Have you ever wanted to go on a Colorado road trip but felt like it might be too expensive?
I get it. I used to think the same thing.
For the first time, I visited Colorado in 2024 and i didn’t have a huge budget, so I planned everything in a affordable way.
Actually, many readers asked me to write about budget travel in Colorado, so that’s why I decided to create this blog. Honestly, it took me 1 week to write this guide.
Let’s dive in.
1. Paint Mines Interpretive Park
Have you ever seen rocks that look like real paint?
This place is in Calhan. It is absolutely free to enter for everyone. The rocks have bright colors like pink and orange. I think it is one of the coolest spots ever.
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2. Bishop Castle
This is a real castle built by just one man named Jim Bishop. It is located in Rye and you do not have to pay to see it. It has iron bridges and a metal dragon.
I believe this is a must see for your whole family. It is a bit of a weird spot but you will totally love the adventure here.
3. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Most people go to the main dunes but there are hidden creeks too. If you go in late spring, Medano Creek flows right at the base.
I suggest staying late to see the bright stars in the sky. It is a really magic experience that you should not miss.
4. St. Elmo Ghost Town
St. Elmo is a very well preserved ghost town near Buena Vista. You can walk the old wooden streets for free. You can buy birdseed and feed the chipmunks. They are very friendly and might sit on your hand.
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5. Rifle Falls State Park
Imagine three waterfalls right next to each other. That is Rifle Falls and it is worth the drive. The mist feels so good on a hot day.
There are also caves to explore. It is a pretty much perfect spot for a picnic with your family or friends.
6. Last Chance
This is a tiny town on the eastern plains that sounds like a movie. There is not much there but that is why I love it. The sunsets here are huge and you can see for miles.
Personally, I think the quiet parts of the road trip are just as important as the peaks.
7. Zapata Falls
This gem is hidden near the Sand Dunes. You have to hike a little bit up a hill and walk into a cold stream. The waterfall is inside a rocky crevice.
It stays cool even in summer. I think you will find it really refreshing after a long day of driving in your car.
8. The UFO Watchtower
Do you believe in aliens?
This spot in Hooper is very quirky. It is a platform in the desert. It costs just a few dollars to go up. Even if you do not see a spaceship, the view of the valley is really great.
9. Florissant Fossil Beds
Did you know giant redwood trees used to grow in Colorado?
You can see their stone stumps here. This park is south of Divide and is full of history. You can see fossils of bugs and leaves. I think it is a great place for kids.
10. Crystal Mill
This is a famous sight but it is hard to get to. It sits above a clear river near Marble. You might need a truck or you can hike.
The view of the old mill is amazing. It is exactly the kind of place you see on postcards and now you can see it too.
11. Independence Pass
This road is only open in the summer and goes very high up. You can see snow even in July.
Don’t forget to bring a jacket because it is cold at the top. The road is a bit scary but the views are absolutely worth the extra effort.
12. Twin Lakes
At the bottom of the pass, you will find two blue lakes. They are beautiful and quiet.
I suggest stopping for a bit to see the reflection of the mountains on water. It is a great place to take a nap or just relax for a while.
13. Highway of Legends
This is a scenic loop in the south through old mining towns. The rock formations look like giant stone walls coming out of the earth.
It is a bit of a secret route that most tourists never find.
14. Grand Mesa
Most people go to the big parks but Grand Mesa is the largest flat top mountain. It has over 300 lakes and is very green.
There are fewer people here so you can find a quiet spot. I love how peaceful and calm it feels.
15. Black Canyon of the Gunnison
This canyon is very deep and narrow. It is dark and dramatic. The views from the rim will make your heart jump.
But honestly, it is one of the most powerful sights you will see on your budget road trip.
16. Ouray Perimeter Trail
Ouray is called the Switzerland of America and can be pricey. But the Perimeter Trail is free for everyone. It circles the whole town.
You see waterfalls and bridges. I suggest doing this hike early in the morning when the air is very fresh.
17. Box Canyon Falls
This is also in Ouray. But you get to walk into a narrow canyon where a waterfall thunders down.
The sound is so loud you can’t hear yourself think. It is very exciting for kids to see and hear. Plus, the metal walkway makes it feel like an adventure deep inside the earth’s crust.
18. Million Dollar Highway
This road connects Ouray to Silverton and is free to drive. The views are worth a million dollars. There are no guardrails in some spots so be careful.
But the old mines and high peaks are stunning. It is a drive you will always remember.
19. Silverton Ghost Mines
Around the town of Silverton, you can find old mines. You can see the rusty gear and old cabins from the road. It tells a story of gold and silver. I feel like a treasure hunter when I explore.
20. Molas Pass
This is a great spot to camp for free in certain areas. The stars are very bright at night. There is a lake right at the top of the pass.
I recommend stopping here for a sunset because the colors are totally beautiful.
21. Pinkerton Hot Springs
You don’t always have to pay for a spa. This is a roadside attraction near Durango. The water has created a big orange and pink rock mound.
It is a quick and fun stop for pictures. Plus, it is right by the road so you do not even have to hike there.
22. Animas River Trail
In Durango, there is a long path by the river. You can walk or bike it for miles. You can watch people in kayaks. It is a nice way to end your budget road trip.
There are many places to sit and rest while you watch the water flow.
Planning Your Route
You should plan your path in a circle. Start in Denver and head south. Then go west into the mountains. Finally, head back east. This saves gas. So driving less is smart.
I suggest using an app to find cheap gas stations.
FAQs
1. Is Colorado expensive to visit?
A. It can be. But if you camp and visit free parks, it is very cheap. Many of the best views cost nothing.
2. When is the best time for a road trip?
A. I think summer and fall are best. The mountain roads are clear. In the fall, the trees turn gold.
3. Can I find free camping?
A. Yes. Look for BLM land or National Forest land. You can often stay there for free. Just follow the rules.
4. Do I need a big truck?
A. Not for most of these spots. A small car is fine for the main roads. It also saves you money on gas.
5. Are there many grocery stores?
A. In the big towns, yes. In the mountains, they are smaller and cost more. Buy your food in the cities first.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide helps you. I feel like you don’t really need a big budget to enjoy Colorado.
If you have any places you want me to cover next, feel free to suggest them. Your suggestions really help me decide what to write about.
Thanks for reading, and I hope you have a great trip.