In the winter of 2025 I went on a two week road trip through Colorado with my brother. While we planned this trip around skiing, you could easily follow the same route in the summer. The trip covered three major destinations: Aspen, Crested Butte, and Telluride.
Aspen/Glenwood Springs/Carbondale (2-4 days)
Now it’s important to clarify that we did not actually ski at Aspen. We had one night booked at the Fabi Hut, one of the 10th Mountain Division huts, which is right outside of Aspen. Without traffic, Aspen is just under a four hour drive from Denver International Airport. Aspen Snowmass consists of four mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Since I didn’t ski at the resort, I’ll keep this section brief.
We drove straight from the airport to Glenwood Springs, which is where we stayed our first night, before embarking on our adventure to the Fabi Hut the next morning (probably one of the most beautiful and pleasant enclosed pit toilet experience one could have). This was our first time doing a hut trip and we were very excited and incredibly unprepared (however that’s a story for another time). It is MANDATORY that you stop at Sweet Coloradough to pick up breakfast on your way to Aspen. Their breakfast burritos can easily feed a family of four.
~brief mandatory history lesson~
Like much of Colorado, Glenwood Springs is rich in history. The area was home to the Ute Indian Tribe before James Landis homesteaded the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Grand Rivers in the early 1880’s, later becoming Glenwood Springs. The area is known for its hot springs and early settlers saw the potential for Glenwood Springs to become a destination.
~class dismissed~
If you’re taking this route in the summer the number of hikes available are overwhelming but I recommend the two below if you’re looking for something on the more mellow end.
Distance: ~4 miles
Elevation Gain: 583ft
Type: Out & Back
Estimated Time: 1.5-2hrs (it took us 1 hour and 12 minutes with stops)
Probably one of the easiest ways to experience the Maroon Bells Wilderness if you’re looking for a taste. I haven’t had the chance to go back but it’s on my bucket list.
Distance: ~6.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,000ft
Type: Out & Back
Estimated Time: 4-4.5hrs (it took us 3 hour and 15 minutes with stops)
The hike starts off Castle Creek Road and you meander through a field before you enter towering aspens and start the climb. The hike up to the lake itself isn’t the most exciting since you’re in the trees, but it is beautiful.
Rest Day
Our 4th day we pampered ourselves with a trip to Iron Mountain Hot Springs making our rounds through the 35 mineral hot springs pools. Passes start at $45 and have a range of options.
This is the type of place you need to know about because there’s no way you’ll stumble on it. Located in a warehouse off a not so busy road, Vintage Ski World hosts the “largest collection of vintage ski equipment, posters, and memorabilia in the world” (according to their instagram bio—did not verify this).
Dining Options
El Tapatío Family Mexican Restaurant - A cozy spot in town serving healthy-sized margaritas and delicious food.
Carbondale Beer Works - A chill neighborhood brewpub with good beer, patio, and live music.
Izakaya - I haven’t been here but people comment on their wine selection, sushi, beef teriyaki, and pork buns.
El Dorado - Take a seat at the bar or sink into one of the booths and end the evening with a nightcap.
Crested Butte (2-4 Days)
Now it appears I took zero photos during this 4 day stretch when I was there in the winter. The mountain itself is a pretty decent size and there’s plenty of terrain for everyone. We happened to visit when snow was sparse so terrain was limited, however, we did take our chances off The High Lift with Teocalli and Halfpipe and immediately regretted it after hitting one too many rocks.
It’s only a 5 minute drive between the ski resort and town, and the town bus (CB/MTCB) runs about every 15 minutes. Check online for the most up-to-date schedule.
Crested Butte is a mountain biking town, and there’s no exception in the winter. Rent a bike in town and explore the groomed nordic trails. For more information on trails and rentals, click here.
Snowshoe or Ski to the Backcountry Bistro at the Magic Meadows Yurt
Check the website for the most up-to-date offerings, but usually you can choose from a guided dinner or stop in during the day for a light bite.
If you’re in Crested Butte over the summer there are multiple ways to spend your time from mountain biking the 401 trail to taking a day trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. CB calls itself the wildflower capital of Colorado and peak bloom usually comes in July.
Take a Day Trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
About 90 minutes from Crested Butte, you can spend an entire day exploring the park’s multiple overlooks or stack miles with a number of short hikes. If you’re feeling extra brave and can plan ahead, the Gunnison Route might be one of the most epic and insane hikes I’ve done.
Distance: ~2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,000ft
Type: Out & Back
Estimated Time: It took us 5 hour and 20 minutes with stops but we also added 3 miles to do the Oak Flat, Uplands, and Rim Rock Nature Trail Loop
You’re required to obtain a Wilderness Use Permit of which only 15 are available each day. For more information check out the NPS website. This route takes you to the bottom of Black Canyon and is a Class 3-4 scramble.
Oak Flat, Uplands, and Rim Rock Nature Trail Loop
Distance: ~3 miles
Elevation Gain: 500ft
Type: Loop
Estimated Time: 1.5-2hrs
The loop trail is located in the South Rim section of the park and provides stunning views of the canyon walls and river below.
Dining options
Bruhaus - Take a seat at the bar, or, in warmer weather, the patio, order a beer and order your favorite comfort food.
Thai Chili 78 - I don’t know why, but mountain towns always seem to have the best Thai food. This was no exception.
Izakaya Cabin - A full menu of sushi, ramen, donburi, and more.
Iron Horse Tap - Head in for après and maybe stay for dinner. This is a no frills bar with exactly what you’re craving after a day outside.
Telluride (2-4 days)
Check out our post At the End of the Road and Your Favorite Sport You’ve Never Heard of for all things Telluride.
In Summary
Whether you follow this itinerary or make your own, there’s no shortage of ways to travel and explore Colorado.