Suggested route for Mesa Verde to Denver in 2 days
 

I am thinking about a route that takes us via Durango-Montrose-Poncha Springs-Leadville. Is this feasible with two full days of travel. Are there other routes that would offer more in terms of scenery? Where would be a good place to overnight on the way. I have read about drivng the South Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Is this a reasonable detour given the time allotted? What other stops/sites would you recommend? Thanks.

My choice would be via Silverton, Aspen, and Brekenridge--there is much beauty along the way.

HTTT

I live on the western slope, and covered some of this ground recently myself. I would say from Mesa Verde take the 145 to the historically preserved town of Telluride. Head back out of town on the 145 and pick up the 52 to Ridgway. This takes you along the San Juan Mountain range, one of the most scenic routes in the state (my favorite stretch).
In Ridgway, take the 550 north to Montrose and then you can get to the Black Canyon to take a nice drive and maybe stay in Montrose that night.
The next day, continue east to Gunnison, and Salida where you can pick up the 24 up to Leadville, then the 91 to Breckenridge and on to Denver on 70.

Thanks for the advice; Sheri does this seem do-able in the time I have?

Straight driving time from Cortez (Mesa Verde) to Montrose is about 3.5 hours. And from Montrose to Denver is almost 6 hours, so you'll have more than enought time to stop, get photos, have lunch and get a good look at the canyon, etc.