Busskipper,
Great list and feels like I wrote that. :)
I agree completely about Estes Park. It has become such a tourist trap it has lost its charm. Seems like in the summer months, things are much more about money there anymore.
One place you touched on, but more so about just a drive through, is Glenwood Springs. That is a great town to hang out in with a lot of CO outdoor activity nearby. Something nice to do is soaking in the Glenwood Hot Springs pool. It may seem commercialized at first, but go there, it is nice to soak after a long day of outdoor activities.