Explore Colorado's Best Waterfalls And Wineries On This Multi-Day Road Trip
By Courtnie Erickson
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Published July 01, 2022
We love our road trips in Colorado. There are so many unique things to see and places to visit that sometimes, a day trip in the Centennial State just isn’t enough. If you really want an adventure through this great state, how about exploring some of the best waterfalls and wineries Colorado has to offer? We’ve created a multi-day adventure that will take you all around the state to some of our favorite waterfalls and wineries. It is one journey that will not leave you disappointed.
Make sure the car is ready to go, the snacks are packed, and your camera is charged. This itinerary takes us approximately 680 miles and requires just under 13 hours of drive time. Don’t worry though, we’ve located some of the most charming and conveniently-located Best Western Hotels in Colorado along the way, ensuring you are well-rested and ready to go each and every day of this road trip. So, are you ready for an adventure?
1. Bridal Veil Falls, Telluride
Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado 81426, USA
Our road trip begins at the impressive and popular Bridal Veil Falls. This is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado, falling an impressive 365 feet. In fact, this waterfall is almost 200 feet taller than Niagara Falls! If you are up for a hike, you can capture an even better look at the falls, but be prepared for a challenge as the hike to Bridal Veil Falls is no easy trek.
2. Mountain View Winery, Olathe
5859 5825 Rd, Olathe, CO 81425, USA
Mountain View Winery not only offers an exceptional selection of wines, but you’ll also enjoy some breathtaking mountain views. During your visit, you can spend time in the tasting room and also take a winery tour and do some of your own fruit picking if you visit during the spring, summer, or fall months. All of the wine found at this winery is bottled at the vineyard; don’t be surprised when you find multiple flavors that you love!
3. Whitewater Hill Vineyards, Grand Junction
220 32 Rd, Grand Junction, CO 81503, USA
Whitewater Hill is a family-owned winery in the gorgeous Grand Valley. The vineyards contain a variety of grapes and the soil, climate, and temperatures in this area are the perfect combination for astounding flavors. During your visit to Whitewater Hill Vineyards, make sure to sign up for a wine tour and sit down in the tasting room to enjoy the award-winning wines.
After exploring one of the best waterfalls in Colorado and two unforgettable wineries, you can stay the night at the Best Western Grande River Inn and Suites , conveniently located along the route!
4. Hanging Lake, Glenwood Springs
Hanging Lake, Colorado 81601, USA
Hanging Lake is one waterfall that you will have a hard time forgetting. While there are many features of Hanging Lake that make it stunning, its rare turquoise color is one of our favorites. The color of the water is made by travertine deposition, which was originally created by dissolved limestone from the Mississippian Period Leadville Formation. You do have a 1.2-mile hike to reach this incredible waterfall and due to the popularity of the hike, reservations and permits are required to explore this trail.
5. BrookCliff Vineyards, Boulder
1501 Lee Hill Dr unit 17, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
BrookCliff Vineyards is the creation of two engineers who have worked hard to make something truly special. Sample some of the best flavors in the tasting room or take a behind-the-scenes tour, which offers wine tasting (and chocolate and cheese!). This winery also features events throughout the year like Sunset Saturday, where you can watch the sunset, enjoy a glass of wine, listen to live music, and even order a meal at an on-site food truck.
After exploring one of the most unique waterfalls and a popular winery, you'll need your rest. Book a stay at Best Western Plus Boulder Louisville , the Best Western Firestone Inn and Suites , or the Best Western Brighton Inn .
6. Balistreri Vineyards, Denver
1946 E 66th Ave, Denver, CO 80229, USA
Balistreri Vineyards is like an oasis less than 10 minutes from downtown Denver. This family-owned and operated winery is set in the most beautiful backdrop that will have you swooning. This winery specializes in all-natural wines and you’ll be able to taste the difference when you pull up a seat in the tasting room. You can also stop by the on-site restaurant for an evening filled with seasonal, fresh, and mouthwatering dishes.
After spending a day at an incredible vineyard, relax and recharge before a day filled with chasing waterfalls. Spend the night at Best Western Denver Southwest or the Best Western Plus Denver Tech Center Hotel , both just a short drive from this winery!
7. Rainbow Falls, Cascade
Rainbow Falls, US-24, Cascade, CO 80809, USA
Rainbow Falls sits in the most unusual location — under a highway overpass near Manitou Springs. However, don’t let that stop you from seeing this stunning waterfall in person. Rainbow Falls is fairly easy to access and quite beautiful. However, before you stop at this waterfall, check the El Paso County website to ensure it is open. The trail to this waterfall is occasionally closed due to unsafe conditions.
8. Seven Falls, Colorado Springs
Seven Falls, 2350 S Cheyenne Canyon Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, USA
When chasing waterfalls in Colorado, you must stop at Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. This majestic waterfall certainly belongs on your bucket list as it is considered one of the world’s must-see waterfalls! As the name suggests, this is actually a series of seven waterfalls that fall more than 180 feet. If you want to capture an incredible view from the top of the falls, get ready for a steep 224-step climb.
9. Zapata Falls, San Luis Valley
Zapata Falls, Colorado 81146, USA
Our fabulous multi-day road trip concludes with one of the most unique and inspiring waterfalls on the trip — Zapata Falls. This is a 25-foot waterfall that is located at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Zapata Falls is tucked away so to enjoy its majestic beauty, you will have a short (0.9-miles to be exact) out-and-back hike ahead of you. However, take your time and just enjoy the unique scenery before you rush back to the car.
For one last night before you head home, receive a good night's sleep at the Best Western Alamosa Inn .
What do you think about this waterfall and winery road trip in Colorado? Are there any additional stops you would make? Let us know in the comments! And, don’t forget to book a stay at a nearby Best Western property in Colorado for all of your travel needs — you deserve to wake up each morning rested and ready to explore!
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