5 Day Small Group Tour Denver Rocky Mountains Aspen and More

Discover the Best of Colorado with a 5-Day Small-Group Tour

This 5-day small-group tour in Colorado offers an immersive experience, exploring Denver’s city highlights, the breathtaking landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park, and charming mountain towns like Vail and Aspen. Priced at $1,280 per person, the tour provides a balanced mix of city sightseeing, mountain adventures, and relaxing hot springs, all within a well-structured itinerary that spans approximately five days. With an average booking window of 67 days in advance, this tour is popular among those looking to see Colorado’s iconic sights with the comfort of a guided small group.

The tour includes hotel accommodations for four nights, professional drivers and guides, and entry to key attractions such as Red Rocks Park, Glenwood Springs Hot Springs, and the Garden of the Gods. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive Colorado experience without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. As an added convenience, group discounts and mobile tickets make the booking process straightforward. The only notable consideration is that meals and gratuities are not included, so budget accordingly.

Key Points

• Includes 4 nights of hotel accommodation in Colorado, with rooms for 2-4 guests.
• Highlights include Denver city tour, Rocky Mountain National Park, Vail, Aspen, Glenwood Springs, and Colorado Springs.
• Entry tickets to attractions such as Glenwood Springs Hot Springs, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and Garden of the Gods are included.
• The tour departs from Denver International Airport at 2:00 pm on the first day, with transportation provided.
• A maximum of 14 travelers ensures personalized attention and manageable group sizes.
• Booking in advance is recommended, with most reservations made roughly two to three months ahead.

Denver City Highlights and Downtown Exploration

The tour begins at Denver International Airport, with a free pickup at 2:00 pm from the baggage claim area. The first day features a quick exploration of Denver’s downtown, including iconic sights like the Big Blue Bear sculpture and the 16th Street Mall, designed by I.M. Pei. The Colorado State Capitol and Denver Art Museum are also outside visited, giving a taste of the city’s culture and architecture.

Travelers enjoy a free sightseeing bus ride to the old train station and an inside visit to the Old Railway Station, which adds historical context to the city’s transportation history. This day offers a relaxed introduction to Denver’s vibrant core, setting the tone for more scenic adventures ahead.

Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park and Trail Ridge Road

On the second day, the tour heads to Rocky Mountain National Park, a cornerstone experience. The visit includes Bear Lake, the Alpine Visitor Center, and Sheep Lake, with a total of about 9 hours spent exploring the park. The scenic Trail Ridge Road takes travelers up through the mountains, offering spectacular views and lush forests along the way.

Rocky Mountain National Park is a highlight for its natural beauty and wildlife, with the opportunity to see iconic mountain landscapes and alpine lakes. The park’s vastness and elevation make for a memorable day, with plenty of opportunities for photos and short walks.

Visiting Red Rocks Park and Scenic Highway 70

Day three begins with a visit to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, renowned for its natural acoustics and striking red sandstone formations. The guided visit lasts about one hour, allowing ample time to admire the outdoor venue and scenic surroundings.

Afterward, the tour drives along Highway 70 through the Rocky Mountains, passing by the Vail mountain resort. Although Vail is only passed by during a 45-minute drive, the town’s famous ski slopes and mountain scenery are part of the day’s visual feast. The day wraps up with a visit to Glenwood Springs Hot Springs, where a soak in the warm pools for 1.5 hours offers relaxation after a day of scenic touring.

Aspen and Maroon Bells – Scenic and Seasonal Alternatives

Day four centers on Aspen, a picturesque mountain town known for its luxury resorts and stunning peaks. The highlight here is a 3-hour bus tour of the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, which is one of the most photographed landscapes in the U.S. The natural beauty of the Maroon Bells is indisputable, with their mirror-like lakes and dramatic peaks.

Due to seasonal closures until May 15, 2025, a replacement activity is offered—a Dillon Lake tour and hike lasting about 2 hours. This flexibility ensures the itinerary remains engaging regardless of seasonal access restrictions. Afterward, free time of about 2 hours in Aspen offers guests the chance to explore local shops, cafes, or simply enjoy the mountain vistas.

Concluding with Colorado Springs and the Red Rock Formations

The final day takes travelers to Colorado Springs, where the iconic Garden of the Gods provides a stunning display of red sandstone formations set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. The guided visit lasts approximately 3 hours, giving ample time to walk among the towering red rocks and soak in the scenery.

Next, a 1-hour free tour of Manitou Springs introduces guests to the town’s artsy atmosphere, boutique stores, and street performances. The day concludes with a scenic drive along Pikes Peak Highway, offering breathtaking views over the mountain terrain and a chance to see diverse wildlife across four Colorado life zones.

Logistics and Practicalities of the Tour

The tour operates with professional drivers and guides, ensuring smooth transportation and engaging narration throughout the journey. The group size is limited to 14 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. Transportation is via passenger vans or full-sized buses, depending on the group size, and all hotel accommodations are included for four nights in rooms accommodating 2-4 guests.

The meeting point is conveniently located at 8500 Pena Blvd in Denver, with a critical requirement that flights depart after 6:30 pm on the last day. The tour includes admission tickets to major attractions, but meals and gratuities are not included, which travelers should factor into their planning.

Who Will Enjoy This Colorado Tour?

This well-rounded itinerary suits those interested in a mix of city sights, mountain scenery, and relaxing hot springs. The tour is accessible to most travelers, with age restrictions mainly for children under 18 who must be accompanied by an adult, and pregnant women advised to participate if under 24 weeks pregnant.

The tour’s small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate experience. The inclusion of pre-arranged tickets and organized transport makes for a hassle-free trip, while the flexibility in activity replacements—such as the Maroon Bells being closed—adds to its reliability.

Colorado Adventure on a Budget: Is It Worth It?

While the $1,280 price covers hotel stays, transportation, and entry to many key sites, meals and gratuities are extra. The cost reflects a comprehensive experience with knowledgeable guides and well-planned logistics. The advance booking window of 67 days suggests strong demand, so planning ahead is advisable.

This tour is an efficient way to cover a broad swath of Colorado’s natural and urban highlights in five days. It balances structured sightseeing with free time, making it a good choice for travelers who want a curated experience without the stress of self-planning.

Final Thoughts on the 5-Day Colorado Small Group Tour

This tour offers a well-organized, engaging itinerary that captures Colorado’s essence—from Denver’s city buzz to the serenity of mountain lakes and hot springs, topped with awe-inspiring rock formations. The inclusive tickets and small group size contribute to a smoothly run trip with personalized touches.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate balanced days of sightseeing and leisure, with flexibility built-in for seasonal changes. While meals are not included, the overall value remains attractive given the attractions covered and the professional guiding.

Travelers who want to see the highlights of Colorado comfortably and efficiently will find this tour to be a dependable and enriching choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel accommodations for four nights, transportation, professional guides, and admission tickets to attractions like Glenwood Springs Hot Springs, Red Rocks Park, and Garden of the Gods.

When should I book this tour?
Booking is recommended around 67 days in advance to secure your spot, as most bookings occur about 2-3 months ahead.

What is the tour’s departure time?
The tour begins at 2:00 pm from Denver International Airport. You should plan your flight to depart after 6:30 pm on the last day.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included in the tour price, so travelers should budget for their own food.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women are advised to join if under 24 weeks pregnant.

What attractions do I visit on Day 4?
You visit Aspen and enjoy a bus tour of Maroon Bells (or an alternative activity if closed), plus free time to explore the town.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothing, sun protection, cash, and drinks for hydration are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 6 days are non-refundable.

Is accessibility considered?
Most travelers can participate; however, those with specific mobility needs should check with the provider, as the tour involves walking and outdoor activities.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at Denver International Airport, with an end time suitable for late flights.