Colorado RV Road Trip Route from Durango to Estes Park

Colorado RV Road Trip Route from Durango to Estes Park
Guide to exploring the Rocky Mountains, including camping and side trips.

By: Peter & Kathy Holcombe

We have been exploring the backroads of Colorado for more than 30 years now, and even after a decade of international travel under our belts, Colorado is still one of our favorite places on earth. This guide maps out a route that includes many of our favorite places across the Colorado Rocky Mountains, some favorite camping and restaurant options, and a few great side trips along the way. 

Note: There are some sections of this route that may be challenging for those who do not have experience with mountain driving or who are traveling in larger RVs. Also, some side trips noted require off-road capabailities like we have in our Winnebago Revel. Please be sure to check current conditions and regulations before setting off on your trip.

Route Overview: Durango to Estes Park

Total Distance: Approximately 600 miles
Recommended Time: 3 days to 3 weeks (or more if you have the time)

Day 1: The Million Dollar Highway 

Total Distance: Approximately 100 miles (US-550 Durango to Owl Creek Pass)
Recommended Time: 2 or more hours (more with scenic stops and side adventures)

Start in Durango, a vibrant town known for its Western flair and historic narrow-gauge railroad, the route gently ascends through rolling hills and evergreen forests before climbing into more dramatic terrain. As the elevation rises, the scenery shifts from high desert piñon to dense alpine forests and wide valley floors carved by glaciers and rivers. 

The drive from Durango to Silverton along U.S. Route 550 is a majestic journey into the heart of Colorado’s rugged San Juan Mountains. This stretch of highway winds its way through pine-cloaked valleys, past historic railroad lines, and up to alpine elevations, offering travelers a dynamic mix of mountain scenery, historical intrigue, and pure Colorado charm. Less harrowing than the Million Dollar Highway to the north, but every bit as beautiful. It’s the perfect lead-in to one of the most celebrated mountain routes in the country.
 
The Million Dollar Highway is one of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring stretches of road in the United States. Running for approximately 25 miles between Silverton and Ouray, this section of U.S. Route 550 slices through the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, offering jaw-dropping views, sheer cliff drops, and hairpin turns. Originally built in the late 1880s to transport ore from the mines in Silverton, the road was later improved by auto trail builder Otto Mears. 

Much of the current roadway was carved directly into the side of steep mountainsides with little room for error. The route is infamous for its lack of guardrails. This design helps with snow removal in winter, but it also adds to the adrenaline rush for drivers. The origin of the name is debated: some say it cost a million dollars per mile to build, while others claim the roadbed contains a million dollars’ worth of gold ore left behind by miners. Regardless of the story, this legendary route is a must-see for any Colorado road trip, combining million-dollar views, a thrilling driving experience, and a deep sense of regional history.

Elevation Gain: The road climbs steadily to over 9,000 feet as it nears Silverton. Be prepared for thinner air and cooler temperatures, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. The Million Dollar Highway reaches over 11,000 feet at Red Mountain Pass, and passes by Red Mountain #1, #2, and #3, named for their iron-rich soil.

Driving Conditions: This stretch includes significant curves and elevation changes—perfect for a spirited but cautious mountain drive. Summer and fall offer the best visibility and safest conditions. It’s best tackled with caution and during daylight. Winter conditions can bring snow and ice, especially near Coal Bank Pass and Molas Pass.

Camping: There are several campgrounds with all of the amenities in Ouray and abundant dispersed camping in the national forest along the Owl Creek Pass.

Driving Owl Creek Pass (10,114-ft elevation)

Tucked into the Cimarron Range, Owl Creek Pass is a hidden gem known for its cinematic landscapes—literally. Its dramatic rock spires, including the iconic Chimney Rock and Courthouse Mountain, were featured in the classic Western True Grit. Unlike the sheer cliffs of US-550, Owl Creek’s gravel road winds gently through dense aspen groves, alpine meadows, and quiet forests bursting with color in autumn.

This gravel road is passable for most vehicles (2WD with good clearance can manage in dry conditions, but AWD or 4WD is recommended) in summer and early fall, however conditions can change quickly with rain and snow—be sure to check conditions before heading out. 

You can also skip this stretch of road and divert straight to Gunnison on paved highways via US-550/US-50. To get there, head north out of Ouray, take County Road 8 east toward Owl Creek Pass (gravel, seasonal - usually open late June through October. Always check road conditions before attempting this route.). 

Points of Interest from Durango to Ouray: 

• Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: Established in 1880, this historic train journey offers breathtaking views through the San Juan Mountains, closely following the Animas River. The route includes highlights like Horseshoe Curve and Animas River Gorge. You'll often spot the smoke plume of the locomotive in the canyon below when driving along the highway.
• Animas River Trail: A seven-mile paved trail that winds along the Animas River, offering scenic views and access to fishing spots, picnic areas, and beaches. It's perfect for walking, biking, or jogging.
• Silverton: A historic mining town with preserved Victorian architecture.
• Wildlife and waterfalls: It’s not uncommon to see deer, elk, or even black bears along the roadside, especially in the early hours. Seasonal waterfalls cascade off the cliffs in spring and early summer, adding to the route’s photogenic appeal.
• Million Dollar Highway: A renowned stretch of US-550 offering dramatic cliffs, hairpin turns, and panoramic views.
• Great Views: Don’t miss the scenic turnout at Molas Pass for a commanding view of the valley below—especially stunning at sunrise or during fall foliage.
• Ouray: Known as the "Switzerland of America," this town is famous for its geothermal pool offering relaxation and alpine scenery. If you are feeling adventurous, be sure to check out the Via Ferratta that traverses the box canyon just outside of town.

Day 2: Owl Creek Pass to Buena Vista via Cottonwood Pass

Total Distance: Approximately 160 miles
Recommended Time: 4–6 hours (longer with scenic stops and photo breaks)
*Alternate route directly to Montrose or Gunnison via US-550/US-50

This high-country route from Owl Creek Pass to Buena Vista threads through some of Colorado’s most pristine and lesser-traveled landscapes. Combining rugged wilderness, alpine lakes, remote backroads, and one of the highest paved passes in the state, this drive is a true Colorado mountain experience—where solitude, scenery, and adventure come together in perfect harmony. 

Note on Driving Conditions: Owl Creek Pass is gravel and best traveled in dry weather; Cottonwood Pass is paved but steep and winding—RV drivers should exercise caution. Late June through early October offers the safest and most scenic travel window, especially once snow has melted from Cottonwood Pass.

From Owl Creek Pass, descend through the narrow canyons of the Cimarron River valley before connecting to US-50. As you near Gunnison, the landscape opens up to expansive mesas and the blue waters of Blue Mesa Reservoir—Colorado’s largest body of water and a great stop for a quick hike or picnic. Gunnison (7,700-ft elevation) is a rugged Western town with a college-town vibe. It offers a good refuel and rest stop before climbing back into alpine country. Head north toward Almont and Taylor Park Reservoir to begin your ascent of Cottonwood Pass.

Cottonwood Pass (12,119-ft elevation): Recently paved and now accessible from both sides, Cottonwood Pass is one of the highest paved passes in the U.S. It offers one of Colorado’s most jaw-dropping drives. As you ascend from Taylor Park, the views unfold dramatically—jagged ridgelines, glacier-cut valleys, and alpine tundra bursting with wildflowers in summer.

The summit brings you into a rare high-altitude alpine tundra ecosystem complete with low shrubs, mosses, delicate wildflowers, and a 360-degree panorama that feels otherworldly. It's a perfect spot for photos, a quick walk, or just soaking in the silence of the high Rockies. 

Due to heavy snow, Cottonwood Pass is usually closed from late October through late May. Always check the latest status before traveling: Cottonwood Pass Road Conditions – Chaffee County.

Descent into Buena Vista: Dropping into the Arkansas River Valley, the road winds through dramatic switchbacks before opening up to the wide, sunlit expanse of the Arkansas River Valley. Flanked by the towering Collegiate Peaks—including Mt. Princeton, Mt. Yale, and Mt. Harvard—this valley blends old mountain charm with modern amenities, riverfront recreation, and big-sky views.

Camping: There are several RV parks in Buena Vista, and abundant dispersed camping in the surrounding national forest. (More tips for visiting Buena Vista in an RV.)

Points of Interest from Owl Creek Pass to Buena Vista:

• Chimney Rock Overlook: The overlook on Owl Creek Pass provides panoramic vistas of Chimney Rock and its neighboring peak, Courthouse Mountain (12,152 feet). These striking formations are part of the San Juan Mountains and are especially captivating during sunrise or sunset
• Blue Mesa Reservoir: Colorado's largest body of water, ideal for boating and fishing.
• Gunnison National Forest: Offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Mount Princeton Hot Springs: Natural hot springs with mountain views, offering relaxation and rejuvenation in soaking pools and a creek-side hot river.
• Arkansas River: Known for world-class whitewater rafting, especially in Browns Canyon National Monument—a section of river with thrilling Class III–IV rapids and canyon walls of colorful granite. Home to Colorado’s most popular stretches for guided rafting trips.
• Collegiate Peaks Wilderness: Numerous hiking trails lead into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, offering everything from short hikes to multi-day backpacking.

Day 3: Buena Vista to Estes Park via Trail Ridge Road

Total Distance: Approximately 200 miles
Recommended Time: 4–6 hours (longer with scenic stops and photo breaks)

Embarking on a drive from Buena Vista to Estes Park offers a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and recreational opportunities, making it a memorable journey through Colorado's mountainous heartland.

Recommended Route from Buena Vista to Estes Park

• Buena Vista to Leadville: Head north on US-24 to Leadville, a historic mining town offering picturesque views of the Sawatch Range.
• Leadville to Minturn: Continue on US-24 north to Minturn, passing through scenic valleys and alongside the Eagle River.
• Minturn to Granby: Take I-70 west briefly, then exit onto CO-131 north to Wolcott. From there, take US-6 east to CO-125 north, leading you through the quaint town of Kremmling and onward to Granby.
• Granby to Grand Lake: Proceed east on US-40 to Granby, then take US-34 north to Grand Lake, the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Trail Ridge Road (US-34): From Grand Lake, embark on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., reaching elevations up to 12,183 feet (3,713 meters). This 48-mile stretch offers panoramic views of alpine tundra, the Continental Divide, and diverse wildlife. 
• Arrival in Estes Park: Descend into Estes Park, a charming mountain town and eastern gateway to the national park.

After descending from Trail Ridge Road, you'll arrive in Estes Park, a charming mountain town and gateway to the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park. 

Dispersed Camping Near Grand Lake

• Stillwater Pass (County Road 4): Just north of Lake Granby, Stillwater Pass offers numerous dispersed campsites within the Arapaho National Forest. The area is accessible via well-maintained gravel roads and provides a mix of open and forested sites. 
• Williams Fork Reservoir: Located about an hour from Rocky Mountain National Park's Grand Lake entrance, this area offers designated dispersed campsites managed by Denver Water. Sites are spacious and suitable for both tents and RVs, with scenic lakeside views. 

Dispersed Camping Areas Near Estes Park

• Pole Hill Road: Approximately 5 miles from Estes Park.
  • Access: The road is rough and steep; a high-clearance vehicle is essential, and 4WD is recommended, especially in wet conditions.
  • Features: Offers stunning views of Estes Valley and surrounding mountains.
  • Note: The first mile is on private land; ensure you're within the national forest boundaries before setting up camp.
• Johnny Park Road: About 15 miles from Estes Park.
  • Access: The road is unpaved and somewhat rough; high-clearance vehicles are advisable.
  • Features: Provides a more private camping experience with beautiful scenery.
  • Note: Popular with OHV users; expect some noise and dust.
• Coyote Hill Road: Just outside the town of Estes Park.
  • Access: The road becomes progressively rougher; a high-clearance 4×4 is highly recommended.
  • Features: Offers some of the most stunning views in the area.
  • Note: The last couple of miles can be challenging; proceed with caution.

Points of Interest from Buena Vista to Estes Park:

• Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway: This byway in Buena Vista boasts the highest concentration of 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado, offering stunning mountain vistas.
• Leadville National Historic Landmark District: Explore Colorado's highest incorporated city, rich in mining history. Preserved Victorian buildings and museums offer a glimpse into the town’s mining past.
• Mount Elbert: Colorado’s highest peak offers hiking opportunities with panoramic views.
• Fremont Pass: At an elevation of 11,318 feet, this pass provides sweeping views of the surrounding alpine terrain.
• Colorado River Headwaters Scenic Byway: Near Granby, this byway traces the early course of the Colorado River, passing through picturesque towns and offering recreational opportunities like fishing and rafting.
• Wolford Mountain Reservoir: Popular for boating and fishing.
• Grand Lake: The largest natural lake in Colorado, offering boating and lakeside dining.
• Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre: Offers live performances during the summer months.
• Shadow Mountain Lake: Adjacent to Grand Lake, offering additional recreational opportunities.
• Trail Ridge Road: A spectacular stretch of U.S. Highway 34 that traverses Rocky Mountain National Park, connecting Grand Lake on the west side to Estes Park on the east. Spanning 48 miles, it is renowned for being the highest continuous paved road in North America, reaching a peak elevation of 12,183 feet (3,713 meters).
• Alpine Visitor Center: Located at 11,796 feet, this is the highest visitor center in the National Park System, providing exhibits and a gift shop.
• Rocky Mountain National Park: Offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

Important Considerations for Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park

• Seasonal Access: Trail Ridge Road is typically open from late May to mid-October, weather permitting. 
• Timed Entry Permits: From May through October, Rocky Mountain National Park requires timed entry permits for access. 
• Altitude Awareness: Be prepared for high elevations; stay hydrated and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
• Fuel Up: Ensure your vehicle has sufficient fuel before entering the park, as there are no gas stations along Trail Ridge Road. 
• Weather Preparedness: Weather can change rapidly; carry layers and check forecasts before departure.
• Wildlife Caution: Be vigilant for wildlife crossing roads, especially during dawn and dusk.

From Estes Park, you can end your journey or continue either:

• North to Horsetooth Reservoir: Via U.S. 34 and CO-287, leading you to the scenic reservoir near Fort Collins—a great place to swim, paddleboard, or relax on the shoreline.
• East through Big Thompson Canyon: Take the dramatic drive through the Big Thompson River Canyon, with towering granite walls and river views, eventually connecting you to Loveland and beyond.

From the red-hued cliffs of the San Juans to the windswept tundra of Trail Ridge Road, this road trip across Colorado is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you're chasing the adrenaline of high mountain passes, savoring the stillness of alpine lakes, or immersing yourself in the history of charming frontier towns, the route from Durango to Estes Park captures the very essence of the Colorado Rockies. 

With countless opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, hot spring soaking, and dispersed camping along the way, this journey is as much about the experiences between destinations as the destinations themselves. However long you choose to linger, this road trip offers a chance to slow down, breathe in the high mountain air, and reconnect with the wild beauty of the American West.