Our Houston to Colorado road trip itinerary takes you across Texas to Colorado’s southern border.
An 870-mile Houston to Colorado road trip takes you from the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, across Texas, and even through the northeast corner of New Mexico, to southern Colorado. You’ll pass through unique towns, famous cities, stunning national forests, and breathtaking natural locations and landscapes as you drive towards the wonders the “Centennial State” has to offer.
Read on for ideas and help planning a perfect road trip to Colorado from Houston, Texas.
A Houston To Colorado Road Trip Itinerary: How Far Is It, How Long Will It Take & What Is The Best Route?
A Houston to Colorado road trip covers at least 865 miles (1,392 kilometres) and takes 12 hours and 45 minutes to drive. However, the best road trip from Houston to Colorado has a slightly longer distance, 870 miles, and takes 13 hours.
Begin by following I-45 north for 238 miles to Exit 284A, in Dallas, Texas. Briefly head west on I-30 before keeping right to go north on I-35E, then use Exit 433A to join Texas State Highway 183 at its origin. In North Richland Hills, keep right to join I-820 and follow it west, then join I-35W and briefly go north, before joining US Route 287 and continuing north. Stay on this for 325 miles, until it merges with I-40 near Amarillo, Texas.
Very briefly take I-40 west, then use Exit 66 and turn right onto Bell Street at the lights. Follow Bell Street until it merges with US Route 66, before going left at the lights and joining Farm to Market Road 1061/Tascosa Road. Drive this to its conclusion; in Tascosa, Texas, then go right on US Route 385 and follow it north until it merges with US Route 87.
Keep going until the two separate again in Dalhart, Texas, where you remain on US Route 87 and drive another 130 miles. In Raton, New Mexico, you’ll head north on I-25. The Colorado State Line is only 7 miles from Raton. However, our guide takes you an extra 50 miles to Walsenburg, Colorado. This is an ideal place to end our Houston to Colorado road trip guide, as the town is a junction with easy access to virtually all of Colorado’s top attractions.
For Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, Pike-San Isabel National Forest, Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests, and Rocky Mountain National Park, go north on I-25.
Take US Route 60 west for Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, Rio Grande National Forest, San Juan National Forest, Durango, Southern Ute Reservation, Mesa Verde National Park, Ute Mountain Reservation, Navajo Nation, and Four Corners Monument.
Drive northwest on Colorado State Highway 69 for Aspen, Gunnison, Gunnison National Forest, Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park, and Grand Junction.
Best Time For A Houston To Colorado Road Trip
The best time for a Houston to Colorado road trip is either mid-June to early July or September.
These windows avoid the Texas Panhandle’s tornado season, which usually runs from the start of May to early June, and the peak of Colorado wildfire season, which usually falls in mid-July to the end of August. This is while still ensuring you enjoy warm, dry weather throughout your trip, and skipping the blistering highs the region experiences during the height of Summer.
Best Place To Stop On A Houston To Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
With our Houston to Colorado road trip taking 13 hours to drive, you’ll need to split it into more manageable chunks if you are going to enjoy everything the route has to offer. There are many great places to make an extended stop on our route, but two offer far more than any others.
Dallas, Texas
Dallas, the third most populous city in Texas, is the core of the largest metropolitan area in the state, the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, making it a prime tourist attraction. It offers a wealth of experiences, including many museums, art galleries, shopping venues, and accommodations for all budgets. There is also lively nightlife and historic sites such as the JFK assassination location, providing ample activities for visitors.
Moreover, Dallas stands out as one of the most culturally diverse cities in the United States and boasts one of the largest LGBTQ populations, creating an inviting environment for individuals of all identities. The city has evolved from its industrial roots into a dynamic hub filled with unique neighbourhoods and a rich, eclectic culinary scene.
Best Hotel To Stay At In Dallas, Texas – Omni Dallas Hotel
The Omni Dallas Hotel is an impressive 4-star establishment located in the Historic District of Downtown Dallas. It features a range of amenities including a heated outdoor infinity pool, 10 dining options, a bar, and business and fitness centres, along with meeting and dry-cleaning services, ensuring it can meet diverse guest requirements.
The hotel is also pet-friendly and provides a hearty breakfast each morning to kickstart your day. Inside the rooms, guests will find a tasteful, modern decor complemented by comfortable furniture, private bathrooms, flat-screen televisions, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Additionally, high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property for convenient connectivity.
Amarillo, Texas
The largest city in Northwest Texas, Amarillo, showcases the essence of Texan culture more vividly than any other urban area nearby. Surrounded by vast rural scenery, visitors can often see emblematic sights such as ten-gallon hats, robust steaks, cowboy boots, and ranchers, making it an ideal spot for those eager to immerse themselves in local traditions.
Film lovers will enjoy the opportunity to visit various locations associated with Western films shot in the city. Additionally, a wide range of excellent bars and restaurants guarantees that even those just passing through will find plenty to appreciate.
Nearby attractions, including Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway, home to Texas's official bison herd; Alibates Flint Quarry National Monument; and Palo Duro Canyon State Park, offer numerous chances for outdoor adventures, ensuring that visitors will never run out of things to do. Furthermore, the city's location on the historic Route 66 makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in automotive history or petrolania.
Best Hotel To Stay At In Amarillo, Texas – Route 66 Inn
Located at the edge of the Historic Route 66 District and right off the famous highway, the Route 66 Inn is an excellent lodging choice in Amarillo for those eager to experience the local culture, especially fans of petrolania. While the property is relatively basic, it maintains a standard of cleanliness and comfort, with its proximity to attractions like the Amarillo Museum of Art widely lauded.
Each guest room comes with ample amenities, including a microwave, a refrigerator, cable TV, Wi-Fi, and free parking, making it an affordable option for a memorable break on your Houston to Colorado road trip.
The 10 Best Things To See On A Houston To Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
Sam Houston National Forest
The first stop on our Houston, Texas, to Colorado road trip is Sam Houston National Forest. Roughly an hour north of Houston, it spans 160,000+ acres of picturesque pine woodlands and serene lakes alive with wildlife, like white-tailed deer, armadillos, and various bird species, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
This forest is famous for the Lone Star Hiking Trail, the longest uninterrupted hiking trail in Texas, offering opportunities for everything from brief woodland strolls to extended backpacking trips. Popular activities include birdwatching, wildlife observation, fishing, kayaking, and camping, while the peaceful atmosphere serves as a refreshing contrast to the nearby urban environment.
Additionally, Sam Houston National Forest boasts numerous picnic spots, campgrounds, and access points to Lake Conroe, where visitors can partake in boating, swimming, and other water activities. During certain seasons, the forest showcases vibrant spring wildflowers and beautiful fall colours, ensuring that each time you visit, you’ll find something new.
Corsicana, Texas
Corsicana is a delightful city in East Texas known for its rich historical background, friendly community atmosphere, and vibrant arts culture. A core part of Texas’ oil heritage, it was the location of the first significant oil discovery west of the Mississippi River in 1894. It honours its past with historical landmarks, museums, and meticulously maintained downtown streets featuring a variety of boutiques, cafés, and local dining establishments.
Visitors can tour galleries displaying the works of regional artists, shop at distinctive independent stores, and appreciate the city’s remarkable Victorian and early 20th-century architecture. Additionally, Corsicana is a convenient location for those wishing to explore the nearby natural landscapes, with various parks, lakes, and outdoor activities within easy reach.
Waxahachie, Texas
Waxahachie is a charming small city known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and welcoming small-town atmosphere. Its centrepiece is the Ellis County Courthouse, an impressive 19th-century Romanesque Revival building standing prominently in a lively historic downtown area. Surrounding it are shops, antique stores, cafés, local art galleries, regular festivals, and seasonal events.
Waxahachie is especially famous for the annual Scarborough Renaissance Festival, which draws visitors from across Texas each spring for jousting competitions, costumes, and medieval-themed activities. Additionally, film buffs may recognise the city as a filming location for numerous movies and television series, including “Walker, Texas Ranger,” due to its historically authentic streets. This allows fans to immerse themselves in memorable scenes.
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Irving, Texas
Irving, Texas, seamlessly blends urban energy with natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. It is famous for the Mustangs of Las Colinas. An impressive bronze sculpture, it captures the essence of wild horses galloping through water, making it a perfect spot for photographs and a symbol of the local culture. The Irving Arts Center contributes to the city’s cultural scene with its exhibitions, live shows, and beautifully maintained outdoor spaces.
The Toyota Music Factory is a vibrant entertainment hub, offering concerts, dining options, and nightlife all in one convenient location. Picturesque locations like Campión Trails boast a network of paths for walking or cycling through scenic riverside vistas along the Trinity River. Golf lovers can take advantage of prestigious venues such as Las Colinas Country Club. Shoppers will enjoy the Irving Mall and the nearby major shopping centres and outlets throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
Wichita Falls, Texas
Wichita Falls, Texas, is a relaxed North Texas city recognised for its rich frontier heritage and friendly character. The city derives its name from the Wichita Falls themselves, situated along the Wichita River, making it a favoured location for photography and a significant symbol of the area. Nearby, the Museum of North Texas History showcases stories ranging from local Native American cultures to those of early settlers.
The downtown area features historic buildings, distinctive shops, and a vibrant arts scene. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lucy Park and the Wichita Riverwalk offer scenic trails ideal for walking, biking, and enjoying picnics. Families and nature lovers can explore the River Bend Nature Center’s wildlife exhibits and trails suitable for hiking.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Located just south of Amarillo in the Texas Panhandle, Palo Duro Canyon State Park stands as one of the most stunning natural attractions in Texas.
Commonly known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," this canyon stretches over 120 miles and features striking red rock formations, tiered canyon walls, and wide-ranging desert landscapes that leave a lasting impression on first-time visitors. Scenic overlooks provide breathtaking views, while the visitor centre offers insights into the area's geology, wildlife, and historical significance linked to both Native American and ranching traditions.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a range of activities is available, including extensive trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding that wind through the canyon floor and its rim. Wildlife sightings are common, and the changing light throughout the day adds to the visual charm, making it an ideal spot for photographers. In the summer months, visitors can enjoy the renowned outdoor musical.
Dalhart, Texas
Dalhart, Texas, is a quaint High Plains town near the New Mexico and Oklahoma state lines. It provides a peaceful view of life in the Panhandle and its vast landscapes. The town's history is closely tied to ranching, the railroad industry, and the Dust Bowl period. All of these can be further examined at the XIT Museum, a noteworthy site featuring exhibitions on frontier history, agriculture, and the stories of early settlers.
Dalhart’s compact downtown features classic storefronts, inviting cafés, and a laid-back vibe, making it attractive for individuals seeking a genuine small-town atmosphere. Framed by expansive skies and open land, Dalhart is perfect for travellers who enjoy picturesque drives and serene settings. The town also hosts a variety of local events, such as rodeos and community festivals that celebrate its unique traditions.
Rita Blanca National Grasslands
Rita Blanca National Grasslands spans a large strip of the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles, offering visitors a chance to experience the vast beauty of the Southern High Plains. Characterised by gently rolling short-grass prairies, expansive skies, and calm horizons, this landscape is shaped more by ranching practices and conservation efforts than by notable geographical landmarks.
It is an ideal spot for those wanting peace, scenic drives, and a genuine connection with the American prairie. The region is popular for its laid-back outdoor pursuits, which include hiking, birdwatching, photography, picnicking, and observing pronghorn antelope alongside other wildlife. Sunrises and sunsets here are particularly stunning, showcasing unobstructed views and vivid colours that fill the plains.
Raton, New Mexico
Raton, New Mexico, is located on the northern border of the state, where the Great Plains give way to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This charming mountain community is known for its deep-rooted frontier and railroad history, with its historic downtown featuring local museums and well-preserved buildings that enhance its classic Old West atmosphere.
Travellers can explore the Raton Museum, stroll along the peaceful streets, and enjoy the relaxed vibe that makes it an inviting stop for those passing through Raton Pass. The area is also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to stunning landscapes and invigorating mountain breezes, with the surrounding hills ideal for fishing, camping, and photography.
Sugarite Canyon State Park
Sugarite Canyon State Park offers a peaceful escape, characterised by a mix of rugged landscapes and alpine woodlands. Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains foothills, the park’s cool, pine-laden slopes, expansive meadows, and stunning canyon views sharply contrast the adjacent plains.
This park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting extensive trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, along with ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. Two tranquil lakes, Maloya Lake and Lake Alice, provide perfect locations for fishing, picnicking, and quiet relaxation. During the winter, Sugarite Canyon becomes a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Final Thoughts On A Perfect Houston To Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
That concludes our guide to planning the ultimate Houston to Colorado road trip itinerary. You should now know when to go, the best route, the distance, how long it will take, and where to stay and what to see when you drive it yourself. All that’s left is to decide what to take with you and start budgeting and booking everything, so you can look forward to enjoying it all as soon as possible.
Anyone planning to continue the drive may also be interested in our road trip guides from or in Colorado. These include:
A Colorado National Parks road trip itinerary
A Denver to Mount Rushmore road trip itinerary
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