractions, as well as the opinions of experts and travelers, to determine the best places to visit in Colorado. Have a favorite? Cast your vote below to help determine next year's list.

Rocky Mountain National Park

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Take a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park to see for yourself why it is one of the most-visited national parks in the country. Hike among sky-high peaks or the park's 100-plus lakes, or swap your boots for a pair of skis or snowshoes in winter. If you'd rather explore from the comfort of your own vehicle, drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road (open seasonally) and feel on top of the world. At its highest point, the road reaches an elevation of more than 12,000 feet. What's more, this park is ideal for a camping adventure . But book early: A timed entry permit is required in the summer.

Colorado's most populous city is also its cultural hub. While you can go just about anywhere in Colorado to find outdoor adventures galore, in Denver you get the best of both worlds. The city is filled with top-notch museums, lively sports venues, prime shopping streets and an unmatched brewery scene. Meanwhile, just outside city limits, you'll enjoy easy access to the Rockies, as well as the photogenic Mount Evans Scenic Byway. For an unforgettable experience, catch a show at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a unique open-air concert venue with stunning views of Colorado's famous red rocks.

Telluride may not be large in size, but it is big on outdoor fun and adventure, which is why it's named one of the best small towns in the USA . Best known for its highly regarded ski slopes, Telluride offers 2,000-plus skiable acres and terrain suitable for everyone from beginners to experts. Meanwhile, hikers and cyclists flood the trails, paragliders soar through the air and festivalgoers attend the town's plethora of food-, music- and film-focused events during the warmer months. For some of Telluride's best panoramas, drive the San Juan Skyway or ride the gondola to Mountain Village.

Whether you are looking for an adventurous getaway in the Rocky Mountains or a luxurious spa vacation, this small town in northwestern Colorado fits the bill. Glenwood Springs visitors can soak up some rays while horseback riding, whitewater rafting or hiking the popular Hanging Lake Trail. If you'd like to take the thrills up a notch, make time for Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, which features cave tours, an alpine coaster and more. Later, soothe your aching muscles at one of the town's acclaimed spas, which utilize the region's natural hot springs in their treatments.

The former home of the Ancestral Pueblo people, Mesa Verde National Park contains about 5,000 of America's best-preserved archaeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. First-time visitors should prioritize the famous Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America. Many of the sites can only be accessed by ranger-led tours that may involve quite a bit of walking, climbing and, in some cases, crawling, so travelers should keep their physical health and limitations in mind before visiting. Still, the park's rich history makes the sometimes strenuous journeys well worth the effort.

Remnants of Breckenridge's history as a mining hub give the town a distinct aesthetic. The Rocky Mountains that serve as the town's backdrop, the Victorian-era architecture in the Historic District and the year-round festivals and events all contribute to the town's charm. Plus, the locale's thousands of acres of skiable terrain and the area's long ski season make Breckenridge a winter travel destination for the books. When the powder melts, the verdant vegetation that floods the trails make Breck (as locals call it) magical. What's more, the craft beer scene is an attraction in its own right.

Powder hounds take note: While it may not be as glamorous as some of its Colorado counterparts, Steamboat Springs is still an excellent destination for a ski vacation . After all, it maintains the nickname of Ski Town, USA. Here, travelers can take advantage of nearly 3,000 acres of skiable terrain covered in snow so light it's commonly called Champagne Powder snow. Steamboat Springs is equally impressive when it's dotted with wildflowers in spring and summer or brimming with foliage come fall. After a long day of hiking, biking or shredding powder, visitors can head to Strawberry Park Hot Springs to soothe aching muscles with a massage or a soak in a thermal pool.

Pagosa Springs' best-known attraction is – you guessed it – its renowned hot springs. Located along the banks of the San Juan River in southwestern Colorado, this small mountain town is home to the world's deepest geothermal hot spring, the Mother Spring aquifer, so it comes as no surprise that travelers flock here looking to soak their stress away. But this alluring Colorado destination has more to offer than just incredible hot springs. Here, travelers can participate in a range of outdoor activities, including mountain biking, hiking, skiing, rafting, horseback riding, fishing and more.  

Sitting in southwestern Colorado about 20 miles from the New Mexico border, Durango packs a punch for adventure travelers. Pastimes like hiking, mountain biking and skiing are popular here, and thrill-seekers won't want to miss a white-water rafting tour down the Animas River. Meanwhile, history buffs will love strolling through Durango's vibrant downtown, which boasts a variety of restaurants, art galleries and shops. Another must-do activity is riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Here, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of San Juan National Forest aboard an authentic steam locomotive.

With recreational activities galore and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, Buena Vista is one of Colorado's best under-the-radar travel destinations. Spend your time relaxing in Buena Vista's natural hot springs, which are some of the hottest in Colorado. Or, go for a drive along the Collegiate Peaks Scenic and Historic Byway for unforgettable mountain views. Meanwhile, if you want something more adventurous, Buena Vista is a great base for hiking 14ers (mountains exceeding 14,000 feet), and you can also try biking, off-roading or white-water rafting. Thanks to Buena Vista's valley location, these activities are typically available year-round.

Colorado's version of the Grand Canyon features some of the state's most stunning views. Carved by the Gunnison River millions of years ago, the Black Canyon's more than 2,000-foot depth has impressed spectators for centuries, including the Ute Tribe who once called the canyon home. Now, along with its incredible scenery, parkgoers can enjoy fishing in the Black Canyon's highly regarded waters, climbing its towering rock formations and hiking or skiing its impressive trails. At night, attention shifts from the rocks and river below to the sky above when visitors can stargaze in this International Dark Sky Park.

Known as both the last great Colorado ski town and the wildflower capital of Colorado, Crested Butte beckons to outdoorsy types year-round. In winter, skiers and snowboarders will find trails for all skill levels, though the town is most famous for its extreme terrain and steep slopes. When temperatures rise, visitors can trade in their skis or snowboards for mountain bikes to take advantage of Crested Butte's hundreds of miles of bike trails. Arrive in July to see the town burst with color and partake in the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival's activities.

Nestled against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve offers a unique outdoor experience. Visitors can sled down the tallest sand dunes in North America or float down the park's stretch of Medano Creek. Hiking, fat biking and horseback riding are other fun ways to explore the area's diverse ecosystems. And at night, travelers can admire the unfiltered night sky while camping. Great Sand Dunes is open year-round, but keep in mind that winter can be chilly and summer can bring scorching sand and thunderstorms, so parkgoers should plan their trips accordingly.

If you're looking to splurge during ski season, Aspen is the place to be. This small town is conveniently tucked between four renowned ski spots – Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk and Aspen Highlands – that offer quality slopes for all levels of skiers. Not only that, but the town features the crème de la crème of luxury resorts, a growing culinary reputation (the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen is held here every summer) and an après-ski scene so appealing it'll be pretty tough to leave.

This iconic European-style ski town is a popular haven for celebrities and winter sports enthusiasts. With thousands of acres of snowy trails spread across one of the largest single-mountain resorts in the country, Vail is known for its top-notch skiing and snowboarding. But there is more to the town than just its slopes. When the snow melts and the temperatures rise, Vail's Epic Discovery area invites visitors to engage in other outdoor activities like zip lining, rock climbing and mountain coaster rides. Those looking for less adrenaline-inducing entertainment should check out the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and central Vail's boutiques.

Feel as if you've journeyed back in time during a visit to Dinosaur National Monument. Spread across Colorado and Utah, this protected area is known for its archaeological treasures. You won't find any dinosaur bones on the Colorado side, but budding archaeologists can test their skills by looking for small sea creature fossils on the Harpers Corner Trail. This side of the park is also a prime spot for outdoor activities like hiking, river rafting, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. For breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons, go for a spin on the Harpers Corner Scenic Drive.

Colorado Springs stands out from its mountainous counterparts because it's not a ski destination. But what the city lacks in slopes it more than makes up for in incredible hiking areas like Pikes Peak, the mountain that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful," and magnificent natural landmarks like the Garden of the Gods. Mix that in with a good helping of small-town charm, delectable restaurants and a diverse array of attractions (including the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center), and Colorado Springs has all the makings of a great vacation.

Although Boulder is Denver's slightly smaller neighbor, it is no less impressive. With both the Rocky Mountains and the Flatirons in the background, Boulder combines all of the relaxation of an outdoor escape with the energy of a city. Nature lovers will feel right at home while hiking and biking the city's trails or tubing down its stretch of Boulder Creek. Those looking for more urban entertainment can explore Boulder's beer trails or shop and dine at Pearl Street Mall's boutiques and restaurants.

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Prices The Travel Whisperer

Reviews about the travel whisperer.

• Charlotte I. October 3, 2022, 5:31 pm Epic experience and 100% recommend. Team of real people who helped us out with everything including accommodation, transfers, lift tickets and more. House was beautiful ski in/out with a hot tub. Hoping to go back out there soon! 0 0 Reply
• Josh W. June 21, 2022, 9:02 pm I've been on multiple ski trips to Beaver Creek with The Travel Whisperer. Kelly has always done a great job of organising amazing accommodation and has amazing knowledge on the US Ski destinations. Highly recommend! 0 0 Reply
• will k. June 17, 2022, 9:13 am The Travel Whisperer organised my first US ski vacation. It was seamless end to end in the most amazing property in Beaver Creek. Will 100% book with them again! 0 0 Reply
• Martina B. June 17, 2022, 12:00 am We went on a large group ski vacation and The Travel Whisperer organized the most seamless and relaxing experience! We stayed in a beautiful home right on the slopes where we could start the day skiing! After a long day skiing, we would come back to the house and enjoy the sunset sitting in the hot tub overlooking the mountains. The team was extremely attentive to anything we needed. We went back the next year! Would definitely recommend to anyone looking to enjoy an unforgettable ski vacation. 0 0 Reply
• Doug W. May 3, 2022, 2:51 pm Absolutely flawless! Travel whisperer booked my trip for me + 8 friends for a weeks skiing and the most incredible Beaver Creek property — just wow! All details were taken care of, and our group couldn't have been looked better after — I will certainly be booking through them again. 0 0 Reply
• Ash April 28, 2022, 8:03 pm Have had many amazing ski holidays organized by The Travel Whisperer. Always beautiful ski in/ski out accommodations and make it so easy by organizing ski passes and activities for us. Looking forward to the next trip already! 0 0 Reply
• Stephanie F. December 21, 2020, 9:43 pm Such bad customer service. My husband made a mistake booking with them in 2020. With all the changes in the world they would not let us out of the obligation even though we called within 24 hours. So many folks are being great this year and understanding the challenges for everyone — not the Travel Whisperer. Something to consider for future bookings. 0 0 Reply
• Mike B. March 3, 2020, 1:28 am We stayed at The Meadows in Beaver Creek and booked with The Travel Whisperer. It was a great experience from the booking, their help with lift tickets, getting us ready for the trip and then meeting us at the unit on check in. They were always available, quick to respond and professional. The Meadows unit C3 itself was outstanding. 0 0 Reply
• Jon P. February 27, 2020, 12:39 pm We stayed at The Castle in Arrowhead for one week. What an amazing experience, definitely the best ski trip I have ever been on. Thank you to The Travel Whisperer team for arranging the accommodation and their friendly service and advice. We will be back for sure! 0 0 Reply
• Real Estate Companies in Colorado
• Travel Agencies in Colorado

Real estate companies Benchmark

• Moving Mountains Avon, CO 81620, 70 Benchmark Rd Suite 101
• Land Title Guarantee Company Avon, CO 81620, 0090 Benchmark Rd Suite 205
• Charles Harrison — REALTOR, MRP, RSPS eXp Realty, Vail/Beaver Creek Colorado Avon, CO 81620, 30 Benchmark Rd

Real estate agencies in Colorado

• Beaver Creek Real Estate Beaver Creek, CO 81620, 120 Offerson Rd
• Slifer Smith & Frampton Real Estate — Highlands Lodge Avon, CO 81620, 15 Highlands Ln
• Griffin.Cryer.Burgund Beaver Creek, CO 81620, 15 Highlands Ln

Realtor services in Colorado

• Broby Leeds Avon, CO 81620, 126 Riverfront Ln C-100
• Mountain Valley Property Management Avon, CO 81620, 51 Eagle Rd Building 1
• Prologis Avon, CO 81620, 322 E Beaver Creek Blvd

Facility rental companies in Colorado

• Avon Colorado Rental Avon, CO 81620, 240 Chapel Pl
• BaseCamp Executive Suites & Co-working Space Avon, CO 81620, 82 E Beaver Creek Blvd #200
• Berkshire Hathaway Vail Vacation Rentals Avon, CO 81620, 150 E Beaver Creek Blvd

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Travel Alerts, Road Conditions & Motor Vehicle Information

Know before you go.

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

• Road conditions and travel information:   COtrip.org
• Download the COtrip Planner app:   bit.ly/COtripapp
• Sign up for project or travel alerts:   bit.ly/COnewsalerts
• See scheduled construction lane closures:   bit.ly/laneclosures
• Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media:   Twitter ,   Facebook ,   Instagram   and   YouTube

Motor Vehicle Information

Please visit the following agency for drivers licensing, commercial drivers licensing, motor vehicle title & registration, and many other motor vehicle related questions or issues: http://www.colorado.gov/revenue/dmv

For current road/weather conditions, please visit www.cotrip.org or dial 511.

Buc-ee's opens 1st Colorado location, drawing devotees on opening day

Hundreds of people lined up well before dawn for the 6 a.m. Monday opening of Colorado's first Buc-ee's , the Texas travel center that's developed a cult-like following.

The convenience store chain , praised for its food options and  award-winning  cleanliness, debuted its latest location in Johnstown, Colorado. Buc-ee the Beaver, the store's official mascot, was on hand to welcome the throngs as doors opened.

The store has 116 fueling stations and 12 electric vehicle charging stations, as well as thousands of snack, meal and drink offerings, including homemade fudge, a full bakery, barbecued brisket, turkey and pulled pork. They also sell clothes, outdoor gear, home goods, toys, books and wine.

Buc-ee's is continuing to open a wave of new locations, including one in Sevierville, Tennessee in June and in Springfield, Missouri in December.

Hardcore fans rejoice at grand opening

Theresa Gooras of Johnstown arrived with her adult children at 1:30 a.m. Monday dressed in Buc-ee's onesies, wearing Buc-ee's T-shirts and wrapped in Buc-ee's blankets. Originally from Texas, Gooras was giddy that her favorite store is now just five minutes away.

"When I go home (to Texas), I spend a whole lot of money at Buc-ee's," Gooras said. "They have the greatest gifts, barbecue and kolaches," she said, referring to savory Polish treats.

Her second floor is decorated with Buc-ee's memorabilia, including pillows and blankets, and she admits she might be obsessed with Buc-ee's. Now that there's a store close by?

"I'm sure we will be here a lot," she said. "My pocketbook will hate me."

Rob Rosen of Erie got off work in Blackhawk at 1:30 a.m. and drove straight to Johnstown to get in line.

"If you haven't been to a Buc-ee's, you have to go experience it," he said. Calling it the "Walmart of gas stations," Rosen said the travel center will be a great addition to the community. "It brings business from everywhere."

Mayor says Buc-ee's to bring 'significant' sales

The store  won town approval for several land use amendments  on 140 acres in early 2022. Johnstown Mayor Troy Mellon said Buc-ee's opening "ranks with Scheels opening up" and will bring "significant" sales tax revenue to the town. "It will go right back into the community to fund needed projects," he said.

Johnstown has high property taxes, Mellon said, and he hopes the sales tax revenue from Buc-ee's, along with Scheels, will produce enough revenue one day so the town can lower property taxes.

The town offered some sales tax sharebacks for 20 years as an incentive to get Buc-ee's to come to Johnstown. Those sharebacks were contingent on Buc-ee's installing electric vehicle charging stations and off-site improvements, such as a roundabout.

The town rebates 1.5% of the sales tax generated at Buc-ee's back to the store and keeps 1.5%. The other 0.5% of generated sales tax revenue is earmarked for roads and other infrastructure. Buc-ee's also provided about 275 jobs, most of them full time, said Josh Smith, Buc-ee's director of operations.

Other Buc-ee's locations coming to US

Following the Colorado opening, Buc-ee's will continue to expand its national presence.

Art Mann, economic development director in Hillsboro, Texas, said a location is expected to open this spring, according to a Buc-ee's spokesperson. The store would join over 30 Buc-ee's stores in the state. Another spot is expected to open in Boerne, Texas next year.

Construction for the Buc-ee's in Smiths Grove, Kentucky is expected to open this summer, the spokesperson added.

Local officials have also announced the following Buc-ee's developments:

• A store is coming to  western Ohio .
• Florida governor Ron DeSantis  announced last year  that a location will open in Ocala
• Plans have been submitted  for a location on the Treasure Coast.
• Also,  Reader's Digest  and  CSP Daily News  list that an  Anderson, South Carolina location  is slated to open in 2026.

What to know about Buc-ee's

• What snacks does Buc-ee's have ?
• We  review some of Buc-ee's most famous food  items
• Why are  people obsessed with Buc-ee's ?

Contributing: James Powel

The best wineries in Colorado, according to visitors' reviews

Posted: March 22, 2024 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

Highest-rated wineries in Colorado, according to Yelp

Napa Valley isn't the only travel destination in the United States for a good glass of wine. While California's wine country is known for being a top winery destination (and also home to the award-winning bottle of chardonnay that won top honors at the Judgment of Paris competition in 1976), wine connoisseurs no longer have to travel all the way to California for a good winery experience. In fact, at this point, noteworthy wineries are available to visit in every state, if you know where to look.

As of February 2023, there are 11,691 wineries in the United States , an increase of more than 10% since 2020. A 2022 report from WineAmerica stated the wine industry generates $276 billion in total economic activity and employs over a million people.

With such a booming industry and a plethora of wineries to choose from, how does a vino-lover know if a winery is worth it? First, the location is a big reason why people choose to visit a winery; if they are tucked away next to a sprawling field of grapes for guests to explore, then the wine is likely locally sourced. The tasting experience is also key. Wineries will offer a selection of their wines by the glass, or even tastings where the customer can order smaller pours of a variety of their wines. Some wineries even offer cellar tours with glimpses into their winemaking process. Of course, the ambiance is a big draw. If it's the kind of place that makes guests want to post photos on Instagram to make their friends jealous, then that winery is probably doing something right.

So how do you know which winery to visit that includes some—if not all—of what makes a winery the best of the best? Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated wineries in Colorado, according to Yelp , so you know exactly where to venture when wine o'clock hits—no trip to Napa necessary. Only businesses that had at least three reviews and are categorized as wineries on Yelp were included. Therefore, it's possible some businesses are miscategorized. Businesses that did not have a photo on Yelp were also not included.

#16. Deep Roots Winery & Bistro Rino

- Rating: 4.0/5 (41 reviews) - Address: 2875 Blake St Denver, CO 80205 - Categories: Wineries, Tapas/Small Plates, Pizza - Read more on Yelp

#15. Queen Bee Brews

- Rating: 4.0/5 (18 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 800 E 64th Ave Denver, CO 80229 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#14. Creekside Cellars

- Rating: 4.0/5 (219 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 28036 Hwy 74 Evergreen, CO 80439 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#13. Silver Vines Winery

- Rating: 4.0/5 (132 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 7509 Grandview Ave Arvada, CO 80002 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#12. Balistreri Vineyards

- Rating: 4.5/5 (259 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 1946 E 66th Ave Denver, CO 80229 - Categories: Wineries, Venues & Event Spaces - Read more on Yelp

#11. The Infinite Monkey Theorem

- Rating: 4.5/5 (257 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 3200 Larimer St Denver, CO 80205 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#10. Kingman Estates Winery

- Rating: 4.5/5 (24 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 800 E 64th Ave Denver, CO 80229 - Categories: Wineries, Venues & Event Spaces - Read more on Yelp

#9. Spero Winery

- Rating: 4.5/5 (40 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 3316 W 64th Ave Denver, CO 80221 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#8. Bonacquisti Wine Company

- Rating: 4.5/5 (61 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 4640 Pecos St Unit I Denver, CO 80211 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#7. Dodds Wine Vault

- Rating: 4.5/5 (11 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 872 W Happy Canyon Rd Castle Rock, CO 80108 - Categories: Wineries, Beer, Wine & Spirits - Read more on Yelp

#6. Blanchard Family Wines

- Rating: 4.5/5 (109 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 1855 Blake St Ste 120 Denver, CO 80202 - Categories: Wineries, Paint & Sip - Read more on Yelp

#5. Turquoise Mesa Winery

- Rating: 4.5/5 (28 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 800 E 64th Ave Ste 8 Denver, CO 80229 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#4. Attimo Wine

- Rating: 4.5/5 (50 reviews) - Address: 2246 Larimer St Denver, CO 80205 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#3. InVINtions, A Creative Winery

- Rating: 4.5/5 (92 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 9608 E Arapahoe Rd The Shops At Greenwood Village Greenwood Village, CO 80112 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#2. Ladron Cellars

- Rating: 5.0/5 (18 reviews) - Address: 11435 E Briarwood Ave Unit 100 Englewood, CO 80112 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

#1. The Wine Barrel

- Rating: 5.0/5 (36 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 11495 S Twenty Mile Rd Unit 5 Parker, CO 80134 - Categories: Wineries - Read more on Yelp

This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Kiersten Hickman, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 35 states.

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Transportation | Southwest, United airlines issue Colorado…

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Transportation | Southwest, United airlines issue Colorado travel alerts ahead of winter storm

Customers traveling wednesday, thursday or friday can rebook their flights.

United and Southwest airlines issued travel alerts and offered free rebookings for Colorado travelers on Tuesday ahead of a winter storm set to drop several feet of snow across the region this week.

The incoming storm is forecast to bring up to 20 inches of snow to Denver International Airport and up to 4 feet in some areas of the Front Range foothills and mountains, according to the National Weather Service.

United Airlines issued a travel alert for airports in Denver, Colorado Springs, Aspen, Vail/Eagle, Gunnison and Steamboat Springs for Wednesday through Friday. The airline also issued an alert for Casper, Cheyenne and Laramie, Wyoming.

Southwest Airlines also issued a travel alert for airports in Denver, Colorado Springs and Steamboat Springs for the same days.

United customers who purchased their tickets on or before Sunday and are set to travel Wednesday, Thursday or Friday can reschedule their trip through March 19 with no fee or fare difference.

Southwest customers can rebook or travel standby within 2 weeks of their original travel date without additional charges, according to the alert.

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Boom’s first test flight could signal the return of supersonic air travel

After years of delays, the colorado-based startup’s xb-1 demonstrator takes flight for the first time..

By Tim Stevens

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Aviation startup Boom Supersonic took a major step today toward its goal of returning commercial supersonic aviation to the skies, after the company’s prototype aircraft, the XB-1 , left the ground for the first time this week. The short, subsonic flight over the Mojave Desert came years later than expected, but it shows that Boom is at least still making progress.

The XB-1 took off Thursday at 7:28AM PT, reached a maximum altitude of 7,120 feet, and a top speed of 246 knots (283 mph). It landed 12 minutes later at 7:40AM.

Boom’s overall mission is to launch Overture, the first supersonic commercial aircraft since the Concorde ended operations 20 years ago . The company has secured contracts with major airlines like American and United , as well as manufacturing and development partnerships with Florida Turbine Technologies and GE Additive.

However, some of the most significant news lately has been the loss of partnerships, specifically with Rolls-Royce. The British manufacturer of jet engines parted ways with Boom in 2022, leaving the startup to develop its own engines.

Boom’s overall mission is to launch Overture, the first supersonic commercial aircraft since the Concorde ended operations 20 years ago

Notably, those engines are not used in the XB-1. Boom’s demonstrator aircraft, originally scheduled to fly in 2017, relies on a trio of 1950s-era J85 turbojet engines, the sorts used to power vintage aircraft like the Northrop T-38 trainer or F-5 fighter. 

Overture, Boom’s full-size supersonic commercial airliner, will use four of the company’s own engines, which are still under development and will be called Symphony. 

In an interview ahead of the flight,  Boom CEO and founder Blake Scholl says that each Symphony engine will deliver roughly three times the combined output of the XB-1’s three J85 engines. 

Engine type is just one of many design differences between the XB-1 and the eventual Overture craft, not the least of which is size. Scholl calls the XB-1 a “one-third scale prototype demonstrator for Overture.”

Scholl says the XB-1 is helpful for validation of simulator data and that its development has already borne fruit in the design of Overture — despite the two looking nothing alike.

“If your prototype looks exactly like your production airplane, it actually implies you’ve learned nothing. And we’ve learned a lot of things from XB-1 through the design, development, manufacturing that have caused us to improve Overture,” Scholl says. 

Boom’s demonstrator aircraft relies on a trio of 1950s-era J85 turbojet engines

The XB-1 also serves another significant purpose: fundraising. 

“The way ventures like this are always financed, you raise some capital, you prove some milestones. And flying this airplane here is a very important one of those milestones. That demonstrates the track record of execution, demonstrates that progress is being made, and enables access to capital and ever higher valuation,” Scholl says. “That’s how you look at SpaceX , any other kind of private aerospace venture, that’s how they all work.”

The current target is for the Overture airliner to take its first flight by 2030, but getting there will be expensive. Scholl says Boom has raised over $700 million so far, but that the overall development of Overture could cost upward of $8 billion.

Beyond finances, one of Boom’s most significant challenges might be right there in its name. 

Today’s regulations against sonic booms would mean subsonic Overture flights over most major land masses, throttling up only over ocean transits. The deployment of technologies developed on demonstrators like the NASA X-59 , which could turn sonic booms into sonic “thumps,” might ease those regulations in the future. 

Even so, flying at Mach 1.7 only over water would roughly halve the duration of flights between New York to London or Seattle to Tokyo.

The other big missing piece is sustainability. Flying two times faster than a current jetliner necessarily uses a fair bit more fuel in the process. That situation is compounded by the Overture seating just 64 passengers compared to the 853 souls you can sling over the Atlantic in an Airbus A380. 

Sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF , could prevent supersonic travel from becoming an even bigger burden on the environment than today’s aviation industry. SAF is created using renewable sources and is ideally infused with carbon pulled out of the atmosphere via direct air capture . This would, in theory, create a genuinely carbon-neutral aircraft fuel.

The eventual availability and distribution of SAF is an industry problem. Boom’s next steps are proving that its engineers’ designs can not only fly, but that they can break the sound barrier.

Of course, that is the goal for the XB-1, but we have a ways to go before that thing’s sonic booms shake the Mojave sands. CEO Scholl says that XB-1 will undergo a series of up to 15 test flights throughout the year, so-called “envelope expansion” missions, which will eventually push that envelope through the sound barrier.

Boom is also making progress on its Greensboro, NC “superfactory,” which Scholl says is ahead of schedule and will open this summer. But Overture, the airliner that will be assembled there, is years away. 

“We’re still targeting being in the air around the end of the decade on Overture. There’s a lot of work to do between now and then on that airplane, and our goal is to do it safely but also with a sense of urgency because we want this airplane for ourselves, our friends, our family, and our customers,” he says. 

So, the dream of supersonic commercial air travel is still moving toward reality, but those hoping to move quickly through the air will have to sit patiently for a good while longer. 

‘Even stronger’ than imagined: DOJ’s sweeping Apple lawsuit draws expert praise

United states v. apple is pure nerd rage, smartwatches shouldn’t make you choose between apple and android, us sues apple for illegal monopoly over smartphones.

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