Denver to Breckenridge

Once you’ve acclimated to Denver’s altitude, it’s off to the mountains. Views will get prettier by the minute as I-70 winds over the eastern edge of the Rockies. Stretch your legs in Idaho Springs, then prepare for hairpin turns and serious elevation gains on US 40 as you approach the ski resort towns of Winter Park and Fraser Valley on the way to Granby.

The majority of your route from Granby follows the winding path of the Colorado River. Along the way are plenty of opportunities for white-water rafting and outdoor recreation, especially near Kremmling. You’ll cross over the Continental Divide twice before your descent into Steamboat Springs, where ski slopes and more than 150 therapeutic mineral springs will delight.

Once you’ve soaked up the Old West charm of Steamboat Springs, hit the road toward Vail, one of the largest ski areas in North America and the glitziest (and most crowded) you’ve seen yet on this trip. Off the mountain, the Bavarian-style Vail Village is a nice place to explore with cobblestone streets and lots of boutiques, art galleries and dining spots.

If you haven’t had your fill of high-altitude fun, Breckenridge awaits. The short drive from Vail is not without its scenery—you’ll tackle curvy Vail Pass and see Copper Mountain before reaching your last stop. With its roots in the gold rush, “Breck” has plenty of charm, including a Main Street with shops and eateries housed in colorfully restored Victorians.