Whether you prefer the most direct route or are planning an extended road trip, here are two itineraries and loads of great stops, charming towns, and outdoor areas to explore on your Denver to Yellowstone road trip.

This epic Colorado road trip will take you to arguably the most photographed mountain peaks in the United States, the highest incorporated city in North America, and the summit of Independence Pass at 12,095′. You’ll cross the Continental Divide three different times, plus have the opportunity to get out of the car and into the backcountry to explore more of Colorful Colorado on foot with some of the most beautiful hikes in the state!

This is a spectacular road trip through western Colorado and eastern Utah, taking you from the hub of Colorado’s wine country to an exhibit hall where you can view over 1,500 dinosaur bones, to two of Utah’s National Parks and one of the best places in the United States to view prehistoric petroglyphs.

Over 205 miles, drive through Colorado’s Central Rocky Mountains, explore one of the most underrated national parks in the United States, stroll through Colorado’s Wildflower Capitol, and swim in its largest body of water. Roadtripping is one of the best things to do in Colorado, so hop in your car for the day or pack your bag for a long weekend and let’s road trip the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway!

Over 236 miles, you’ll pass through mountain towns and stunning lakes, drive 20 of the most scenic miles in America, and stumble upon what’s been dubbed “The Switzerland of America”. Hop in your car for the day or hit the road for a long weekend, and let’s road trip the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway!

Colorado is a state where the road trip IS the adventure. The mountains, the canyons, the forests- it gets prettier and prettier around each bend. That’s why we believe a road trip is the best way to visit Colorado for the first time… Here’s The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip!

Over 3.5 months, we covered 11,771 miles, went on (at least) 59 hikes, explored 10 National Parks, and made 8 different towns and cities our home for anywhere from 3 to 30 days. Keep reading to see our full roadtrip itinerary and favorite stops along the way!