Pick up Aspen in Denver at 10 AM. Head toward Black Hawk and join the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway north toward Nederland. Keep the afternoon simple with a town stop before setting up camp.
Black HawkSouthern end of the 55-mile Peak to Peak byway
NederlandPick up groceries before camp
Kelly Dahl Campground, subject to reservationPlan all three nights here if available. Confirm operating dates and a site suitable for the truck before departure.
Driving figures are estimates, not a timed itinerary. Allow extra time for weekend traffic.
DAY2
Ward and the northern byway
~60 MI~2 HRPAVED SCENIC BYWAY
Follow the byway north through Ward toward the Allenspark area. Stop at signed public viewpoints and choose a short walk that suits the weather. Return to the same camp rather than packing up each morning.
WardSmall mountain town on the byway
Front Range viewpointsUse signed pullouts and respect private land
Return to your reserved Kelly Dahl siteNo campsite or availability is included with the rental.
High-elevation weather can change quickly. Carry a layer even in summer.
DAY3
A slow day in Estes Park
~70 MI~2 HRPAVED HIGHWAYS
Continue north to Estes Park for a town day, a meal and mountain views. Return along the byway to camp. This itinerary does not require entering Rocky Mountain National Park.
Estes ParkTown stops and a relaxed lunch
Return to your reserved Kelly Dahl siteCheck current fire restrictions before cooking outside.
If you add a national park visit, check park entry, timed-entry and pet rules separately.
DAY4
Breakfast and back to Denver
~55 MI~1 HRPAVED HIGHWAYS
Pack down camp and take a direct paved route back to Denver. Leave room for traffic, fuel and the 4 PM return.
Fuel stopReturn with the same fuel level, 87 octane or higher
Denver returnReturn Aspen by 4 PM
Check your route home before leaving camp; mountain traffic can exceed these estimates.