likesadvice wrote:
We will be staying at a relatives property near Poncha Springs for a few days, and then have a week to travel Colorado. Any more recommendations you think my wife, 2 young kids and I might enjoy would be greatly appreciated.
Based on these two things, let me make a few observations. First, I don't know what ages your kids are, so that may change some of the activities I recommend. (Colorado native here, I've driven virtually every highway in the state dozens of times.)
Stick to one part of the state. With only a week, you'll do nothing but drive to see everything you've listed. Rocky Mountain National Park is virtually a full days drive from Pagosa Springs, so I'd skip it this trip if you only have a week.
One option would be a the Durango area. From there, you can visit Silverton, Telluride, Mesa Verde, etc. Durango is at 6500'+, so somewhat cooler than the desert southwest. Pick a campground north of town (higher up) for cooler temps. We like Haviland Lake NFS CG. You can also camp up at Mesa Verde NP, which is nearly 8000' high. If your kids are old enough, the cliff dwellings and ruins will really intrigue them. Also,
the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad if a full day activity that kids five or six and up will really get a kick out of. You'll go through magnificent scenery and end up in a real western mining town with dirt streets and wooden sidewalks.
My other recommendation would be to go to the Salida/Buena Vista/Leadville area. Again, lots to see like ghost towns, mining ruins, the tallest range of mountains in the state, rafting for all ages, etc. etc. My #1 pick for families.
If you decide RMNP is a must see, I'd head straight there from Poncha Springs and camp on the east side of the park. If you can do w/o hookups, Moraine Park is our favorite NPS CG in the park. But I wouldn't try to incorporate Ouray, Vail, etc. in this trip.
If there is one road I always recommend people to avoid when towing, it's Independence Pass east of Aspen. Too narrow and windy. Others here have other roads they are uncomfortable with, so I'll let them chime in. I know I see RV's on every highway in the state, but your own comfort with your vehicle is what will guide you.
