From Denver:Small Group 7-Day Rocky Mountain and Denver Tour

Exploring Colorado on a 7-Day Small Group Tour from Denver

Planning a trip to Colorado and wondering how to see its highlights without the hassle of planning each detail? This 7-day small group tour from Denver might just be what you need. It’s designed to give you a taste of Colorado’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and natural hot springs — all in a manageable, well-organized itinerary.

What we really like about this experience is its focus on diversity. You’ll get to explore the lively city of Denver, take in the breathtaking views of Rocky Mountain National Park, and relax in hot springs at Glenwood Springs. Plus, the small group size (limited to just three participants) means you’re likely to get a more personalized experience, which many travelers appreciate.

However, one consideration is the fixed schedule and the somewhat busy itinerary — you’ll be covering a lot in seven days, which means some days are full and might feel rushed if you prefer to linger in one place. It’s best suited for travelers who want to see a lot of Colorado in a short time without the hassle of logistics. If that sounds good, this tour offers a practical and engaging way to experience the state.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of city highlights and natural wonders
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Includes key attractions like Rocky Mountain National Park and Aspen
• Fairly comprehensive, covering Colorado’s top scenic drives and sites
• Cost reflects the convenience and all-included nature of the tour
• Good for those comfortable with a schedule that’s tightly packed

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the 7-Day Colorado Adventure

This tour offers a well-rounded immersion into Colorado’s varied scenery and urban life, making it a good option whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see the highlights.

Starting Off in Denver

Your journey begins with a complimentary airport pickup at Denver International Airport (DEN), which is convenient and stress-free. The first day is mainly about settling in and resting at your hotel, the Spark by Hilton Denver Tech Center, located in Greenwood Village. It’s a solid choice for a comfortable stay, considering it’s a central hub for the following days.

On Day 2, you dive into Denver’s city vibe. The tour hits the classic sights: the giant Big Blue Bear outside the Colorado Convention Center, the bustling 16th Street Mall, and the historic Union Station. You’ll also get an outside look at the Colorado State Capitol and the Denver Art Museum, which, even from outside, give you a glimpse of Denver’s cultural scene.

The highlight, perhaps, is the drive to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, famed for its natural acoustics and stunning setting — a must-see for music lovers or anyone who loves dramatic vistas. Then, heading to Boulder, you’ll explore the University of Colorado campus, the National Center for Atmospheric Research, and the lively Pearl Street Mall. The balance of city sights and scenic drives on Day 2 makes for an engaging start.

Exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park

Day 3 is dedicated entirely to one of Colorado’s crown jewels: Rocky Mountain National Park. We loved the way this part of the tour immerses you in some of the best wilderness the Rockies have to offer. You’ll visit Bear Lake, a popular spot for its clear, reflective waters framed by towering peaks. The drive along Trail Ridge Road is a highlight — it’s one of the highest paved roads in North America, offering panoramic views that are unforgettable.

If Trail Ridge Road is closed due to weather, the itinerary wisely substitutes Estes Park and the Stanley Hotel, so you still get a taste of mountain charm. Expect to spend the day walking around scenic points, taking photographs, and soaking in the mountain air. The Alpine Visitor Center at 3,637 meters is a real treat for altitude lovers and offers sweeping views that warrant lingering.

From Vail to Grand Junction

Day 4 takes you out of the mountains and into some of Colorado’s most iconic scenery. Passing through Vail, you’ll see the famous ski resort town, though the focus here is on the drive rather than skiing — a good way to appreciate Vail’s alpine charm without the crowds. The drive continues to Grand Junction, nestled near the Colorado National Monument, which you’ll visit in the afternoon.

The Rim Rock Drive at the monument offers some of the most striking canyon vistas you’ll encounter. The drive is about two hours, but you’ll want to take your time stopping for views, photos, and maybe a short walk. The landscapes here are rugged and dramatic, perfect for anyone craving open, expansive scenery.

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The Charm of Aspen and Glenwood Springs

Day 5 is a highlight for many: a scenic drive from Grand Junction to Aspen, with a stop at the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. This is one of Colorado’s most photographed spots, thanks to its mirror-like lakes and jagged peaks. The tour includes a bus ride, which helps ease any parking or access issues at this busy site. Note that the Maroon Bells visit might be replaced with a Dillon Lake hike before May 15, 2025, so check the schedule if your trip falls in that period.

After exploring Aspen, you’ll head to Glenwood Springs, known for its hot springs. The Glenwood Springs Hot Springs pool is a relaxing way to unwind after days of sightseeing. The hot springs are a definite high point, especially when the weather cools off.

A Swing through Black Hawk, Golden, and Denver

Day 6 includes a visit to Black Hawk, Colorado’s casino town, offering a different flavor of Colorado’s mountain culture. Then, a quick stop in Golden to see the Colorado School of Mines and the outside of Coors Brewery — both iconic local landmarks. The day wraps up with a return to Denver.

Final Day at Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak

Your last day is packed with scenic stops: Garden of the Gods, a stunning park with towering red rock formations, and Manitou Springs, a quirky mountain town. Pikes Peak, one of the most famous mountain peaks in Colorado, caps off your trip with spectacular views. Then, it’s time to head to the airport for your flight home.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour covers most of the essentials: transportation, professional guides, six nights in hotels, and tickets to major attractions like Rocky Mountain National Park, Red Rocks, and Glenwood Springs Hot Springs. The focus on logistics means you won’t need to worry about driving or planning access to these sites.

However, meals and beverages are not included, so budget accordingly. You might find that some meals are simple or quick, so packing snacks and water is a smart move. The tour also doesn’t cover personal expenses or optional activities outside the scheduled itinerary.

Transport and Group Size

Traveling in a small group (up to three people) means you get a more intimate experience, with more flexibility and less time waiting around. The type of vehicle varies depending on the group size, which helps keep things comfortable.

Price and Value

At $2,355 for the entire seven days, the price reflects the convenience of having everything planned and included — especially with hotel stays, tickets, and guided commentary. This isn’t the cheapest way to see Colorado, but for the level of comfort and organization, many find it worthwhile.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Colorado experience without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves. It suits those who enjoy a mix of city exploration, scenic drives, and outdoor sightseeing, all in a small, intimate group. It’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues (since it’s not wheelchair accessible) or those who prefer to explore at a slower pace.

Final Words

This 7-day Colorado tour offers a balanced, well-organized way to see the state’s top sights, from vibrant Denver to rugged mountain landscapes and relaxing hot springs. The small group setting helps create a more personalized atmosphere, and the itinerary hits most of the must-see spots for first-timers.

While you’ll be on a tight schedule and some days are quite busy, the variety and stunning views make it worthwhile. It’s especially good for travelers who want a hassle-free, all-included experience that covers a lot of ground in a short time.

If you’re after convenience, diverse scenery, and a taste of Colorado’s best, this tour might be a great fit. Just pack your camera, some snacks, and a sense of adventure — you’re in for some memorable views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, you receive a complimentary pickup at Denver International Airport at 17:00 on the first day. It’s best to book flights departing after 18:30 to ensure smooth arrival.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay six nights at hotels like the Spark by Hilton Denver Tech Center and the Cedar Lodge in Glenwood Springs. Rooms typically have two full/double beds or one king/queen and can accommodate four people, depending on availability.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included. You’ll want to bring snacks, water, and plan to eat out at various stops along the way.

How big is the group?
The tour is limited to just three participants, which allows for a more personalized experience compared to larger bus tours.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but some stops might be replaced due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, so flexibility is built in.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not explicitly designed for children or those with mobility challenges. It involves walking and some altitude exposure, so consider your family’s needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and cash for small expenses are recommended.

Embarking on this Colorado trip means enjoying some of the most scenic and lively parts of the state without the stress of planning every detail. If that sounds appealing, it’s a trip worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: