Colorado, Wyoming, Montana 15-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at Denver & Car Pickup

Arrive at Denver International Airport (DIA), pick up your pre-booked rental car.

Allow time for airport procedures and shuttle to the car rental facility. Drive to your hotel in downtown Denver.

Ensure you have all necessary documents for car pickup (driver's license, credit card, reservation).

Hotel Check-in Denver

Check into your hotel located conveniently in downtown Denver.

Take some time to freshen up before heading out.

Explore 16th Street Mall

Stroll along the pedestrian-friendly 16th Street Mall, lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Enjoy the free shuttle bus for easy navigation.

A great spot for people-watching and getting a feel for the city center.

Visit Denver Union Station

Discover the beautifully restored historic Union Station, now a vibrant hub with restaurants, bars, and a boutique hotel.

Admire the architecture and soak in the atmosphere.

Consider grabbing a drink at one of the bars inside.

Dinner in LoDo

Enjoy dinner in Denver's Lower Downtown (LoDo) district, known for its historic buildings and diverse culinary scene.

Denver Art Museum

Explore the impressive collections at the Denver Art Museum, renowned for its Native American art, Western art, and modern and contemporary exhibits.

Lunch at Local Eatery

Enjoy lunch at a cafe or restaurant near the Art Museum or in another interesting Denver neighborhood.

Drive to Golden, CO

Take a scenic drive to the charming historic town of Golden, located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Explore Clear Creek & Downtown Golden

Stroll along Clear Creek, enjoy the outdoors, and explore the historic downtown area of Golden with its shops and cafes.

Golden is home to the Colorado School of Mines and has a relaxed, outdoorsy feel.

Coors Brewery Tour (Optional)

Take a tour of the Coors Brewery, one of the world's largest single-site breweries, and learn about the brewing process.

Includes samples for those 21+.

Dinner in Golden or Back in Denver

Choose to have dinner in Golden before driving back, or return to Denver for another culinary experience.

Drive to Estes Park

Check out from your Denver hotel and drive to Estes Park, the charming mountain town that serves as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Check into Estes Park Accommodation

Check into your motel or lodge camping accommodation in or near Estes Park.

Settle in and prepare for your national park adventures.

Lunch in Estes Park

Grab lunch in Estes Park.

There are many casual eateries, or you can pick up supplies for a picnic later in the park.

Explore Estes Park Town

Wander through downtown Estes Park, browse the shops, enjoy the river walk, and take in the mountain views.

RMNP Entry & Sprague Lake Walk

Enter Rocky Mountain National Park (timed entry reservation may be required).

Take a leisurely walk around Sprague Lake, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, especially at golden hour.

Check NPS website for timed entry permit requirements for RMNP. The America the Beautiful pass (USD 80) covers vehicle entry for a year.

Dinner in Estes Park

Enjoy a relaxed dinner back in Estes Park, perhaps trying some local Rocky Mountain cuisine.

Drive Trail Ridge Road

Embark on an incredible scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, alpine tundra, and potential wildlife sightings. Stop at various overlooks.

This road is typically open from late May/early June to mid-October. Dress in layers, as temperatures can be significantly colder at higher elevations. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g143048-d1946612-Reviews-Trail_Ridge_Road-Rocky_Mountain_National_Park_Colorado.html?m=66827

Picnic Lunch in RMNP

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at a scenic spot within Rocky Mountain National Park, surrounded by nature's beauty.

Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a small cooler. Several picnic areas are available throughout the park.

Hike to Emerald & Dream Lakes

Hike one of the most popular trails in the Bear Lake Road corridor.

This moderately easy trail leads to Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and finally Emerald Lake, offering stunning alpine lake views.

The round trip to Emerald Lake is about 3.2 miles. Get an early start or use the free park shuttle to avoid parking issues at Bear Lake.

Evening Wildlife Viewing

Drive through areas like Moraine Park or Horseshoe Park for prime evening wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for elk and deer. Dusk is a great time to spot animals.

Dinner in Estes Park

Return to Estes Park for dinner after a full day of exploration in the national park.

Morning Walk / Short Hike in RMNP

Enjoy a final morning activity in Rocky Mountain National Park, perhaps a walk around Moraine Park or a short trail you haven't explored yet, before heading out.

Depending on your energy and interest, this could be a gentle stroll or a more moderate hike.

Check Out & Depart Estes Park

Check out from your accommodation in Estes Park and begin your drive north towards Fort Collins.

Lunch in Loveland or Fort Collins

Stop for lunch in Loveland or upon arrival in Fort Collins, depending on your pace.

Explore Fort Collins Old Town

Wander through the charming historic Old Town of Fort Collins, which inspired Disneyland's Main Street U.S.A. Enjoy the unique shops, breweries, and architecture.

Fort Collins is known for its craft breweries; consider stopping for a local beer if time permits.

Hotel Check-in Fort Collins

Check into your motel or hotel in Fort Collins, preparing for the next leg of your journey into Wyoming.

Dinner in Fort Collins

Enjoy dinner at one of Fort Collins' diverse restaurants, from casual to upscale.

Scenic Drive to Cheyenne

Depart from the Rocky Mountain National Park area and enjoy a scenic drive east towards Cheyenne, Wyoming, the 'Magic City of the Plains.

'

Lunch in Cheyenne

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local eatery in downtown Cheyenne, experiencing true Western hospitality.

Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum

Explore the rich history of the American West and the world-famous Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo.

Discover exhibits on rodeo, pioneering, and Native American culture.

Check for current exhibition schedules. Open daily.

Wyoming State Capitol Building

Take a self-guided tour of the beautifully restored Wyoming State Capitol Building, an architectural gem and a National Historic Landmark.

Free admission. Check for tour times if you prefer a guided experience.

Dinner in Cheyenne

Savor dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some regional Wyoming specialties.

Drive to Jackson, Wyoming

Embark on a scenic, full-day drive from Cheyenne towards Jackson, Wyoming, the gateway to Grand Teton National Park. Enjoy changing landscapes from plains to mountains.

Explore Jackson Town Square

Upon arrival in Jackson, stretch your legs with a walk around the iconic Town Square, famous for its antler arches and Western art galleries.

Great spot for photography and browsing local shops.

Dinner in Jackson

Enjoy dinner at one of Jackson's many excellent restaurants, offering a range of cuisines from casual to upscale Western fare.

Jenny Lake & Hidden Falls Hike

Start your day with a visit to Jenny Lake.

Take the scenic boat shuttle across the lake (optional) to access the Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point trails.

Boat shuttle is seasonal and has a fee (USD 20-30 for 2 people round trip). The hike to Hidden Falls is moderate.

Picnic with a View

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning backdrop of the Teton Range.

There are numerous scenic pull-offs and picnic areas.

Teton Park Road Scenic Drive

Drive along the Teton Park Road, stopping at iconic viewpoints like Cascade Canyon Turnout, Cathedral Group Turnout, and Oxbow Bend for magnificent photography opportunities.

Keep an eye out for wildlife such as moose, elk, and bison.

Sunset at Mormon Row

Visit Mormon Row for classic photographs of historic barns with the dramatic Teton Range in the background.

It's especially beautiful in the late afternoon light.

Dinner at Colter Bay

Dine at a restaurant within Colter Bay Village, enjoying views of Jackson Lake.

Morning Hike at String Lake

Enjoy an easy, picturesque hike around String Lake, offering beautiful views and opportunities for birdwatching.

It's a less crowded alternative to Jenny Lake.

Perfect for a leisurely walk or even a swim on a warm day.

Lunch in the Park

Grab a quick and easy lunch at a general store or deli within Grand Teton National Park to maximize your time outdoors.

Dave Hansen Whitewater and Scenic River Trips

Experience the Snake River with a thrilling whitewater adventure or a more relaxed scenic float trip.

Voted best of Jackson Hole for 10 years in a row, it's an unforgettable way to see the Teton landscape and wildlife from the water.

Booking is highly recommended. Choose between a whitewater or scenic trip based on your preference. Pricing varies by trip type.

Dinner & Stargazing

Enjoy a relaxing dinner near your lodge cabins.

Afterwards, find a dark spot within the park to experience the incredible stargazing unique to the remote Western sky.

Sunrise Wildlife Viewing

Start the day early for one last chance to spot wildlife (moose, elk, bison) along the park roads or near waterways as the sun rises over the Tetons.

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy a final breakfast at your lodge before preparing to depart Grand Teton National Park.

Drive to Yellowstone South Entrance

Begin the scenic drive north, exiting Grand Teton National Park and entering Yellowstone National Park via the South Entrance.

This drive itself is very picturesque.

Lunch inside Yellowstone

Have lunch at a dining facility near the South Entrance or Grant Village area of Yellowstone National Park.

West Thumb Geyser Basin

Explore the West Thumb Geyser Basin, located on the shore of Yellowstone Lake.

Witness hot springs and geysers right on the lake's edge.

An easy boardwalk trail provides access to the features. This is your first taste of Yellowstone's geothermal wonders!

Drive to Yellowstone South Entrance

Enjoy the scenic drive from Grand Teton National Park into the southern entrance of Yellowstone, entering a landscape of unique geothermal features.

Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way.

Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin

Witness the iconic eruption of Old Faithful, then explore the Upper Geyser Basin boardwalks to see other active geysers, hot springs, and colorful pools like Morning Glory Pool.

Check eruption predictions at the visitor center. Stay on designated boardwalks for safety.

Lunch near Old Faithful

Grab a casual lunch at one of the dining options near Old Faithful, such as the Old Faithful Snow Lodge cafeteria or Old Faithful Inn Dining Room.

Grand Prismatic Spring & Midway Geyser Basin

Visit the stunningly colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the U.

S., and other vibrant features in the Midway Geyser Basin. A short hike to the Grand Prismatic Overlook offers the best views.

The Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail is a must-do for panoramic views.

West Thumb Geyser Basin & Lake

Explore the West Thumb Geyser Basin, located on the shore of Yellowstone Lake, offering unique geothermal features right by the water.

Often a good spot to see bison.

Dinner at a Yellowstone Lodge

Enjoy dinner at one of Yellowstone's historic lodges, such as the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room or the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room, offering rustic charm and local cuisine.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Explore the iconic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, visiting Artist Point and Inspiration Point for breathtaking views of the Lower and Upper Falls.

Consider a short hike along the canyon rim.

Uncle Tom's Trail to the base of the Lower Falls might be closed; check trail conditions.

Lunch at Canyon Village

Enjoy lunch at Canyon Village, which offers several dining options, including a cafeteria and a restaurant.

Hayden Valley Wildlife Viewing

Drive through Hayden Valley, a prime spot for viewing bison herds, elk, and potentially bears. Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife watching.

Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife (at least 25 yards for most animals, 100 yards for bears and wolves).

Mud Volcano Area

Discover the bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and sulfurous hot springs of the Mud Volcano area, known for its distinct earthy smells and unique geothermal activity.

Lamar Valley Evening Wildlife Drive

Head to Lamar Valley, often called the 'Serengeti of North America,' for exceptional opportunities to spot wolves, grizzly bears, elk, and bison, especially in the early evening.

This requires a drive across the northern part of the park. It’s worth it for the wildlife viewing!

Dinner at Canyon Village Area

Return to Canyon Village for dinner after your wildlife drive, enjoying the convenience of the lodge restaurants.

Consider packed snacks for the Lamar Valley drive.

Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces

Explore the unique travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs.

Walk the boardwalks of both the Upper and Lower Terraces, marveling at the constantly changing formations.

Visit the Albright Visitor Center here for exhibits and park information.

Norris Geyser Basin

Discover the hottest and most dynamic geyser basin in Yellowstone, with its distinct Porcelain Basin and Back Basin featuring acid hot springs and active geysers.

Temperatures can be extremely hot; stay on boardwalks.

Lunch in Gardiner, MT

Enjoy a late lunch in Gardiner, the northern gateway town to Yellowstone, before heading north towards Bozeman.

Scenic Drive to Bozeman, MT

Embark on a picturesque drive from Gardiner, Montana, through Paradise Valley, along the Yellowstone River, to your final destination, Bozeman.

Check into Bozeman Hotel

Check into your hotel in Bozeman and settle in after a full day of exploration and travel.

Dinner in Downtown Bozeman

Enjoy dinner at one of Bozeman's many excellent downtown restaurants, experiencing the city's vibrant culinary scene.

Museum of the Rockies

Spend your morning at the renowned Museum of the Rockies, home to one of the world's largest collections of dinosaur fossils, a planetarium, and exhibits on regional history and culture.

Lunch in Downtown Bozeman

Enjoy lunch at a local cafe or bistro in downtown Bozeman, experiencing the relaxed atmosphere.

Explore Downtown Boutiques & Galleries

Stroll along Main Street in downtown Bozeman, browsing unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops.

This is a great opportunity for some relaxed shopping and photography.

Relax at Bogert Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk or simply relax at Bogert Park, a lovely community park with green spaces and a pleasant atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

Farewell Dinner in Bozeman

Indulge in a special farewell dinner at one of Bozeman's finer dining establishments, celebrating the end of your incredible road trip.

Consider making a reservation at a popular spot like Blackbird Kitchen or Open Range.

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a charming local cafe in Bozeman before heading to the airport.

Last-Minute Souvenirs

Take some time for any last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot in downtown Bozeman.

Drive to Bozeman Airport

Drive to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) to return your rental car.

Rental Car Return

Return your rental car at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN).

Allow ample time for car return procedures and shuttle to the terminal if necessary.

Airport Check-in & Departure

Proceed with check-in and security for your departing flight from Bozeman, concluding your fantastic road trip.