Colorado Solo Travel: A Beginner’s Guide for Women Over 40
Colorado is a state filled with mountain towns, vibrant cities, and scenic destinations to explore. It’s the perfect state for solo travel, thanks to its variety of activities and the Centennial State’s laid-back vibe.
Colorado is a great destination for beginner solo travelers because it is easy to navigate and offers experiences for every travel style, from outdoor adventures to relaxing weekend getaways. While Colorado is a large state, getting around is relatively simple, except during winter weather.
Below you will find the best destinations for first-time solo travelers, why it’s safe for women traveling alone, and example itineraries to help you plan your next trip.
Why Colorado Is an Ideal First Solo Travel Destination
I may be biased because I am a Colorado native, but I feel Colorado is not only perfect for solo travel, but specifically for women solo travelers.
Easy domestic travel – Colorado’s central location makes it easy to reach by air from many parts of the country. Denver is a major airport with direct flights from destinations across the United States.
Easy for Independent Travelers – Colorado is a well-established tourism destination with plenty of lodging options, tours, attractions, visitor centers, and resources to help you plan your trip.
Friendly outdoor culture – We enjoy being outside in Colorado, with so many activities, paths, and places to explore; the outdoor culture is unique and one-of-a-kind.
Plenty of short-trip options – I can enjoy a new adventure each weekend with so many cool towns, parks, and arts and culture to explore.
Can travel year-round – There are things to do in Colorado in every season. Most people probably think of ski season in the winter, but spring and summer bring beautiful colors and dry, sunny weather, while fall colors are a beautiful drive in the mountains and snowy adventures in the winter.
With so many choices between activities and the seasons, you are sure to find a trip that is perfect for you!
Is Colorado Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Like any city, you need to be aware of your surroundings. Colorado has a few large cities; however, it also has many peaceful suburbs and small towns worth exploring.
- Walking alone – When walking in both the city and in the mountains, be cautious of your surroundings.
- Driving alone – Driving should be fine. If staying in the city, be cautious when parking and walking to the hotel.
- Hiking alone – Be aware of your surroundings, carry bear spray when needed, and follow the park rangers’ and Visitor Center’s suggestions. It’s always good for someone to know that you are on a trail. If you’re new to hiking, I recommend sticking to shorter, well-traveled trails or hiking with a partner.
- Hotel safety – Like any hotel anywhere else.
- Mountain driving – Take it slow, and if you aren’t accustomed to driving in winter snow, I don’t advise driving through the Colorado mountains. They do have shuttles from the airport and other locations to the mountains.
These are simple precautions, nothing that should keep you from enjoying all that colorful Colorado has to offer. A little planning and awareness go a long way toward helping you feel confident during your trip. If you’re still nervous about traveling alone, you may also find my articles on solo travel safety, common solo travel problems, and first solo trip mistakes helpful as you prepare for your adventure.
Best Colorado Destinations for First-Time Solo Travelers
There are so many experiences waiting for you in colorful Colorado. Some of the best Colorado destinations for first-time solo travelers are not far from the capital of Colorado, Denver.
These destinations are beginner-friendly because they are easy to navigate, offer plenty of activities, and have good lodging and dining options for solo travelers.
Colorado Springs
Just a short 45-minute drive south from Denver, Colorado Springs is home to the Air Force Academy and the Rodeo Hall of Fame.
- Easy navigation – The Springs is a larger city in Colorado, but it’s not difficult to get around in.
- Lots of attractions – There are plenty of things to do in the Springs to keep you busy and do multiple trips. Plenty of museums, outdoor activities, parks, and tourist attractions. like Cave of the Winds, and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Plenty to do, no matter your interests.
- Great first solo weekend – So much to do that it is easy to fill a weekend with activities that are of interest to you, including good food and accommodations.
Estes Park
About an hour and a half drive from Denver, Estes Park feels like the kind of charming mountain town you see in the movies, with walkable streets, local shops, and beautiful mountain scenery.
- Estes Park is on the way to Rocky Mountain National Park. RMNP is Colorado’s most popular National Park.
- Estes Park has the perfect small-town feel. Good restaurants, plenty of paths for walking and exploring, gift shops, fudge shops, and of course, the Stanley Hotel. There, they offer not only lodging but also restaurants, ghost tours, and concerts.
Breckenridge
Cute mountain town with fun and unique year-round activities. From festivals to ice sculptures, there are many activities to enjoy in this beautiful mountain town, an hour and a half drive from Denver, depending on traffic, and a beautiful drive.
- Breck is very walkable with cute shops, restaurants, galleries, and more.
- It has a very friendly atmosphere, and everyone is welcome.
Denver
30 minutes from Denver International Airport, Denver is a unique city with a growing culinary scene, a wide variety of entertainment, shopping, and plenty to do within walking distance in downtown.
- Museums – Colorado History Museum, Denver Art Museum, Meow Wolf, Denver Museum of Contemporary Art
- Sport Teams – Colorado Avalanche Hockey, Colorado Rockies Baseball, Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets
- Variety of Music Venues and Performing Arts
With many activities to choose from, you can find something that interests you. Like any large city, be aware of your surroundings. There are plenty of Ubers and rickshaw bikes, and the 16th Street bus if you need a ride to your destination from your hotel.
Steamboat Springs
A little over 3 hours northwest of Denver, Steamboat Springs is a ski town and an active summer town, with festivals, rafting, hiking, biking, and riding the Steamboat Gondola.
- Steamboat offers a relaxed pace perfect for slow travel and a laid-back solo trip
- Major airlines fly into Steamboat from multiple major hubs.
Glenwood Springs
Located west of Denver, Glenwood Springs is less than 3 hours away and offers many options for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Glenwood Hot Springs has pools and a spa to enjoy.
- Hiking trails, a long bike path into the canyon, and Hanging Lake are special gems.
These are only a few highlights for each destination; there are so many more options that anyone can find activities to enjoy the day, and wind down at night with a good meal or cocktail.
Best Types of Solo Trips in Colorado
One of the things I love about Colorado is that there isn’t just one way to experience it. Whether you prefer relaxing in small towns, scenic road trips, national parks, or spa getaways, you can build a solo trip that fits your travel style.
Small Town Getaways
So many classic small towns to choose from make for a quick getaway! Small towns are often less overwhelming than larger cities and can be a great option for women taking their first solo trip.
Mountain Retreats
If higher elevations and mountain air are more your vibe, mountain retreats may be the perfect slow travel experience. Many mountain towns offer cozy lodging, beautiful views, and a more relaxed pace.
National Park Adventures
Colorado offers a number of unique National Park Adventures. They include the most popular in the state, Rocky Mountain National Park (Estes Park), Sand Dunes (Alamosa), Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and Mesa Verde National Park, located in southwest Colorado.
Spa and Wellness Escapes
Many hotels and hot springs offer spa and wellness packages. If you want extra relaxation, this may be the perfect solo experience.
Road Trips
Colorado has two major highways: I-70 running east/west and I-25 running north/south. With other highways leading to small towns and the corners of the state, taking a road trip is a fairly simple and beautiful way to enjoy colorful Colorado.
Train Excursions
Colorado is known for a few train experiences, both in the warmer months and around the holidays, with special themed rides.
- Georgetown Loop Railroad
- Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad – which runs in both Colorado and New Mexico
- The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway – Runs on Pikes Peak
- Royal Gorge Route Railroad – Located in Canyon City
- Leadville Railroad
- Cripple Creek Railroad – A four-mile ride with open cars
- Amtrak routes
Planning Your First Colorado Solo Trip
With so many options, planning your first Colorado Solo Trip will be fun. Even if all you wanted to do was enjoy the great outdoors, you would have plenty of options.
- Choose a destination – Knowing how long you will be staying will help to narrow down which location and activities you want to do.
- Book lodging – Reserve your accommodations once you know what you want to visit and explore, so you aren’t far from the activities you have planned.
- Plan transportation – What do you feel comfortable with? Are the activities in the Denver area, or will you need a car? There is a free shuttle that runs along 16th Street in downtown Denver if you are staying downtown. Otherwise, there is a train, an Uber, or a car rental.
- Build a loose itinerary – Decide what you want to explore and experience, have backup plans, but also have a loose itinerary. You may find you want to do more, or you may want to do less and focus on slow travel. Flexibility is key.
- Share plans with family – Once you create your itinerary, share it with family or a trusted friend. If you plan to spend time outdoors, let someone know where you will be. If hiking is new to you, start with easy, well-marked trails and avoid venturing too far alone.
- Leave room for flexibility – Don’t overpack your schedule. That way, if something looks like fun that you didn’t know about before you went, you can add it to your plans.
Colorado Solo Travel Tips for Women Over 40
With Colorado having four distinct seasons, you need to be aware of what to bring so you are prepared for the weather and high altitude, while also applying the basics of travel planning.
Don’t Overpack Your Itinerary
Leave room for flexibility. You may discover a local event, scenic overlook, or attraction that wasn’t part of your original plans.
Altitude Affects Everyone
Many Colorado destinations sit at higher elevations than visitors are used to. Drink water, take it easy on your first day, and give your body time to adjust.
Build in Rest Days
You don’t have to fill every minute of your trip. Schedule downtime to enjoy your surroundings and avoid feeling rushed.
Stay Hydrated
Colorado’s dry climate and higher elevations can leave visitors dehydrated more quickly than expected. Carry a water bottle and drink regularly throughout the day.
Bring Layers
Colorado weather can be unpredictable. It’s not unusual to start the day in a sweatshirt and end it in a T-shirt, so I always recommend bringing a few layers.
Start Close to Home
If this is your first solo trip, choose a destination that feels manageable. A weekend getaway can help build confidence before planning longer adventures.
Travel in Shoulder Seasons
Spring and fall often bring smaller crowds, lower prices, and beautiful scenery. They can be excellent times to experience Colorado.
Trust Your Instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, listen to that feeling. Solo travel becomes much more enjoyable when you trust yourself and make decisions that help you feel comfortable and safe.
Colorado is a great destination for a woman’s first solo trip. Whether you prefer mountain towns, city adventures, scenic drives, or relaxing retreats, Colorado offers plenty of opportunities to build confidence and enjoy traveling on your own.
Suggested Colorado Solo Itineraries
Here are sample itineraries for stays of varying lengths to help you get started exploring Colorado and all it has to offer.
First Solo Overnight: Colorado Springs
Day 1
- Drive to Colorado Springs
- Explore Garden of the Gods
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant
- Visit a museum, shopping district, or attraction
- Check into your hotel
- Enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening
Day 2
- Visit a favorite attraction or scenic area
- Have breakfast before heading home
First Solo Weekend: Estes Park
Day 1
- Arrive in Estes Park
- Explore downtown
- Visit the Stanley Hotel
Day 2
- Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park
- Enjoy local restaurants and shops
Day 3
- Scenic drive and return home
Long Weekend: Breckenridge
Day 1
- Arrive and explore Main Street with many delicious restaurants to choose from, and the Breckenridge Brewery.
Day 2
- Hiking, shopping, galleries, or seasonal events like the Snow Sculpture Championships.
Day 3
- Relaxed morning before heading home
Five-Day Colorado Adventure: Denver, Golden, and Estes Park
Days 1-2 – Spend a couple of days in Denver exploring museums, neighborhoods, restaurants, and attractions.
Day 3 – Drive to Golden for a half or full day of exploring before continuing to Estes Park.
Day 4 – Enjoy Estes Park and explore Rocky Mountain National Park.
Day 5 – Drive back to Denver and head home.
FAQs
Is Colorado good for first-time solo travelers?
Colorado is perfect for first-time solo travelers. Easy road trips, a variety of activities indoors and outside, and plenty of spa and shopping opportunities.
Is Colorado safe for women traveling alone?
Yes, Colorado is generally considered a safe destination for women traveling alone. As in any large city, you need to be aware of your surroundings when walking downtown in Denver. With so many small towns and mountain getaways, Colorado is a safe place for a woman traveling solo to enjoy.
What is the best Colorado town for solo travel?
I don’t think there’s a single best Colorado town I could suggest, because there are so many! If you are planning your first trip and do not want to be in a big city, the best place to start is Colorado Springs. So many options in a beautiful location, only 45 minutes or so south of Denver.
How many days do I need for a Colorado solo trip?
This depends on what you want to experience. You can start with a long weekend, but you can also enjoy a 7-day Colorado road trip.
Do I need a car in Colorado?
If you want to explore anything outside of the metro area, yes. Unless you have a specific destination in the mountains, many mountain towns can be reached from Denver by shuttle, bus, or other transportation services.
Final Thoughts on Colorado Solo Travel Guide
You don’t have to fly across the world to become a solo traveler. Sometimes the best first solo trip is the one close to home. Colorado offers mountain towns, scenic drives, walkable destinations, and plenty of opportunities to practice traveling independently while staying within your comfort zone.
Whether you start with a weekend getaway or a longer road trip, Colorado is the perfect place to build your travel confidence and discover what type of solo travel you enjoy most.
