Texas to Colorado Itinerary

Thom02099 wrote:
I think your original plan is well thought out and planned. You could tweak a few things here and there, but by and large I'd say that would be a good trip, with a lot of memories for your family.

Now, this is not to say that I don't recommend Rocky. I do. It's where I spend a lot of my time, as well as in the Poudre Canyon area NW of Fort Collins. That said, trying to add in RMNP to your itinerary would make you feel rushed for the time you have reserved. Staying with the plan for central and southwestern Colorado gives your trip more of a sense of purpose.

For Mesa Verde NP, you may want to consider camping inside the park at Morefield. There's a LOT of driving involved with MVNP, and being inside makes it a bit more convenient.

Durango is a fun town, don't overlook the historic downtown area, where there's a lot going on most weekends. Lightner Creek is where I've stayed and is recommended, although there are others in the area that are also highly recommended. The Silverton and Durango RR is a must do, spending some time in Silverton is a lot of fun. There's also some hot springs in the area that can be enjoyable for soaking after a hectic day.

And while in Ouray, don't forget the downtown there as well as the Ouray Hot Springs. Both the KOA north of town, as well as Ridgway SP are excellent choices.

Can't say enough about the Arkansas River Valley area around Buena Vista. So much to see and do, the vistas of all the 14ers in the area is impressive. Take some time to visit downtown Salida as well the Victorian homes in Leadville. Up and over Cottonwood Pass is the Taylor Park area, with excellent camping and fishing, and ATV activities.

With all that to see and do, you won't miss RMNP. Unfortunately, most folks do Rocky in one day, go up on Trail Ridge Road, and that's it. There's so much more to see in the park if one gets off the beaten trail, and there's more than enough hiking to spend several days there. Should really be a trip unto itself, perhaps combined with some of the other sights in the northern Colorado area of Poudre Canyon,North Park, and Steamboat Springs.

Hope you have a wonderful trip!