but I like the Ute Mountain Tribal Park next door to Mesa Verde. You must have a reservation and you drive your car in following a guide, then leave cars on top of the mesa to see the ruins. Not an easy hike but it looks like the Anasazi just left.
Telluride and Silverton are considered by many of us to be the most beautiful spots in Colorado especially if the aspen are still in color. Lake City is a charming mining town and if you want to be in the beautiful San Juan mountains you can rent a jeep or have someone take you over Imogene or Engineer Pass if it hasn't snowed. You will need to be acclimated to the altitude if you go over 7000 ft.
The Grand Junction area and the Grand Mesa are interesting too, look more like Utah and the Canyonlands. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is now a national Park. Delicious apples, peaches and wine this time of year. If you have time, want to drive that far and haven't seen Dinosaur Natl Park it's a treat kids usually enjoy.
Lots to do and see on the Western Slope, depends on what your interests are and what kind of shape you're in. You can't miss having a wonderful trip (unless we have early snow!) But then you can ski and snowboard.
= new reply since forum marked as read