Exploring Eastern Colorado's history & landscapes
Step back in time at Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, reflect on history at Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, and then immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park on this five-day journey through Eastern Colorado.
Day 1
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Santa Fe Historic Trail exploration
Pioneer history
Start your journey at the storied town of Lamar, one of the stops on the Santa Fe Trail and home to one of Colorado's welcome centers. Learn about the trail and region's history through the exhibits available here, including a steam locomotive.
Bent's Old Fort
Drive to and explore this reconstructed 1830s trading post along the Santa Fe Trail. Explore fort rooms filled with period artifacts and learn how this outpost shaped the region. Take a short 2-mile hike to the Arkansas River to enjoy the cottonwoods and bird watching along its shores.
Day 2
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Sacred grounds
Reflect on complicated histories
Drive to Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, where you’ll learn about the 1864 attack on a peaceful Cheyenne and Arapaho village. Stop at the visitor contact station for background on this tragic event.
Walk the hallowed grounds
Follow the walking trail to the overlook, where interpretive signs and memorials tell the story of the massacre and its lasting impact on Indigenous communities. Take time to reflect at the site’s memorial area, honoring the lives lost and the resilience of Native peoples today.
Garden of the Gods
Drive west to Colorado Springs to wander and climb through the captivating red sandstone formations at the Garden of the Gods.
Days 3-5
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Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
Scenic drives and wildlife viewing
Drive north to Rocky Mountain National Park and begin your adventure Beaver Meadows Visitor Center before climbing over 12,000 feet along the nation's highest contiguous paved road. Stop at overlooks for breathtaking views and keep an eye out for elk, marmots, and bighorn sheep in the meadows.
Hiking and adventure
Start your second day hiking to Alberta Falls (1.6 miles roundtrip) for a waterfall experience or challenge yourself on the Sky Pond Trail (9.5 miles roundtrip) for views of alpine lakes and dramatic peaks. Take an easier stroll around Sprague Lake for reflection and panoramic mountain views.
Grand Lake & The West Side
Spend your last day in Rocky Mountain in the quieter Kawuneeche Valley on the park’s west side, where moose are often spotted. End your journey at the charming lakeside town of Grand Lake.
Storm Peak Trail
Lake below the Rocky Mountains
Bear Lake
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Optional add-on
More time in the Rockies
Those with more time will want to spend another day or two taking in the vast and majestic mountain landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, whether climbing one of the state's many 14ers, biking in a ski resort, or catching a glimpse of summer wildflowers.
Visit Smart
Check regulations
Timed-entry reservations may be required for Rocky Mountain National Park during busier seasons—reserve your spot in advance. Bring binoculars for better views of distant wildlife.
Know your limits
High-altitude hiking can be strenuous—pace yourself, drink plenty of water, and be aware of sudden weather changes.
Be prepared
Cell service is unreliable in the mountains, so download maps ahead of time. Carry extra layers for sudden temperature drops.
Leave no trace
These Colorado landscapes are important to many Indigenous peoples. Be sure to stay on marked trails and respect the ecosystems and cultural sites.
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