Originally Posted by michellemorantez7694

We are flying to Denver and renting a van with 4 adults and 6 kids. We will be in Colorado for 9 nights. Our flight is supposed to arrive at 10:50 am. We are spending the last night in Denver near the airport. We definitely want to spend at least 3 nights in Estes Park/RMNP. We would like to go to either Mesa Verde National Park or Arches. I'm hesitant to go to Arches because we're going in July and I would think masks will still be required and it will be so hot. I went on the family trip as a teen to Arches in July and I remember how hot it was. Our kids range in age from 15 to 10. We have also thought about going to Colorado Springs and Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Is this going to be too much driving? Also, I'm a little concerned about our group adjusting to the altitude because we're coming from New Orleans. I would rather see less and enjoy it than have grouchy kids because we're in the car too much. We enjoy easy/moderate hikes and may want to white water raft or zip line. Thanks for your help!