Looking for an unforgettable adventure with your closest friends? Join me on a recent girls’ getaway: an incredible Colorado road trip stretching from the vibrant city of Denver to the breathtaking natural beauty of Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
In our fast-paced lives, prioritizing self-care and meaningful connections is more important than ever. From my personal experience, girls’ getaways are not just a luxury but a vital component of good health and overall well-being. These precious moments allow us to step away from the daily grind, recharge our spirits, and strengthen the bonds that matter most.
If you’ve been following my adventures here, you’ll know I’m a passionate advocate for dedicating quality time to good friends. Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend escape to Las Vegas with fellow mom friends, or a relaxing wine tasting weekend in Walla Walla with cherished college besties, the profound health benefits of disconnecting from work, family obligations, and daily responsibilities to reconnect with your tribe are truly immeasurable. These trips offer a unique opportunity to laugh, share, explore, and simply *be* ourselves, free from everyday pressures.
So, I have to ask: When was the last time you carved out a week, a weekend, or even just an overnight escape with your closest friends? If it’s been too long, let this inspiring Colorado itinerary be your sign to start planning!
Table of contents
- Girls’ Getaway Weekend: Colorado Road Trip
- Stanley Marketplace: A Culinary Stop in Denver
- Driving Through Colorado: A Journey for the Senses
- Discovering Glenwood Springs, Colorado
- Hiking the Grizzly Creek Trail: Nature’s Serene Escape
- Sweet Coloradough: A Post-Hike Treat
- Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park: Thrills and Underground Wonders
- Iron Mountain Hot Springs: Relaxation in Nature
- Brava Modern Trattoria: An Evening of Italian Delights
- Colorado Before Dawn: A Peaceful Departure
- Vail, Colorado: A Touch of European Charm
- 2 Hours in Denver: A Whistle-Stop Tour
- Essential Tips for Your Colorado Girls’ Getaway Road Trip
- Your Colorado Road Trip Map
- More Road Trip Articles and Guides
- Pin It for Later!
Girls’ Getaway Weekend: Colorado Road Trip
This past summer, my wonderful friend Barbara and I embarked on a spontaneous 3-day weekend adventure, flying into Colorado with eager anticipation. While I’ve passed through the Denver airport countless times, this trip marked my first real opportunity to immerse myself in the diverse landscapes and vibrant culture of the Centennial State. I can honestly say, it was love at first sight.
The Colorado mountains are nothing short of spectacular. Every turn of the road reveals a new, awe-inspiring vista, with the skyline constantly shifting to showcase nature’s grandeur. Beyond the stunning scenery, Colorado offers an abundance of outdoor recreation during the summer months – making it an ideal destination for family vacations, romantic escapes, and, of course, memorable trips with good friends. Coupled with a burgeoning food and craft beer scene, this state truly has it all.
I hadn’t expected to be so captivated, but Colorado completely stole my heart. I’m already counting down the days until I can return and explore even more of its wonders!
Our meticulously planned itinerary began with a flight from Portland, Oregon, landing us in Denver. From there, the road stretched before us, leading to our main destination: Glenwood Springs. This journey is a comfortably scenic 3-hour drive, primarily a straightforward route along the iconic Interstate 70, making it an ideal start to any Colorado adventure.
Stanley Marketplace: A Culinary Stop in Denver
Upon landing in Denver and eager to kick off our road trip, our first stop was the vibrant Stanley Marketplace in Aurora, a bustling suburb just east of Denver. This innovative marketplace, housed in a repurposed aviation manufacturing plant, has been transformed into an incredibly hip and modern community hub. It’s an eclectic collection of artisanal stores, cozy coffee shops, lively breweries, and diverse restaurants, offering something for every taste and interest. Stanley Marketplace isn’t just a place to shop or eat; it’s a dynamic social space that perfectly captures Denver’s innovative spirit.
After a delightful browse through the many intriguing options, our appetites guided us directly to Denver Biscuit Co. This beloved local establishment promises a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for fueling up before a long drive.
The Stanley Marketplace location is one of five highly popular Denver Biscuit Company restaurants scattered across Colorado, a testament to its widespread appeal and delicious offerings. The interior boasts a large, delightfully quirky space, filled with character and charm. The service we received was attentive and friendly, striking the perfect balance of being helpful without being intrusive, which made for a very relaxed dining experience.
As the name suggests, biscuits are the undisputed stars of the menu, featured in dozens of imaginative options ranging from towering biscuit sandwiches to generously portioned biscuit plates. Barbara opted for the renowned Franklin biscuit sandwich, a classic choice piled high with flavorful ingredients. Meanwhile, I indulged in the slightly spicy and utterly delicious Shrimp & Grits plate, a dish that perfectly blended comforting textures with a delightful kick. With satisfied bellies and spirits high, we were more than ready to hit the road and continue our Colorado adventure!
Driving Through Colorado: A Journey for the Senses
Having grown up and lived for many years in Oregon, I am constantly surrounded by stunning natural beauty – from lush, emerald green forests and dramatic, towering mountain peaks to the rugged, captivating expanse of ocean beaches. While I possess a deep appreciation for the beauty of new places, it is genuinely rare for me to be truly surprised, to have my breath utterly taken away by a landscape.
Colorado, however, managed to do just that. It took my breath away in the most profound and unexpected manner.
As we drove along the iconic Highway 70, the world outside our windows unfolded like a living masterpiece. I found myself lulled into a meditative, almost zen-like trance, completely absorbed by the ever-changing panorama. One magnificent mountain peak seamlessly gave way to another, each presenting a unique silhouette against the vast blue sky. The hillsides transformed before our eyes, morphing from verdant green forests, dense with pine and aspen, to colossal, ancient rock formations sculpted by millennia, eventually transitioning to stretches of vibrant, rust-red soil that seemed to glow under the Colorado sun. This drive wasn’t merely a means to an end; it was an adventure in itself, a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of the American West.
By late afternoon, we successfully navigated our way to Glenwood Springs, a welcoming oasis nestled within this stunning landscape. We promptly checked into our comfortable home for the weekend, the Residence Inn by Marriott, ready to explore all that this charming mountain town had to offer.
Discovering Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is a picturesque resort city perfectly positioned amidst the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. Renowned globally for its iconic hot springs, the area is much more than just a place to relax in geothermal waters. It’s a vibrant hub offering an incredible multitude of outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a dream destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike. From thrilling white-water rafting on the Colorado River to scenic biking trails, challenging rock climbing, and serene fishing spots, Glenwood Springs truly caters to every outdoor enthusiast.
On our first full day in Glenwood Springs, my friend Barbara and I, eager to stretch our legs and immerse ourselves in nature, decided to embark on a hike. Our original plan was to visit the famous Hanging Lake, a truly stunning natural wonder known for its unique turquoise waters and delicate ecosystem. Conscious of its immense popularity, we made an effort to leave early in the morning, hoping to beat the inevitable crowds and secure a coveted parking spot. However, even with our best intentions, by 8:20 AM, the parking area for Hanging Lake was already completely full. This experience underscored the importance of having a backup plan when visiting such in-demand natural attractions, especially during peak seasons.
Hiking the Grizzly Creek Trail: Nature’s Serene Escape
Undeterred by our inability to access Hanging Lake, we simply redirected our adventurous spirit. We drove a short distance back toward town, and to our delight, discovered the serene and beautiful Grizzly Creek Trail. This turned out to be a fantastic alternative – a peaceful and relatively quiet 3-mile hike that meandered charmingly alongside the crystal-clear waters of Grizzly Creek. The gentle murmur of the water, the rustling leaves, and the fresh mountain air provided an immediate sense of calm and rejuvenation, truly a welcome change from any lingering city stresses.
While the Grizzly Creek Trail offers stunning natural beauty, it’s certainly not an overly strenuous or advanced hike, making it accessible for many. In fact, we found plenty of picturesque spots perfect for pausing, admiring the scenery, and snapping some fun photos to capture the moment. The trail is well-maintained for the most part, allowing for a comfortable pace and easy conversation.
It’s worth noting, however, that the trail does become narrower and a bit rockier in certain sections, particularly as you venture further in. For this reason, I would generally recommend the full 3-mile loop for adults and older children who are comfortable with uneven terrain. If you’re hiking with younger children or those less accustomed to more rugged paths, you might consider enjoying the first mile or two of the hike, which is generally flatter and wider, and then turning back before the trail starts to present more challenging conditions. This way, everyone can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Grizzly Creek safely and comfortably.
Sweet Coloradough: A Post-Hike Treat
After a refreshing morning hike along the Grizzly Creek Trail, we felt we had more than earned a well-deserved sweet treat. I had heard glowing recommendations about Sweet Coloradough, a beloved local donut shop right in Glenwood Springs, and it seemed like the perfect spot to satisfy our cravings. We made a bee-line for this charming establishment for a mid-morning, post-hike sugar fix, and it certainly did not disappoint.
The donuts at Sweet Coloradough are a true highlight, proudly made in-house with obvious care and creativity. Here, you’ll find all the classic donut varieties you know and love, executed to perfection. But for the more adventurous palate, Sweet Coloradough also offers an exciting array of fun and inventive flavor combinations that are sure to pique your interest. Each bite was a delightful reward after our morning exertions, offering that comforting sweetness we craved.
Unexpected bonus: To our surprise and amusement, Sweet Coloradough was running a unique promotion on the day we visited, offering either a free beer or a free tequila shot with a purchase! While we politely declined the offer, opting to stick to our sugar high, it’s definitely a quirky and memorable touch. So, if you’re ever in Glenwood Springs, out and about enjoying the stunning Colorado landscape, and find yourself looking for a cool pint or an unexpected shot after a warm day of hiking, this lively donut shop might just be the place to check out!
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park: Thrills and Underground Wonders
After a brief, well-deserved break to digest our donuts and recharge, we were eager to head back out and delve deeper into the exciting attractions Glenwood Springs has to offer. Our next destination promised both adventure and natural marvels: the renowned Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
Glenwood Caverns is an attraction that can easily fill an entire day with excitement, or it can serve as a captivating morning or afternoon stop during your visit to Glenwood Springs. The experience begins with a scenic tram ride that gracefully carries you up the side of the mountain, offering increasingly stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley and peaks as you ascend. Once at the top, a world of entertainment awaits.
From adrenaline-pumping rides and interactive laser tag games to fascinating cave tours and delicious lunch options with an unbeatable view, there’s truly something for everyone in the family. It’s a fantastic blend of natural wonder and engineered excitement, appealing to both thrill-seekers and those seeking a more relaxed exploration.
Barbara and I opted for the Kings Row Cave Tour, a guided exploration that lasts approximately 40 minutes and is generally suitable for most ages and fitness levels. This tour takes you deep into the earth, revealing incredible geological formations. For safety and ease of navigation, the path through the cave is equipped with sturdy guardrails. There are also ample spaces along the route where you can pause to admire the breathtaking cave wonders – the intricate stalactites and stalagmites, delicate soda straws, and unique “cave bacon” formations – or simply catch your breath during the descent, which goes about 150 feet down.
During this captivating tour, you get an up-close look at the remarkable geological features that have formed over millennia. The “cave bacon” (yes, it’s a real thing!), shimmering stalactites hanging from the ceiling, majestic stalagmites rising from the floor, and delicate soda straws create an otherworldly landscape. The tour culminates in a truly cool light show at the bottom, which illuminates the formations in a spectacular fashion, adding a magical touch to the natural beauty.
After emerging from the cool, damp depths of the caves, the idea of a ride through the fresh mountain air felt like a wonderfully refreshing adventure!
The photo above captures Barbara and me just as we were preparing to experience the exhilarating Soaring Eagle Zip Ride. This unique attraction allows for either a single rider or two people to ride side-by-side. The ride first zips you backward and upward along a zip line, providing truly gorgeous, sweeping views of the valley below and the majestic surrounding mountains. The momentary suspension at the top allows for a breathtaking panorama before you are swiftly zipped back down, completing an exhilarating aerial journey.
Beyond the caves and zip ride, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park offers a wide array of other thrilling rides and attractions designed for families with kids of all ages. These include a colossal canyon swing that catapults riders over the edge of a cliff, a twisting alpine coaster that winds down the mountainside, a challenging climbing wall, a charming mine wheel (reminiscent of a small Ferris wheel), and many more unique experiences that promise to keep everyone entertained.
Park prices are variable, depending on the specific rides and attractions you wish to experience. We opted for the Summer Day Pass, which was $54 per adult and conveniently included tram rides, access to the fascinating cave tours, and a selection of other attractions. You can find the most current ticket price information directly on their website. It’s always a good idea to plan for some time to wait in line for tickets, especially during peak seasons, or better yet, purchase your tickets online in advance to bypass the general queue and head straight to the online ticket line.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs: Relaxation in Nature
After several hours of exhilarating fun and exploration at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, our bodies were certainly ready for some deep relaxation. The perfect antidote presented itself in one of Glenwood Springs’ most famous offerings: its natural hot springs. It was time to soak away any lingering muscle tension and gently transition into a serene evening.
Glenwood Springs provides a few excellent options for experiencing its geothermal waters, including the historic Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, which boasts the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. However, for our particular preference for a more intimate and varied experience, we opted for the newer and equally impressive Iron Mountain Hot Springs. This choice proved to be ideal.
What we particularly appreciated about Iron Mountain Hot Springs was the delightful variety of pools available, as opposed to just one large communal area. This layout created a more peaceful and private atmosphere, allowing us to move between different settings. Each of the numerous smaller hot springs pools offered unique mineral compositions and distinct temperatures, providing a subtly different vibe and therapeutic experience. This diversity was a real highlight, enabling us to customize our relaxation. Additionally, the facility was well-equipped with two convenient food and beverage stations, ensuring we could stay refreshed, and ample, clean locker room spaces with showers and changing areas, making the visit comfortable and seamless.
Our day passes for Iron Mountain Hot Springs were $25 per day, which felt like excellent value for the hours of blissful relaxation we enjoyed. You can find comprehensive information on all pass options and current pricing directly on the Iron Mountain Hot Springs website, making it easy to plan your visit.
Brava Modern Trattoria: An Evening of Italian Delights
As our long, adventure-filled day of exploring Glenwood Springs, Colorado, drew to a close, we looked forward to unwinding with a delightful and relaxing dinner. A quick online search led us to Brava Modern Trattoria, and it proved to be an excellent choice. From the moment we stepped in, we were greeted with wonderfully attentive service, setting the stage for a truly delicious Italian meal that perfectly capped off our day.
The menu offered an enticing selection of modern Italian dishes, each crafted with fresh ingredients and a touch of sophistication. Barbara’s choice, the Brasato ($18), was an absolute standout – tender Ricotta Gnocchi paired with succulent Braised Lamb Leg, fresh Arugula, and a rich Natural Jus. She declared it “out of this world,” and I wholeheartedly agreed after sampling a bite. My own selection, the Gamberetti ($16), was equally impressive: perfectly cooked Penne pasta tossed with plump Shrimp, sweet Plum Tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, all brought together in a vibrant Arrabiata Sauce. It was a dish bursting with flavor and comforting warmth.
To complement our exquisite meal and celebrate a fabulous day of discovery, we shared a bottle of Z. Alexander Brown’s UNCAGED Cabernet Sauvignon. We raised our glasses in a toast to the breathtaking beauty of Colorado and the joy of shared experiences. Brava Modern Trattoria provided not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience that highlighted the culinary quality available in Glenwood Springs.
Colorado Before Dawn: A Peaceful Departure
After a restful night’s sleep, our alarm clocks chimed at 5 AM. This early start wasn’t for another thrilling adventure, but a strategic move to beat the notoriously heavy Sunday traffic back to Denver. We had received advice from several friendly locals in Glenwood Springs, who warned us that tourist traffic begins to build exceptionally early as visitors make their way back from various mountain resorts to Denver International Airport.
Despite the early hour, neither of us minded the pre-dawn wake-up call. In fact, it turned into one of the most unexpectedly beautiful and peaceful parts of our trip. Driving as the sun slowly began to peek over the rugged mountain ranges was a truly magical experience. The landscape was bathed in soft, changing light, painting the sky with hues of rose and gold. Crucially, as the locals had predicted, there were hardly any other cars on the road, allowing us to savor the quiet majesty of Colorado as it awoke.
It was a truly wonderful, serene drive back, offering a final, contemplative immersion in the natural splendor of the state before we returned to the bustling city.
Vail, Colorado: A Touch of European Charm
The road trip route from Denver to Glenwood Springs and back is truly exceptional, not just for its stunning scenery but also for the abundance of intriguing potential stops along the way. Interstate 70, which connects these two points, acts as a scenic corridor, passing by several popular and renowned recreation destinations that beckon travelers to explore further. Towns like Keystone, Vail, Breckenridge, and Frisco are all within easy reach, each offering its own unique charm and array of activities.
Since we had such an early start and found ourselves with a comfortable amount of time before needing to be at the airport, we decided to make a brief but delightful stop in Vail, Colorado. Our mission: to find a much-needed caffeine fix to kickstart our final leg of the journey.
Vail is far more than just a ski resort; it’s a truly enchanting resort town meticulously designed to evoke the ambiance of a classic European ski village. As you stroll through its pedestrian-friendly streets, lined with quaint European-style cafes and stunning architecture, you genuinely feel as though you’ve momentarily escaped the United States and been magically transported to a charming village in the Swiss Alps or Austrian Tyrol. The attention to detail in its design, from the cobblestone pathways to the flower-filled window boxes, creates an immersive and delightful experience that makes it a worthwhile stop even for just a quick coffee and a scenic walk.
2 Hours in Denver: A Whistle-Stop Tour
Upon our return to Denver, we still had a precious few hours to spare before we absolutely needed to head to the airport for our flight home. Drawing on a recommendation from some of the friendly locals we’d met in Glenwood Springs, we decided to dedicate this brief window to exploring Union Station. We found convenient parking right next to the historic train station and set out on foot, eager to discover this urban gem.
After a refreshing walk across the architecturally striking Millennium Bridge, which offers fantastic views of the city, we made our way down to and through Denver’s 16th Street Mall (pictured above). This vibrant pedestrian mall is a dynamic thoroughfare lined with an impressive array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Its unique feature is the free public shuttle service that runs continuously through the street, offering convenient hop-on, hop-off access for exploring its entire length without tiring your feet.
Denver’s Union Station itself is far more than just a functional transportation hub; it has been masterfully revitalized into a captivating destination. The grand hall, with its soaring ceilings and elegant decor, serves as a beautifully designed waiting area that doubles as a bustling social space. It’s surrounded by a collection of hip coffee shops, independent bookstores, upscale restaurants, and vibrant bars, making it a perfect place to people-watch, grab a bite, or simply soak in the atmosphere. It was here that I discovered and devoured one of the best empanadas I have ever tasted – a truly unexpected culinary delight in a train station!
After thoroughly exploring the bustling interior of Union Station and enjoying a final taste of Denver’s vibrant food scene, it was finally time to make the short drive back to the airport and begin our journey home, filled with wonderful memories of Colorado.
Of course, no trip to a vibrant city is complete for me without at least one signature “jump shot” in front of a colorful mural! A huge thank you to Barbara for her patience and excellent photography skills in capturing this fun moment by the 16th Street Mall. It was the perfect playful end to our incredible Colorado girls’ getaway!
Essential Tips for Your Colorado Girls’ Getaway Road Trip
Barbara and I absolutely cherished every moment of our journey from Denver to Glenwood Springs and back. We were continually amazed by the sheer diversity and abundance of attractions that Glenwood Springs offers – truly far more than we could possibly explore in a single weekend. We even concluded that Denver, with its own unique blend of culture, history, and urban excitement, would make an amazing girls’ getaway destination all on its own. More than all the exciting activities, this weekend was a beautiful opportunity to relax, escape the everyday stresses of life, and simply soak in the breathtaking scenery that enveloped us. Girls’ getaways, I’ll say it again, are vital, and this particular one was a fun-filled adventure for the record books!
To help you make the absolute most of your own unforgettable Colorado girls’ getaway road trip, here are some quick and essential tips:
- Research Restaurants and Attractions in Advance: Be sure to research restaurants and attractions a few weeks before your trip, and then do a quick re-check just before you leave. With the constantly evolving state of the world, businesses are frequently opening, closing, or changing their hours of operation and reservation policies. A little planning can save you from disappointment.
- Pack Smart with Layers: When it comes to clothing, packing lots of layers is absolutely crucial for Colorado. Due to the significant elevation changes across the state, temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. It can be surprisingly cold in the early morning and late evening hours, even during summer, and then become blistering hot during the day. Include light sweaters, fleeces, or sweatshirts that you can easily stash in a small day pack as you explore. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed: Always pack plenty of snacks and water. Depending on your exact route, especially when driving through more remote mountain passes, there can be long stretches of road where options for food, water, or even basic amenities are scarce. Being prepared ensures you stay comfortable and energized throughout your journey.
- Acclimatize to Altitude: If you’re coming from a lower elevation, be mindful of Colorado’s high altitude. Drink extra water, avoid excessive alcohol on your first day, and take it easy with strenuous activities initially. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level.
- Book Accommodations in Advance: Especially during peak seasons (summer, fall, and ski season), popular destinations like Glenwood Springs and Vail can book up quickly. Secure your lodging well in advance to ensure you get your preferred choice and price.
Your Colorado Road Trip Map
If you’re interested in retracing our exciting journey, I’ve created a convenient map below that meticulously pinpoints all of the places Barbara and I visited on this memorable trip. This interactive map will help you visualize our route and easily locate each attraction and dining spot.
As you can clearly see from the map, there are numerous additional stops and attractions you can easily integrate into your itinerary if you’re planning to stay in this stunning area for longer than just 3 days. I personally highly recommend considering adding towns like Breckenridge, Keystone, or Frisco to your travel plans. These are places that many of the friendly locals we spoke to enthusiastically recommended, and they offer even more of Colorado’s unique mountain charm and recreational opportunities.
To view all of the fantastic places mentioned throughout this article directly on the map, simply click on the top left swipe box icon within the map interface. This will open a detailed legend, allowing you to easily navigate and explore each point of interest.
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Pin It for Later!
Many thanks to General Motors for graciously providing the flights, lodging, and the opportunity to test drive the comfortable 2018 Chevy Equinox for this unforgettable journey. While these aspects were sponsored, I personally covered the costs for many of the activities and delicious meals enjoyed throughout the trip. As always, all opinions expressed and photographs shared are entirely my own, reflecting my genuine experience.