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Estes Park | Grand lake | Leadville/Twin Lakes | Aspen | Telluride | Mesa Verde

We recently embarked on an unforgettable Colorado road trip with our three children and camper. Starting from Cincinnati, Ohio, we opted for a split travel approach—my husband drove the camper out west, while some of us flew to meet him.

Our main journey began in Denver, Colorado, with a one-night stay in Golden, a town that left such a lasting impression on us that we’re already planning to return. You can read more about our experience in Golden in our "Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary" blog.

From there, we set off on a three-week adventure, exploring mountain towns, national parks, and much more. In this blog, I’ll be highlighting some of our favorite spots and recommendations for traveling around Colorado with kids.

As we rounded the corner and caught our first official glimpse of the Estes Park area, I was completely captivated. This was the first true mountain town of our trip, and it couldn’t have left a better impression. Although we stayed inside Rocky Mountain National Park and didn’t have as much time to explore Estes Park as we would have liked (a recurring theme on this trip!), we’re already planning to return with a better understanding of what this incredible place has to offer.

The Kids’ Top Fun Family Activities in Colorado

While my dad, husband, son and I embarked on an unforgettable 9-mile hike to Andrews Glacier, my mom took our younger children into Estes Park. 

• Aerial Tramway: The Estes Park Aerial Tramway is an open-air ride that carries passengers from the town up to the summit of Prospect Mountain. The kids loved the ride, but my mom did mention that the open windows made her a bit uneasy, especially being alone with two wild kids. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the area. My 8-year-old proudly claimed that he reached the same heights as we did on our hike…just without the hiking—and he’s not wrong!

• Mustang Mountain Coaster: The Mustang Mountain Coaster in Estes Park was a hit with the kids. It’s a gravity-driven ride that twists through the mountain terrain, offering sharp turns and a thrilling rush. Riders control their speed, so it’s perfect for both adrenaline junkies and those with little ones. The mix of excitement and scenic views made it a highlight for our younger two.

• Fun City: Ironically, when I asked the kids about their favorite part of the entire trip, Fun City was near the top of their list. Mini golf, bumper boats and a giant rainbow slide proved hard to beat apparently! Although we usually steer clear of touristy spots like this, it’s a good reminder that adding a bit of classic fun to the mix is sometimes just what a vacation needs.

• Poppy’s Pizza and Grill: Delicious pizza. Need I say more?!

Grand Lake is definitely worth a visit, especially for families exploring Colorado with kids, and the drive there along Trail Ridge Road is part of the fun. We only spent a few hours in Grand Lake, but it felt like stepping into a picture-perfect magazine cover. I loved how it had a more quaint and peaceful vibe compared to Estes Park.

The lake was stunning, with sailboats gliding against the backdrop of the mountains. The whole town was easily walkable with charming shops and inviting restaurants. Kids will love jumping in the water, stopping for ice cream or simply playing in the sand at the adorable beach.

Idaho Springs: A Must-Visit Stop on Your Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

Depending on whether you’re leaving from Grand Lake or Estes Park, you might not pass through Idaho Springs, but if you do, it’s the perfect town for a quick stop or even an overnight stay. After the casino surroundings of Black Hawk, Idaho Springs was a welcome change. The contrast from the mountain settings we had just come from was striking, and we didn’t quite connect with the area around Black Hawk, partly because we visited on a very hot summer day and learned that winter is their busy season.

In contrast, Idaho Springs offered a more laid-back, hip town vibe that we found much more appealing. They block off the main road, allowing people to stroll freely, making it feel safe and easy to explore with kids. We enjoyed a meal at Westbound and Down Brewing Company, explored several charming shops, and topped off the evening with a sweet treat at Sit n Chill Ice Cream.

But the real surprise for my coffee-loving self was The Roadhouse Lodge & Cafe. When I walked in for an iced coffee, I was blown away by the decor and ambiance. They even had ice cream for the kids, which they loved. If you’re heading to Independence Pass on your way to Aspen, Colorado, or hitting up one of the amazing hiking trails in the area, be sure to stop here for a fantastic cup of coffee. And if you’re thinking of staying overnight, they have rooms available, too!

My only real complaint about Twin Lakes is the mosquitoes—they were pretty fierce in July, so bug spray was definitely a must.

Fun Family Activities in Colorado: Exploring the Small Towns

Camping Near Leadville

• Lakeview Campground - The campground was situated on a hill so a lot of sites had views of the lake. This was our first time bringing the kids camping at a location that didn’t have any hookups, or running water in the campground. We had to pack it all in, but we (mostly) did great! Our campsite was so spectacular that it made it hard to leave. Despite this, we ventured out several times and found plenty of fun family activities in Colorado to enjoy in the area.

Things to Do in Leadville, Colorado

Kayaking and Canoeing on Twin Lakes

• Twin Lakes Canoe and Kayak - One of the most beautiful things I’ve ever done was taking my mom and the three kids out to canoe and kayak on Twin Lakes. We rented from Twin Lakes Canoe and Kayak right off the shore, which was super convenient and saved us from hauling the boats to the lake ourselves. Plus, it turned out to be safer that way after our experience…

Things took a turn when a headwind picked up and a storm started rolling in. (You can read more tips about weather changing while out exploring here.) Paddling back across the lake became much tougher than before, and I started to get worried, especially since my 10-year-old was out there alone in a kayak. With just my mom and me in the canoe and the storm getting closer, I had to stay calm for the kids despite the thunder rolling in behind us. It took a while to get back to shore, and my older son was pretty exhausted. There was definitely a moment I didn’t think we could make it back to shore in a pretty decent size lake.

Tour - For a guided kayak tour near Leadville with excellent reviews, this is an outstanding choice. Along the way, you'll also learn about Native American history and local ecology, making the experience that much more unique and special.

The Leadville Train

• The Leadville Train is a great way to soak in the stunning mountain views around Leadville, Colorado. It’s a fun, nostalgic ride that gives you a cool glimpse into the area’s history while enjoying the scenery.

The Famous in Leadville

• The Famous in Leadville, Colorado, is a must-visit for its delicious, hearty meals and unique, historic ambiance. This local gem offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu that perfectly captures the charm of this mountain town.

Half Moon Packing Horseback Riding

• Horseback riding at Half Moon Pack Station is perfect for families with kids as young as 8, offering a gentle and enjoyable experience through the scenic trails.

Our next stop was Aspen, Colorado, but first, we had to tackle the Continental Divide via Independence Pass. The drive was absolutely terrifying at times, with some sections lacking guardrails, very narrow lanes, and dips right by sheer cliffs. One wrong move and you’d plunge down to your death!

To make things even more intense, it started hailing during part of our drive. The locals made it seem like a walk in the park as they breezed past us and many others, flying down the mountainside in the middle of the ice storm. Pretty sure some of us had a panic attack!

Exploring Aspen’s Surroundings: Must-See Stops on Your Colorado Road Trip

As quickly as the hailstorm had rolled in, it rolled out, and we were finally able to stop and take in the breathtaking beauty of the drive. We made several stops along this road, but our kids’ top two were:

• Ghost Town - This historic site, once a bustling mining town in the late 19th century, now features intriguing remnants of old buildings and mining equipment. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and is a great spot to stretch your legs and explore the abandoned structures amidst the stunning mountain backdrop.

• Grottos Trail - Grottos Trail is a scenic hike known for its beautiful rock formations and cascading waterfalls. The trail features a series of natural grottos and caves, which are particularly striking as you follow the path along the creek. It’s a relatively short and easy hike, making it a great option for families. We found a safe, shallow area where the kids could play in the creek, and they absolutely loved it. The area is perfect for a leisurely walk and offers fantastic photo opportunities, with the added enjoyment of creekside fun for the kids.

Family Fun in Aspen: Exploring Snowmass Resort and Local Delights

In Aspen, we spent some time at Snowmass Resort. This expansive resort offers a variety of activities year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to mountain biking and hiking in the summer. With its family-friendly atmosphere, Snowmass provides something for everyone, including scenic gondola rides, a lively village with shops and dining, and plenty of outdoor adventures.

We spent most of our time strolling around town, letting the kids play at the local playground, and soaking in the gorgeous scenery. When we were on the hunt for a dessert spot, the locals recommended Paradise Bakery, and it did not disappoint. This place is a must-visit for anyone in Aspen! The treats were absolutely delicious, and the presentation was just as delightful to the eyes.

Our very quick visit to Aspen was followed by my favorite Colorado town, Telluride. As for Aspen vs Telluride, we felt that Aspen was a little fancy for us, especially at this phase of life with the three kids. Although it was kid-friendly, with the great playground and splash area, it overall wasn’t as easy to navigate with kids compared to Telluride. The prices were much more expensive overall.

Telluride also had a playground right in town, adding to its family-friendly appeal. The town had a relaxing, low-key vibe that really made us feel welcome in a way that Aspen didn’t. I think we will try Aspen again when the kids are older…or actually, we will leave them at home!

Staying and Dining in Telluride, Colorado

We stayed at Matterhorn Campground, about 20 minutes from town, but next time we’ll definitely opt for the Telluride Town Park Campground, which is within walking distance of everything the town has to offer. We had dinner at Strong House Brew Pub, a cozy spot with a great vibe and an impressive selection of craft beers. The food was delicious, and the unique atmosphere made for a memorable dining experience. Even the bathrooms were next level!

A side note, I couldn’t help but notice the Aspen trees in this part of the state. Their striking white trunks stand out beautifully against the landscape. What’s fascinating about Aspens is that they grow in large colonies connected by a single root system, making them one of the oldest living organisms on Earth. Their leaves also shimmer in the wind, creating a unique "quaking" sound.

A Rainy Adventure to Bridal Veil Falls: Three Waterfalls, One Hike

Our main hike in Telluride was to Bridal Veil Falls, and it was fantastic because we got to see three waterfalls in one hike! We experienced a full Colorado rainstorm during our trek, so we definitely got the authentic Colorado rain experience. My biggest gripe about this hike was that after we’d climbed all the way up the steep elevation, we found people driving up to the top to see the main falls. I made a mental note to avoid hikes where people can drive right up to the destination in the future. Despite that, the hike was gorgeous, and the views of Telluride on the way back down were absolutely breathtaking.

Tour Option - For older children and adults, this rafting trip is similar to one that we did in Utah, where the kids had an absolute blast. We nearly passed on it due to the cost, especially with five of us, but in the end, it turned out to be one of the top highlights of our entire 3-week trip. I’ll be writing a blog about our Utah adventure soon, but in the meantime, check out this rafting experience!

Our last stop in Colorado was the magnificent Mesa Verde National Park, a destination that left a lasting impression on us. We stayed within the park at Morefield Campground, which offered a convenient base for our adventures. Unlike many other parks, Mesa Verde has several dining options available, allowing us to pack lighter.

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the cliff dwellings, which provided a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people. The cultural history embedded in these lands resonated deeply with us, and we felt a strong connection to the spirits of those who once called this place home.

I will be dedicating an entire blog to Mesa Verde National Park soon, so stay tuned. In many ways, it was my favorite park! In the meantime, make sure you check recreation.gov for tours 2 weeks in advance for tickets to the cliff dwellings.

Tour Option- If you are really wanting to experience all these incredible structures have to offer, consider booking a longer and more in depth tour. I was fascinated by the cliff dwellings, but with only 45 minutes and so many other tourists, I felt it was way too short.

On our visit to the park, we were lucky enough to witness a family traditional dance group on our visit! Oak Canyon Dancers at Mesa Verde put on an amazing performance and welcomed my children for a photo. Follow them on Facebook and make sure you check them out if you, and they, are in town!  

After our time at Mesa Verde, we made a short drive to Mancos Brewing Company, a perfect spot to wrap up our day. The brewery offers great food, beer, and live music, all in a very kid-friendly environment. The outdoor area, complete with games for the kids, provided a relaxed atmosphere that was just what we needed after a day of exploring.

Making Every Minute Count: Exploring Colorado With Kids and the Desire to Stay

This blog barely touches on the incredible experiences this state has to offer, especially when exploring Colorado with kids. We passed through so many places that left us eager to return and explore further. Each moment was filled with discovery, and the beauty of the state had us wishing we could stay longer. As we wrapped up our trip, it was evident that the magic of Colorado and the fun of exploring it with our family made it hard to say goodbye.

For a concise overview of our adventure, be sure to check out our Colorado road trip itinerary.