You should make a vacation of the trip! It's a beautiful town with lots of hiking, kayaking, white water rafting, and mountain biking. We will be there from Thursday to Monday so come hang with us!!
About 3 hours but it is a very scenic drive.
Probably if you take Kenosha Pass and go slow by the lake.
Renting a car is your best bet. You might be able to coordinate a carpool with other guests.
Nearly 8,000 ft. Drink lots of water and stay out of the sun to avoid altitude sickness.