From Cedar Falls to Estes Park: A Scenic Road Trip Adventure

Ready to hit the road? Cedar Falls, Iowa to Estes Park, Colorado is a great road trip that’ll take you through some beautiful countryside. There are a few different routes you can take, depending on how much time you have and your preferred mode of travel.

Route 1: The I-80 & I-76 Route

One popular route takes you west on I-80, then north on I-76. You can break the drive up by stopping in cities like Omaha, NE, and Denver, CO. The trip is just over 900 miles and will take about 14 hours without stopping for sightseeing.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you have a bit more time, trade the highways for back roads. Start by heading south on US-63 from Cedar Falls before hopping on I-35 to Des Moines. Then, take US-69 toward Kansas City, MO. Once you’re in Kansas, take exit 54 for US-36 W toward St. Joseph, then continue on as it turns into CO-71 N. Then you’ll merge onto I-76 W before turning onto CO-52 W toward Fort Collins and then onto US-34 W to Estes Park. This route is longer but more scenic, taking you through charming towns like St. Joseph, MO and Sterling, CO. Set aside around 16 hours of driving time.

Route 3: The Short Cut

If you’re feeling pressed for time, keep it simple and stick to the highways. Take I-35 south from Cedar Falls, then get on I-80 heading west. From there, take I-76 west until you get to the CO-52 West exit, then head north on US-34 to Estes Park. This route will take you just under 13 hours, but you’ll miss out on some of the stunning scenery along the way.

Places to Stop Along the Way

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of great places to stop and stretch your legs. In Iowa, check out the historic Amana Colonies or grab a bite to eat at the Machine Shed Restaurant in Des Moines. In Missouri, visit the Kansas City Museum or the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum. Once you get to Colorado, explore the Rocky Mountain National Park or visit the famous Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining.”

Best Time to Go

The best time to make this road trip is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the scenery is lush. Keep in mind that Estes Park and the Rocky Mountains can get busy during peak tourist season, so plan accordingly to avoid crowds.

Wrapping Up

No matter which route you choose, the Cedar Falls to Estes Park road trip is a journey that’s packed with adventure, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of good food. Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and stop often to take in the sights and sounds of the heartland on your way to the Rockies.