Lots of good info here. Just keep in mind that you really can't see Colorado from a base camp or two. That would involve a lot of unnecessary driving. Move around and explore one area at a time. You'll enjoy it a lot more! Also, don't go too early in the season for some of the high elevations (snow) and for those high elevations you probably don't want to stay after the end of Sept. The month of Sept. is awesome with the colors! Would recommend you purchase the 'Mountain Directory West' for excellent mountain highway driving information and also the 'Colorado Atlas' from BENCHMARK. It will be your constant source of information. Planning a trip is fun, too. Good luck!