United States with NORA

Dates

Jul 4–9, 2026

Group Size

8–12 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Adventure

About This Trip

Get ready for a week of adventure on this epic trip through the Colorado Rocky Mountains. You’ll be camping near and exploring three National Parks, as well as beautiful rivers and mountains. Sandboard in Great Sand Dunes, stare down the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, raft the Taylor River, bike to Maroon Bells, and marvel at the alpine tundra of 12,000ft in Rocky Mountain National Park. The majestic mountains await! Please Note: This is a participatory camping trip, in which all travelers will be assisting in setting up camp and cooking meals. Guides will teach you the best methods for quick set up and take down of tents and will lead the cooking, providing clear instructions and oversight. If you’ve never set up camp or cooked outdoors before, this is the perfect opportunity to learn under expert supervision!
$2,910USD
$3,010USD
Jul 4–9, 2026
6 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Nay Chi Win Tun
Nay Chi Win Tun

I ride a motorcycle to go on a road trip. I do short videos, want to make it grow. 🙌🍀

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Trip Activities

  • Sand Boarding in Great Sand Dunes National Park

  • White Water Rafting the Taylor River

  • Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Visit and Hike

  • E-Bike to the Maroon Bells

  • Explore the Town of Aspen

  • Hiking in Grand Lake and Kawuneeche Valley

  • Alpine Ridge Hike

  • Emerald Lake and Dream Lake Hike

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in tents

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (Please arrive by 12:00 P.M. on the first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (evening of last day, please book flights for after 6 pm)

  • All camping and cooking equipment (except for sleeping bag and pillow)

  • All Entrance Fees to the Parks and Activities are Included

Not Included

  • Flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas (if needed) and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Colorado! Your trip begins with TrovaTrip picking you up from the airport and transferring you to your campground near Great Sand Dunes National Park where you'll set up camp and cook your first dinner with the group. Plan to arrive by 12 pm. Camping is part of this incredible experience; you will set up and pack up your tent and help prep all meals! Since you'll be out on adventures most days, lunch will be picnic-style or bagged lunches. If you've never camped before, no worries, your professional Guide will always be there to help. Stops for bathroom breaks will be made as needed along the way to the campground. Please note Denver sits above 5,000 feet in elevation and as you head into the Rocky Mountains the elevation will increase to 8000 feet or higher. If you’re arriving from sea-level or sensitive to altitude sickness it is recommended to make any necessary preparations such as arriving earlier to adjust, or bringing any altitude sickness medication.

Arrival Airport Transfer

4 Hours 30 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from Denver International Airport (DEN) to the campground between 11:00 A.M. and 12:00 P.M. Please arrive by 12:00 P.M. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to your arrival based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to meet the group at the campground. Please note, there is no parking available at the campground. If you are driving, we recommend parking your car at the airport and joining the included transfer. On the transfer to Great Sand Dunes National Park, stops for bathrooms/snacks will be made along the way, including a stop about halfway in Pueblo (depending on traffic and transfer progress).

dinner

Included welcome dinner at camp. Camp dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Great Sand Dunes Oasis (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight camping near Great Sand Dunes National Park.

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Day 2

Info

This morning after breakfast you will tackle the great sand dunes! A short transfer from the campground will take you to these great dunes where you will sand board down the giant hills. After you’ve had your fill of sand, enjoy lunch and then transfer to your campground in Gunnison. After arriving you’ll enjoy dinner at camp. Today you’ll want to bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Sand Boarding in Great Sand Dunes National Park

2 Hours

A 10-15 minute transfer away and you’ll arrive to see some of the largest dunes in North America towering over you. With a wooden board in hand, and new friends by your side you’ll glide across these dunes with ease. It's an entirely different desert landscape inside Great Sand Dunes, and there's no better way to experience the most famous feature than by sliding down. You'll pick up rental boards just outside the park and then drive in, climb up the dunes to board down, and then repeat.

lunch

Included pack lunch. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc. Depending on group preference you will either have lunch after sand boarding or during your transfer to Gunnison.

Transfer to Gunnison

3 Hours

Your trip through the Rockies starts in earnest as you make your way to Gunnison. Stops for bathrooms/snacks will be made along the way as needed.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Gunnison KOA (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight camping in Gunnison, CO

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Day 3

Info

Fill up on breakfast and transfer to the Taylor River. You’ll gear up and then navigate your way through the rapids. After finishing rafting, you’ll have lunch and then hop back in the van to head to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. You’ll stop to stretch your legs on a short hike on the Rim Rock Trail. Then continue into the park for various viewpoints before finally heading to the campground for dinner. Today for whitewater rafting you’ll want to wear sturdy footwear such as river sandals with an ankle strap, or sneakers that can get wet (no flip flops or crocs), a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses with straps, change of clothes, a towel, and swimsuits and nylon shorts. In the afternoon, hiking boots or comfortable athletic shoes are recommended when exploring the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

White Water Rafting the Taylor River

2 Hours

After a 30 minute transfer you’ll arrive at the check-in for your rafting excursion. Then get ready to tackle some rapids on the Taylor! On this 2 hour rafting trip, you'll challenge the Class III rapids amidst beautiful scenery. You will be supplied paddles, life jackets, and booties. Optional gear also offered include wetsox, wetsuits, paddle jackets, and helmets. Bathrooms are available at the check-in office if you need to change clothes.

lunch

Included pack lunch after whitewater rafting. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Transfer to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

2 Hours

Continue on to reach one of Colorado's more remote and beautiful national parks, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Visit and Hike

40 Mins

Carved out of the volcanic igneous rock by the Gunnison River below, marvel at the striking black canyon walls on your flat, one-mile hike to the South Rim Visitor Center on the one-way Rim Rock Trail. Your Guide will drop you off on the south end of the trail and meet you at the north side to save you the return trip, then take you further into the park to the various viewpoints. At the end of the day you'll transfer about a half hour to the campground. Hike Distance: 1 mile one-way / Elevation gain: 187 ft / Duration: 30-40 minutes / Difficulty: Easy

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Montrose Black Canyon KOA (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight camping near Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

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Day 4

Info

After breakfast today you’ll transfer to the bike rental shop. You’ll pick up e-bikes and enjoy a ride to the Maroon Bells. Hop off your bike for a short hike for some amazing views, then bike back to return your rentals before transferring into Aspen to explore on your own for a couple hours. In the afternoon you’ll be picked up to transfer to your campground. Today you’ll want to wear athletic shoes or sneakers, comfortable shorts/pants for biking, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a water bottle, and a small backpack is recommended.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Transfer to Aspen

3 Hours

Travel through the scenic Rocky Mountains to reach Aspen this morning. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

E-Bike to the Maroon Bells

4 Hours

See the Maroon Bells in style as you skip the shuttles and take an e-bike through the mountain roads up to Maroon Lake and the Maroon Bells Amphitheater. You’ll pick up the bikes just outside of Aspen and then head up into the hills. Then park the bikes and take the short hike to the lake for great views of the towering peaks and enjoy your packed lunch, then, head back down to return your e-bikes before driving to Aspen to explore. You will each have your own pedal assist e-bike that has a weight limit of 300 lbs. Bike Ride Distance: 6 miles one-way / Elevation / 1400 feet / Duration 45 minutes / Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail: Distance: 1.5 miles loop / Elevation gain: 160 ft / Duration: 30-40 minutes / Difficulty: Easy

lunch

Included pack lunch after your visit to the Maroon Bells. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Explore the Town of Aspen

2 Hours

Transfer 15 minutes from the bike rental shop into the town of Aspen. The Hamptons of the West, Aspen is chock full of boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and some amazing art galleries. Explore the town before heading onwards to your campsite.

Transfer to the Campground

1 Hour

Depart Aspen and head to the campground.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Redstone Campground (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight camping in Carbondale, CO

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Day 5

Info

Enjoy breakfast at camp before you hit the road again and transfer to Grand Lake. You’ll stop to hike by Grand Lake and Kawuneeche Valley before having lunch and continuing your scenic drive through Rocky Mountain National Park. Half way through you’ll stop to hike up to an incredible view then continue to the campground where you’ll cook and eat dinner. Today you’ll want to wear hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes, bring a rain jacket, a water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Transfer to Grand Lake

3 Hours 30 Mins

Take a transfer on to Grand Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park. Stops for bathrooms/snacks will be made along the way as needed.

Hiking in Grand Lake and Kawuneeche Valley

2 Hours

There are plenty of trails to choose from, ranging from an easy mile to a moderate three or four, all with incredible scenery and possible elk sightings! Your Guide will choose a hike based on the season and your group. *In order to comply with Rocky Mountain National Park regulations, the group will be split into two, with staggered start times.

lunch

Included pack lunch on either the hike in Grand Lake and Kawuneeche Valley, or Alpine Ridge - dependent on how the group feels. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Scenic Drive on the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park

1 Hour

One of the premier drives in the entire United States, you'll pass through alpine tundra, forests, and mountains. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, moose, bear, and more. Stretch your legs on the Alpine Ridge Trail to the high point of 11,900ft, and marvel at the various views as you head lower down towards Estes Park.

Alpine Ridge Hike

1 Hour

About mid-way through your drive on the ridge road you’ll stop to stretch your legs. This short, intense hike up 225 stairs will take you to the high point of the road, with expansive views over the alpine tundra and nearby peaks. *In order to comply with Rocky Mountain National Park regulations, the group will be split into two, with staggered start times. Distance: 0.6 miles / Elevation: 162ft / Difficulty: Moderate

Transfer to the Campground

1 Hour

Continue your transfer to the campground.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Estes Park KOA (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight camping in Estes Park

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Day 6

Info

Today after breakfast you’ll squeeze in one more awesome hike before saying your goodbyes! You'll transfer to Emerald and Dream Lake for a hike before you have your final lunch and depart for the Denver airport.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Transfer to Emerald Lake and Dream Lake

1 Hour

Depart your campground and transfer to Emerald and Dream Lake.

Emerald Lake and Dream Lake Hike

2 Hours

From the Bear Lake Trailhead in Rocky Mountain National Park, Emerald Lake is a steady climb through aspen groves and ponderosa pine. At just over a half-mile, you will reach Nymph Lake, a charming lake filled with pond lilies that bloom throughout summer. Another half-mile in, you will reach the east end of Dream Lake as well as a junction – from here Emerald Lake is just over a mile (~1 hour) with steady additional elevation gain of around 300 feet. Depending on time and how the group feels, they can continue to Emerald Lake. Distance to Dream Lake: 2.2 miles / Elevation: 425 feet / Duration: 1 hour / Difficulty: Moderate. Total Distance to Emerald Lake via Dream Lake: Distance: 3.8 miles / Elevation: 738 feet / Duration: 2 hours / Difficulty: Difficult. *In order to comply with Rocky Mountain National Park regulations, the group will be split into two, with staggered start times.

lunch

Included pack lunch. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc. Time permitting you will eat lunch on the hike or you have lunch on the way to the airport.

Departure Airport Transfer

2 Hours

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from the campground to Denver International Airport (DEN) on the last day. Please book your flights after 6:00 P.M. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to Denver International Airport (DEN). Stops for bathroom breaks will be made as needed on the way to the airport.

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Physical Activity Level:Adventure

These trips are great if you want to get moving. These itineraries may include scenic hikes and/or exercise. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy these trips.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.