Break-in Period (from the manual):

Up to 1,200 miles drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do not exceed 4,500 rpm or 100 mph. Avoid full-throttle operation and use of the transmission's kickdown mode.

Drive cautiously for 200 miles until the tires are broken in, and for 300 miles until the brakes and clutch are broken in.

 

Instead of having it shipped, I second the opinion of spanking your new Mini from Colo to Cali. People pay big bucks to ride the California Zephyr just to see the Rockies. Here you are, left to your own device and a brand new Mini.

Don't worry about stressing a new engine. Just vary your speed and don't rev over 4k (or is it 5k RPM) and it will be fine.

Congrats!

 

I agree with the road trip idea. We picked up ours in Arlington and drove back to San Antonio, 400ish miles.

We also drove from Texas to Colorado and back in it, two adults, a very cooperative child and luggage in a convertible.

Colorado to Berkeley was a great trip too with stops in Mesa Verde, Zion National Park, Las Vegas, and Bakersfield. This one was done in the big tree SUV, though.

Two weeks is also awfully close to Mini in the Mountains and Mini Takes the States. That would be a fabulous debut for your new MINI and a great introduction to MINI culture/fanaticism.

Congratulations!