Colorado Family Trip Idea
- adventuristmama
- Aug 23
- 5 min read
Our family is really into snowboarding, even though we're not pros. We've always dreamed of checking out the amazing mountain resorts out West because, let's face it, the East Coast slopes we usually hit are smaller and icier. The idea of those huge mountains, endless fluffy snow, and the cool mountain vibe out West has always been super tempting.
Besides snowboarding, we're also on a mission to visit every national park in the country. So, we figured Colorado would be the perfect spot for our family trip. It has some of the most beautiful national parks and tons of awesome mountain resorts for winter sports fans. Rocky Mountain National Park caught our eye, famous for its stunning mountain views, cool wildlife, and endless hiking trails. After thinking it over, we picked Breckenridge for our adventure. It's one of Colorado's top mountain resorts, known for its cute historic downtown, lively après-ski scene, and killer snowboarding slopes. It seemed like the perfect spot for our family getaway.
We landed at Denver airport, which is huge and super modern, making it one of the biggest in the U.S. After we touched down, we grabbed our rental car and hit the road for a scenic drive to Estes Park. It's about an hour and a half away and is this charming town that acts as the gateway to the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park. The drive from Denver to Estes Park is packed with amazing views, as the road twists through rolling hills and gives you sneak peeks of the majestic Rockies in the distance.
Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park
When we rolled into Estes Park, a cute mountain town right at the entrance of the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park, we decided to grab a quick bite at the cozy Bird's Nest. This charming spot is known for its warm vibe and locally sourced ingredients, with a menu full of tasty options like hearty sandwiches and fresh salads. We settled in, enjoying the rustic decor with photos of the nearby mountains and fun bird-themed art.
After our delicious lunch, we headed over to Rocky Mountain National Park. The drive there was amazing, with winding roads giving us awesome views of the towering peaks and lush forests. Once we entered the park, we were greeted by the crisp mountain air and snowy peaks.
Our first stop was the scenic Sprague Lake Trail, followed by the renowned Bear Lake Trail. We chose to visit during the transitional period at the end of March and the beginning of April, a time when the lingering winter still had a firm grip on the landscape. As a result, we encountered a beautiful blanket of snow that covered the trails and surrounding areas, creating a picturesque winter wonderland.
Sprague Lake Trail welcomed us with its serene beauty. The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. As we walked along the path, we were greeted by stunning views of the snow-capped mountains that framed the lake. Despite the chill in the air, the beauty of nature was invigorating, and we took our time to soak in the breathtaking scenery.
After enjoying Sprague Lake, we made our way to Bear Lake Trail, which is famous for its picturesque views and vibrant blue waters, although they were still partially obscured by snow and ice at this time of year. The Bear Lake area is known for its stunning vistas and diverse ecosystems. The trail leading to Bear Lake was lined with patches of snow, and we had to navigate carefully to avoid slipping.
After our hike we checked into the iconic Stanley Hotel, a historic spot that's been wowing visitors for ages. Built back in 1909, the hotel is famous not just for its stunning architecture but also for its rich history, including ghost stories and being the inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining." Walking into the grand lobby, we were welcomed by the hotel's cozy vibe, complete with elegant furnishings and a warm atmosphere.
Our room was nicely decorated, mixing modern comforts with the charm of the hotel’s storied past. We took some time to wander around the property, strolling through the beautifully kept gardens and soaking in the breathtaking mountain views. The Stanley Hotel also has some cool amenities, like a cozy bar and restaurant where we could grab a bite and think about our trip so far. We dined at The Post Chicken & Beer, a charming venue on the property with breathtaking scenery.... and delicious chicken and beer obviously.
The next morning, we had an amazing breakfast at Brunch & Co in The Stanley. Fresh farm-to-table dishes and an assortment of mimosas. After breakfast we joined The Stanley's Historical Day Tour. The Stanley Hotel, known for its stunning architecture and its role in inspiring Stephen King's "The Shining." As we walked through the grand lobby, the guide narrated tales of ghostly encounters and the hotel's fascinating history, captivating us with stories of its famous guests and the events that unfolded within its walls. The ornate details of the building, from the intricate woodwork to the majestic chandeliers, added to the allure of the experience.
After our tour at The Stanley, packed with cool historical facts and spooky stories about its haunted past, we headed over to the charming town of Breckenridge. The drive from The Stanley to Breckenridge was absolutely stunning, with Colorado's amazing landscape showing off majestic mountains, lush forests, and winding roads.
Breckenridge
When we got to Breckenridge, we checked into the Mountain Thunder Lodge, a super cozy spot tucked into the foothills of the Rockies. The lodge had this great mix of rustic charm and modern comfort, made from natural materials that fit right in with the surroundings. Walking inside, we were welcomed by a warm, inviting vibe, complete with a crackling fireplace and friendly staff ready to help us with anything we needed. https://expedia.com/affiliates/breckenridge-hotels-mountain-thunder-lodge.UriDpXo
In the following days, we made the most of Breckenridge's famous slopes, just a quick shuttle ride from the lodge. The thrill of snowboarding down the powdery trails, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery, was unforgettable. Besides snowboarding, Breckenridge had a lively town with charming shops and awesome restaurants. We also found the Breckenridge Troll on The Trollstigen Trail.
Snow Tubing and the Snow Maze at Copper Mountain
We took a break from snowboarding to visit Copper Mountain for snow tubing and the Snow Maze. The tubing hill featured gentle slopes that offered a thrilling yet approachable experience. After several rounds, we took a break to explore the Snow Maze, a whimsical labyrinth of towering snow walls. Our day at Copper Mountain was a refreshing change from snowboarding, filled with fun and laughter.
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