Fred, I lived in Co. for 5 yrs. Monument, Co. which is 5 miles north of Colorado Springs. The two casino areas are Cripple creek, 45 mins. from Colorado Springs, a great mountian drive, the other gaming area is Black Hawk/Central City also a 45 min. drive from Denver. Both areas are old Gold Mining towns, with 100 yr old buildings and many neat casinos in both areas. The problem is using good mountian roads Cripple Creek is about 250 miles one way from Montrose. and Black Hawk a little longer. The two Indian casinos are closer to Montrose, but not much to see. I would take Hwy. 550 south to Silverton and Durango both neat olds towns (but no casinos) then take Hwy 40 to Vegas. Many casinos along Hwy. 40 in NM I think you live in TX. so this plan would not re trace roads you took getting to Montrose. Have fun, Co. is a fantastic state this time of the year. See you in Vegas. Fred