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10 Terrific Day Trips from Denver

September 3, 2024 By //  by  Patrick McGuire

There’s no doubt about it – with an almost 20% increase in growth since 2010, Denver is much more crowded than it used to be. Fortunately for residents, the capital city also happens to be close to some of the best destinations for natural scenery and culture in the United States.

If you’re daydreaming about your next quick excursion out of the Mile High City , we’ve rounded up ten fantastic day trip options, which average about an hour and a half drive or less out of town. We cover both the mountains and the plains for your next short road trip. The specific activities below are just a tiny fraction of the attractions in the ten regions.

Here are the best one-day trips near Denver, CO , in no particular order:

1. Rocky Mountain National Park/Estes Park

Folks from around the world travel far and wide to experience the natural wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park , but Denverites merely need to hop in the car and drive an hour and a half north to get there. Rocky Mountain National Park boasts 415 square miles of pristine mountainous terrain to explore, packed with 300 miles of hiking trails, a perfect antidote to Denver’s growing traffic woes.

The park is home to Longs Peak, a mountain celebrated for its imposing beauty and challenging climbing routes. In addition to Longs, there are an astounding 100 plus other peaks in the park that are 11,000 feet or more.

Rocky Mountain National Park offers conventional and wilderness camping, fishing, a plethora of wildlife to appreciate, and the Trail Ridge Road , which gives visitors astounding Rocky Mountain views from a 12,000 ft. perspective. However, we should note that weather conditions this high tend to get extreme, so the Trail Ridge Road and some of the park’s other offerings aren’t accessible during Colorado’s colder months.

If Rocky Mountain National Park isn’t enough to sell you on this day trip, the charming mountain town of Estes Park just down the road should do the trick. With plenty of whitewater rafting, golfing, and climbing options to explore and delectable restaurants to dine in, Estes Park is the quintessential Colorado mountain town .

Try Bird and Jim , an intrepid Colorado-centric establishment offering sustainable local options. The town isn’t big, but it’s home to multiple breweries, two wineries, and a distillery to relax in after a day of exploring.

2. Pikes Peak Region

An hour and a half drive south of Denver offers some stunning natural wonders and a slowed-down pace compared to life in Colorado’s largest city. Cave of the Winds is a mountain park home to a massive network of caves to explore through guided tours. Some tours are lit by handheld lanterns and others require visitors to crawl and squeeze their way through narrow openings.

Nearby Pikes Peak is a famous mountain destination suited for ambitious climbing fanatics and road-tripping families alike. Described as an “ultra-prominent peak” for its impressive topographic prominence, this 14,115-foot beast offers challenging climbing routes and a mountainous highway letting the non-athletic among us ascend the peak’s summit.

Sitting just between the city of Colorado Springs and the front range is the stunning Garden of The Gods Visitor and Nature Center. From climbing, biking, and jeeping adventures to trails ideal for meditation and relaxation, the otherworldly red rock backdrop of Garden of The Gods is a perfect setting for whatever outdoor plans you have.

Consistently ranked as one of America’s best zoos, the nearby Cheyenne Mountain Zoo lets visitors feed giraffes and ride the Mountaineer Sky Ride Tram. It leads up to the top of its namesake mountain to get spectacular views of the zoo and surrounding Pikes Peak region.

3. Central City and Black Hawk

Many Denver residents fly to Las Vegas to get their gambling fix when there are great, legal options under an hour’s drive to the West. Situated in Gilpin County, Central City and Blackhawk region might not be very large, but it’s home to some of the state’s most interesting history stories.

For example, there was a time when Central City had more money and culture than Denver and was so influential in the region that it almost became the capital when Colorado officially achieved statehood in 1876. Today, Blackhawk and Central City are ideal for a quick trip to gamble, explore gorgeous mountain environments, and dine-in establishments that embrace the look, feel, and fare of the old Mountain West. Central City and Black Hawk are similar places but feature important unique characteristics aimed at serving different crowds.

With streets lined with authentic salons, hotels, and casinos, Central City is the quieter city of the two and is geared more toward history lovers and families. After visiting the town’s notable attractions like the Central City Opera House , consider a five-minute drive to an old ghost town, Nevadaville .

Black Hawk is fun, rowdy, and marketed towards adults looking to win big in a gorgeous mountain setting. If you’re looking for a way to round out your day trip with a little nature, drive 40 minutes west and you’ll reach St Mary’s Glacier, which offers great hiking year-round. Remember to bring an extra $5 for parking if you choose to venture to this gorgeous spot.

4. Boulder and Nederland

Boulder and Nederland are two very different Colorado day trip destinations with a lot to offer Denver residents. Boulder is a near-perfect blend of city and nature. Flanked by mountains and approachable hiking trails and bike paths, the city has become a bona fide internationally recognized culinary destination in recent years, as evidenced by restaurants like Frasca Food and Wine, which picked up a James Beard Award earlier this year.

A day trip can be topped off with an evening show at one of the city’s incredible music venues including the Fox Theater, Boulder Theater, or the beloved Chautauqua Auditorium.

Tucked up away in the mountains, the town of Nederland is Boulder’s unpretentious and eccentric little sister. This small community is an excellent home base for mountain adventures like fishing, rock climbing, and backpacking. With an elevation of 8,228 feet, Nederland is close to Rocky Mountain National Park and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area , so this day trip is for you if you’re looking for a charming mountain town surrounded by gorgeous Colorado nature.

The actual town of Nederland itself shouldn’t be missed, which is home to the phenomenal New Moon Bakery , several fine breweries, and a stellar wood-fired pizza joint .

5. Fort Collins

Home to Colorado State University, Fort Collins consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the country and has proven itself to be much more than a college town . It’s also a fine day trip option just a little over an hour’s drive north from Denver on I-25.

If you dig beer, you’ll adore Fort Collins, which is home to an astounding amount of internationally celebrated breweries like New Belgium and Odell . Even Budweiser has a brewery tour here. Lesser known but still outstanding microbreweries like Funkwerks and Crooked Stave are can’t miss. If you’re after some tasty, farm-to-table food, check out the Fortified Farm Dinner Series , which serves up fresh food from local farmers. The city also hosts loads of nightly and seasonal music performances at venues like the Aggie Theater and Hodi’s Half Note.

Like Boulder, Fort Collins is also surrounded by a great deal of natural beauty, making it a prime spot to embrace the outdoors. Horsetooth Reservoir is known for its excellent fishing and offers boat and kayak rentals at its marina. The nearby Cache la Poudre River Canyon is perfect for whitewater rafting excursions , hikes, a scenic drive , or even picturesque picnicking if that’s what you’re after. It’s such a beautiful, unique place that it’s one of only three National Heritage Areas in the state.

6. Deckers and Pine

The Deckers and Pine area is an outstanding option if you’re looking for a minimal drive with plentiful outdoor recreational activities to enjoy. For families with young kids, Pine Valley Ranch Park offers a small pond with manageable fishing conditions, hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty, and loads of mountainous space to roam in.

Located just south of the town of Pine , the North Fork South Platte River offers prime Rainbow and Brown Trout fishing for serious anglers, while the sharp, jutting rocks in the Cathedral Spires offer a rewarding climb you’ll have to work for to see. For provisions, check out Zoka’s , a fine restaurant and bar located in the town of Pine. This highly reviewed spot offers craft beer and home-grown produce.

A little further to the south, you’ll find Deckers , a spot famous for its incredible fishing. Legendary trout are said to roam the waters of the South Platte River and Cheesman Lake, the former flows past town, while the latter is only 15 minutes outside of it.

The Deckers area also offers incredible mountain biking, hiking, and bird-watching options on its various trails. When you’ve tuckered yourself out for the day, treat yourself to a nice beer, milkshake, or cafe at Decker’s Corner . The Devil’s Head Lookout is a bit out of the way if you’re heading back to Denver, but its manageable hiking conditions and stellar front-range views will end your day trip spectacularly.

7. Summit County

Let’s get this out of the way. It’s not a secret that Summit County is home to some of the nation’s best skiing, which is hosted by resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone. Depending on traffic, you can generally get to these resorts in under two hours from Denver. But if you’re only visiting Summit County for its incredible skiing, you’re missing out.

Let’s start with the mountain towns in this county. Places like Breckenridge and Frisco are fun, walkable destinations that provide plenty of opportunities to take in culture and friendly alpine town charm. Declared a historic landmark in 2017 , the Gold Pan Saloon was established in 1879 and is still slinging tasty libations to patrons from its home in Breckenridge. It has the honor of having the longest continuous liquor license of any establishment west of the Mississippi River. Breck is also home to multiple nationally recognized art galleries.

While Summit County’s towns are great, we can’t talk about this day trip without mentioning its phenomenal outdoor offerings. From affordable boat, canoe, and kayak rentals on Dillon Reservoir to mountain hikes ideal for viewing fall foliage and summer wildflowers, Summit County provides more neat natural recreational opportunities than you can shake a stick at. If you’re looking for a manageable but gorgeous hike in Summit County, try the Mohawk Lakes trail, a 6.6-mile hike located south of Breckenridge.

8. Evergreen and Mount Evans

Our next-day trip is under an hour’s drive from Denver and offers something great for solo travelers, groups of friends, and families alike. The town of Evergreen is a 40-minute drive from Denver and is a great option for busy Denverties wanting to experience a fun mountain atmosphere without taking a long drive. Evergreen has a lot to offer, including live music, a surprising amount of spas, paved and natural biking and hiking trails, and a big, gorgeous lake that hosts an incredible ice skating rink over the winter months. Solid conventional and ice fishing conditions are typically reported at Lake Evergreen.

The top of Mount Evans is a little over an hour and a half drive from Denver, and only about 30 minutes to the start of this scenic byway west of Evergreen, so it’s well worth the trip. It boasts the highest paved road in North America, which ascends almost 4,000 feet to the peak’s 14,264-foot summit. If climbing is your preferred method of scaling this beast, you’ll have plenty of Class 2 and 3 routes to choose from, which range up to 17 miles in length.

On your way to or from Mount Evans, make sure to check out Echo Lake , which offers solid fishing, camping, and hiking trails. Back on 1-70, you’ll find the little town of Idaho Springs , a spot you’ve probably driven past but might never have checked out. If you’re tuckered out after a long day of exploring, you can’t go wrong with a pizza from Beau Jo’s or a soak in the mineral water pool at the Indian Hot Springs .

This day trip is a bit obvious for most Denver residents, but it’s still worth mentioning because of how terrific it is. At a mere 30 minutes away from the Mile High City, Golden is the perfect gateway to Colorado mountain recreation. For decades, residents have taken inflatable tubes down the manageable rapids of Clear Creek , and you can rent them in town at Adventure West Tube Rental if you don’t want to bother with bringing your own.

There are loads of hikes located just minutes away from Golden’s town center, including the scenic and easy-going Chimney Gulch Trail and the more challenging Mt Galbraith Loop Trail. As you’d expect, Golden boasts plenty of fine bars and restaurants to check out after a day of floating on Clear Creek or hiking in the area.

Since Golden is so close to the capital, you might as well take the extra short drive up to Lookout Mountain for its excellent hiking opportunities and sublime views of Denver, the eastern plains, and beyond. Lookout Mountain is also home to the historical Buffalo Bill Museum and gravesite.

And, last but not least, a day trip out to the Golden area isn’t complete without a tour of the Coors Brewery . Even if Coors isn’t your thing, this fun, information-packed tour is probably worth your time and might give you an entirely new appreciation of one of Colorado’s most beloved beverages. Although it gets really busy on summer weekends, so reconsider a brewery tour during peak times.

10. Eastern Plains

Most people living in Denver think of day trip options and focus their thoughts on the mountain west, but there are some great opportunities for adventure and relaxation out to the east in Colorado’s plains region. Drive 45 minutes to the northeast of Denver on 1-76, and you’ll stumble upon 789 acres devoted to helping rescued animals live and roam freely.

Located just outside of Keenesburg, the Wild Animal Sanctuary saves lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and other animals from egregious captive situations. Much more than a zoo, the sanctuary gives visitors unique views of its saved animal population from a 1.5-mile-long elevated walkway and the satisfaction of knowing their ticket fees are going towards a worthy cause. The Wild Animal Sanctuary is phenomenal for families searching for an unconventional way to enjoy and support animals in need.

If you’re looking to catch some scenic eastern plains action on your trip, consider checking out the Colorado Wildlife Banner Lakes just to the north of the sanctuary. It’s a serene wetland area that’s been preserved to protect Colorado waterfowl and is a fine spot for a quick walk or a picnic.

Just outside the town of Calhan on the plains northeast of Colorado Springs is home to one of Colorado’s best-kept natural secrets. Paint Mines Interpretive Park showcases 750 acres of astounding natural and human historical sites. The park is brimming with otherworldly rock formations featuring stunning natural colors, shapes, and evidence of human activity dating back 9,000 years. Ancient Native Americans are said to have mined materials from the area for pottery and ceremonial painting purposes.

Paint Mines offers phenomenal hiking and sightseeing to visitors seven days a week for absolutely free. Sadly, current reviews of the sight complain the park’s natural wonders are being destroyed by visitors who climb the formations, so do your part to preserve the park by staying on the designated trails and following the rules. \

Thanks for checking out our top picks for single-day trips from Denver, Colorado! Be sure to drive safely and follow these tips for a successful road trip .

About Patrick McGuire

Patrick McGuire is a freelance writer and musician living in the mountain west.

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13 Best Day Trips from Denver

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Are you looking for the best day trips from Denver? You’ve found the right article!

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s majestic Rocky Mountains, Denver boasts a vibrant cityscape and a bustling urban lifestyle and serves as a gateway to a world of natural wonders just a stone’s throw away. 

If you’re craving a break from the city’s energetic pulse, look no further than the abundance of incredible day trip destinations awaiting exploration.

From breathtaking mountain landscapes and historic mining towns to picturesque national parks and adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, Denver’s surrounding areas offer diverse experiences to satisfy any adventurer’s appetite.

We’ve lived in Denver for a few years and have taken so many trips from the city, and all of them have been worth it. Usually the best way to travel is by car so that you can enjoy the scenery more along the way, and you’ll have a bit more flexibility in the itinerary.

Here are all of the best day trips from Denver!

🚗 Click here to rent a car for your trip to Denver !

Table of Contents

Day trips from Denver

Just a hop, skip, and scenic drive northwest of the bustling streets of Denver lies the enchanting city of Boulder.

Picture-perfect and nestled at the foothills, this exquisite city sets the stage for awe-inspiring hikes, heart-pounding rock-climbing expeditions, and postcard-worthy photo opportunities. And that’s just the beginning!

Stroll down the lively Pearl Street Mall , where the streets come alive with a blend of shops, boutiques, and dining establishments. Enjoy Boulder’s creative spirit, pulsating art scene, and hip-music culture, with street performers that will keep you entertained all day.

And did I mention the breweries? Oh, yes! Boulder boasts an array of craft breweries perfect for putting a cap on your fabulous day. So, buckle up – Boulder awaits!

Cheyenne, Wyoming 

Did you know that one of the best day trips from Denver actually allows you to go to another state? It’s true!

Ready to rustle up some cowboy spirit? Escape the urban bustle of Denver and embark on a captivating day trip to the historic city of Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Just a short day trip from Denver, Cheyenne invites you to immerse yourself in a world where the Wild West is alive and kicking.

Visit the legendary Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum or saunter through the city’s historic downtown.

As you stroll along the streets, dip into charming boutiques brimming with Western charm and taste the flavors of the West at local eateries serving up delicious Western cuisine.

And don’t forget to strike a pose next to the iconic “Big Boots” scattered throughout the city, each boasting its unique flair and representing a piece of Cheyenne’s vibrant history.

Dust off your boots and saddle up, partner, because an exciting frontier awaits. Yeehaw!

Buckle up, fellow explorers, for a wild ride from the heart of Denver to the mountain haven of Estes Park. This day trip from Denver is your ticket to an enchanting escape, where rugged peaks and alpine beauty conspire to steal your breath. 

Stroll along its quaint streets, meander into eclectic shops, and savor the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park. Let the serenity of the Riverwalk wash over you while the Big Thompson River whispers tales of tranquility.

Into horror films? Visit the iconic Stanley Hotel , where part of The Shining was filmed. This day trip from Denver to Estes Park is an ode to the beauty of nature and the irresistible allure of mountain-town enchantment. So, heed the call of the mountains, and go. 

Get ready to saddle up, fellow adventurers, as we embark on a thrilling escapade from the vibrant city of Denver to the legendary town of Leadville.

This day trip promises to transport you back in time, immersing you in the rich tapestry of the Wild West and the glorious mining era. 

With its rugged charm and captivating tales, Leadville promises a day trip that will transport you to a world where legends were born and the Wild West still breathes its adventurous spirit.

Prepare to be spellbound by the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum , where riveting exhibits and immersive displays bring the mining heyday to life.

And don’t miss the chance to descend into the depths of history with a tour of the Matchless Mine , where the spirits of intrepid miners still linger. Leadville has much to offer, making it the perfect destination for a day trip from Denver!

Rocky Mountain National Park

RMNP is easily one of our all-time favorite day trips from Denver.

Picture this: as we hit the road, the excitement builds, our hearts pounding with the promise of jaw-dropping beauty. Rocky Mountain National Park is the stage, and oh boy, is it a showstopper! 

With towering peaks that practically high-five the heavens and meadows so lush they’ll make you want to frolic like a giddy mountain goat, this place is nature’s version of a red carpet event.

Follow the trails that wind through this wilderness wonderland , leading you to waterfalls that dance with unabashed glee, lakes that shimmer like a disco ball, and wildlife that puts on a show like no other – we’re talking elk, mule deer, and maybe even a mischievous squirrel or two.

Take a deep breath, my friends, and let the crisp mountain air fill your lungs. It’s time to indulge in some serious soul-nourishing, Instagram-worthy moments. 

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Get ready to swap the hustle and bustle of Denver for a mountain getaway, my adventurous amigos, as we embark on a romantic day trip to the glitzy playground of Vail.

Named the ultimate hotspot for snow bunnies and adrenaline junkies, Vail is a winter wonderland where the most seasoned pros can show off their skills, and even beginners can have a hilariously good time flailing about. 

Stroll through the picture-perfect Vail Village, where European charm meets mountain chic, or indulge in a foodie frenzy at swanky restaurants because calories don’t count when you’re on vacation, right?

Let Vail be the stage for an unforgettable day trip from Denver that will make your cheeks ache from smiling, your heart skip a beat, and your Insta feeds the envy of all your friends. Cheers to high-altitude hijinks, baby!

Fort Collins

Tingle your taste buds as we venture from the hip city of Denver to the lively college town of Fort Collins. This escapade is a wild blend of craft brews, funky vibes, and outdoor awesomeness that will leave you grinning like a Cheshire cat.

From silky smooth stouts to tongue-tingling IPAs, Fort Collins’ craft breweries are the stuff of legends. But hold onto your pints, my friends, because Fort Collins has more tricks up its sleeves.

It’s a cultural melting pot where art galleries, live music venues, and quirky shops create a vibrant tapestry of creativity. More into the outdoors? Check out many of Fort Collins’s hiking trails.

Colorado Springs

Get ready for an action-packed family day trip from the vibrant city of Denver to the awe-inspiring beauty of Colorado Springs. This adventure promises to take you to new heights as you immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes and thrilling experiences.

Brace yourself for jaw-dropping views as you explore the iconic Garden of the Gods , a geological marvel with towering sandstone formations that defy gravity. 

Challenge your adventurous spirit with a hike to the summit of Pikes Peak, where panoramic vistas stretch as far as the eye can see.

And remember to delve into the city’s rich history at the fascinating Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum , where tales of pioneers and gold rush fever come to life.

From outdoor thrills to cultural immersion, Colorado Springs offers a day trip experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. 

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Now it’s time for one of the most underrated day trips from Denver!

Get ready for a mind-boggling day trip that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a psychedelic wonderland. Buckle up, my fellow explorers, as we leave the city behind and venture to the mind-bending Paint Mines Interpretive Park .

It’s a whimsical landscape where Mother Nature decided to unleash her inner Picasso.

This day trip will be an adventure that will have you questioning reality, embracing the bizarre, and feeling the creative vibes that make life oh-so-colorful. 

Prepare to trade the city chaos for mountain magic as you set off on a day trip to Evergreen. Its majestic landscapes and small-town charm make it a refreshing escape from the ordinary.

Whether you’re a serene paddleboarder or a wild kayaker, the sparkling waters of Evergreen Lake will keep you cool, and when it’s time for a break, explore the charming downtown area, where quirky boutiques and cozy cafes invite you to sip, shop, and strut like the local mountain royalty.

Get ready to strike gold, my fellow adventurers, as we embark on a day trip to the radiant town of Golden .

Explore the iconic Golden History Museum , where tales of pioneers and gold rush fever come to life, or venture into the Coors Brewery, where the art of brewing meets the art of storytelling.

But Golden isn’t just about its storied past; it’s a gateway to natural splendors that will leave you breathless.

Lace up your hiking boots and traverse the picturesque trails that wind through Clear Creek Canyon, revealing breathtaking vistas and moments of pure serenity.

And remember to seek out the thrill-seeker within as you brave the rapids on a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure. 

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

One of the easiest ways to experience a 14er in Colorado is by going on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway! This scenic drive will reach an altitude of just over 14,000 feet and offers incredible views all the way up.

Reservations are required in order to do this drive. Once you get to the top, take a short walk to take in the view – you won’t regret it as you look out and see the beautiful mountains that Colorful Colorado is most well-known for.

You could even stop in nearby Idaho Springs on the way to grab some tasty pizza at Beau Jo’s .

Breckenridge

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner eager to conquer the bunny slope, Breckenridge offers terrain for every skill level, ensuring a day of exhilarating adventures and laughter-filled memories.

Explore the town’s charming downtown area, where colorful storefronts beckon you to warm up with hot cocoa or find that perfect cozy sweater or a funky hat to rock.

Get ready for a day trip with you shouting “woo-hoo” down the mountainside, savoring hot chocolate by the fireplace, and feeling like you’ve discovered a slice of winter paradise.

Final Thoughts: Denver Day Trips

So, pack your bags, gather your sense of wanderlust, and let Denver be your launchpad to a world of captivating day trips that will leave you with a heart full of joy and a thirst for even more adventures. Happy travels – enjoy these Denver day trips!

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Want to keep reading? Check out these posts next:

• How to Get from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park
• How to Get from Denver to Aspen in 2023
• 13 Best Mountain Towns Near Denver, Colorado
• 11 Breathtaking Scenic Drives Near Denver

After moving to Denver in 2020, KP & Jessie absolutely fell in love with the beauty of the city (and the entire state of Colorado). Together, they're always seeing more of what Colorado has to offer. They love exploring, going on hikes, and trying tasty foods! When they're not traveling, they can be found watching the latest season of Love Island or hanging out with their cat.

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24 Best Day Trips from Denver, Colorado

Looking to experience everything that the Rockies & Northern Colorado have to offer with the best day trips from Denver?

Downtown Denver has loads of incredible things to do including museums, sports venues, and restaurants but sometimes you need a chance of scenery! Living in the Mile High City, you’re always a short drive away from the stunning landscapes of the Colorado Rockies.

You can simply take your car and drive to gorgeous lakes, historic small towns, wineries, and even beaches and even stay longer for an overnight trip! Have only a day to spare? Consider a day trip from Denver to these amazing nearby destinations.

Also Read: 18 Best Road Trips from Denver, Colorado

Best Day Trips from Denver, CO

If you live in Denver, you have to take advantage of the incredible attractions that Colorado is blessed to have.

There are so many amazing places to visit within 1 to 3 hours drive, which makes a day trip from Denver the most fun idea ever.

From brewery tours in Golden and sculpture hunting in Loveland to camping in Rocky Mountain National Park or hiking the trails at Garden of the Gods, you’re sure to find a short trip perfect for you on this list.

Here are the best day trips from Denver, Colorado to venture on now.

Rocky Mountain National Park – #1 of Day Trips from Denver

Rocky Mountain National Park is just a short drive from Denver, but it feels like a whole different world.

The park is one of the best in America and has over 300 miles of hiking and biking trails.

The hiking trails range from easy walks through alpine meadows to challenging climbs up steep mountain peaks.

The park is also home to the highest continuous paved road in the United States, Trail Ridge Road.

This scenic road reaches an elevation of over 12,000 feet and provides breathtaking views of the majestic Rocky mountain ranges, the Continental Divide, and lush valleys.

The park provides a home to an abundance of wildlife, from moose and elk to bighorn sheep and pikas.

Take a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park for some of the most breathtaking views in America.

Estes Park is a charming mountain town located at the eastern entrance of the Rocky Mountain National Park.

This quaint town is widely known for its unique shops, delightful eateries, and an array of outdoor activities.

Elk sightings are common in the town, adding to the overall mountain experience.

Estes Park also hosts the famous Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining.”

Other popular attractions in Estes Park include the Lake Estes Loop Trail, the riverwalk in downtown, and the Estes Park Aerial Tramway.

With many excellent hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, scenic drives, and panoramic views of the Rockies, Estes Park is the perfect day trip from Denver, Colorado.

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is another fantastic day trip option from Denver.

Known as the highest paved road in North America, it stretches for an impressive 28 miles and reaches an altitude of over 14,000 feet.

The byway starts at the junction of Interstate 70 and State Highway 103 near Evergreen and Idaho Springs.

It climbs through an array of different ecosystems, from montane forests to alpine tundra, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Colorado’s diverse landscapes.

One of the major attractions along this route is Echo Lake Park, a delightful mountain park with a stunning alpine lake that’s perfect for picnicking and wildlife viewing.

As you travel further along the byway, you’ll pass the Mount Goliath Natural Area and the Mount Evans Interpretive Site, both of which are teeming with educational exhibits and bristlecone pines, some of the oldest living organisms in the world.

The byway culminates at the Mount Evans Summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and expansive valleys.

You might even spot some mountain goats and bighorn sheep grazing on the mountainside.

With its breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife encounters, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the best ways to experience the natural splendor of Colorado.

Make sure to bring a warm jacket though, even in summer the temperatures at the top can be chilly!

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is another must-visit destination on your list of day trips from Denver.

Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs offers an intriguing blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Spend a day exploring the city’s historic Old Colorado City, where Victorian architecture meets trendy boutiques and craft eateries, offering a delightful mix of old and new.

Delve into the city’s rich history by visiting the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, which features over 60,000 artifacts and exhibits that narrate the story of the Pikes Peak region.

Venture to the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, where you’ll find an extensive collection of American, Latin American, and Native American art.

For thrill-seekers, pay a visit to the Manitou Incline, a strenuous trail with over 2,700 steps that rise over 2,000 feet in elevation.

With such a diverse range of attractions, Colorado Springs makes for an enriching day trip from Denver.

Also Read: 25 Best Day Trips from Colorado Springs

Pikes Peak, also known as “America’s Mountain,” is another one amongst fantastic Denver day trips.

It is one of the most visited places in Colorado.

Pikes Peak has an altitude of 14,115 feet and provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Fancy a drive up the Pikes Peak Highway?

This winding 19-mile route ascends straight to the summit; the drive is filled with sharp turns, hairpin curves, and breathtaking vistas at every corner.

You will encounter diverse ecosystems at different alitudes, from lush green forests to the barren, windswept alpine tundra at the summit.

You can spot local wildlife such as yellow-bellied marmots, bighorn sheep, and even the occasional black bear.

Once at the summit, you can visit the newly built Pikes Peak Summit Complex.

The museum includes interactive displays about the mountain’s history, geology, and ecology.

A dining facility is also located at the top where you can enjoy the famous Pikes Peak donuts – the only donuts made at an altitude of over 14,000 feet!

Other options to the top of Pikes Peak include a cog railway, and for the more adventurous types, you can even hike up to the summit.

It’s an unforgettable experience with incredible views of the Rocky Mountains – just make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is one of the best places to visit in Colorado and one of the top day trips from Denver.

Located in Colorado Springs, this National Natural Landmark boasts picture-perfect landscapes characterized by towering sandstone rock formations set against the snow-capped peaks of Pikes Peak.

Also Read: Denver to Garden of the Gods Road Trip Itinerary

The park offers a wide range of activities, from rock climbing and horseback riding to guided nature walks.

Of special interest to many visitors are the biking trails.

The park’s extensive network of biking trails wind through the breathtaking terrain, accommodating all levels of cyclists.

Famous rock formations such as the Balanced Rock, Kissing Camels, and Siamese Twins are sure to make your day trip from Denver one you’ll never forget.

Also Read: Garden of the Gods Winter Trip Guide

Loveland, Colorado is an absolute gem of a destination for a day trip from Denver.

Known as the “Sweetheart City,” Loveland is renowned for its thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, art events, and a sculpture park that is home to one of the largest collections of sculptures in the country.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Loveland as well. Boyd Lake State Park offers a multitude of recreational activities like boating, fishing, camping, and picnicking.

The Devil’s Backbone Nature Trail provides a hiking experience through unique rock formations and panoramic views of the landscape.

Add in a vibrant downtown filled with charming shops, restaurants, and breweries, and Loveland becomes a must-visit on your list of day trips from Denver.

Don’t forget to check out the Loveland Museum and Gallery, which features local history exhibits and rotating art displays.

Truly, Loveland is a city that embodies a wonderful blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Golden , located just west of Denver, is another excellent choice for spending a day.

Known as the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, Golden is a vibrant city with a rich history and a lively arts scene.

The city’s historic downtown area, lined with 19th-century buildings, is a treasure trove of fascinating museums, art galleries, and specialty boutiques.

One of Golden’s main attractions is the Colorado Railroad Museum, which houses a collection of vintage trains and offers scenic rides on a miniature railroad.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Golden offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking.

The Clear Creek Trail, a paved pathway that runs alongside the scenic Clear Creek, is ideal for a leisurely bike ride or a refreshing walk.

Another highlight of Golden is the Coors Brewery, the largest single-site brewery in the world.

Brewery tour provide a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and include free beer samples for visitors over 21.

Golden is one of the most popular destinations for day trips from Denver for celebrating 21st birthday!

Fort Collins

Fort Collins , located north of Denver, makes for an exciting day trip with plenty to offer visitors.

Known as the craft beer capital of Colorado, Fort Collins is home to over 20 breweries, including the widely recognized New Belgium Brewing Company.

Brewery tours are a popular activity, providing a glimpse into the brewing process and offering beer tastings.

Aside from its vibrant brewing scene, Fort Collins also boasts a bustling historic downtown known as Old Town.

Here, you’ll discover a charming mix of restored 19th-century buildings housing unique shops, restaurants, and galleries.

The city is also known for its impressive commitment to the arts, hosting frequent music festivals and having numerous public art displays.

It is home to the Colorado State University and has a very youthful vibe.

On the natural side, the Cache La Poudre River offers thrilling whitewater rafting experiences.

The surrounding natural areas provide ample hiking and biking opportunities.

Known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, the college town of Boulder offers several attractions for visitors.

Downtown Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall, a four-block pedestrian shopping district, is a hub of activity with a myriad of boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and street performers.

You will also find the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, a stunning structure gifted to Boulder by its sister city, Dushanbe in Tajikistan.

The city has a strong reputation for outdoor activities.

Hiking enthusiasts should head to Chautauqua Park, an area that offers a range of trails with breathtaking views of the Flatirons – the city’s iconic rock formations.

Additionally, Boulder is known as a cyclist’s paradise due to its extensive network of bike trails.

Boulder also hosts the University of Colorado, whose beautiful campus is worth a visit.

The city also has an amazing food scene, filled with farm-to-table restaurants and one of the largest farmers’ markets in the state.

Morrison, Colorado is a pretty town nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

It is a must-visit destination for any day-tripper from Denver.

Morrison is notably home to the Red Rocks Park, a geological marvel and an open-air amphitheater…

….that is renowned for hosting famous music concerts amidst dramatically formed ancient sandstone monoliths.

Designated a National Historic Landmark, this stunning park provides breathtaking views, extensive hiking trails, and a rich history of natural preservation.

Alongside the Red Rocks Park, Morrison is also famous for Dinosaur Ridge, a top-paleontological site.

Dinosaur Ridge allows visitors to step back in time, tracing the footsteps of dinosaurs and witnessing fossil remains and tracks from these prehistoric creatures.

Kids love visiting Dinosaur Ridge and searching for fossils.

Much closer to Denver, you will find Littleton, Colorado .

Known for its rich history dating back to the 1860s, Littleton has several unique and captivating landmarks.

Stroll along the historic Main Street, which features an array of locally-owned shops and restaurants.

Explore the nearby South Platte River Trail to take in the town’s natural beauty.

Littleton is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with multiple art galleries and theaters showcasing the work of local artists and actors.

Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , located just 30 miles west of Denver, is an inviting destination rich in history and natural beauty.

This charming town is significant as the site where the Colorado Gold Rush began in 1859, marking its place in history.

The town’s heritage is beautifully preserved in the Argo Gold Mine and Mill, where visitors can explore the old mine, learn about gold panning, and even try their hand at finding some gold.

Apart from its storied past, Idaho Springs offers fantastic outdoor experiences – from whitewater rafting in Clear Creek to hiking and camping in the surrounding mountains.

The town is also home to hot mineral springs, perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of adventures.

Not to miss is the vibrant downtown area, dotted with unique shops, local breweries, and rustic eateries serving delicious mountain cuisine.

Continue on this trip via 40 W, to plan an epic Denver to Winter Park Ski Resort road trip.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a charming mountain town located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

It is just 1 hour 40 minutes away from downtown Denver.

The town is perhaps best known for the Breckenridge Ski Resort, one of the most visited ski resorts in the western hemisphere.

This resort has a vast terrain with over 150 trails that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Not just limited to winter, Breckenridge transforms into an outdoor playground in the summer, offering hiking, biking, and fishing.

The town itself is steeped in history, with a quaint, beautifully preserved downtown area.

Here, you can explore a range of shops and restaurants, as well as the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance, home to historic landmarks and museums.

You can plan just a day trip to Breck or stay longer and enjoy the many attractions.

Vail , the largest ski resort in Colorado and one of the best-known ski destinations in North America, is a must-visit for any skier.

It offers an impressive 5,200 acres of terrain that caters to all skill levels.

Apart from skiing and snowboarding, Vail also has plenty to offer during the summer.

Hiking and biking trails traverse through the surrounding mountains, offering a stunning view of Vail Valley.

The town itself presents an intriguing mix of traditional mountain culture and modern attractions.

You can explore the bustling pedestrian village with its unique shops, galleries, and eateries or discover the many art installations scattered throughout Vail.

Georgetown is a quaint mountain town located in the Rocky Mountains, just one hour from Denver.

The small but vibrant downtown area features historical buildings and unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.

It’s also home to several museums that provide a glimpse into its rich past, including the Georgetown Loop Railroad Museum and the Hotel de Paris Museum.

The surrounding area offers scenic hikes and drives, such as the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway.

This winding road offers stunning views of the mountains and is ideal for a leisurely drive or bike ride.

Georgetown Lake is a nearby destination that provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, or simply relaxing in the great outdoors.

Royal Gorge Bridge

The Royal Gorge Bridge is a marvel of engineering nestled in the heart of Colorado’s stunning landscapes.

Suspended over the Arkansas River, this iconic suspension bridge ranks as one of the highest in the United States, offering breathtaking views of the chasm below.

A highlight of visiting the Royal Gorge Bridge is the scenic train ride.

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad provides an unforgettable voyage along the base of the canyon, taking passengers on a journey through time and nature.

As the train winds its way along the river, visitors are treated to a unique perspective of the spectacular bridge towering above.

Or you can visit the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park to embark on a thrilling adventure with its aerial tram, zip line, and skycoaster.

These attractions give visitors an unparalleled chance to experience the stunning landscape of the Royal Gorge from above.

No matter which way you choose to explore it, the Royal Gorge Bridge is sure to be one of your most memorable day trips from Denver!

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs , located in Glenwood Canyon, is a charming and breathtaking place.

This charming town offers a wide range of attractions, from its famed hot springs to the enchanting Fairy Caves.

The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the largest hot springs pool in the world, provides a perfect spot for rejuvenation.

For adventure seekers, the Hanging Lake Trail is a standout.

This challenging hike rewards you with the sight of Hanging Lake, a turquoise gem nestled atop Glenwood Canyon.

The trail is steep and rigorous but the breathtaking views at the top make it an unforgettable experience.

Also worth a visit is the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, a mountaintop theme park offering cave tours alongside thrill rides.

Also Read: Denver to Glenwood Springs Road trip Itinerary

Black Hawk and Central City

The mountain towns of Black Hawk and Central City are located in the beautiful foothills of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Just an hour outside Denver, these two historic mining towns have come a long way since their gold rush days.

Today, they are home to some of Colorado’s best casinos.

With over 20 casinos between them, Black Hawk and Central City offer a unique gambling experience.

You can try your luck at the slots or take on the tables, from blackjack to craps.

The towns not only boast exciting gaming but also some of the best restaurants in the area, serving up succulent seafood dishes and locally-sourced delicacies.

If you’re looking for day trips from Denver with an exciting twist, Black Hawk and Central City are the perfect destinations!

White River National Forest

The White River National Forest is a stunning expanse of outdoor beauty.

Spanning over two million acres, this expansive national forest is filled with towering mountains, lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and shimmering alpine lakes.

While the area can be explored year round, summer offers some of the most breathtaking views here.

You can traverse through the many trails, try out some of the best fishing spots in the state or take a scenic drive along breathtaking mountain roads.

The White River National Forest also has several recreational facilities such as camping grounds, picnic sites and even bike paths.

It’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience nature at its finest.

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

The Paint Mines Interpretive Park, located east of Colorado Springs, is a breathtakingly beautiful area.

This park is known for its remarkable landscape and unique geological formations.

Here you can explore the winding trails across the hoodoos, cone-shaped spires formed by erosion that are scattered throughout this area.

You can also marvel at the incredible array of colors formed by sedimentary layers in the area.

Moreover, Paint Mines Interpretive Park has archaeological significance as it is home to Native American artifacts dating back thousands of years.

This park offers visitors a glimpse into the natural and cultural history of Colorado – one that shouldn’t be missed!

Buffalo Creek Recreation Area

Looking for underrated day trips from Denver?

Just an hour’s drive southwest of Denver, Buffalo Creek Recreation Area offers an eclectic mix of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Located within Pike National Forest, this region is renowned for its excellent network of multi-use trails, perfect for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

The landscape here is unique, featuring a mix of ponderosa pine forests, granite outcrops, and wide open meadows.

The area has an extensive network of trails such as the Little Scraggy Trail, a popular choice for mountain bikers, and the Buffalo Burn Loop, which offers a more relaxed, scenic hiking experience.

In addition to its trails, Buffalo Creek Recreation Area is also home to several campsites.

Here, you can truly immerse yourself in the tranquility of the wilderness, under the canopy of stars, listening to the rustling of leaves and the occasional hoot of an owl.

Don’t miss a visit to Pine Valley Ranch Park, located alongside the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area and connected by the Buck Gulch trail.

This park offers fishing along the scenic Pine Lake.

Roxborough State Park

Located just 30 minutes from Denver, Roxborough State Park is an incredible outdoor destination.

The park’s unique red sandstone formations offer a stunning backdrop for exploring its four-mile network of trails.

The park’s trails take hikers through some of the most varied and beautiful landscapes in Colorado.

From dense forests to expansive meadows, these trails showcase the diversity of Roxborough’s terrain.

Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as deer and elk, which roam freely in this area.

Roxborough State Park also has several educational centers where visitors can learn more about the park’s history and ecology.

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, located in Central Colorado near the town of Florissant, is a must-visit day trip from Denver.

The most notable feature of this area are its fossil beds. These contain some of the best-preserved fossils from the Eocene Epoch.

This area has been designated as a national monument due to its scientific and historical importance.

The Monument’s trails lead visitors past some of the area’s most remarkable features.

You can see towering petrified redwood stumps and ancient fossil deposits that are visible even from the surface.

In addition to exploring the trails, visitors can also take part in educational programs at the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center.

These programs explain the monument’s unique geological history and its importance to paleontology.

Denver is the best base you can have for planning interesting day trips.

See the fossils at Dinosaur Ridge or go bungee jumping from the Royal Gorge Bridge. Enjoy a mine tour in Idaho Springs and drive the Trail Ridge Road.

The area around Denver is full of culture and history…

…beautiful landscapes that visitors travel to, and attractions that include some of the best in America.

What are your favorite day trips from Denver? Let us know below.

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7 of the best day trips from Denver

Aug 12, 2023 • 8 min read

Explore more of Colorado with these top day trips from Denver © Sean Xu / Shutterstock

Denver is Colorado’s biggest city and home to a major international airport. As such, it’s a popular jumping-off point for quick getaways and longer trips into the Rocky Mountains and beyond.

In less than two hours, you could be lacing up your hiking boots at a trailhead, sitting down to a multi-course meal, drawing inspiration from world-class sculptures or finding a moment of zen on your yoga mat. The hardest part about day-tripping from Denver is deciding which direction to go — so many options to choose from, and usually not enough time.

During a trip to Colorado , Denver is really just the starting point. To get a sense of all this state has to offer, consider adding one of these day trips to your itinerary.

1. Focus on wellness in Breckenridge

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes by car

Perched high in the Rockies at 9600ft above sea level, Breckenridge will feed your mind, body and spirit. In this historic mining town, you can take a mindful hike guided by a naturalist , do yoga on a standup paddleboard or in a grassy park, and dine on nutritious meals at eateries like Semplice Cafe , which serves up an array of refreshing vegan and vegetarian options. Depending on the timing of your visit, you may also be able to attend a soul-nourishing retreat at Clairvergence Wellness Center or tap into your creative side during an art class at Breck Create . Even if you just sit and breathe for a few quiet moments while staring up at the stunning mountain scenery, you’ll leave Breckenridge feeling rejuvenated and restored.

You can get a quick taste of Breck’s many wellness experiences in a day, but if you find yourself with extra time, there’s plenty to do and see here during a longer stay.

How to get to Breckenridge from Denver: Drive west on I-70 for 70 miles. At Frisco, exit the interstate and head south on CO-9 for about 10 miles. If you’re flying into Denver, the Peak 1 Express airport shuttle can transport you to Breck. 

2. Indulge in fine dining at Beaver Creek

Travel time: 2 hours by car

Treat yourself to a delicious day trip to Beaver Creek , a mountain resort that’s home to several unique fine-dining restaurants. Beano’s , situated roughly 9000ft above sea level, is housed in a stunning log cabin with a cozy fireplace and rustic decor. In the winter, the only way to reach this cabin is via a sleigh pulled by a snowcat; in the summer, you can take a horseback ride or a shuttle. Once you arrive, you’ll tuck into an upscale, multi-course meal while gazing out at sparkling ski slopes or fields of colorful wildflowers, depending on the season . (And be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as diners regularly spot bears and moose out the window.)

Other tasty options include Citrea , which serves up Mediterranean-inspired fare, and WYLD , which specializes in elegant, New American dishes. Little ones love the Candy Cabin , a colorful on-mountain paradise with nearly every sweet imaginable. And you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re at the resort’s main base area at 3pm, aka “Cookie Time,” when chefs bring around warm platters brimming with freshly made (and complimentary) chocolate chip cookies for everyone to enjoy.

How to get to Beaver Creek from Denver: Drive west on I-70 for roughly 100 miles, then exit the interstate at Avon. The main Beaver Creek base area is roughly 2.5 miles south on Village Road. The Colorado Department of Transportation’s Bustang Pegasus shuttle can also drop you off in nearby Avon.

3. Immerse yourself in art in Loveland

Travel time: 1 hour by car

Loveland has a few claims to fame — it’s a hot spot for postmarking letters around Valentine’s Day, for example — but art is this community’s biggest year-round draw. It’s home to two world-class sculpture gardens: Benson Sculpture Garden and Chapungu Sculpture Park . 

Located in the middle of town, Benson has more than 170 sculptures situated on the banks of several small ponds. They’re connected by walking trails, and slowly weaving your way through them all is a serene, relaxing endeavor. Chapungu, meanwhile, is located east of Loveland’s main core and spotlights 82 stone sculptures created by Zimbabwean artists. Also, check out indoor venues like Artworks Center for Contemporary Art , Independence Gallery and the Loveland Museum .

How to get to Loveland from Denver: Head north on I-25 for roughly 40 miles, then head west on US 34. (To reach some parts of Loveland, including Chapungu, you’ll need to head east of I-25.) You can also take the Bustang North Line .

4. Feast on green chile in Pueblo

Coloradans put green chile on everything, from scrambled eggs to burritos and enchiladas. But one of the absolute best ways to chow down on this beloved spicy stew is by eating a “slopper,” or a burger that’s smothered in the stuff. Pueblo is slopper central, with restaurants like Gray's Coors Tavern and Sunset Inn Bar & Grill serving them up in droves. If you’re visiting in September, you can also attend the annual Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival , which has been going strong for nearly 30 years.

How to get to Pueblo from Denver: Drive south on Interstate 25 for 115 miles, passing through towns like Castle Rock and Colorado Springs on the way. Though Greyhound operates a bus between the two cities, public transit options are limited.

5. Savor craft beers in Fort Collins

Colorado is home to some of the earliest craft beer pioneers — and there’s no better place to sip hoppy IPAs and malty brown ales than in Fort Collins. Located north of Denver, not far from the Wyoming border, this funky college town is home to more than 20 craft breweries — and counting, since new ones are opening up all the time. 

Some of the well-known forefathers of the entire US craft beer industry are located right in town, such as New Belgium Brewing Company and Odell Brewing Company . But you’ll also find plenty of smaller, newer spots where brewers are getting extra creative, like Funkwerks , Horse & Dragon , and Peculiar Ales . You could easily spend a few days to a week in Fort Collins, but it’s also a great place to spend a sunny afternoon.

How to get to Fort Collins from Denver: Drive north on I-25 for 60 miles, then take one of several exits to head west into Fort Collins. A handful of public transit buses run between the two cities, including the Bustang North Line and FLEX .

6. Marvel at rock formations at Garden of the Gods

Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes by car

Though Colorado is famous for the craggy, snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the Centennial State is also home to some other road trip-worthy geologic formations, like Garden of the Gods . Situated northwest of Colorado Springs, near the small town of Manitou Springs, this public park protects towering red sandstone formations that formed roughly 65 million years ago. 

Just marveling at the otherworldly shapes and figures is more than enough, but you can also rent bikes, take a guided segway tour, take a hike, and go rock climbing, among other activities. Garden of the Gods is a perfect day-trip destination, but to experience the broader Manitou Springs and Colorado Springs area, you may need more time.

How to get to Garden of the Gods from Denver: Head south on I-25 for 64 miles. Get off at exit 146, then head west on Garden of the Gods Road. Turn south once you reach N 30th Street, and you’ll arrive at the visitor center. If you don’t have a car, the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Bustang South Line can get you most of the way there — but you’ll need to take a few more buses or call a ride once you reach Colorado Springs.

7. Watch wildlife in Estes Park

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car

Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park , which protects 415 square miles of wilderness in northern Colorado. Because of its close proximity to the park and other public lands, like the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests , Estes Park is a prime wildlife viewing destination. Animals loom so large in this mountain town that it even hosts an annual elk festival every fall, when males are searching for mates and making loud noises to prove their dominance, a behavior known as “bugling.”

Year-round, you may catch a glimpse of elk, mule deer, marmots, beavers, bears, coyotes, moose, mountain lions, bobcats and more. Dozens of species of birds call Estes Park home, too, including birds of prey like Cooper’s hawks and peregrine falcons. If you do decide to make a day trip, set your alarm clock early or plan to stay until after sunset: wildlife tend to be most active around dawn and dusk.

How to get to Estes Park from Denver: Head northwest on US 36 for roughly 60 miles, passing through Boulder on the way. Or ride the Colorado Department of Transportation’s Bustang .

This article was first published Feb 24, 2021 and updated Aug 12, 2023.

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17 Best Day Trips From Denver That Are Local Favorites

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In this guide we’re sharing the best day trips from Denver that you can visit right now. These destinations offer a wide range of things to do.

You will enjoy hiking epic trails, sampling natural glacial hot springs, touring a gold rush town , swimming or fishing in the lake , and crossing the highest suspension bridge.

Planning your next day trip is easy and doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.

In fact, these day trips offer completely free things to do with lots of history and one-of-a-kind opportunities.

Whether you’re a fun-loving couple looking for your next adventure, or want a kid-friendly getaway in the mountains, this guide is for you.

All of the day trips from Denver listed below are within just a few hours drive of the city.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

You can’t experience the full potential of what Colorado is really like without visiting Rocky Mountain National Park .

This rustic wilderness is full of peaks, valleys, lush forests, glacial lakes, and over 300 miles of hiking trails.

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

You’re likely to see lots of wildlife too, from black bears to elk and moose or even a bald eagle or two. It’s truly an untouched paradise for outdoor lovers!

In less than 2 hours you can escape city life and enjoy day trips from Denver that showcase how rugged Colorado really is. 

Start your tour in the morning at Union Station and head out for a full day trip adventure.

Join a local guide as you drive through Boulder and onto Estes Park , passing iconic destinations like The Stanley Hotel.

In the summer you’ll drive up Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in America.

Included with your day trip are entrance and reservations fees for Rocky Mountain National Park as well as water refills, private vehicle, and an expert guide.

Distance from Denver: 66 miles

Time from Denver: 1 hour 20 minutes

2. Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a popular day trip from Denver for good reason (and it’s one of our favorites too). Join a local guide for the Ultimate Breckenridge Mountain Town experience. 

In addition to enjoying lunch and shopping in Breckenridge, this tour starts in Denver and has stops at Red Rocks Amphitheater and the Continental Divide. 

You’ll pass by the historic town of Georgetown and cross over Loveland Pass and then onto Sapphire Point Overlook.

But the real adventure begins when you get to explore the town of Breckenridge.

Head to the free Breckenridge Gondola for a fun ride up the mountainside. Or hike to see Isak, the beloved Breckenridge Troll .

All of the stops along this day trip are perfect photo opportunities to ensure you have long lasting memories. Plus, snacks, drinks and a private passenger van are all included in the price.

On the way back to Denver you’ll pass through Eisenhower Tunnel, the longest, highest passenger car tunnel in the world.

And with more than one hundred 5-star reviews, we think you’ll love this day trip tour from Denver .

Distance from Denver: 81 miles

Time from Denver: 1 hour 35 minutes

3. Idaho Springs 

In less than 1 hour from Denver you and your loved ones can enjoy glacier hiking and geothermal cave pools in Idaho Springs .

Idaho Springs is a small town that’s full of history thanks to several gold mines in the area. But it’s also popular for the Indian Hot Springs which is one of the best hot springs near Denver .

Venture out for a day by starting at St. Mary’s Glacier for a fun 1.5 mile hike that ends with breathtaking panoramic views. 

Then it’s onto the famous Indian Hot Springs caves and walk-in hot tubs full of naturally hot mineral water. After a cold glacier hike a hot soak in the mineral waters will soothe any aches and pains.

Then, before heading back to Denver you’ll stop for lunch to eat your fill at Beau Jo’s Pizza that serves famous Colorado style pizza.

All parking fees, water, snacks, admission to the hot springs, equipment, and transportation are free and included with your tour.

A tour of Idaho Springs and Indian Hot Springs is an easy getaway at barely an hour away from the Mile High City.

Distance from Denver: 44 miles

Time from Denver: 57 minutes

4. Red Rocks Amphitheater Foothills

Explore the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater along with Lookout Mountain on this epic Denver Foothills Tour . 

Since Red Rocks is located in Morrison, Colorado, less than 20 minutes from Denver, it’s the perfect activity for a half-day trip. 

Or make it a full day trip by visiting additional destinations like Lookout Mountain and the scenic Lariat Loop. Along this tour you’ll start at Denver Union Station and hit seven different stops. 

Some of the destinations include Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum, as well as Evergreen, Colorado for some delicious coffee.

Transportation to each location is included with the price as well as water refills and an expert local guide.

This 4-hour tour is perfect for anyone who wants a quick getaway from crowds that doesn’t last all day. It’s great for small groups or couple tours !

Distance from Denver: 17 miles

Time from Denver: 26 minutes

5. Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak 

You can’t plan a day trip from Denver without including a stop at Garden of Gods and Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs! These destinations are two of Colorado’s most majestic places to visit.

In fact, this tour has more than 450+ 5-star reviews so you know it’s going to be a memorable trip.

Enjoy a drive up to the top of Pikes Peak , which is the mountain that inspired the song “America the Beautiful”. Then have lunch and time for shopping in the historic small town of Manitou Springs. 

After lunch it’s a beautiful tour through Garden of the Gods to learn about the history of the area. 

Be sure to bring your camera because this day trip adventure offers epic photos you’ll want to remember for a long time.

Included with your tour is the cost of transportation, fuel, park admission and bottled water. You may want to bring extra snacks and comfortable walking shoes for the day.

Distance from Denver: 70 miles

Time from Denver: 1 hour 33 minutes

6. Estes Park

The town of Estes Park borders the gorgeous landscape of Rocky Mountain National Park. Both are a must-visit on a day trip from Denver as they offer tons of things to do and to see. 

This 8-hour tour starts in Denver and includes a spacious air-conditioned and heated vehicle. You’ll drive through Boulder and onto the quaint town of Estes Park. 

The drive alone is a picturesque adventure worth the trip. Along the way you may see lots of wildlife as well as a clear glacial lake inside RMNP. 

Stops along your trip will include the University of Colorado at Boulder, Beaver Meadows Visitor Center, Sprague Lake, Horseshoe Park, and downtown Estes Park.

Plus, this tour has more than one-hundred 5-star reviews so you know it’s going to be an awesome experience.

Time from Denver: 1 hour 28 minutes

7. Fort Collins

The city of Fort Collins is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the country. 

Fort Collins is home to Colorado State University but over the past decades it’s proven itself to be much more than just a college town. 

It takes a little over an hour’s drive from Denver heading north on I-25. Once you arrive, you may want to stay for more than just the day, as there are so many awesome things to do in Fort Collins. 

The city is considered a true paradise for beer lovers , and produced about 70% of the state’s craft beer. Fort Collins is packed with about 25 local breweries, many of which offer tasting rooms and tours.

For outdoor lovers don’t miss a day out kayaking, boating, or fishing on the Horsetooth Reservoir. The Reservoir is a popular destination in the summer as a beautiful spot to cool off and soak up the sunshine.

Distance from Denver: 65 miles

Time from Denver: 1 hour 11 minutes

8. Central City (Black Hawk)

Many historic mountain towns in Colorado have turned their gold rush days into casinos and historic hotels. 

A visit to Black Hawk from Denver will seem like you’re stepping back in time.

This Vegas-style destination in Central City features a luxurious experience with high-end casinos, historic buildings, and mining tours.

Enjoy a stroll down Central City’s main street for unique shopping and delicious dining. Or visit the Opera House to learn about the history of the surrounding area. 

You might come for the Black Hawk casinos but you’ll stay for the beautiful scenery, historic mines, and great shopping nearby.

Distance from Denver: 38 miles

Time from Denver: 48 minutes

9. Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park is a short drive from the Mile High City but offers some of the best hiking trails and incredible photo shoots . 

There are several amazing lookout points that offer stunning views of vistas and red rock formations around the Park. You will likely even see some wildlife along your hike so keep an eye out.

In the summer the Roxborough State Park is covered in wildflowers which make for ideal photos and dramatic views of the towering red rocks.

To enter the Park there is a fee of $10 per vehicle and you must follow the hiking rules to “leave no trace”.

If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat and recharge after your hike, near the Roxborough State Park is the small town of Morrison. The town’s cute mainstreet is full of yummy food and drinks.

Distance from Denver: 26 miles

Time from Denver: 44 minutes

10. Georgetown 

Another great place to visit on a day trip from Denver is Georgetown, which is located right off I-25. 

If you’re a history buff you’ll love immersing yourself in the region’s gold mining history. Or take a train ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad to Silver Plum, where most of the miners lived.

Downtown Georgetown features local shops and unique dining for a small-town experience you’ll love. 

There are several pull-offs for scenic overlooks near Georgetown where you might see some Bighorn Sheep or other wildlife.

Or go for a day hike or enjoy mountain biking at Guanella Pass and see some spectacular views along the way.

Georgetown Lake is a well known fishing destination that also features ice fishing in the winter.

Distance from Denver: 45 miles

Time from Denver: 51 minutes

11. Glenwood Springs

We’ve mentioned how much we love the city of Glenwood Springs a lot on this blog and our YouTube channel . A day trip from Denver to Glenwood Springs is a must, anytime of year.

On your drive from the big city you’ll see epic mountain views as you pass through White River National Forest and Glenwood Canyon.

Upon arriving in Glenwood Springs you can choose to soak in the largest natural hot springs pool . 

Or spend a day exploring the mountainside caves at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park . Be sure to check out Halvor, the friendly Glenwood Troll.

Downtown Glenwood Springs has some of our favorite restaurants in the state. The Glenwood Canyon Brewpub which has received the most accolades of any brewpub in the state!

Distance from Denver: 157 miles

Time from Denver: 2 hours 36 minutes

12. Mount Evans & Evergreen

One of Colorado’s highest fourteeners is Mount Evans , and makes an epic day trip from Denver. 

Be prepared for a full-day of adventure that takes you along the Continental Divide and through some of the state’s most historic mining towns. 

Tourists will stop for 20 minutes in Evergreen for some delicious coffee. Then it’s onto Mount Evans and the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. For lunch you’ll stop at Echo Lake Park for a free bite to eat. 

In the afternoon there are several more iconic stops ending with some time to shop or grab a beer in the small town of Idaho Springs. 

Keep your eyes open and your camera handy for some of the best views in the state.

A free lunch with water, transportation, and an expert guide are included with this tour. Click here to learn more and book your tour today.

Distance from Denver: 56 miles

Time from Denver: 1 hour 36 minutes

13. Chautauqua Park

Chautauqua Park is located in Boulder, Colorado and is about a 45 minute drive from downtown Denver (depending on traffic).

This gorgeous outdoor setting famously showcases the Flatirons with more than 26 acres of trails and open space to explore. And since we lived in Boulder for 3 years it is one of our favorite spots for taking a day trip from Denver.

There are endless things to do and explore at Chautauqua. The area offers 10 hiking trails with views of the Flatirons.

Stop by the Ranger Cottage for a trail map, grab a snack, and plan your hike.

We recommend following the Chautauqua Trail to the Overlook if you want to see breathtaking views of the city below.

Or for an easier hike with the same views, follow Baseline Trail from the entrance then cut across and go back down Chautauqua Trail Overlook.

Or go on a self-guided history tour with 9 stops and 4 interpretive panels. Take your kids to have fun in the playground and picnic area while enjoying nature.

Shop the General Store for a cup of coffee or tea, and indulge in some homemade ice cream. Or stock up on supplies like sunscreen and bug spray.

Chautauqua Park makes a great day trip from Denver! You can get out of the city and enjoy the escape to nature in just under an hour drive.

There is no fee to enter or hike Chautauqua Park. And it’s free to drive if you take a direct bus from Union Station in Denver to Boulder.

Distance from Denver: 28 miles Time from Denver: 45 minutes

14. Manitou Springs

Manitou Springs is a quirky town located just 6 miles east of Colorado Springs. The town has a 1960s vibe even though many of the old 1900s buildings and homes are still standing.

One of the main draws to Manitou Springs are the natural springs that bubble up out of the ground.

In fact, there are 8 different natural springs that can be found by doing a free mineral springs walking tour .

Each spring has a different taste and smell due to being filled with different kinds of minerals. And the springs are cold, not hot like most other natural springs in Colorado .

Be sure to bring a refillable bottle since you can grab a sip of the spring water for free!

Check out this downloadable map to create your own walking tour of each mineral springs.

While you’re checking out the mineral springs walking tour, we recommend stopping by the Manitou Penny Arcade .

This old school style arcade will likely bring back a lot of memories from your childhood.

Enjoy the pinball machines, skeeball, pool tables, and air hockey machines for just a few pennies up to quarters.

Another place that will bring you back to your childhood days is Patsy’s Chocolates and Gifts .

This candy shop has been here since 1903 and sells gourmet popcorn, salt-water taffy, old fashioned chocolates, and delicious candy.

Finally, go on a ghost tour of The Cliff House or the Miramont Castle. These incredible castles were built in the 1890s and have tons of history and spooky stories to share.

Book a room at The Cliff House where each one is decorated in the style of the 1800s. Or simply enjoy a self-guided tour of the inside of the castle for free.

The Miramont Castle is part of the Manitou Springs Historical Society and is open for tours and tea time in the Queen’s Parlour Tea Room.

Active Duty Military personal or Fire Fighters can tour the castle for free with ID. All others will have to pay admission price for tickets and the tour lasts for about 45 minutes.

Distance from Denver: 76 miles Time from Denver: 1.5 hours

15. Cripple Creek

If you like gold rush and gambling stories then you’re going to like visiting Cripple Creek, Colorado .

The town is located near the backside of the base of Pikes Peak. And the quickest route from Denver to Cripple Creek is to take Interstate 25 to Highway 24.

On the way into town, stop by at The Heritage Visitors Center that overlooks the area below.

The museum is completely free to tour and features interactive exhibits with historic displays of what life was like back in the early 1900s.

After the museum, park and explore the downtown area of shops, restaurants, and casinos along East Bennett Avenue.

Many of the buildings are still standing from the town’s beginnings, with ornate architecture and decorations. The city is also adorned with beautiful art murals decorated by local artists.

The Old Homestead House Museum is another local favorite with quite an interesting history behind it.

Originally built in 1896, this is one of the most historic parlour houses in Cripple Creek. The museum is open 7 days a week from 12-4pm daily.

And while there is a cost to enter the fee is relatively budget-friendly costing $7 for adults and $3 for kids.

Distance from Denver: 115 miles Time from Denver: 2 hours

16. Royal Gorge Bridge

If you’re looking for an epic Colorado destination to visit, then add the Royal Gorge Bridge to your list of best day trips from Denver.

The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is located in Canon Cit y and is the tallest suspension bridge in the United States.

It is also home to the highest Zip Line and the world’s scariest Skycoaster if you’re into that sort of thing.

Admission to the park is not free and can be a bit pricey depending on the activities you choose to do.

However, you can drive to the Royal Gorge and take in views of the Bridge from the parking lot.

Or hike the Royal Gorge Overlook Loop or Arkansas River Canyon Rim Trail for free , both of which are located on the way to the Park.

The area is in a valley so you’re surrounded by mountains, making it a magical adventure no matter what time of year you visit.

The views in the area are spectacular and offer a memorable experience when hiking or rock climbing.

Distance from Denver: 130 miles Time from Denver: 2.5 hours

17. Lake Granby

Located on the Colorado River about 5 miles northeast of the city of Granby is Lake Granby.

Lake Granby is considered the third largest body of water in the state covering over 7,200 surface acres!

In addition to it’s two sister lakes, Grand Lake and Shadow Mountain Lake, Granby Lake offers over 150 miles of shoreline for camping, fishing and hiking.

The area is surrounded by the Arapaho National Forest and Recreation Area , which has tons of things to do if you want to be out in nature.

Enjoy hiking, swimming, camping, boating, fishing, and all of the exploring that the six designated wildernesses offer nearby.

Big game hunting, game bird, and waterfowl hunting is allowed at certain areas near Granby and within the forest.

A visit to the lake make a perfect day trip from Denver during the summertime as it offers a nice reprieve from the hot summer days.

Or enjoy snowmobiling or snowshoeing on many of the snowmobile trails during the winter months.

Many of the areas and hiking trails near Lake Granby are free to enter and explore.

However, if you want to visit the designated Recreation Areas there is a $5 daily rec fee you’ll have to pay.

Distance from Denver: 95 miles Time from Denver: 2 hours

These are just a few of the awesome ways you can enjoy some fun day trips from Denver during the week or on a long weekend.

Go for the day or take your time to enjoy all the amazing things that these Colorado destinations have to offer.

Professional Writer & Travel Blogger

Carrie Smith Nicholson is one of the co-founders of Hashtag Colorado Life. After living in Texas for her whole life she moved to Colorado 7 years ago. As a travel blogger and entrepreneur for the past 11 years, her writing has been featured on NBC News, HuffPost Live, Glamour Magazine, Inc Magazine and many other media outlets. When she's not writing about new travel locations, she enjoys spending time outdoors hiking and trying new foods. You can follow her outdoor adventures on Instagram, @hashtagcoloradolife.

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15 Best Day Trips From Denver, Colorado (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking to add some great day trips from Denver to your itinerary? Here are 15 of our favorites!

Colorado is arguably one of the USA’s most scenic states. From the towering peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park to the endless opportunities for river rafting, horseback riding, skiing, snowboarding, camping, and exploring, there are so many gems scattered around Colorado.

Denver is the capital city of Colorado. The Mile High City, as it’s often called due to its elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level, is home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with world-class museums, theaters, and galleries.

Denver is a great place to begin any trip to Colorado! From the excitement of downtown Denver to the surrounding nature, you can easily spend a few days or more soaking in the charm of Colorado’s capital.

If you have time to spare and you’re looking to venture beyond downtown Denver, consider a day trip!

You can remain at your Denver accommodation and either rent a car, take public transport, or book a tour out to the surrounding attractions.

There are some incredible day trips from Denver, Colorado that suit all kinds of travelers.

Shred some powder at world-class ski resorts in Summit County, catch a concert at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, or dive into the history at one of the nearby mountain towns.

From hiking Lookout Mountain or touring the Coors Brewery in Golden to taking a train ride up to Pikes Peak, these Colorado day trips are sure to have you wishing you had more time in this amazing state!

Find more amazing things to do in Colorado if you have more time to spare!

Table of Contents

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

2. pine valley ranch park, 3. colorado springs, 4. red rocks park, 5. breckenridge, 6. central city, 7. estes park, 9. fort collins, 10. pikes peak, 11. mount evans, 12. garden of the gods, 13. hanging lake, 14. georgetown, the best day trips from denver, colorado.

From driving along the iconic Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park, to sightseeing on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, there are so many fun day trips from Denver.

Whether you rent a car or book tours, any day trip into the nearby mountains, national parks, and historic towns will be worth it. Though there are so many breathtaking places to visit in Colorado, these quick and easy day trips from Denver are the perfect place to start!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Distance From Denver: 66 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

Rocky Mountain National Park , located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, is a breathtaking wilderness area that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.

Established in 1915, Rocky Mountain National Park covers over 415 square miles of rugged terrain, encompassing towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, dense forests, and a wealth of wildlife.

One of its most iconic features is the Continental Divide, which runs through the park, creating a high-altitude barrier that separates the watersheds of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This division gives rise to a unique blend of flora and fauna on either side, making the park a hotspot for biodiversity.

Visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park can explore a network of well-maintained trails, offering opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing.

Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, traverses the park and provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

From the lush meadows filled with wildflowers in the summer to the snow-covered landscapes of winter, the park’s ever-changing scenery offers something for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just seeking a peaceful escape into nature, Rocky Mountain National Park offers one of the best day trips from Denver!

• Distance From Denver: 45 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Located just southwest of Denver, this 1,500-acre park is a haven for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The park’s centerpiece is the picturesque Pine Lake, a tranquil reservoir surrounded by lush forests and dramatic mountain vistas. Visitors can explore a network of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through the park, offering opportunities to witness the diverse flora and fauna that call this area home.

One of Pine Valley Ranch Park’ s standout features is the historic Baehrden Lodge, a charming log cabin that dates back to the early 1900s. This rustic lodge, with its cozy fireplace and scenic views, serves as a popular spot for picnics and gatherings.

The park also boasts a beautiful stone pavilion, which makes it an ideal location for weddings, family reunions, and community events. You. can also book horseback riding tours or go fishing on the South Platte River.

Whether you’re fishing at Pine Lake, embarking on a mountain bike adventure, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through the forest, Pine Valley Ranch Park provides a serene and rejuvenating day trip in the heart of Colorado’s beauty.

Read next: 11 Best Road Trips From Denver

• Distance From Denver: 67 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Another one of the best day trips from Denver is Colorado Springs , nestled at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Adventure lovers flock to Colorado Springs for activities like hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The Garden of the Gods, a National Natural Landmark, is a must-visit destination with its towering red rock formations that create a surreal and awe-inspiring landscape.

Additionally, the city is home to the United States Air Force Academy, which adds to its unique character and cultural significance.

Colorado Springs also boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, making it a well-rounded destination for visitors seeking both adventure and cultural experiences.

The city’s rich history can be explored at places like Old Colorado City, a charming historic district with shops, restaurants, and art galleries housed in well-preserved 19th-century buildings. Book a history ghost tour to immerse yourself in the city’s enticing past!

The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is another gem, offering insights into the region’s past through exhibits and artifacts. The Ghost Town Museum is also a popular Old West museum that lets you immerse yourself in history.

As a center for military and aerospace industries, Colorado Springs is also known for the NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) Cheyenne Mountain Complex, a high-security military installation built deep within the mountainside.

Colorado Springs is a destination that offers a blend of adventure and culture against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

• Distance From Denver: 15 miles
• Driving Time: 30 minutes

Located just west of Denver lies another epic day trip destination: Red Rocks Park . This geological wonder and world-renowned outdoor amphitheater has captured the hearts of music enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The park’s name is derived from its stunning red sandstone rock formations, which have been sculpted by millions of years of erosion.

Towering monoliths, such as the famous Ship Rock and Creation Rock, create a dramatic and surreal backdrop that has made the Red Rocks Amphitheatre an iconic music venue.

This natural amphitheater, with its impeccable acoustics and panoramic views of the Denver skyline and surrounding mountains, has hosted legendary musicians and bands, making it a must-visit destination for concertgoers from around the globe.

Beyond the amphitheater, Red Rocks Park offers many outdoor activities, including rock climbing and mountain biking trails that wind through the park’s rugged terrain.

The Trading Post Trail is a popular choice, taking hikers past the striking rock formations and offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding area.

Visitors can also explore the Red Rocks Visitor Center, which provides fascinating insights into the park’s geology, history, and the artists who have graced its stage.

Whether you’re attending a concert under the stars or exploring the rock climbing paths and hiking trails, Red Rocks Park is a great place for a day trip.

• Distance From Denver: 80 miles

Those looking to make the most of the Colorado mountains should head to Breckenridge , one of the top Denver day trips.

Breckenridge is a charming mountain town that captures the essence of the Rocky Mountains with its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class outdoor recreational opportunities.

Nestled in Summit County, Breckenridge is famous for its historic Main Street, a well-preserved Victorian-era downtown area that exudes old-world charm.

Here, visitors can stroll along cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings housing boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.

The town’s history as a mining hub is evident in its historic district, with well-preserved structures like the Barney Ford House Museum, providing a glimpse into the past. Breckenridge also boasts a lively arts scene, with events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate local artists and musicians.

Breckenridge is a renowned winter destination, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the Rocky Mountains. The Breckenridge Ski Resort, with its vast ski terrain and modern amenities, draws winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.

In the summer, the area transforms into a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fly fishing, with an extensive network of trails and pristine alpine lakes to explore. Mohawk Lakes Trail is a particularly popular trail to explore!

The surrounding White River National Forest provides endless opportunities for exploring and white water rafting, and the town’s welcoming atmosphere ensures that visitors feel right at home year-round.

Breckenridge allows you to experience the best of Summit County and is one of the absolute best day trips from Denver, Colorado.

Related: Read this post to learn more about the incredible things to do in Breckenridge .

• Distance From Denver: 38 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour

Another unique day trip idea from Denver is Central City. This historic and charming mountain town is often referred to as the “Richest Square Mile on Earth”.

Central City was once a bustling mining community during the Colorado Gold Rush of the mid-1800s. Today, it has transformed into a popular tourist destination that beautifully blends its rich history with modern amenities.

Visitors are immediately captivated by the town’s well-preserved Victorian architecture, including ornate opera houses, historic saloons, and charming bed-and-breakfast inns. The Central City Opera House , a stunning historic venue, hosts a renowned summer opera festival, attracting opera aficionados from around the country.

While Central City proudly honors its mining heritage, it’s also known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing the work of local artists and performers.

The town’s unique blend of history and culture, combined with its stunning mountain surroundings, makes it a delightful place to explore.

Central City is also conveniently located near Black Hawk, another historic mining town that’s now a hub for casinos, offering visitors a chance to try their luck in a Wild West setting.

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Colorado Springs

• Distance From Denver: 64 miles

Estes Park is another one of the best Denver day trips that allows visitors to see more of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Known as the “Gateway to the Rockies,” Estes Park serves as the perfect base camp for exploring the natural wonders of the nearby national park.

The town’s stunning location is highlighted by the towering peaks of the Rockies, including the iconic Longs Peak, which dominates the skyline. Visitors are treated to breathtaking vistas, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife in the surrounding wilderness.

There is so much to see and do around here, and guided tours are a great way to make the most of your time. This jeep safari tour includes the best sights around Estes Park and gives you a better chance of spotting wildlife!

Estes Park offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. The downtown area is a hub of activity with its historic buildings, unique shops, and an array of dining options, from quaint cafes to upscale restaurants.

The town is also famous for its annual events, including the Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival, which draws people from all over the world to celebrate Celtic culture and traditions.

For those seeking outdoor recreation, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching are just a few of the activities available in the area. Estes Park provides a tranquil escape into nature while offering all the amenities and attractions needed to make a memorable Rocky Mountain getaway.

• Distance From Denver: 30 miles
• Driving Time: 47 minutes

Another one of the best day trips from Denver is the vibrant and progressive city of Boulder . Known for its stunning natural surroundings, innovative spirit, and active and health-conscious community, Boulder offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural sophistication.

The city is famous for its extensive network of hiking and biking trails, which wind through the nearby mountains and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the iconic Flatirons rock formations.

Boulder Creek Path, a scenic trail that meanders through the heart of the city, is a favorite among cyclists and pedestrians.

Boulder is also home to the University of Colorado Boulder, lending a youthful energy to the community and fostering a thriving arts and culture scene.

The city’s Pearl Street Mall , a pedestrian-friendly downtown area, is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, street performers, and a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.

Boulder has a deep commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness, with numerous farmers’ markets, organic food options, and eco-friendly initiatives.

The city’s progressive values and appreciation for the great outdoors make it a welcoming and dynamic place for both residents and visitors, offering a high quality of life in a spectacular natural setting.

Find more things to do in Boulder with our complete guide!

Fort Collins, Colorado, is a dynamic and picturesque city located in the northern part of the state.

Known for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and strong sense of community, Fort Collins has earned the nickname “The Choice City” for its high quality of life.

The city is home to Colorado State University, which adds a youthful and academic dimension to the community, contributing to its lively atmosphere and innovative spirit.

Fort Collins boasts a thriving arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues, including the iconic Mishawaka Amphitheatre, which hosts outdoor concerts along the Cache la Poudre River.

One of the defining features of Fort Collins is its commitment to sustainability and outdoor recreation. The city offers an extensive network of bike lanes and trails, making it one of the most bike-friendly communities in the United States.

Natural areas like Horsetooth Reservoir and Lory State Park provide opportunities for hiking, boating, and camping, all within a short drive from the city center.

Fort Collins is also renowned for its craft beer culture, with a multitude of local breweries and taprooms earning it the moniker “The Napa Valley of Beer.”

This city truly offers the best of Colorado living, and it’s one of the best day trips from Denver, Colorado!

• Distance From Denver: 97 miles
• Driving Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Those looking for an epic mountain day trip from Denver can head to Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s most iconic and majestic peaks which stands tall at an elevation of 14,115 feet (4,302 meters).

Located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Pikes Peak has long captured the imagination of explorers, artists, and adventurers.

The mountain gained fame in the 19th century when explorer Zebulon Pike attempted to summit it, and it continues to draw visitors today for its stunning vistas, diverse ecosystems, and the challenge of reaching its summit.

Visitors can experience Pikes Peak in various ways, with the most popular being a drive up the Pikes Peak Highway.

This scenic route, partially paved and partially gravel, takes travelers through alpine meadows, past rugged rock formations, and to the summit, where they are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Colorado landscape.

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway, one of the world’s highest cog railways, has also been a popular way to ascend the peak, offering a unique and historic journey to the summit. For the adventurous, hiking the Barr Trail provides a challenging yet rewarding route to the top.

The famous mountain has inspired countless artists, writers, and photographers, and its beauty and grandeur will astonish any visitor on a day trip from Denver!

Mount Evans , located in Colorado’s Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, is a prominent and awe-inspiring peak known for its accessibility and breathtaking vistas.

Rising to an elevation of 14,271 feet (4,350 meters), it is one of Colorado’s famous Fourteeners and ranks as the highest paved road in North America.

Visitors can embark on a scenic drive along the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, which takes them from the charming town of Idaho Springs to the summit of Mount Evans.

This journey offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the dramatic change in ecosystems as the road climbs, from alpine meadows at the base to the rocky tundra and finally to the summit’s stark, windswept environment.

At the top, visitors are greeted with panoramic views that stretch across the Colorado Rockies, providing an unparalleled experience of the state’s natural beauty.

The summit of Mount Evans is home to the Mount Evans Research Station and the Meyer-Womble Observatory, making it an important hub for scientific research and astronomical observations.

Wildlife enthusiasts are also in for a treat, as the mountain is frequented by bighorn sheep, mountain goats, marmots, and a variety of bird species.

Hikers can access a network of trails, including the Summit Trail, which offers a challenging yet rewarding hike to the top.

Mount Evans is not only a playground for outdoor enthusiasts but also a place of wonder, where you can marvel at Colorado’s mountains on a quick and easy day trip from Denver.

Read Next: Check out all of our favorite places to visit in Colorado !

• Distance From Denver: 69 miles
• Driving Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

One of the coolest day trips from Denver is the geological wonder and natural treasure, Garden of the Gods.

This iconic park is renowned for its stunning red rock formations, which soar into the sky against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains of Colorado.

These towering sandstone formations, sculpted by millions of years of erosion, create a surreal and otherworldly landscape that has drawn visitors from around the world for generations.

Visitors to Garden of the Gods can explore a network of hiking trails that wind through the park, providing opportunities to get up close to the breathtaking formations and witness the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment.

A jeep tour or a segway tour is a great way to explore the highlights of the park, and you can learn about the fascinating natural history from your local guide.

The park also features a Visitor and Nature Center, where guests can learn about the geology, ecology, and history of the area through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a rock climber seeking a challenge or simply looking to soak in the natural beauty, Garden of the Gods offers a remarkable outdoor experience in the heart of Colorado’s majestic landscape.

• Distance From Denver: 156 miles

Though it’s a bit of a drive, a day trip to Hanging Lake is definitely worth it! Hanging Lake is renowned for its ethereal beauty and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Situated in Glenwood Canyon , just east of Glenwood Springs, this pristine alpine lake is accessed via a challenging but rewarding hiking trail that ascends through a lush canyon.

The trail, which gains over 1,000 feet in elevation in just 1.2 miles, is known for its steep and rocky terrain, including sections of stairs and boardwalks that help protect the sensitive ecosystem surrounding the lake.

Hanging Lake itself is a breathtaking sight to behold, with its emerald waters surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls. The unique name comes from the appearance of the lake, which seems to hang precariously on the edge of a cliff.

It’s no wonder that Hanging Lake is one of Colorado’s most iconic and photographed natural attractions.

Due to its fragile ecosystem, access to the Hanging Lake Trail is strictly regulated, with a permit system in place to limit the number of daily visitors.

This ensures the preservation of the pristine environment and allows future generations to continue marveling at the sheer beauty of Hanging Lake. So make sure you get a permit before you embark on this day trip!

• Driving Time: 50 minutes

Georgetown, Colorado, is a charming and historic mountain town approximately an hour west of Denver.

Established during the Colorado Silver Boom of the late 19th century, Georgetown boasts a rich mining heritage that is still evident in its well-preserved Victorian-era architecture.

The downtown area is a picturesque collection of colorful buildings, quaint shops, and restaurants that transport visitors back in time.

The iconic Georgetown Loop Railroad, a historic narrow-gauge railway, offers scenic rides through the rugged terrain, providing a unique opportunity to experience the area’s mining history and breathtaking mountain views.

Beyond its history, Georgetown offers a range of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains and nearby Clear Creek, which is popular for fishing and whitewater rafting.

Guanella Pass, located just outside of town, offers access to numerous hiking trails, including ones that lead to high mountain lakes and vistas.

Georgetown serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, while its historic charm and cultural attractions make it a delightful destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the history and natural beauty of Colorado’s high country.

From whitewater rafting down Clear Creek to a scenic ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, this mountain resort town is one of the best day trips from Denver!

Looking for more things to do in Denver ? We’ve got you covered!

Located just a short, 30-minute drive west of Denver, Golden makes for a fun and easy day trip from the city. Known as the “Gateway to the Rockies,” Golden is a city steeped in history and natural beauty.

The city’s charming downtown area features well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and a variety of dining options.

One of its most iconic attractions is the Coors Brewery, one of the largest brewing facilities in the world. Embark on a Coors Brewery tour to gain insights into the beer-making process and the history of this beloved beverage.

Golden is also celebrated for its proximity to outdoor adventure. The city is nestled along Clear Creek, making it a popular destination for kayaking, tubing, and picnicking along the creek’s scenic shores.

The surrounding foothills and canyons offer a network of hiking and biking trails, including the challenging climbs up Lookout Mountain and South Table Mountain, both of which reward hikers with sweeping views of the Denver metropolitan area.

The Colorado School of Mines , a prestigious engineering and applied sciences university, adds an academic and innovative spirit to the community. Check out the Colorado Railroad Museum for a peek into the city’s past!

Whether you’re exploring its historic downtown, enjoying outdoor activities, or embarking on a Coors Brewery tour, Golden is one of the best day trips from Denver, Colorado!

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The Best Small-Town Day Trips From Denver, Colorado 

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

For many travelers, the charm of Denver comes from its distinctive old western towns—scattered like gold flecks in a mountain river around the city's center. Once hubs for agriculture and mining at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, today they are the heart of suburban communities bursting with ingenuity and homegrown flair. 

Within 30 minutes from Denver, visitors can experience a small-town Colorado ambiance and inspired boutiques created by local business owners. In the same way that stars flicker through the purple dusk of the Colorado sky, old towns all over the Front Range are blazing through their dusty beginnings, bringing a refined taste for cuisine, lifestyle, and design. With so many towns and small cities to choose from—and each with a different style of appeal—here are some of the best for day (or overnight) trips on your next trip to the Mile High City.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Boulder's Colorado Flatirons are only a 30-minute drive from Denver.

Pinned against the striking, angular Flatiron peaks, Boulder is a dynamic Colorado destination and an ideal place for a taste of eccentric mountain life with swanky amenities. Classic to-dos include perusing designer mountain gear stores like Fjallraven and hiking the Chautauqua Park trails. Best known for vibrant buskers and a lively atmosphere, Pearl Street attracts shoppers and foodies in search of first-class dining at restaurants like Frasca . Travelers can start the night out at The Bitter Bar for cocktails, moving to Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar , then to West End Tavern —not to miss are the local breweries Avery and Mountain Sun . 

Where to stay: The upscale St. Julien Hotel & Spa with soothing organic textures like slate and wood is the perfect central location to explore Boulder. 

The western-themed town of Golden is a gateway location to higher elevations where people and activities revolve around outdoor recreation. A fusion of mountain creativity, downtown boasts eight craft breweries like Holidaily . High-end mountain gear brands such as Icelantic skis and Yeti Cycles call Golden home, along with the American Mountaineering Museum with artifacts from Jim Whittaker the first American to ascend Mt. Everest. From Golden, Lariat Loop meanders around Buffalo Bill’s grave towards the monolithic sandstones of Red Rocks.  Abejas restaurant on 13th Street offers farm-to-table cuisine in an elevated seasonal style. 

Where to stay: The Eddy Taproom & Hotel , named after the slow bend in a river, is a great place to unwind next to Clear Creek, the same stream that runs by Coors brewery. 

Thompson Denver is an ideal stay close to Union Station for trips out of the city proper into areas like Arvada

The pedestrian-friendly streets of Olde Town Arvada are best known for its two-story brownstone buildings bordering lively open-air patios and eclectic shops. The feeling of nostalgia wafts through the streets from Scrumptious , an ice cream parlor with an indulgent take on childhood favorite flavors. From selling vintage instruments to tasting bourbon, local business owners are passionate about what they do and it’s evident in the unique storefronts like art deco inspired jewelry pieces by metalsmith Jamie Hollier at Balefire Goods . 

The locally sourced Stone Cellar Bistro or the historic Arvada Tavern serve engaging dishes, and School House Kitchen & Libations stocks one of the country’s largest whiskey selections displayed like books on a library wall (for bourbon, head to Bluegrass ). Thankfully, the light rail can take care of that pesky drive home. 

Where to stay: Base yourself in Denver proper at the Thompson Denver 's urban chalet lobby just down the street from Denver’s Union Station, from which you'll travel less than 20 minutes on the light rail G line to Golden.

Boulder is an ideal home base from which to peruse the smaller towns along Coal Creek like Louisville. Coal mining is woven into the fabric and history of this town giving it a worn, early-20th-century atmosphere. The Louisville Historical Museum spans three locations with photographs, paraphernalia, and a home representative of the town's mining heritage. 

Named after a former mining company, Acme Fine Goods nods to Louisville's roots. Created by entrepreneur Eric Reed, it carries the best collection of high-end mountain menswear we've seen. Downtown offers the perfect mix of eateries for every mood like The Huckleberry for afternoon tea, Moxie Bread Co. for an heirloom grain butter croissant, Waterloo for slow-smoked BBQ, and Rocky Mountain Tap and Garden for an afternoon pilsner.

Where to stay: The airy and minimal Embassy Suites by Hilton in Boulder is an ideal home base to peruse the smaller towns along Coal Creek like Louisville.

Erie Town Fair and Balloon Festival TKTK

Compact and unpretentious, the main street of former coal mining town Erie is bordered by 1920s brick buildings, colorful murals, and dollhouse craftsmen. Having slept through the last 120 years, Erie’s secluded downtown is waking up as a modern patchwork of restaurants and bars catering to discerning suburban families. Think Friday Night Lights at the Tiger's high school stadium meets crispy pork cheek tacos at Birdhouse and Green Tea cocktails at the Erie Social Club . Downtown Erie's latest shopping installment is Lottie Lane Home Collections , a blanched take on Colorado urban homes with a nod to its rural heritage. Colorado Railbike Adventures offers rides on the old tracks by hand pump railcar or Fairwinds Balloon Rides provides views from above in one of Erie’s signature hot air balloons.

Where to stay: Travelers feeling the small-town vibe can opt for a local country stay at Littleluck Farmette , a bright and quaint carriage house just outside of town.

A complete mountain escape, Evergreen is an outdoor haven with a small but picturesque lake surrounded by towering pines and miles of trails. The Alderfer Three Sisters hike sports vistas of snow-capped peaks and feathery grass meadows. Outbound Mountain Gear can outfit any trek and a cinnamon roll from the Muddy Buck Coffee House is paramount for some mid-hike motivation.

Hewn from a mountain valley, rustic downtown boasts aged timber storefronts scaling up granite rocks. While the town has several unique shops,  we love the highland living meets organic designs of Mountain Home by local owner Alexa Cowley. The Evergreen Pine Needle cocktail at Murphy’s Mountain Grill is infused with (you guessed it) real pine needles, and one of the best eateries in town is Italian fusion Bistro del Lago . 

Where to stay: Downstream, along Bear Creek, rests the bespoke fable-like treehouse suite of the Highland Haven Inn . 

Gardens in Downtown Littleton, Colorado, a historic town just 

Historic Downtown Littleton is a former agricultural town boosted by the westward expansion of the railroad to the Rocky Mountains. Main Street feels like a postcard New England town dropped into a sprawling metropolitan. Nook Coffee is located inside the historic railroad depot and from there, window shopping is a few strides away. Littleton also has a diverse food scene: from breakfasting at Toast or Born2Bake to dinner favorites Terra Cotta and Smallfins. Small-batch chocolatier Chocolate Therapist sits sandwiched at the heart of town for an indulgent dessert. 

Where to stay: Stay in Denver's sleek Le Meridien Denver , just thirty-five minutes away by light rail.

Afternoon and early evening are the optimal times to explore the rambling town of Lafayette's colorful center, which is still transitioning from its rural roots—but don’t discount the imaginative entrepreneurs bringing new originality to its streets. From the veranda of the cider mecca Acreage , patrons can view the sweeping peaks of the Rocky Mountains while sipping the latest flavor profile of cider maker Patrick Combs. 

Local gem Vintrey , imagined by brother and sister duo Jordan and Liz Lewis, displays timeless woolen textiles and personally sourced goods like handmade Flora leather backpacks. For travelers seeking some down-home comforts, the welcoming front porches of East Simpson coffee shop are the perfect stop. Teocolli Cocina is the town favorite for lunch and the sophisticated Community Supper Club for dinner.

Where to stay: Opt for the Victorian rooms of the Boulderado Hotel in nearby Boulder.

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20 Best Day Trips From Denver

If you live in Denver and want to get out of the city or if you're just visiting the Mile High City, there is a lot to do and see within a day's drive of the biggest city in Colorado.

The rocky mountains are on your doorstep with skiing, hiking, scenic roads up in the clouds and picture-perfect lakes among snow-covered mountain peaks. Then there's historic cities, mountain mining towns and even a wolf sanctuary to visit.

Here's our list of the 20 best day trips from Denver.

1. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

30 minutes from Denver (19 miles)

The Red Rocks Park is only 19 miles from downtown Denver and we included it in our list of the best things to do in Denver as well!

A very short day trip out of Denver it may be, but there are two big reasons why you should consider getting in the car and coming to the Red Rocks Park.

The first reason is the spectacular Amphitheatre which is set right into some of these red rocks with an amazing view past the stage below.

There is a series of summer concerts that takes place here, but with less than 10,000 seats, tickets can go early so check ahead for the performer schedule.

The Red Rocks Park itself is great for a short hike. It used to be known as the Garden of Titans after the way the red rocks tower above the hilly landscape and with plenty of parking on offer, it's one of the easiest ways of getting out of downtown Denver to explore the nature.

2. Mount Evans Scenic Byway

1 hour 30 minutes from Denver (60 miles)

This epic road starts just 40 minutes away from downtown Denver at the small town of Idaho Springs. Denver itself sits at a relatively high altitude, giving it the famous nickname as the Mile High City.

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway goes a lot higher than that though. As you make your way from Exit 241 of Interstate 70, the road climbs 7,000 feet reaching the peak at a massive 14,130 feet above sea level (4,310 m).

If you're after views that stretch far, this road has plenty with the Rockies stretching to the west and Denver below you to the east. The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in North America and is the 5th highest paved road in the world, so there's not many places you can go on a road trip that will get you higher up!

Only open from Memorial Weekend to Labor Day due to the weather, it costs $10 to drive the 28 miles up to the top, but it's worth it with amazing views, sheer drops, hairpin turns and everything we love about a good road trip drive.

3. Boulder, Colorado and Chautauqua Park

50 minutes from Denver (31 miles)

Another day trip that won't take you long to get there is a drive up to Boulder, just outside Denver.

Boulder is a small town in the foothills of the Rockies and offers a great small town feel compared to Denver's big city vibe. Like many places in Colorado, Boulder is particularly known for its outdoors.

Sure, there are some great restaurants, craft beer breweries and a beautiful mountain backdrop, but the best thing to do here is to hike the 300 miles of trails through the Flatirons whether you're coming in the summer or winter.

Most of the trails around Boulder are in Chautauqua. This huge open space right next to Boulder has trails leading up tall mountain peaks and mountain passes with stunning views and plenty of clean mountain air (Boulder is over 5,000 feet above sea level).

If you're coming over from Denver in the winter and want to get even more active, there are a few mountains you can ski within a 30 minute drive into the Rockies.

4. Vail, Colorado

1 hour 40 minutes from Denver (97 miles)

Vail is best known as the biggest ski mountain in Colorado and is one of the most famous ski resorts in the United States. There are good reasons for this - there are 193 official ski trails and 7 ski bowls covering all faces of the Vail mountain!

Skiing is not everything there is to Vail, though.

The town of Vail and the valley it's in are worth visiting in any season. There's summer and fall festivals, skiing in the winter and spring. There's hiking, mountain biking and the highest botanical garden in the world and then there's snowmobiling and night-time ski biking (yes - it's a thing) during the cold season.

The town itself is unusual among big ski resorts. There are different parts of Vail with very different character and feel - Vail Village is the heart of the ski resort and oozes almost European levels of charm while the Lionshead district is all about fancy hotels that require fat wallets.

With so much to do, it's a great idea to stay in Vail for the weekend, but it's perfectly doable as a day trip from Denver and you can get there in an hour and a half if traffic and conditions are kind to you.

5. Cheyenne, Wyoming

1 hour 40 minutes from Denver (102 miles)

Often overlooked as a destination, Cheyenne is a beautiful town, just across the border in Wyoming as you drive north from Denver.

This quiet town is the capital of Wyoming and is perfect for a day trip. There are several interesting museums detailing the history of the city and the state including the Governors' Mansion building that has been a museum since 1976.

Downtown Cheyenne is very walkable. The Wyoming State Capitol and the neighborhood surrounding it are a good place to start. There are 5 museums within a short walk or you can take a tour on the Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley that uses 100-year old buses to show you the best sights.

Cheyenne also boasts the largest outdoor rodeo in the world so if you're coming on a day trip in the summer and want to see what it's all about, try driving up on a Saturday. The Cheyenne Frontier Days is a huge Rodeo and Western event at the end of July - the town gets very busy with visitors from across the country, but it also an awesome reason to go!

6. Central City and Blackhawk

50 minutes from Denver (40 miles)

The quaint towns of Central City and Blackhawk are less than a mile apart in the mountains to the west of Denver.

They sprung up during the Pike's Peak Gold Rush that started in 1858 and became known worldwide for the riches found in the mountains. But almost as quickly as the cities grew, the mining industry collapsed at the beginning of the 20th century as the mines were depleted.

As the towns dwindled, a massive change came in the 1990s with the introduction of gambling and today Blackhawk and Central City share 24 casinos between them.

There are hotels, restaurants and bars alongside the casinos and two separate highways leading to each as they compete to attract gamblers. As Blackhawk was the first town along the original route, it is the busier of the two with 18 casinos in the town but you can stay and enjoy the attractions in either as they are so close.

There are other things to do including local hikes and breweries, but we'll be honest - there's better places to go for those things. If you fancy playing some cards or feeding your dollars into a one-armed bandit, a day trip to Central City and Blackhawk should be on the menu.

7. White River National Forest

1 hours 30 minutes from Denver (87 miles)

The White River National Forest is a large preserve to the west of Denver, covering a big chunk of the Rocky Mountain landscape.

You enter the White River National Forest as you drive along the I-70, approaching Vail and stretches into much of Northwestern Colorado.

There area includes 12 ski areas with some of the best known in the U.S. all within its boundaries such as Aspen, Vail and Beaver Creek. But if you're not into skiing, there is a whole lot of nature to see.

There are 10 fourteeners (mountains over 14,000 feet tall) in White River and a number of large wilderness areas that are perfect for hiking - there are 2,500 miles of hiking trails so you can go on day trips every weekend for years and not have to do follow the same track!

Unsurprisingly, White River is the most visited National Forest in the United States but withe the size of it and the number of different activities, it doesn't feel crowded.

Keep your eyes open for the deer, moose and elk on your way around the forest but take care as there are lynx, bobcats and mountain lions in the area, although your chances of meeting one are very slim.

If you're feeling lazy, White River has some amazing roads that wind through its area and you can go on a scenic drive around instead!

8. Rocky Mountain National Park

1 hour 30 minutes from Denver (73 miles)

Another popular place to hike, explore nature and see the tall mountain peaks is the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Getting there from Denver is straight-forward - head north along the I-25, then follow Highways 66 and US-36 all the way to Estes Park. This is the main base for visitors to the National Park with the main visitor center and plenty of places to stay if you want to spend the night.

The park offers loads of hiking trails, places you can camp and a lot of small lakes wedged in-between the mountains which gives the park its unique look and provides amazing photo opportunities.

Rocky Mountain National Park sits either side of the Continental Diviee and there are 5 distinct parts of the park that have very different vibes and nature from large green meadows to steep, rocky mountains with glaciers and permanent snow. Check the map and plan ahead to make the most of your day!

If you want to delve deeper into the park, you can drive along the very pretty Trail Ridge Road - it's only open during the summer months so if you're visiting in the winter, you'll have to take the long way around from Denver through Idaho Falls and around Lake Granby.

9. Georgetown, Colorado

50 minutes from Denver (45 miles)

Georgetown is not what you might expect from an old mining town, an hour's drive from Denver into the Rocky Mountains.

Sitting on the Georgetown Lake and along the I-70, Georgetown is surrounded by mountains and is known for its Victorian-era buildings that have been recently restored.

Just outside the town is the Georgetown Loop Railroad where you can ride a train on an 1880s narrow gauge track that runs up and down the valley during the summer months.

If you're visiting Georgetown, or even if you're just driving past on your way to Vail, Aspen or other parts of the White River National Forest, it's a worthwhile stop if you have the time.

A top tip is to take the Guanella Pass Road that comes off the I-70 at Georgetown and snakes its way up the mountains going south until it meets Highway 285 at Grant. Only open during the summer months, you are guaranteed amazing views and not too many other visitors as this is one of the lesser known mountain roads in the area.

10. Glenwood Springs, Colorado

2 hours 40 minutes from Denver (157 miles)

Glenwood Springs is another place you can get to from Denver located right in the heart of White River National Forest. All you have to do is follow the I-70 west towards Grand Junction and you will come to Glenwood Springs at the point where Highway 82 splits off towards Aspen.

The main reason to come here is the enormous Glenwood Hot Springs Pool. This is the world's largest hot spring pool in the world and has over 1 million gallons of water at a balmy 90 to 93 °F (around 33°C).

If that feels a little cool, there's a small (100 feet long!) Therapy Pool where the water is kept at a temperature of 104 °F (40 °C). The amazing thing is that even in the snowy winter, water coming out of the Yampah Spring has to be cooled as it is a scorching 122°F (50 °C).

About 10 miles before you get to Glenwood Springs is the Hanging Lake Trail. In the off-season you can park up your car and hike around 1 mile uphill to see a beautiful mountain lake sitting in a narrow gorge.

From May to October, you'll have to drive into Glenwood Springs and park up at the Hanging Lake Welcome Center to take the shuttle instead. Remember that whenever you come, it's a good idea to get your Hanging Lake permit in advance to avoid disappointment and save you time.

11. Pawnee National Grassland

1 hour 45 minutes from Denver (109 miles)

Day trips from Denver generally tend to head west into the Rocky Mountains as that's where the amazing landscapes, activities, towns and nature reserves are and they are so close to the city.

We felt guilty as the first 10 entries on our list are all about the Rockies or at least based in the foothills so here comes a day trip in the opposite direction to the flat plains of Pawnee National Grassland.

Sitting on the northern border of Colorado where it meets Wyoming and Nebraska, this is a vast area of wild grassland that goes on for miles and miles without so much as a hill in sight.

There are a number of trails and even campsites if you want to stay longer, but you can get a really good feel for the place and enjoy it on a day trip from Denver.

Be careful with the network of small roads and dirt tracks that criss-cross the Grassland - some of these are publicly accessible roads but others are private drives so look out for the signs as you might annoy the local farmers.

12. Bear Creek Canyon & Evergreen

40 minutes from Denver (29 miles)

This is a short day trip from Denver at less than 30 miles' worth of driving to get to Evergreen, but it's definitely worth it and if you're short on time, this is a great way to have fun and get out of the city.

The Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Mountain Drive is a pretty road that runs from Morrison to Idledale. The starting point is almost in the same spot as the Red Rocks Park (see #1 above) so you can combine these two together and still get around to see everything in one day.

After you wind your way up Colorado State Highway 74 to Idledale, keep going all the way to Evergreen - the scenery continues to be great and Evergreen is a great place to stop and enjoy lunch or even stay for dinner.

There's a saloon where you can catch a show later on and the Revival Brews brewery with a dozen unique craft beers to try (although you might need to book a hotel if you get into the beer tasting!).

In downtown Evergreen you will find a bunch of pretty local shops and then there's the Evergreen Lake you can stroll around.

All the way from Morrison to Evergreen, there are parks and places you can go on a hike either side of the Highway.

If you get the trail to the top of Mount Falcon, you'll be rewarded with amazing views in every direction and higher up the road, the Lair o' the Bear Park has relaxing trails that run along Bear Creek.

13. Golden, Colorado

25 minutes from Denver (15 miles)

Golden is only a short drive from Denver - you can get here in under half an hour from most of downtown areas but it could not be more different to the hustle and bustle of the city.

The short day trip from Denver brings you to a relaxed traditional mountain town with two amazing mountain parks on either side - the Lookout Mountain Park and the North Table Mountain Park.

You get the feel of being in the mountains even though Golden is almost at the same elevation as Denver and the vibe is a lot more chilled than the big resorts like Aspen or Vail in the Rockies.

If you want to break up your hiking, the Colorado Railroad Museum is a good place to stop. You can also do a tour of the original Coors Brewery where the company first started back in 1873.

14. Colorado Springs, Colorado

1 hour 20 minutes from Denver (69 miles)

We have split out Colorado Springs from the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak (see below) as there's so much to see, a day trip won't do either justice. You can stay the night and enjoy all there is to do and see around Colorado Springs or come more than once.

Most people who visit Colorado Springs don't even make it into the city, focusing on the mountains and parks around it, but it's definitely worth your time.

Old Colorado City is to the west of downtown Colorado Springs and was formed in 1859 as the capital of the state of Colorado. You can take a stroll and check out some great local shops, restaurants and art galleries.

The city of Colorado Springs has some really unusual and interesting museums - there's everything from quirky Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum to the grand Colorado Springs Pioneer Museum with special museums dedicated to classic trolleys, planes, mining and even a preserved bordello.

15.Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak

1 hour 30 minutes from Denver (74 mies)

Pikes Peak is the mountain that towers over the city of Colorado Springs and is one of a number of fourteeners in the area, rising to a height of 14,115 feet above sea level (4,302 m).

You can get to the top via a few different ways - the Pikes Peak Cog Railway from Manitou Springs is one of the easiest ways to go up if you want to have a relaxing day. The highest railway in North America is currently closed for reconstruction and is scheduled to reopen in 2021.

While it is closed, you can drive all the way up via the Pikes Peak Highway. It's a toll road, but the 19 miles of twists and turns are worth it - the road is home to one of the best known mountain races in the world - the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb.

You can hike all the way up, but the 13-mile trail that climbs over 8,000 feet (2,400 m) will take you several hours just to go one way so allow enough time if you plan on going up and down.

Garden of the Gods is the park that sits between Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak. It's known for its unusual red rock formations - there's thin tall structures, a giant balancing rock and rocks that look like spires and religious buildings in the aptly named Cathedral Valley.

16. Biking trails in Fort Collins and Lory State Park

1 hour 30 minutes from Denver (75 miles)

Fort Collins is just over an hour's drive up the I-25 to the north of Denver and is often overlooked as a place to visit, but you should definitely spend some time in the city.

The historic city has a great Old Town district where you'll find quaint shops selling everything from silver to spice.

If you choose to stay the night, you might find out why Fort Collins is known as the Napa Valley of beer - there's 2 dozen local breweries in the area and you can try a lot of the craft beers around town.

One of the most noticeable things in Fort Collins are the bike trails throughout the city - the locals love bicycles and there are dedicated paths everywhere you look. You can even hire a bike if you've not brought one with you - you'll see them parked up at bike racks everywhere you go and you can get set up on the app in a few minutes.

Lory State Park is just outside Fort Collins - you'll need to drive around the Horsetooth Reservoir to get there. Once you're there, you'll find many trails waving through the rugged terrain that you can hike or try your hand at mountain biking.

17. Lake Dillon

1 hour 15 minutes from Denver (69 miles)

Lake Dillon is a man-made reservoir along Blue River that flows in the Rockies. It is a very popular destination for tourists all through the year as the lake is a great base for hiking, exploring the mountains and skiing.

The calm waters of the lake, surrounded by snow-covered peaks have some amazing RV sites, bike paths and golf courses for those who want to relax in the warm summer months.

There is a summer concert series in the town of Dillon and you can hire boats from the marina from late May to the end of September.

In the winter (and actually all the way through the year), there are 4 major ski resorts within a 10-mile radius of the lake including the large Copper Mountain, Keystone and Breckenridge resorts.

You can do virtually every snow-based activity here and given how close these resorts are to Denver, you can easily come skiing on a day trip from Denver.

18. Aspen, Colorado

3 hours (159 miles) from Denver in the summer, 4 hours 20 minutes (223 miles) from Denver in the winter

Aspen is another great ski resort within a day's drive from Denver, but at 3 hours on the road, it is one of the furthest on this list and you may want to extend your day trip to make more of what Aspen has to offer.

The quickest way to get to Aspen from Denver is to follow the I-70 all the way to Copper Mountain and then turn onto Highway 91 heading south. After a while, there will be a turning right into the mountains onto Highway 82 and this leads all the way into Aspen.

As the road runs so high in the mountains, Highway 82 is closed for much of the year, only reopening once the ice and snow subsides in the summer months. So if you're coming in the winter, you'll have to take the longer route, following the I-70 to Glenwood Springs before following Highway 82 south.

Skiing is the number one reason people come to Aspen and it's not surprising - there are 4 separate ski resorts on neighbor mountains! These are Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass, a few miles up the road.

But even if you're not here for the skiing, there is a lot to get on with while enjoying the clear mountain air. Beautiful hikes, mountain top restaurants with unbelievable views and even the Wheeler Opera House, built in the 1890s, which hosts concerts and events year round.

19. Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center

2 hours from Denver (97 miles)

The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center is located south of Denver, near Pikes Peak and you can either drive along highways through Colorado Springs or take the more scenic route through the mountains following Highways 67 down to Woodland Park.

You can get up close and personal with the wolves that live in the sanctuary - there are different tours running through the day and although you can opt for the Standard, Meet & Greet, the Feeding Tour or even a VIP tour - all depends on how much time you've got, how much you want to spend and how close you want to get!

Alongside the wolves, the center houses coyotes and foxes and even within the wolf population, there are different types and you'll find it's a really rewarding and interesting experience.

The animals here would not be able to survive in the wild and this refuge lets them lead their lives in as natural an environment as possible.

20. Steamboat and the Fish Creek Falls

3 hours from Denver (159 miles)

At around 3 hours' worth of driving, Steamboat is a little stretch for a day trip from Denver, but you could just about do it if you like a good mountain drive.

The city of Steamboat is far enough from Denver that it feels like you've driven to a whole different state. You get a proper mountain town feel, ranches surrounding the city and a great ski resort.

Healthy lifestyle is a big deal here - there's hiking trails almost right out of the city with one going up to Fish Creek Falls which is definitely worth it if you have the time to get there.

The city boasts of the fact that 98 Olympians hail from Steamboat - a mighty return for a small town in the Rockies. Appropriately enough, the Swiss ski resort of Saas Fee is twinned with Steamboat!

If you're not into skiing, you can try other snow-based activities from snowmobiles to tubing.

In the summer, Steamboat's ski runs are swapped for mountain bike trails and the hot springs at Strawberry Park are a great way to relax after a day of activities.

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Denver has one of the world's most stunning backyards: the majestic Rockies and everything that Colorado has to offer. The Mile High City is the gateway to amazing locations, just waiting for you to explore. Browse the best day trips from Denver, Colo.

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Attractions & Day Trips Near Denver

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51 Best Day Trips From Denver — Places Nearby!

By: Author Natalie Hill

Posted on Published: December 23, 2022  - Last updated: June 23, 2023

Few cities are as blessed as Denver when it comes to stunning natural beauty.

With its abundance of things to see and do, the Mile High City has it all in its backyard.

Such wonders include the Rockies, verdant forests, sweeping sands, and glitzy urban getaways.

But, what you may not realize is that Denver is surrounded by even more amazing locales.

There are so many places to choose from, from museums and parks to entire neighboring cities.

Have you been daydreaming about going away, even just for the day?

After taking care of the family and managing the household, you sure do need some time off.

Luckily, most of the destinations will help you sit back, relax, and enjoy the natural scenery.

Outdoorsy families won’t be short of options, either, with hiking trails, ski retreats, and festivals.

Make the most of the city’s proximity to some of Colorado’s best attractions.

Visit these 51 day-trip locations—the best day trips from Denver!

With a name like Golden, this city may be setting up some expectations, but if you’re a fan of the mountains, outdoor activities, and good beer, Golden won’t disappoint.

A 25-minute drive away from Denver, Golden is the gateway to Colorado’s mountains and the entertainment they offer, from tubing down Clear Creek’s relatively tame rapids to hiking through the many trails surrounding the town to enjoying beautiful views of the city from Lookout Mountain.

One of the most popular spots in Golden for beer connoisseurs is the Coors Brewery—you can tour the world’s largest brewery and learn everything there is to know about one of the state’s most-loved drinks (and, of course, crack open a cold one too!).

2. Central City/Black Hawk

Why head to Las Vegas when you can do it the Colorado way and head to Central City and Black Hawk instead, just 45 minutes away from Denver?

Formerly mining towns, both spots are also steeped in history, especially Central City—today’s premier gambling hub was almost Colorado’s capital once and is brimming with historic must-sees, such as historic mines, the Gilpin Historical Society, Thomas House Museum, and the Central City Opera House.

Black Hawk is the more exuberant option, with several high-end casinos, such as Isle of Capri and Ameristar, if you’re looking for a big win.

You could also just ditch the gambling and shop, dine, and hike at the Maryland Mountain Quarts Park.

3. Rocky Mountain National Park

Colorado (970) 586-1206

The Rockies feature on several bucket lists around the world and lucky Denverites just need to drive for an hour and a half to see these natural wonders!

Sprawled across 265,000 acres, the Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular places to visit near Denver, with its gorgeous mountain landscapes and the miles of beautiful hiking trails winding through it.

For those looking for a challenging climb, there are over a hundred peaks over 11,000 feet high to explore, of which Longs Peak is possibly the most splendid and challenging.

This is also a great spot for a family getaway, with fishing, wildlife watching, camping, and superb mountain views on offer (especially down the Trail Ridge Road).

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Woodlands on Fall River

4. Estes Park

If you want to experience all that the Rockies have to offer, a trip to nearby Estes Park is also recommended for your list of Denver trips—this enchanting mountain town is a hotspot for climbing, whitewater rafting, dining, and golfing.

Though many people pass over Estes Park in favor of the Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a worthy getaway on its own.

The thriving downtown area sees many visitors, including the four-legged variety, especially during the Elk Fest that is conducted each fall.

There’s also a cool wine festival that takes place each August—the Estes Park Wine Festival—but you can also find some good wine throughout the year at the popular Snowy Peaks Winery.

Movie buffs should visit the legendary (and slightly notorious) Stanley Hotel and a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway affords some awe-inducing panoramas.

All of these fantastic offerings—and more—are only an hour and 26 minutes away.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Estes Park Resort

5. Fort Collins

Another can’t-miss spot just over an hour away is the beautiful town of Fort Collins.

Despite its reputation as a college town, Fort Collins has so much more on offer, especially for those who enjoy the comforts of urban life but still want to be close to nature.

Surrounded by gorgeous wilderness, one can truly embrace the best of nature while kayaking, boating, and fishing at the lovely Horsetooth Reservoir or whitewater rafting down the Cache la Poudre River Canyon, or picnicking, hiking, or even simply driving through one of the state’s trio of National Heritage Areas.

If you just want to chill urban-dweller-style, you’ll find that, too, at Fort Collins, especially in its globally renowned breweries (Fort Collins is something of a mecca for hopheads), the superb dining options, such as the farm-to-table Fortified Farm Dinner Series, and the musical evenings at Hodi’s Half Note and the Aggie Theater.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Elizabeth Hotel, Autograph Collection

6. Pikes Peak Region

1763 S 8th St Suite 2 Colorado Springs, CO 80905 (800) 525-2250

If you’re a fan of challenging outdoor activities, the Pikes Peak region is a great spot to visit.

No one likes the challenges of a long ride, though.

Fortunately, the Pikes Peak Region is only an hour from Denver.

The famous 14,000-foot Pikes Peak attracts climbing enthusiasts in hordes, with its plethora of difficult climbing paths (don’t worry if you’re not a climber—you can still enjoy stunning views from the peak from the highway!).

Even if you’re not going to the Pikes Peak region for the challenging climbs, the drive from Denver to the region is as good a reason as any—beautiful views, a slower pace of life, and lovely attractions such as the Cave of the Winds mountain park, with its humongous cave network, await you.

If you’ve got young ones in the clan, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo should feature on your list—the tots will love feeding the always-hungry resident giraffes!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Mining Exchange, A Wyndham Grand Hotel & Spa

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Denver

7. Summit County

Looking for one of the country’s best skiing spots that’s conveniently close to Denver?

Look no further than Summit County and its range of world-class ski retreats, sitting just an hour and a half from Denver.

But it’s not just about skiing at Summit County—after a day on the slopes, you’ll still find that there are tons left to do and see, such as the Gold Pan Saloon, a Breckenridge eatery that was opened in 1879 and is a historic landmark today.

The mountain towns in the region are excellent spots to immerse yourself in local culture—most are small enough to explore on foot but big enough for a lot of fun!

If skiing doesn’t satisfy your appetite for outdoor activity, head to Dillon Reservoir for canoeing, boating, hiking, and kayaking against the backdrop of stunning seasonal foliage.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: One Ski Hill, A RockResort

Also See: Best Day Trips From Colorado Springs

8. Roxborough State Park

4751 Roxborough Dr Littleton, CO 80125 (303) 973-3959

For a quick yet rejuvenating day trip from Denver, try the Roxborough State Park, with its Insta-worthy photo ops, crisp mountain air, and hiking trails ranging from short, beginner-friendly ones to mile-long, moderately challenging hikes.

The trails offer visitors the chance to catch some superb views of the mountains, as well as the several magnificent red-rock formations that surround the park.

Spring is an especially popular time to visit the park—gorgeous wildflowers carpet the park in myriad hues and the sunlight filters through a light mist.

You could easily spend hours just sitting amidst these and simply “being” (or taking photos for the ‘Gram, as the case may be!).

Note that due to a stringent “Leave Trace Policy”, drones, dogs, biking, and off-trail hikes aren’t allowed at Roxborough.

Roxborough State Park is only 42 minutes from Denver, so stop by whenever you get the chance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Origin Red Rocks, a Wyndham Hotel

9. Idaho Springs

A little more than 30 minutes from Denver sits Idaho Springs, a staple on history enthusiasts’ lists of Denver day trips.

This mountain is brimming with attractions that showcase its eventful past as a mining town, such as the Might Argo Mill and Tunnel, the Underhill Museum, and the Phoenix Gold Mine.

Idaho Springs is equally popular with adventure-sport enthusiasts, full of opportunities for tubing, skiing, zip-lining, rafting, and ATV driving.

If none of these captures your fancy, you can simply make it a spa day and revel in the luxurious heat of the hot springs at the Indian Hot Springs Resort and Spa.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lady Luck Casino Black Hawk

Related: Activities in Denver

10. Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge

4218 Co Rd 3A Cañon City, CO 81212 (719) 275-7507

Until it was overtaken by the Liuguanghe Bridge and the Beipan River Guanxing Highway Bridge, both in China, the Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge held the distinction of being the highest bridge and the highest suspended bridge in the world.

Today, suspended 956 feet over the Arkansas River and held up by over 4,000 steel cables, it is the country’s highest bridge and a popular tourist destination near Colorado’s Cañon City, with amusement park rides and attractions on either end of the bridge.

The Royal Gorge Park is spread over 360 acres, with fun rides such as a sky coaster, aerial gondolas, a theater, and possibly the country’s most thrilling zip line!

With a 2-hour, 21-minute trip, the Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge may be a bit of a stretch.

However, the thrilling attractions nearby will most certainly compensate for the long ride.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Royal Gorge Cabins

11. White River National Forest

Located more than 3 hours from Denver, the White River National Forest is one of the most scenic places near Denver to visit on your day trip.

The forest is home to acres (2.3 million, to be precise) of Colorado’s natural best and is among the country’s most visited forests.

White River National Forest has tons of activities for the outdoor lovers, housing around ten towering peaks that are elevated well over 14,000 feet and over 2,500 miles of lovely hiking trails, in addition to plenty of camping and horseback-riding opportunities.

This is also a popular spot for skiing, thanks to the many ski resorts that dot the area, such as Beaver Creek, Aspen, and Vail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Glenwood Springs

12. Hanging Lake

Though Hanging Lake is a bit of a long drive from Denver (it’s a little over two hours away), it’s worth the effort for the unique beauty of the place, especially for nature lovers.

On reaching the spot, you’ll have to hike uphill for about a mile—full disclosure that this can be quite a challenging hike due to the rockiness of the terrain, so carrying both your best hiking shoes and best physical form may give you an edge!

Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to views of the Hanging Lake’s gorgeous turquoise waters, verdant foliage, and tumbling cascades.

Note that visitors aren’t allowed to swim in the lake.

Additionally, ensure that you check beforehand whether the lake is open, as natural phenomena like mudslides and floods can affect its accessibility.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Glenwood Hot Springs Resort

13. Georgetown

The historic Georgetown, only 52 minutes away by car, is a great spot for a few interesting history lessons on Colorado’s past as a center for gold mining.

A train ride will take you from the Georgetown Loop Railroad to Silver Plume, the site where miners were housed, back in the day.

You can also tour the old gold mines, sitting 1,000 feet below the surface, through the Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours.

After this, pay a visit to the Hamill House Museum or the iconic Hotel de Paris Museum for a glimpse of the old-world luxurious life of the region’s moneyed families, or if you’ve had enough of the history lessons, take a break by fishing at the Georgetown Lake or hiking at Guanella Pass.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Georgetown Lake

Related: Fun Weekend Getaways in Colorado

14. Bear Creek Canyon

At Bear Creek Canyon, you’ll find yourself right in the lap of some of Mother Nature’s best work, so driving down south to this spot is worth it if you want to unplug or get up close and personal with the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

A convenient 24-minute drive away, Bear Creek Canyon belongs to Denver’s Park System.

The drive to Bear Creek is generously peppered with lovely little creeks and scenic vistas, and if you drive on through the canyon, you’ll reach red rock country at Morrison and Idledale, and eventually, the extensive mountain parks of the state.

The quaint foothill towns of Morrison and Idledale are also worth exploring if you’re big on mountain-town charm and the slow life.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Golden, an IHG Hotel

15. Red Rocks Park

18300 W Alameda Pkwy Morrison, CO 80465 (720) 865-2494

Speaking of Morrison, a day trip to the region is incomplete without visiting this National Historic Landmark and seeing the iconic sandstone towers, but more importantly, experiencing a glorious outdoor event at the Red Rocks Amphitheater.

The amphitheater has served as the stage for many popular musicians, from John Denver and Judy Collins to OneRepublic and The Lumineers.

While evenings are reserved for music, stand-up events, and movie nights, mornings at the amphitheater are for yoga and workouts, with the well-known “Yoga on the Rock” series attracting many participants, so you can easily start and end your day out from Denver at the amphitheater!

Other things to do include exploring the hiking and biking trails around Morrison and drinking in the lovely views the trails afford, wildlife watching, and picnicking.

For some more good news: it only takes 26 minutes to get here from Denver.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Denver West/Federal Center

16. Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

15807 Co Rd 1 Florissant, CO 80816 (719) 748-3253

Not only is Florissant home to coyotes, deer, and mountain lions, but it’s also home to thousands of the country’s most well-preserved fossil deposits and frozen stumps of redwood.

The fossils, remnants of 1,700+ species, date back to the Eocene Epoch, which began nearly 56 million years ago and lasted around 22 million years.

The best way to see both the wildlife and the fossils is to join a guided tour that takes you through over 14 miles of vista-rich trails.

If you’re not a fan of long hikes, you can visit the Visitor Center to view the fossil exhibits there.

An activity the tykes (and fossil fans of all ages) may love is hunting for real fossils in the beds, and even better, keeping the ones they find!

Outdoorsy people, get ready for an hour and 53-minute car ride to this exciting location.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cripple Creek Hospitality House & Travel Park

17. Garden of the Gods

Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (719) 634-6666

The beauty of the Garden of the Gods is ethereal, with massive, dramatic formations of red sandstone sprawled across 1,300 acres of this National Natural Landmark.

Just an hour and 10 minutes from the city, this is a popular destination for a one day trip from Denver.

You can explore the vast landscape and learn about its unique features through horseback riding, hiking, driving across in a jeep, or biking across.

There are also guided climbing expeditions for the adrenaline junkies; the view waiting at the top is worth all the blood and sweat (and some tears, too, maybe).

For a more laid-back outing, you can settle down with some food and the fam in any of the many picnic spots.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Garden of the Gods Club & Resort

18. Eastern Plains

The plains of the east are often passed over for the mountainous west, but the Eastern Plains are a treasure chest of wildlife-related activities for those willing to explore them.

If you love wildlife and rescue stories, bring on the waterworks (in a good way), and visit the Wild Animal Sanctuary that sits right outside Keenesburg.

The good folks here save wolves, lions, bears, tigers, and other animals from cruel captivity, and you can see the residents roaming freely across the 789 acres as they would in the jungle from the elevated walkway.

To get even more up close and personal with the wildlife, consider swimming with Puerto Gaitan’s pink river dolphins, taking a jeep safari across the sanctuary, or observing the waterfowl at the Colorado Wildlife Banner Lakes.

Take a 2-hour drive and enjoy some outdoor fun in this Colorado region.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Hudson Hotel & Suites

19. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

6550 Gateway Rd Commerce City, CO 80022 (303) 289-0930

This is another gem for wildlife lovers, sitting 15 minutes from Denver and just before the Denver International Airport.

The Arsenal center is a massive outdoor space that houses over 150 bison and 300 animal species.

You can try spotting the resident animals by driving through the Wildlife Loop, 14 miles long and winding through the refuge—this way, you can also enjoy spectacular views of the Rockies and Denver’s beautiful skyline.

You can also fish at several spots on the refuge and hike through its many trails.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites by Hilton Denver Central Park

20. Paint Mines Interpretive Park

29950 Paint Mine Rd Calhan, CO 80808 (719) 520-7529

This little-known spot sits right outside Calhan, to the northeast of Colorado Springs, on 750 acres of the state’s plains.

Through the park, you’ll find historical sites and gorgeous, otherworldly natural formations in extraordinary natural hues and shapes.

Paint Mines is believed to have witnessed human activity going back to 9,000 years ago—it served as a mining site for painting and pottery materials for the ancient indigenous folks of the country.

Paint Mines is open on all days of the week and the entry is free of cost, making this a great inexpensive attraction offering exceptional sightseeing and hiking opportunities.

Have fun visiting its outdoor attractions, which are only 1 hour and 35 minutes away.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Peyton Getaway

21. Mount Evans Scenic Byway

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is said to be North America’s highest paved road—whether or not the claim can be denied, the splendid views of the surrounding natural beauty are undeniable.

The byway is a godsend for those who would prefer to take the literal easy route(driving up) to the top of Colorado’s Mount Evans, which sits an imposing 14,625 feet above sea level, for its views.

If you don’t mind a hike, try conquering Grays Peak—this is one of the easier options and is quite charming, with possible companions in the form of bighorn sheep and mountain goats!

If you want something more challenging, try any of the other “14ers”—the 53 mountains in the state that are over 14,000 in height, as they are locally known.

All of these fantastic adventures are available after only a 38-minute ride.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Horseshoe Black Hawk

22. Boulder

A mere half an hour from Denver, exploring Boulder should be on your list of things to do outside Denver if you dig a big city that exudes small-town charm, perfectly blends urban comfort and natural beauty, and is packed with plenty of outdoor and indoor activities.

If you’re looking for indoor activities, head to Boulder’s bustling downtown area, with plenty of gourmet restaurants, boutiques, shops, and vibrant nightlife, or its many popular music venues, such as the Boulder Theater and Fox Theater.

The plethora of award-winning restaurants housed in the city has also earned it a spot on the international culinary map and much recognition as a culinary destination.

If you’re looking for outdoor activities, Boulder’s quite close to the Front Range, so you can easily bike or hike through the city to the gorgeous mountains flanking it—Chautauqua Park’s Flatirons are a conveniently close star attraction.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Basecamp Boulder

23. Nederland

Boulder’s sister town has nothing of the glitz and glamor of Boulder—instead, it sits nestled in the mountains and is the ideal base from where you can easily embark on a range of adventurous mountain activities.

Even if you aren’t headed to Nederland for the backpacking, fishing, and rock climbing opportunities it offers, you can simply kick back and relax in the midst of all that gorgeous Colorado greenery and check out what the town itself has to offer, from its many stellar breweries to the excellent New Moon Bakery.

Nederland is also close to the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area and the Rocky Mountain National Park, making it an ideal pit stop before heading to these areas.

Get whisked away for an adventure to Nederland with just over an hour’s trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Colorado Chautauqua Cottages

24. Breckenridge

Breckenridge is home to some of Denver’s best snowboarding and skiing, and best of all, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg, especially on a day trip.

It will also save you time, as it is only an hour and a half away from the city.

This resort town has it all—beautiful slopes and hiking trails as well as plenty of watering holes and entertainment in the form of art galleries and shops.

Breckenridge isn’t reserved for winters alone—though you can enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, and fat tire biking in the winter, summer brings its own fun, with mine tours, hiking, and exciting rides in the Breckenridge Ski Resort’s adventure park, Epic Discovery.

The Breckenridge Distillery is a sweet spot to visit for spirit lovers, while the Breckenridge Troll, a 15-foot public art installation, is one of the town’s proud displays.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Breck Inn

25. Evergreen

Reaching Evergreen won’t even take you an hour, making it a superb destination for those “not a fan of road trips” folks!

This rustic little town has something for everyone, whether you’re a traveling family, a solo adventurer, or are with your buddies.

Between the live music, natural and paved hiking and biking trails, and world-class spas, your day trip to Evergreen is going to be pretty packed.

In the summer months, Evergreen Lake is a great spot for concerts, paddleboarding, picnics, and boating.

Come winter, the lake turns into a magical ice-skating rink, as well as a hub for ice fishing.

If you want to pick up interesting curios, check out the many galleries that showcase work by local artists.

For a bit of exercise, try the short hike at Echo Lake Park, Bergen Peak, or Three Sisters Park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Golden West on Evergreen Parkway

One of the country’s premier skiing destinations, Vail is a winter wonderland, attracting tons of skiers each year with its 7 ski bowls and 193 officially recognized ski trails spanning the mountain.

Non-skiers don’t need to feel left out—Epic Discovery at the close by Breckenridge Ski Resort can provide enough adrenaline rushes with its tubes, coasters, and zip lines.

If you’re visiting during the summer, the Vail Recreation District has plenty of activities, such as exploring the diverse range of wildlife exhibits at the Vail Nature Center.

Vail also plays host to several exciting events throughout the year, such as the Snow Daze, the Vail Dance Festival, and the GoPro Mountain Games.

Catch these exciting activities after traveling just 1 hour and 37 minutes from Denver.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonnenalp

27. Fairplay and South Park City

Fairplay’s major draw, apart from it being a leading destination for first-rate trout fishing and a former gold-mining settlement, is South Park City.

Fans may recognize this city from the iconic hit television series South Park, with much of the show’s settings visually based on the South Park Basin.

But there’s more to South Park City than its inspiring role in television—it’s also a restored mining camp from the 1800s that is an open-air museum today, housing restored imported and local buildings and structures.

Fairplay Beach is a great spot for families, with a lovely high-elevation pond and plenty of fishing, picnicking, and hiking opportunities.

The gorgeous Tarryall, Eleven Mile, and Antero reservoirs are where you should head to if you want to be surrounded by natural beauty—Eleven Mile also turns into an ice-fishing hub in the winter months.

The activities and attractions are surely worth the one hour and 37 minutes of driving.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: A Riverside Inn Travelodge by Wyndham

28. Cheyenne

Wyoming’s Cheyenne may not be the first option that pops into your mind for a day trip from Denver since it’s in another state, but it’s only 2 hours away and is easily reachable.

Cheyenne gives you a glimpse of the warm Wyoming vibe, as you learn about the city, the state, and its culture through the many attractions.

The Nelson Museum of the West gives you a quick 101 on western culture, whereas The Old West Museum and the Wyoming State Museum give you more in-depth looks at the city’s rich legacy.

Cheyenne is an especially great spot for those with youngsters in the family—the Terry Bison Ranch, the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens (a sight to behold when the roses and herbs are in full bloom), and Paul Smith Children’s Village are all great spots that can keep the young ones entertained.

A quick and inexpensive way to see the city’s highlights is to board the century-old buses of the Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Little America Hotel & Resort Cheyenne

29. Pawnee National Grassland

115 North 2nd Ave Ault, CO 80610 (970) 834-9270

Colorado’s grasslands are no less impressive than its mountains, though many folks tend to forego the former in favor of the latter.

The Pawnee National Grassland is a protected area of nearly 200,000 acres, home to snakes, foxes, prairie dogs, several bird species, and other native flora and fauna.

During the day, you can explore the grassland on horseback or by hiking through its many trails; at night, settle down and get mind-blowing views of the starry night sky.

While you’re here, don’t forget to see the Pawnee Buttes, steep rock structures that have withstood centuries of erosion and are one of the area’s most distinguishing characteristics.

As soon as you witness the magnificent sunset, driving for two hours is not at all taxing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cobblestone Inn and Suites – Eaton

30. Manitou Springs

If you want a getaway that’s all about pampering yourself, consider a day trip to Manitou Springs, tucked away in the foothills of the Rockies.

Manitou Springs has several natural springs (hence, the name) which are said to have many healing properties thanks to their high mineral content.

Due to their healing properties, the springs and the area, in general, are sacred to the region’s indigenous tribes.

You could spend the whole day lounging around in the springs or check out the active art scene on the city’s sculpture-lined sidewalks.

Either way, an hour and a half’s car ride is nothing if it leads to a fantastic day trip.

The town also has a thriving community of artisans who dish up delicious local culinary specialties and provide entertainment.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cliff House at Pikes Peak

31. Glenwood Springs

At two and half hours away, many folks would choose to skip Glenwood Springs, but the spot is well worth the effort and the drive, especially if you’re a fan of hikes and untouched wilderness.

The drive itself is quite scenic, with the road winding through the Rockies’ staggering mountainous terrain.

Once you reach the town of Glenwood, you can soak away all your worries and city-life-induced aches in the town’s hot springs—the centrally-located Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is the most popular but if you want a relatively quiet option, head to the Iron Mountain Hot Springs, with its spectacular river views.

Round off the day by wolfing down the delicious fare dished up at Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse!

Glenwood Springs is very close to Hanging Lake, so you can easily make the hike from outside Glenwood to the lake.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Glenwood Springs

32. Sedalia

Formerly a significant crossroads town, Sedalia sits to Denver’s south and is steeped in history.

The small town retains its old railway line as its heart, as well as several of the old buildings, which are surprisingly well-preserved and now house boutiques and restaurants.

The town’s star attraction is the Cherokee Ranch, a Scottish-castle-style structure containing historically significant works of art from around the world, in addition to a fully operational cattle ranch.

Another spot of interest is Daniels Park, a Denver Mountain Park that is also on the National Register of Historic Places.

The park affords great views of wild bison herds and the Front Range.

Travel a mere 44 minutes just to get a feel for this quaint town.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Castle Rock

33. Buffalo Overlook

I-70 Exit 254 Golden, CO 80401

If bisons hold your fascination, you’ll love Buffalo Overlook, a viewpoint located in Genesee Park in Colorado.

This protected area is where naturalists and wildlife enthusiasts head for glimpses of the bison herds that roam the region.

For the best views, you can drive through on the designated road, but remember not to touch, feed, or annoy the beasts, as they can get quite violent in such situations.

Buffalo Overlook is also historically significant for being the spot where, in 1914, the first herds of North American bison were re-established.

In fact, the bisons found in the park are all directly descended from the country’s last wild bison herds.

Don’t forget to check out Genesee Candy Land (a veritable paradise for sweet-toothed folks of all ages!) and try any of their 20 fudge varieties or their signature chocolate-coated bacon!

There’s no need to think twice—include this quick 25-minute trip in your itinerary.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Golden Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection

34. Bishop Castle

12705 CO-165 Rye, CO 81069 (719) 564-4366

Quite an oddball, Bishop Castle isn’t worth a day trip all on its own but is worth a pit stop if you’re passing through central Colorado.

This quirky art project, created by the one-man force of Jim Bishop, is always open and attracts many visitors.

The castle’s standout features are its iron-and-stone towers that afford expansive views (over 100 miles of surrounding landscapes), the grand ballroom, and a fire-breathing dragon!

There are no tours of any sort here and you can explore the castle as you wish.

If you’re coming straight from Denver, prepare for a 2-hour, 39-minute journey.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Colorado City

35. Dinosaur National Monument

11625 E 1500 S Jensen, UT 84035 (435) 781-7700

This 210,000-acre national park is home to 1,500+ beautifully preserved dinosaur fossils, all embedded into the monument’s rock face.

In addition to seeing the fossils, you can also learn about the dinosaur species that roamed the country’s western lands at one point.

Many fossils are also displayed inside the Quarry Exhibit Hall, along with pictographs and petroglyphs created by the pre-Columbian Fremont folks.

The Dinosaur National Monument is nearly five hours away from Denver on the Utah-Colorado, which can be quite a long drive for some folks and a bit of a squeeze for a day trip, but it’s still doable in a day.

There is also a wealth of other things to do at the Dinosaur National Monument, such as river rafting, camping, and cross-country hiking.

Almost 5 hours of travel time is sufficient for a great road trip with friends and family.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleeps up to 42 Private Clubhouse

36. Fish Creek Falls

This beautiful 280-foot-high alpine waterfall sits in Colorado’s Steamboat Springs and is quite a popular local spot.

Whether you want a fast-paced afternoon with intense hiking or a slower afternoon with a mild hike, you’ll find both at Fish Creek Falls, with two hiking trails of differing difficulty levels and lengths leading to the falls.

Fish Creek Falls is just 3 hours away, open year-round, with a beauty that reflects the changing seasons.

In the winter, the falls transform into a frozen structure that attracts snowshoeing and ice-climbing enthusiasts, whereas, in the summer, the waterfall gently tumbles over the rocks and is crystal clear.

Spring is the best time to witness the waterfall in all its glory, with winter’s snow melting to produce a roaring cascade.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Residence Inn by Marriott Steamboat Springs

37. Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site

35110 CO-194 La Junta, CO 81050 (719) 383-5010

Take a step back in time at this reconstructed historical site, where you can experience “The Revenant” for yourself—get a glimpse of how 19th-century fur trappers lived in the West, their lives centered around the site’s trading post.

Originally built in 1833, the fort was where the tribes of the Arapaho Plains and Cheyenne conducted business with the fur trappers.

Despite functioning for quite a short period of only 16 years (it was destroyed in 1849), the fort was a key location for travelers, military personnel, and adventurers traversing the Santa Fe Trail.

The adobe building was restored entirely and opened to the public, with guided tours added to spread information among visitors.

There’s a beautiful 1.5-mile hiking trail that surrounds the building that visitors can check out as well as several special events that are regularly organized at the fort.

There’s no shortage of things to do here, so plan ahead of time or during the 3-hour drive.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn La Junta

38. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Colorado (719) 378-6395

Though the dunes here are the relatively new kids on the block, coming into existence only 440,000 years ago, the Great Sand Dunes National Park’s towering dunes (the tallest in the country) are pretty impressive all the same!

The park offers visitors plenty to do in the form of the usual camping and hiking to sand-sledding down the dunes, descending around 750 feet all the way into the creek at the bottom.

This is also a great spot for stargazing, with unpolluted skies and a treeless sea of sand to enjoy the night sky from.

The Great Sand Dunes Park is pretty unique, sitting at the center of grasslands, forests, and tundras—this is one of the few spots in the country where so many diverse terrains meet.

Make the 4-hour trip seem shorter by considering the exciting activities that await you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Alamosa

39. Deckers and Pine

The Deckers and Pine region (only 1 hour away) is chock-full of things to do outdoors, especially for visiting families.

It’s also conveniently close to Denver, so you don’t have the added burden of dealing with bored kids and keeping them entertained during the drive!

The Pine Valley Ranch Park has many recreational activities to offer, such as hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, open spaces to explore or picnic in, and a tiny pond that they can fish in.

Another great spot, the North Fork South Platte River, sits south of Pine and is where the seasoned anglers head for some prime brown and rainbow trout fishing.

The area is also a favorite among climbers, with the protruding, pointy rocks of the Cathedral Spires presenting a challenging and immensely rewarding climb.

Deckers sits a little further south and is the go-to for trout fishing, with the Cheesman Lake and South Platte River being the preferred haunts.

Deckers is also full of opportunities for hiking, birding, and mountain biking; the closeby Devil’s Head is a little off the path but is worth it for the glorious sunset views of the Front Range.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 614 Eagle Tr

40. The National Museum of World War II Aviation

775 Aviation Way Colorado Springs, CO 80916 (719) 637-7559

This unique museum shines the spotlight on aircraft and aviation, with a focus on the Second World War, through 3,000+ documents and exhibits connected to the war.

The museum’s collection comprises restored vehicles and aircraft that can be efficiently used even today.

These genuine, real-life exhibits document the role of the United States in the Second World War and the impact of the war itself on the country and its people, as well as the role of military aviation propelling the country to the position of a world power.

The museum also honors the many sacrifices the pilots of the country had to make to win the air war.

Even if you aren’t majorly interested in aviation, you can’t stop the patriotic emotions from flaring up in your chest at this museum.

Several tours are available, catering to groups, youngsters, and individuals.drive

Join one and make the hour and 23 minutes of driving worth it.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Colorado Springs-Airport

41. The United States Air Force Academy

Air Force Academy, CO (719) 333-2025

Are you up for a random, one-hour car ride just to sightsee and learn something new?

This is another great day trip option for those interested in the armed forces (especially if you’ve just watched Tom Cruise slay it again in Top Gun) or you have members in the family who are interested in enrolling in the Air Force.

The campus has plenty of interesting sites and buildings—you can start at the visitor center and view the many displayed exhibits that document the facility’s achievements and history, and then proceed to watch an informative short film about the Air Force.

From there, you can walk up the short trail leading to Cadet Chapel and also check out the memorial and statues at Honor Court, as well as Arnold Hall.

Don’t forget to catch the Cadet Lunch Formation ceremony—the discipline and synchronization are sure to awe you!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Colorado Springs Near the Air Force Academy

42. Beaver Creek Ski Area

210 Beaver Creek Plaza Beaver Creek, CO 81620 (970) 754-4636

An attempt to convince the authorities that Colorado could host the Winter Olympics of 1976, the Beaver Creek Ski Area was nonetheless developed and thrown open to the public, despite losing the Olympic bid to Austria.

Today, the resort is a favorite among snowboarders, skiers, and snow lovers of all ages, and takes a little under two hours to reach from Denver.

The skiing area at Beaver Creek is spread across 1,832 acres, sitting at an elevation of 3,340 feet.

The 150 skiing trails are accessible via the 25 lifts on the property.

After a tiring day on the slopes, you can let your hair down at the resort town’s many upscale restaurants, bars, and boutiques.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Club Wyndham Resort at Avon

43. Dinosaur Ridge

Another great spot if you want a glimpse of prehistoric Denver, Dinosaur Ridge is a lovely outdoor museum, rich in fossils, bones, and actual dinosaur tracks.

This is the site where many dinosaur species were first discovered, all the way back in 1877, and today, Dinosaur Ridge sees over 70,000 visitors of all ages every year.

Dinosaur Ridge also has several signs throughout the area explaining the significance of the spot, so it’s easy for all visitors to gain knowledge about the site’s historical importance as they walk through the site.

Exhibits are also displayed at the Dinosaur Ridge Exhibit Hall, an easier and more convenient way to learn about the site.

Dinosaur Ridge sits merely 25 minutes away from Denver, making it a super-convenient, family-friendly venue for a day trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Denver West Federal Center

44. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory

15013 Denver W Pkwy Golden, CO 80401 (303) 275-3000

If you possess a scientific bent of mind, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), just 22 minutes from the city, is a gem of a place to visit.

This research facility is located in Golden and the main focus of the studies here is sustainable alternative energy sources, such as wind power, hydroelectric, geothermal, and solar power.

There’s even a wind farm onsite, allowing scientists to study wind energy up close and as accurately as possible.

NREL isn’t a typical tourist destination, in the sense that it isn’t “exciting” or “fun” or a place where you can freely wander around.

However, the facility organizes several lunch lectures, walking tours, and energy programs for interested visitors, as well as educational programs for all age groups.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Table Mountain Inn

45. The Boettcher Mansion

900 Colorow Rd Golden, CO 80401 (720) 497-7630

Formerly Charles Boettcher’s mountaintop hunting lodge and summer home, this 110-acre historic estate, built in 1917, is now a popular venue to learn about the Arts and Craft style as well as to host various social and cultural events.

Visitors to the mansion can tour the inside, with its opulent vintage decor and furniture, and historic photos and news clippings.

Art and history lovers will enjoy learning about the Arts and Crafts style’s history—a beautiful architectural style that combines timber, stucco, and stone—and how the lodge came to be featured on the National Register of Historic Places.

The venue was renovated in 2007, which enabled a higher influx of visitors and events.

Check it out before going to other destinations—the trip will only take you 28 minutes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Denver-West/Golden

46. Browns Canyon National Monument

Salida, CO 81201

Though it’s a bit of a drive (two and a half hours) to Browns Canyon National Monument, fans of the outdoors will love the remarkable recreational activities and stunning natural beauty on offer here.

Browns Canyon is spread out over 21,586 acres, encompassing beautiful backcountry forests, pristine rivers, and majestic canyons.

Owing to the proximity of the Arkansas River, Browns Canyon is also a popular spot for angling and whitewater rafting, whereas its elevation of 10,000 feet affords spectacular views of the Rockies and the Arkansas Valley.

There are several half and full-day rafting excursions offered by several tour operators in the region.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

47. Curecanti National Recreation Area

Gunnison, CO (970) 641-2337

The state’s largest area of water, Curecanti, is a confluence of the Crystal, Blue Mesa, and Morrow Point lakes, all creations of the Gunnison River’s dams.

The region is a hotspot for water and outdoor activities, with the most popular visiting time being the summer months.

You can enjoy a diverse array of activities here, such as hiking, boating, camping, fishing (especially for perch, trout, and salmon), birding, and fly-fishing, or simply enjoying scenic drives around the area.

A signature experience at Curecanti is touring the area’s upper Black Canyon in a boat.

After 4 hours of driving, take a deep breath of fresh air and feel your efforts rewarded.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Gunnison Inn at Dos Rios Golf Course

A regular haunt of the who’s who of Hollywood, politics, and business, Aspen is all kinds of glamorous without losing its identity as a charming, authentic, welcoming mountain town.

Like the other ski towns of the Rockies, Aspen is a favored destination for skiing in the winter months, while the summer months attract outdoor adventurers with its zip-lining, mountain biking, and kayaking.

This year-round destination is also beloved for its fancy boutiques and restaurants, as well as its historic landmarks, such as the 19th-century Wheeler Opera House and the Wheeler-Stallard House museum, sitting in a gorgeous Queen-Anne-style home built in the 19th century.

To view stunning contemporary pieces of art by local and international artists, visit the Aspen Art Museum.

A 3 hour and 25 minute drive may seem long, but you won’t find the unrivaled vistas and activities elsewhere.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Gant

49. Colorado Springs

Around 70 miles and about an hour’s drive away from Denver, Colorado Springs is the state’s second-largest city, rich in culture and art.

Colorado Springs is close to many of the attractions mentioned on this list, so you can use it as the getaway point to these.

If not, Colorado Springs itself has enough for a day’s worth of sightseeing, from touring the US Olympic and Paralympic Training Center (an actual athlete takes you around) to visiting the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum to taking a sunrise balloon ride to exploring the historic downtown area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Colorado Springs Downtown, CO

Drive for two hours and a half to Denver’s southwest and you’ll hit upon the heart of the Rockies at Salida.

Despite being a stone’s throw away from the gently flowing Arkansas River, Salida is full of urban excitement, such as upscale shops, boutiques, bars, and restaurants in a historic, buzzing downtown area (the largest in the state and a feature on the National Register of Historic Places).

Its proximity to the wilderness means that Salida is also a great spot for outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking, and biking, whereas the proximity to the Arkansas River means excellent opportunities for whitewater rafting of all levels.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gateway Inn and Suites

51. Crested Butte

Fittingly, we round off the list with “Colorado’s Last Great Ski Town”—Crested Butte.

A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Crested Butte, also called the “The Wildflower Capital of Colorado”, has several avenues for kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, climbing, fly-fishing, and simply just enjoying views of the splendid wildflowers that bloom in the area during the summer months.

One of the must-do activities at Crested Butte is walking the Crested Butte Summit Trail, which takes you through wildflower, tundra, scree, and timber country to the mountain’s summit.

After a slightly challenging uphill climb, you’ll be rewarded with lovely views and the chance to drive down in the chairlift!

It’s a long trip (4 hours and 20 minutes), but the unrivaled attractions will make up for it.

And there you have it—the 51 best day trips from Denver!

Most are just a short, easy drive away, but even the ones that require some driving and effort are well worth it.

For your next Denver day trip, make sure you consider these spots!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Lodge at Mountaineer Square

Map of Day Trips Near Denver, CO

51 Best Day Trips from Denver, CO for [currentyear]

• Central City/Black Hawk
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Fort Collins
• Pikes Peak Region
• Summit County
• Roxborough State Park
• Idaho Springs
• Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge
• White River National Forest
• Hanging Lake
• Bear Creek Canyon
• Red Rocks Park
• Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
• Garden of the Gods
• Eastern Plains
• Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
• Paint Mines Interpretive Park
• Mount Evans Scenic Byway
• Breckenridge
• Fairplay and South Park City
• Pawnee National Grassland
• Manitou Springs
• Glenwood Springs
• Buffalo Overlook
• Bishop Castle
• Dinosaur National Monument
• Fish Creek Falls
• Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site
• Great Sand Dunes National Park
• Deckers and Pine
• The National Museum of World War II Aviation
• The United States Air Force Academy
• Beaver Creek Ski Area
• Dinosaur Ridge
• The National Renewable Energy Laboratory
• The Boettcher Mansion
• Browns Canyon National Monument
• Curecanti National Recreation Area
• Colorado Springs
• Crested Butte

27 Of The Most Popular Day Trips From Denver (from a local!)

Denver is located just east of the Rocky Mountains, in prime position for many excellent day trips.

I’ve been fortunate enough to live in Denver for most of my life and have enjoyed many of the nearby towns and attractions. Below are some of my favorite day trips from Denver.

If you’re short on time and looking for a quick day trip, under 1.5 hours from Denver, check out The Best Quick Day Trips From Denver .  

Table of Contents

The Best Day Trips From Denver

Royal gorge bridge & park .

2 hours, 15 minutes from Denver 

The Royal Gorge is one of the highest suspension bridges in the world, spanning 1,260 feet across, and peering down 955 feet at the rocky gorge carved by the powerful Arkansas River. Thanks to the incredible beauty of the gorge, the bridge has been a popular tourist attraction since it’s completion in 1929.

Fun Fact: The Royal Gorge Bridge held the record of highest bridge in the world from 1929 to 2001, eventually surpassed by the Liuguanghe Bridge in China. 

Most visitors simply admire the views with a walk across the bridge. However, there’s also a small amusement park, train ride, dining, and gondola ride on-site. For the more adventurous, there’s a via ferrata and zipline traversing the wide, tall canyon.

Hours vary seasonally and tickets can be purchased at Royal Gorge Bridge & Park . 

While you’re here also consider visiting Cañon City, which has a small historic district with a few shops, restaurants, art galleries, museums, and the popular scenic drive, Skyline Drive.

River Rafting At The Royal Gorge

You can also peer up at the bridge from below by rafting the Class V rapids roaring below the bridge (this is my favorite way to experience the gorge!).

This is perfect for those seeking a true Colorado adventure, the Arkansas River is one of the best rivers in the United States for white water rafting.

Tours can be secured online, there’s lots of options, but should still be booked well in advance. This is one of the many great options: Arkansas River Tours .

While in the area be sure to check out Cañon City which has a small historic district with a few shops, restaurants, art galleries, and museums. 

Idaho Springs

35 minutes from Denver

If you want a glimpse of mountain life within close proximity of Denver, Idaho Springs is a great option.

Here you can hike St. Mary’s Glacier, zipline, join a mine tour, or just wander the charming streets of historic downtown.

Be sure to stop by Beau Jo’s famous Colorado-style pizza for a bite following your adventures!

The town gets quite busy since it’s so close to Denver, but I still think it’s a great choice, just head out early if you wish to avoid large crowds.

Winter Park 

1 hour, 40 minutes from Denver

Winter Park is located just west of Denver and is home to Winter Park Resort, one of the closest ski resorts to the city. The winter months offer endless activities, aside from the obvious skiing and snowboarding, you can also sled, tube, fat bike, ice skate, snowshoe and much more.

Planning a summer visit? Despite what the name suggests, the town is worth a visit year-round. Spend your day on the alpine slides, hiking, relaxing by the Fraser River, biking the area’s ample trails, or exploring downtown’s shops and restaurants.

No matter the season, Winter Park makes a great day trip from Denver.  

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

30 minutes from Denver

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of Colorado’s most unique attractions and among the best things to do near Denver. It’s the world’s only naturally-occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheater and it’s only 30 minutes west of downtown, making it the easiest day trip from Denver.

The park and concert venue are free to explore as long as there’s no event. There’s lots of hiking and pretty sights to enjoy in the area, in addition to seeing the the spectacular concert venue!

On event days (which is almost daily April – October) the amphitheater will close early in preparation for the concert, so plan to arrive early.

The park is free outside event hours. 

Fort Collins

1 hour from Denver

Fort Collins is home to the most microbreweries in Colorado, an impressive feat in a state bursting with them. Do a bike brew tour through town or join a tour at New Belgium or Odell Brewing Co.

While here be sure to visit Old Town, a historic district with tons of good restaurants and bars, it’s a very charming area. In fact, Old Town Fort Collins inspired some of the buildings along Main Street USA in Disneyland, California.

Visiting FoCo in the summer? Hike, swim, paddle board, or rent a boat at one of the best recreation lakes in the state, Horsetooth Reservoir.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is a beloved Colorado attraction and one of most visited national parks in the United States. The park’s stunning views, jaw-dropping hikes, and unique scenic drives pull in visitors from around the world.

The park is open year-round, and while I think it’s incredible in the winter months, it’s best explored in summer, when the entire park is open.

Hike gorgeous Dream & Emerald Lakes, then drive Trail Ridge Road. Trail Ridge is a 48 mile scenic highway topping out at 12,183 feet, it offers stunning 360-degree views and an abundance of wildlife.

Important Note: Time-specific reservations are required during peak seasons, roughly Memorial Day weekend through mid October.

If you’d rather not drive or wish to elevate your experience with a knowledgable tour guide, check out this popular tour option by Aspire Tours .

For lots more information, check out Rocky Mountain National Park: One Day Guide .

Georgetown Loop Railroad

45 minutes from Denver

The Georgetown Loop Railroad is a narrow gauge railroad originally used during the silver boom of the late 1800’s. The train, now used for tours, was completed in 1884 and was considered an engineering marvel of its time.

Ride the train and be sure to join in on one of the mining excursions! Tickets are available at: Georgetown Loop Railroad .

Tours are available June through the holidays, with the schedule changing throughout the year. This is especially popular in fall when aspen leaves give a spectacular show.

While you’re in the area, stop in Georgetown or Idaho Springs for a bite to eat, or go for a scenic drive along Guanella Pass.

Pike National Forest Area

Roughly 2 hours from Denver

Pike is the 3rd largest national forest in the state, located just southwest of the city, near Colorado Springs.

Plan a day hiking, biking, admiring the 14,115 foot Pikes Peak, fishing, or floating the South Platte River. 

My favorite hike in this national forest is Devils Head Lookout. This steep trail traverses through aspen groves and ends at one of the only active fire tower lookouts in the state, the views are excellent on a clear day.

If not hiking, you can find me floating the river here. The Platte River slowly meanders through this national forest and is excellent for a lazy float. My favorite spot is just north of Deckers. The river here is typically slow, shallow, and warm in the late summer months. 

Breckenridge 

1 hour, 30 minutes from Denver

Breckenridge is well-known for its impressive skiing and abundant winter activities, but that’s not all it has to offer.

The historic downtown is dotted with colorful homes dating back to the late 1800’s and is full of great shops, dining, nightlife, galleries, and museums. You could easily spend all day exploring the historic district alone.

If visiting in summer or fall, consider joining a mining tour, hiking, biking, or riding the scenic gondola.

No matter the time of year, this is one of the best Colorado ski towns and among my favorite day trips from Denver. 

Interested in seeing Breck via guided tour? Check out this tour by The Colorado Sightseer . The all day adventure includes stops at Red Rocks, Clear Creek Canyon, and Loveland Pass in addition to Breckenridge. This tour is very popular so be sure to book well in advance.

Nederland is a charming mountain town nestled some 8,000+ feet above sea level, just west of Boulder.

The town is most well known for hosting two very popular events, NedFest, a music and arts festival. The other, Frozen Dead Guy Days, which celebrates an attempt by a Norwegian immigrant to cryogenically freeze his deceased grandfather. To me, these events sum up Nederland nicely.

Even if you’re unable to attend one of their famous festivals, there’s also wonderful hiking, a picturesque lake, and small downtown area to enjoy as well.

Cheyenne, Wyoming 

1 hour, 45 minutes from Denver

Cheyenne is Wyoming’s capital city, located directly north of Denver. The city is known for its cowboy heritage, wildlife, rich Native American history, railroads, and it’s ever persistent wind.

While visiting, plan to explore downtown which offers a mix of casual and modern shops and restaurants, take a photo with one of the 19 giant, colorful cowboy boots (you can’t miss them), and shop for western wear at The Wrangler. Near town you can hike, bike, or take a bison tour at Terry Bison Ranch. 

Tip: Due to unfavorable winter conditions, this city is best visited in the summer months.

Cheyenne Frontier Days

I’d especially recommend visiting Cheyenne during “The daddy of ‘em all,” Cheyenne Frontier Days.

This is one of the world’s largest outdoor rodeos, where you’ll find a carnival, big name concerts, and many fun events. It’s really fun, I even saw a Taylor Swift concert here once! The festival runs for 10 days at the end of July.

Lake Dillon

1 hour, 15 minutes from Denver

Lake Dillon is a huge reservoir in Summit County, surrounded by magnificent mountain views. It’s very easy to get to, located just off I-70, making for one of the best day trips from Denver.

The lake is open to boating, kayaking, sailing, and paddle boarding, and is encircled by Dillon Reservoir Loop, a popular path for walking or biking.

No matter how you spend your day here, be sure to stop by Sapphire Point Overlook for incredible views of this beautiful mountain lake.

The lake is near the towns of Silverthorne and Frisco, both of which have great dining and shopping options. I especially enjoy stopping by the Outlets at Silverthorne!

Drive Mount Blue Sky (Formerly Mount Evans)

2 hours, 15 minutes from Denver

Mt. Blue Sky stands 14,265 feet above sea level and is the closest 14er to Denver. Thanks to Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (formally Mount Evans Scenic Byway), visitors can stand atop this magnificent peak without spending a long, laborious day ascending the mountain. 

Note: The term “14er” refers to a mountain peak reaching at least 14,000 feet above sea level. Colorado has an impressive 53 peaks reaching this elevation, including the second highest peak in the continental US, Mt. Elbert at 14,439 feet.

The drive from Denver to the summit passes through five climate zones, offering a unique insight into varying mountain terrains, not to mention many photo opportunities. The byway itself covers a staggering 7,000 feet in 28 miles, and is the highest paved road in North America. Additionally, you’re almost guaranteed to see mountain goats around the summit, there’s lots of them!

Tip: If you’re easily car sick or afraid of heights, this drive is not for you.

The road is typically open Memorial Day to Labor Day, depending on weather, and requires a reservation which can be booked at Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway Reservations .

Be sure to check out Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway Guide for lots more information!

Colorado Springs

There’s no shortage of things to do in second largest city in the state, Colorado Springs.

See the famous Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, go for a cave tour at Cave of the Winds, see the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, hike, zipline, or explore downtown Colorado Springs.

If you’re up for an increase in altitude, then drive, hike, or ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the 14,115 ft summit of Pikes Peak.

After a full day, treat yourself to a night out in downtown Colorado Springs or an evening at The Broadmoor, a historic hotel and renowned five star resort.

The list of things to do here really is incredibly extensive.

For more ideas, check out  The Best Things To Do In Colorado Springs .

1 hour, 30 minutes from Denver 

Estes Park is located north of Denver and is best known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. While the popular national park may be the town’s biggest draw, there’s so much to do outside the park as well.

Kayak, canoe, or walk around Estes Park Lake, admire the area’s abundant wildlife, and spend an afternoon exploring downtown. Estes Park has a lively downtown area with souvenir and boutique shops, casual restaurants and bars, tons of sweets, and even one of the oldest operating movie theaters in the United States.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the haunted Stanley Hotel, which famously inspired Stephen King’s The Shining .

Summer is Estes Park’s peak season, but the elk rut and fall colors also draw huge crowds each year from mid September to mid October. 

For lots more ideas, head over to The Best Things To Do In Estes Park .

Leadville  

2 hours from Denver 

Leadville is a Victorian-era mining town located at 10,152 feet above sea level, making it the highest incorporated city in North America.

The small downtown area is full of photogenic historic buildings which have been converted to shops, restaurants and bars, art galleries and museums. You can even tour the Tabor Opera House, built in 1879, it was one of the best theaters in the west during its prime.

Leadville is also surrounded by fantastic skiing, mining tours, and magnificent hikes — including three 14ers just 30 minutes from downtown Leadville.

30 minutes from Denver 

Visiting Boulder is one of the top day trips from Denver, and it’s no surprise why! Located just 30 minutes from downtown Denver, it offers excellent hiking, dining, scenic drives, and cultural attractions.

Take a walk along Boulder Creek or visit beautiful Chautauqua Park. After taking in the sights, visit a brewery or go for a stroll around Pearl Street Mall, where you can eat, drink, and shop. Boulder has a seriously impressive food scene and great happy hour specials.

For lots more information about a day trip to Boulder, check out How To Spend One Perfect Day In Boulder .

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

1 hour, 45 minutes from Denver 

The Paint Mines are colorful clay and jasper hoodoos located in El Paso County, near Colorado Springs.

Upon arrival you’ll find flat, unsuspecting grasslands suddenly open to unusual, colorful geological formations.

They are a bit odd and certainly live up to the state’s nickname of Colorful Colorado.

Wander the 3.5 mile loop through the hoodoos and natural spires, allowing yourself plenty of time to stop for pictures. Just be sure not to climb on the hoodoos or spires.

The park is free and open daily.

2 hours, 20 minutes from Denver

Twin Lakes are two connecting reservoirs nestled among massive 14ers, between the towns of Leadville and Buena Vista. The lakes are popular for summer recreation such as boating, swimming, SUPing, canoeing, and kayaking.

The surrounding area also offers access to excellent hiking and biking trails, and Twin Lakes Ghost Town which is free to visit any time of year.

In the winter months, the area is popular for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and quiet relaxation.

1 hour, 45 minutes from Denver  

Vail is a European-inspired ski town known worldwide for its incredible slopes. In addition to excellent skiing and snowboarding, it has excellent shopping, spas, and photo-worthy Bavarian-style architecture.

The town doesn’t close up as the snow melts, if visiting in summer the resort town has outstanding hiking and biking trails, golf, and high elevation botanical gardens.

Be sure to also ride the scenic gondola, which offers incredible views any time of year. 

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Vail, Colorado During Winter | The Top Things To Do In Vail During Summer

2 hours, 10 minutes from Denver 

Grand Lake is the largest natural body of water in Colorado and an excellent area to explore near Denver.

Not surprisingly, the area’s main lure is the lake. Spend a day relaxing by the water, rent a kayak, stand-up paddle board, or pontoon for a fun day on the water. Just don’t plan on swimming, the lake’s deep waters are very cold year-round. 

Grand Lake sits at the west entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. On the park’s very outer edge is Adam’s Falls, a quick hike with great views, I recommend checking this out while you’re in the area.

Be sure to also spend some time strolling the shops and restaurants along Grand Lake Boardwalk, situated right on the lake’s shore. 

For more ideas, check out The Best Things To Do in Grand Lake .

Buena Vista

Buena Vista is a small mountain town with incredible views. It’s nestled alongside the Arkansas River and surrounded by the Collegiate Peaks, a truly epic location.

Additionally, BV is known for excellent white water rafting, hiking 14ers, ghost towns, hot springs (Mount Princeton Hot Springs is my favorite!), and a quaint downtown area.

Since the Arkansas River is arguably the best for rafting in Colorado, this is something I’d definitely consider when planning your day trip to Buena Vista. 

The area’s stretch of the river offers impressive white water runs and unbelievable mountain views.

Book a full day rafting tour through iconic Browns Canyon with The Adventure Company . This is a really cool rafting trip and one you won’t be soon to forget.

25 minutes from Denver

Golden is another former mining town and a popular suburb of Denver, making for one of the easiest day trips from Denver.

There are so many great activities to chose from here, tour the Coors Brewery, raft Clear Creek, enjoy the views from Lookout Mountain, or visit Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave.

In addition to all this, you’ll have plenty of dining, shopping, and breweries to choose from in downtown Golden. This fun, young city has lots of things to do.

Black Hawk & Central City

50 minutes from Denver

Looking to hit the casinos during your day trip from Denver? Black Hawk/ Central City is the place for you.

The two neighboring towns have 18 casinos from upscale resorts to small family-owned saloons. Additionally, the town offers a good variety of dining, nightlife, hiking trails, and scenic drives.

Popular casinos in Black Hawk include: Ameristar Casino Resort & Spa, The Lodge Casino, Isle Casino Hotel, Monarch Casino & Resort, Lady Luck Casino, and Sasquatch Casino.

Evergreen is a beautiful mountain town with a ton of hiking and activities, especially around Evergreen Lake.

Hike around Three Sisters Park, Maxwell Falls, or check out the old growth trees in Mount Goliath Natural Area — some trees here are as old as 2,500 years!

At Evergreen Lake you can kayak, paddle board, have a picnic, or walk around the lake. Otherwise, if you’re visiting in winter, the lake is fantastic for ice skating.

There’s no shortage of great things to do in this charming town!

Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park is home to striking red sandstone formations, similar to the famous Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, but much closer to Denver.

The park offers a variety of easy, relatively flat trails. Fountain Valley Trail my favorite, it’s a 2.6 mile route with lots of good views and abundant deer sightings.

This is also a great place to hike in the winter, just be sure to bring your snowshoes or crampons.

Check out Sedalia or Old Town Littleton for additional things to do in the area.

State Parks Near Denver

Looking for more state parks near the city? Check out these great options, which make for easy day trips from Denver.

• Castlewood Canyon State Park – great for hiking and one of my favorite Colorado state parks.
• Chatfield State Park – great for lake activities.
• Staunton State Park – excellent for hiking and sightseeing.
• Eldorado Canyon State Park – known for its rock climbing routes and pretty hikes.
• Golden Gate Canyon State Park – one of the most popular state parks near Denver, it’s especially popular in fall when the aspen leaves are changing.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of amazing day trips from Denver!

If you’d like something a bit closer to town be sure to check out these Quick Day Trips From Denver , all locations are located within 1.5 hours of the city.

Any questions? Please leave a comment below!

If you’d like to follow along with my travels in real time, check out  @seen.by.amy on Instagram or  @seenbyamy on TikTok !

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Denver and Colorado guides or head on over to Visit Denver !

More Information For Your Denver Vacation:

• Quick Day Trips From Denver
• Denver 3 Day Weekend Guide
• Denver: Things To Do With 24 Hours
• LoDo Denver: Top Things To Do
• Denver Winter Vacation Guide
• Best Brunch In Denver
• What To Do In Denver During The Fall
• What To Do In Denver This Summer
• What To Do In Denver During Winter
• What To Do In Denver During Spring

More Information For Your Colorado Travels:

• Boulder, Colorado: One Day Guide
• Colorado Springs: Things To Do
• Rocky Mountain National Park: One Day Guide
• Rocky Mountain National Park: Best Tours
• Estes Park, Colorado: Top Things To Do
• Grand Lake, Colorado: Things To Do
• Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway: Everything To Know
• Magical Colorado Winter Destinations
• Ultimate 10 Day Colorado National Park Road Trip

Hey! I’m Amy, author of this article and owner of this website. I've lived in Denver, Chicago, New York, Utah, and Arizona. I’ve visited almost all 50 states, and traveled in nearly a dozen countries. I enjoy writing about places I've lived and the many incredible destinations I've visited worldwide. My hope is that my love for travel will inspire others to see more of this beautiful planet.

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Eat, Drink, & Play in the Mile High City

15+ Best Day Trips From Denver – From THAT Local!

Table of Contents

Staying in a city as vibrant as Denver cannot be missed. Known for its cannabis culture,  buzzing restaurants  and craft beer breweries, quaint streets, and friendly faces, it steals the hearts of those passing in and out of the city.

To top it off, its location couldn’t be more ideal. Miles of hiking trails, Fort Collins, hot springs, and the Garden of the Gods are a few of the dreamy locations that can be included in a day trip away from the hustle of downtown Denver.

Let Denver be the gateway to explore the incredible natural beauty that hugs every main road in Colorado. Book a couple of nights in central city Denver and from here, explore the magic just waiting to be discovered.

Since I’m still  im patiently waiting to win the lottery, this post contains affiliate links. If you click the link and complete a purchase, I may be paid a commission (at no extra cost to you). This article may also include references to sponsored activities, however, all opinions expressed are solely my own.

Best Day Trips from Denver, Co

What’s great about an extended trip in Denver is the freedom to travel to destinations near and far. Looking for a full day of adventuring? Plan a day trip to Pikes Peak. If you don’t have much time on your hands, a 1-hour trip can lead you to Black Hawk.

Below you’ll find day trip treats in Colorado that can be ventured to by travelers with all kinds of interests.

Colorado Day Trip to Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater

Drive time from Denver: ~25 minutes

Situated just outside the center of Denver, the Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a geologically formed, open-air amphitheater. Two 300-foot monoliths – upright stones – create the most magical setting for any performance. 

Hosting some of the biggest music names in America, keep their  calendar on hand  to stay updated with the latest live music concerts. They even host film nights, yoga events, and fitness classes.

The amphitheater is situated in Red Rocks Park, so even if you’re not visiting for a performance, you’ll still be able to see spectacular sights. There’s also wildlife that can be spotted from one of the many  hiking trails . 

Not into hiking? No problem, hop on a mountain bike and explore the park from two wheels. Alternatively, visit the Red Socks Hall of Fame and the visitor center. 

Golden, Colorado

Drive time from Denver: ~30 minutes

Here’s the scoop: Golden , just a hop, skip, and a 20-minute drive from Denver, is basically the adult playground you never knew you needed. Picture this: a charming mountain town draped alongside Clear Creek, complete with an Old Western vibe that’s so authentic you’ll want to bust out some cowboy boots.

And, oh boy, the booze! If you fancy yourself a beer aficionado, saddle up for the Coors Brewery Tour—it’s free and, yes, there are samples. Not a Coors convert? No worries, craft breweries like Golden City and New Terrain have got you covered with something a little less… shall we say, mainstream?

Need to stretch your legs? Hike up Table Mountain for some killer views or take a short drive to Lookout Mountain. Or, if you’re feeling frisky, just float down Clear Creek. Just be sure to leave plenty of time (and energy) to walk along the main street and pop in and out of the lovely local shops.

Boulder, Colorado

Hop from one city to the next and discover the city of  Boulder , which is more than just a college town! Boulder offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities, miles of trails, historic buildings, and more.

Sitting at the foothills of the Rocky Mountain National Park, Boulder was seen as a hippie town in the 1960s. Now, it’s reinvented itself into a slow outdoorsy town that still holds a little bit of its hippie magic. 

Downtown Boulder is an adventure in itself, so plan to spend some time exploring Pearl Street. With quirky shops, yummy brunch spots, teahouses, and lively breweries. Spend some of your time wandering along the picturesque towns and popping into the art galleries, books stores, and the Tea Factory.

Because of its close proximity to the national parks, it’s a great place to grab a bite after an eventful day out in nature hiking Chautauqua Park. Why not take advantage of  this tour  that includes a guided hike finished with a beer in Boulder?

Eldorado Canyon State Park

Drive time from Denver: ~40 minutes

Eldorado Canyon State Park, nestled just outside Boulder, is an adventurer’s paradise and a rock climbing lover’s dream. Offering over 500 technical routes, it beckons climbers worldwide to its iconic golden cliffs. But there’s more to this gem than meets the climber’s eye.

With trails for hikers and mountain bikers of all levels, connecting seamlessly with Boulder’s own network, it’s a great option for a day out in nature. The scenic South Boulder Creek adds a tranquil touch, perfect for picnicking or fishing. While it’s a year-round haven with winter activities like cross-country skiing, remember to plan ahead for weekend visits between May and September – reservations are a must for vehicles.

This park isn’t just a local favorite; it’s a nationally recognized must-visit, offering a slice of Colorado’s majestic mountain peaks and serene natural beauty.

Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park, a stone’s throw southwest of Denver, is a haven for those craving the great outdoors. This Colorado Natural Area and National Natural Landmark sprawls over nearly 4,000 acres, blending grasslands and dense Front Range forests. Its standout feature? The Fountain Formation – dramatic, tilted red sandstone formations, sculpted through eons of erosion and uplift, creating a striking landscape.

With elevations ranging from 5,900 to 7,280 feet, Roxborough offers an array of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. It’s the perfect place for wildlife enthusiasts too, with a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, including black bears and mule deer. This park is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a hub for activities like trail running, bird watching, and photography.

To protect its unique environment, Roxborough has specific rules: no pets, drones, camping, mountain bikes, horses, rock climbing, fires, or marijuana. This commitment to preservation ensures that the park remains a pristine natural gem, just a short drive from Denver’s urban bustle, yet worlds away in terms of tranquility and natural beauty.

Idaho Springs, Colorado

Idaho Springs, Colorado, emerges as a favorite day trip destination for those near Denver, offering a splendid mix of history, adventure, and relaxation. This picturesque town, about 30 minutes from the city, is a treasure trove of Gold Rush heritage, with museums and mines narrating Colorado’s rich mining past.

Adventure seekers will revel in the thrilling whitewater rafting on Clear Creek and exhilarating ziplines offering panoramic mountain views. For a more laid-back experience, Idaho Springs’ hot springs and day spas provide a serene retreat. The town’s vibrant Miner Street is dotted with delightful local eateries and shops, inviting visitors to indulge in culinary delights and support local businesses.

Whether you’re a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Idaho Springs stands out as a great day trip choice, embodying the diverse beauty and spirit of Colorado.

Black Hawk & Central City, Colorado

Drive time from Denver: ~45 minutes

Both of these towns were once mining towns, but today, you can win or lose big time at these entertaining gambling towns. Black Hawk and Central City, just 5 minutes apart, have the ability to take you back in time, as they’ve preserved the past so well. 

Home to multiple casinos, entertainment is found around every corner. Between sipping on craft beers and snacking on mouth-watering pizza, take some time to discover the culture of the town. 

Visit the Central City Opera House one cold afternoon, or opt for a tour with the Gilpin Historical Society to learn more about the history of mining. 

Check out my full post on the best things to do in Black Hawk, Colorado for even more details on what to do and see while here!

Garden of the Gods

Drive time from Denver: ~1 hour & 10 minutes

Open every day from 9 am to 5 pm, Garden of the Gods can be wandered alone or as part of a  guided tour . If it’s your first time seeing the park, a group tour will allow you to see the unique geological area with an experienced guide sharing all their knowledge.

Hiking is the most popular excursion in the park, with 21 miles catered to enthusiasts of all levels. Marvel at the many clay-red rock formations that have been in the making for millions of years. 

Top hiking trails in the Garden of the Gods:

• Ridge Trail
• Siamese Twins Trail
• Chambers / Bretag / Palmer Trail
• Scotsman / Buckskin Charlie Trail

Fort Collins, Colorado

An hour from the buzzing city of Denver is the historic town of  Fort Collins  – it looks like it’s come straight out of a fairytale.

Upon entering the old town, you might be reminded of a European holiday, given its close architectural resemblance. Cycling around town is a popular way of getting from point A to point B and a dreamy means of soaking up the summer goodness. 

The town is filled with local eateries – most of which rely on local produce – boutiques, pubs, and the Colorado State University. Because Fort Collins is home to a university, there’s always the excitement of friendly faces and liveliness around the town. 

Outdoor concerts at the town hall are popular summer activities as are trips to Horsetooth Reservoir, while winter has plenty of opportunities for snowshoeing and epic snowy hikes. 

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Next up, visit the second most populous city in Colorado, which packs its own punch when it comes to cultural wonders.  Colorado Springs  holds over 60 adventure activities that can be enjoyed by all travelers – from outdoor thrills to educational activities. 

Many of the outdoorsy excursions and adventures are scattered around the town. Grab your hiking boots and camera (don’t forget to snap a photo) and wander around the Pikes Peak region. North Cheyenne Cañon City Park is just 5 miles (8km) from the town and offers fantastic mountain views and hiking trails.

If entertainment is what you’re after, stroll around the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and meet some curious creatures. 

There’s also Old Colorado City which was founded in 1859 and still captures a ‘Wild West’ feeling. It’s mainly a tourist town and you’ll probably only be spending a few hours here, but it’s a fun place to visit if you’re  traveling with kids . 

Rocky Mountain National Park (Near Estes Park, Colorado)

Drive time from Denver: 1 hour & 20 minutes

Although this is one of the best day trips from Denver, it would take you weeks to explore the entirety of Rocky Mountain National Park. Being one of the most-visited parks in the states, it offers a plethora of outdoor adventure options for the summer months and winter months as well!

Nature lovers are treated to wild rivers, alpine lakes, magnificent waterfalls, and an endless array of flora and fauna. But it’s not only people who love these parks. The Rocky Mountains are home to black bears, busy beavers, moose, elk, mountain goats, and yellow-bellied marmots.

When it comes to hiking, you have over 3,100 miles of trail to discover. A total of  239 routes  are open for an array of hikers’ interests and levels of experience. Many trails also allow dogs. Some trails are short and easy, while others lead you to jaw-dropping cliffs. 

If you’re carless in Denver, there are  magnificent day trips  that leave from the mile high city and take you straight to the park.

And be sure to take the extra time in your itinerary to check out the Trail Ridge Road scenic drive. Often referred to as the “highway to the sky” this is the best way to take in the spectacular mountain views of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Winter Park & Ski Resort

Drive time from Denver: ~1 hour & 30 minutes

Winter Park is a fantastic day trip from Denver when the chill of winter starts creeping in. Once the snow has covered the mountains, this small town comes alive with skiers and snowboarders slipping and sliding along the slopes.

After a day in the cold, soak in the toasty water tubs at the Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa. And if you’re really in the mood for treating yourself, book yours a luxurious massage. 

Colorado is known for having first-class (and beautiful) ski resorts, so be sure to check one out!

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Drive time from Denver: 1 hour & 40 minutes

If you’re someone who craves an adventurous  road trip from Denver  every now and then, then an exhilarating drive to Mount Evans Scenic Byway is in order. The start of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is an hour and 40 minutes from Denver, but it’s where the fun all begins.

Starting at Echo Lake, the 28-mile (45km) scenic drive is the highest paved road in the United States. This could only mean one thing – absolutely breathtaking views from right along the road. 

While you’re at Echo Lake, be sure to stop for a picnic alongside 1,700-year-old bristlecone pines. You may even encounter some bighorn sheep and goats.

If you’re not comfortable with driving or aren’t renting a car during your stay in Denver, there’s always the option of a  guided tour . This tour allows you to experience the spectacular views from the Mount Evans Scenic Byway on a full-day adventure. Sit back and enjoy the ride!

Breckenridge Ski Resort & Summit County

Drive time from Denver: ~ 1 hour & 45 minutes

Hey there, thrill-seekers and history buffs! If you’re aching for a day trip that’s as vibrant as a double shot of espresso, Breckenridge is your jam. This Summit County treasure is a winter wonderland for skiing and snowboarding but packs a punch all year round.

Stroll through the historic downtown, where you’ll find the Gold Pan Saloon—a bar so old, it might just remember the Gold Rush. Whether you’re there for the winter slopes or summer hikes, Breck delivers stunning scenery like it’s going out of style. Want to geek out on history? They’ve got mining tours that dig deep into the past (pun intended).

Take it up a notch with a guided tour, and you’ll hit gems like Red Rocks and Loveland Pass en route. Just don’t forget to book in advance; these tours are hotter than your grandma’s chili!

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Drive time from Denver: ~2 hours & 40 minutes

Hey, if you’re down for a hot soak and cold brews, Glenwood Springs is where you’ll wanna set your GPS. Right smack in the mouth of Glenwood Canyon, this town’s older than your granddad’s beard, founded in 1888!

Feelin’ adventurous? Paddle down the rapids or go fly fishing. More into chill vibes? The Vapor Caves are like a natural sauna on steroids. But if you’ve got FOMO (fear of missing out), do NOT miss the Hanging Lake hike. This place is so Insta-worthy it’s ridiculous—think hidden lake with hanging vines. Just remember: book that permit in advance unless you love disappointment.

And hey, if you’ve got little shredders in tow, Sunlight Mountain is only 10 miles away and totally family-friendly. From steamy springs to adrenaline-pumping activities, Glenwood Springs is your go-to for a solid mix of “ahhh” and “aww yeah!”

Denver Day Trips | Let the Adventure Begin!

Day trips from Denver Colorado offer visitors the chance to experience the wonders of Colorado’s best outdoor activities. Not only that, but these destinations won’t take you longer than a 2-hour drive. Meaning you’ll still have plenty of time to discover each location.

Enjoy the beauty of magnificent mountains and beautiful views that are found around every nook and cranny. Drive from Denver to explore quaint and charming towns that have been around for decades.

Whether it’s nature or dreamy towns you’re looking to unearth, the Colorado region is bursting with adventure. So get a good night’s sleep and get ready to set off on one of these wonderful day trips from Denver Colorado!

Featured image credit: photo by Moriah Bender , Unsplash

A small-town girl originally from Wyoming, Kara fled the state as soon as she could. She has called Colorado home since 2003 aside from ~9 months spent traveling the world full-time in 2019. When she isn't traveling you will find her exploring Denver, CO, petting any animal that will let her and laughing (quite loudly) as much as possible.

Denver Colorado to Grand Canyon Road Trip | Ultimate Itinerary (2023)

Romantic getaways in colorado | resorts & hotels.

• National Parks
• Tiny Houses

7 Must-See Day Trips From Denver, Colorado

Posted by Daniell LaFleur July 23, 2020 Updated October 24, 2023

Coloradans thrive on getting outdoors, taking scenic drives and strolling through music venue, brewery-filled downtowns.

While many instantly think of mountainous landscapes when they think of Colorado, there is everything from high desert plains to isolated alpine lakes — you’ll find plateaus, sand dunes, sandstone spires, and flatirons too. As far as enjoying Colorado’s great outdoors, the state has four beautiful National Parks, 41 worthy-of-exploring State Parks and eight historic National Monuments on 8.3 million acres of public land.

Not only is this state full of breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, it’s also home to 26 scenic byways ! Out of those, 11 are designated as America’s Byways making Colorado the most nationally recognized in the country.

While the Mile High City itself has a lot to offer its residents, its central location makes it easy to get the most out of the Rocky Mountain West. With some amazing Colorado attractions within a couple hours of the city we’ve put together an adventure-packed list of seven of our favorite day trips from Denver.

Related Read: 7 Scenic Weekend Road Trips from Denver

1. Mount Evans

Denver’s closest 14er lies only 40 minutes away in Idaho Springs. Whether you are looking to drive on North America’s highest paved road, hike Mount Evans Wilderness Area’s trails or enjoy a scenic picnic, you will not be disappointed.

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Want to drive up the highest paved road in all of North America? Mount Evans Scenic Byway gradually takes drivers up through several climate zones and brings you just below the 14,264-foot summit of one of Colorado’s favorite 14ers.

In 28 miles, this epic scenic byway climbs 7,000 feet.. The drive begins in Idaho Springs and is easy to find. Idaho Springs is about 33 miles from Denver, making this a simple last-minute day trip.

There is a small fee to use one of the day-use park areas along the road, but there is no fee just to drive the highway. You can find information on prices, road closures and conditions here .

Other activities on the Mount Evans Highway include cycling, wildlife viewing, stopping at Interpretive Areas and picnicking. When hiking or picnicking, please be a wise visitor and clean up all food and trash — marmots are all over Mount Evans and these giant ground squirrels may try to ask you for some of your food.

Please don’t feed them tasty human food as this leads to negative impacts on animal health and our environment too.

Related Read:   6 Scenic Drives Near Denver for When the Mountains are Calling

Hiking Mount Evans

Mount Evans Wilderness Area contains a total of 120 miles of maintained trails, many of which are accessible via the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. If the road is closed due to poor seasonal conditions, you will still find an abundance of hiking trails in the surrounding area of Arapaho National Forest.

For the easy way to the top of Mount Evans, consider the Mount Evans National Recreational Trail . This half-mile long trail will take you from the Mount Evans Interpretive Site parking lot to the true summit of Mount Evans. This trail is a short one, but is a must if you want to truly make it to the peak, or “bag a 14er!”

If you are looking for a true hike to summit Mount Evans, sadly there are no direct trails from a trailhead to the top. The only way to summit Mount Evans is to approach from either Mount Spalding or Mount Bierstadt. I only recommend coming from Mount Bierstadt if you are an experienced hiker. There are some technical moves and exposed scrambling involved along the rightfully named Sawtooth Ridge.

The most popular trail and standard route begins at the Summit Lake day-use area located off the Mount Evans Highway. This trail is only 5.3 miles to summit Mount Spalding and Mount Evans (but is great for an easy day hike). And the longer trail, Mount Evans West Ridge via Chicago Creek is a whopping 15.6 mile trail. The best thing about a long day on the trail here is that your drive back to Denver is only about 30 minutes!

Related Read:   7 Beautiful Hikes Near Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Colorado

2. Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is one of Colorado’s most visited tourist destinations. There is an abundance of activities and amazing sites. You can plan several day trips to The Springs! Lucky for you, this adventure is only an hour away from Denver.

Garden of the Gods Park

One of Colorado’s most iconic sites lies right in the middle of this bustling city! Garden of the Gods has drawn visitors to the base of its spires for years. In fact, evidence of human activity goes back over 3,000 years .

Activities at Garden of the Gods

You won’t believe this park is free once you learn all you can do in the park. On your own, you can drive the scenic road loop around the park’s major formations, hike around the 21 miles of trails, picnic and much more.

For instance, there are guide services that offer different touring activities. These include horseback riding , Segway, e-bike, Trolly and Jeep Tours , and even rock climbing — definitely some of the best ways to enjoy the park.

Related Read:   Take the Scenic Route on an Epic Denver to Albuquerque Road Trip

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

For the full experience and more information about the geological and human history of this wonder, head over to the Visitor & Nature Center . Recently renovated, it offers state-of-the-art museum exhibits to learn all there is to know about the park’s history.

The Visitor’s Center includes a unique café awarded for their healthy and (very) kid-friendly menu. Don’t worry, the Beansprouts Café has an equally tasty adult-friendly menu.

The park itself and the Visitor & Nature Center are free to enter, but any contributions or purchases made there or at the guide services we’ve linked in the “Activities” section contribute to the park’s maintenance, so that it can remain free.

Nicknamed “America’s Mountain,” Pikes Peak is another 14er within easy driving distance of Denver. You certainly can’t miss it once you enter Colorado Springs.

Hiking Pikes Peak

Hiking Pikes Peak is a right-of-passage. This is not only because of the mountain’s history, but because this trail is considered one of the easier 14er hikes.

The Barr Trail is typically the route hikers take to the summit. It begins in Manitou Springs and ascends 13 miles to the summit of Pikes Peak. It is common for hikers to arrange for another driver to pick them up at the summit. Otherwise, you are looking at a 24.5-mile day.

The best part? Fresh doughnuts and coffee are for sale at the summit!

Pike’s Peak Highway

Due to its popularity, there are all sorts of ways to stand on the top of Pikes Peak. The Pikes Peak Highway is a must-do if you are a first-time visitor to Colorado Springs. At the summit sits a gift shop that wouldn’t be complete without its famous doughnuts and fudge.

You can drive in your car, take a shuttle, or ditch the road altogether and take the Cog Railway . The most extreme option to enjoy summiting Pikes Peak is to go with Pikes Peak Bike Tours . With them, you will be shuttled to the summit, have some time to gear up and enjoy the summit, then bike down the mountain.

Other Colorado Springs Activities

Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak are simply must-do’s if you are a first-time visitor to The Springs. But Colorado Springs is full of other activities and public lands to keep you busy every time you visit.

If you are looking for some epic Colorado Springs day hikes , the Paint Mines Interpretive Park , Pike National Forest , North Cheyenne Cañon Park , and Red Rock Canyon Open Space contain some of The Spring’s favorite trails. For the ultimate challenge, there’s always The Incline .

Other relaxing attractions include Cave of the Winds , Manitou Springs , Old Colorado City , and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo .

Related read : 7 Best State Parks Near Denver, Colorado

3. Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is an outdoor playground offering up rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, and fishing. While Glenwood might be one of the longer day trips from Denver, you will not be disappointed. From romantic hot springs to family-friendly adventure parks, there is something for everyone here.

Hanging Lake

Hanging Lake is the most popular hike in Glenwood Springs — maybe even the entire state of Colorado. While it’s certainly a site to see, it has recently been “loved-to-death” by visitors going to extreme lengths for photos. When visiting, please follow all posted rules, stay on the trail, and Leave No Trace .

If you’re looking to skip the crowd found at Hanging Lake, here is a list of other day hikes in the area.

The Colorado River

As you approach Glenwood Springs in the summertime, you can see the Colorado River filled with rafters and kayakers. Whether you are experienced and have your own raft, or have zero experience, enjoying the river is easy to do in Glenwood Springs! There are several outfitters here to gear you up and take you out.

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

This is a true Colorado gem. Not only can you explore the underground caverns, but you can enjoy theme park rides and attractions at this unique park. In typical mountain-town fashion, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park can be reached via gondola.

4. Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park

The gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) lies within a short 1.5-hour drive from Denver. Estes Park’s mountain town charm is matched with the epic and dramatic peaks within the National Park.

Hiking RMNP

The best hikes in RMNP include Emerald Lake , Alberta Falls , Chasm Lake , Bear Lake , and many more. The roads in the park take you close to the most iconic attractions making for some short hikes. This allows travelers to visit or combine many trailheads within a day.

For the ultimate scenic trip, I highly recommend visiting the park in early autumn. Not only will the aspen leaves be changing, but this is when moose migrate through the area.

As with much of Colorado, RMNP contains some pretty unique geology. The most obvious features of this are its sharp, jagged peaks and glacier-carved valleys. But there is one feature that is a fairly new attraction.

In 1982, the Lawn Lake Dam gave way and created a mass flood within the park and town of Estes Park. Today, you can see just how powerful this disturbance was to the area at the Alluvial Fan that was created. Boulders and trees were torn up from the ground and misplaced along the way.

If you don’t want to hassle with limited parking or crowds, check out our guide to hikes outside the park in the Estes Park area .

Scenic Drives at RMNP

Only open during the summer months due to heavy snow-pack in the winter, Trail Ridge Road National Scenic Byway travels 48 miles between the Estes Park RMNP entrance to Grand Lake’s park entrance in the west — 11 of those 48 miles are above treeline!

There are many pullouts along the highway, so feel free to take your time and take in the alpine scenery.

The showcase of the Front Range, the Peak to Peak Highway travels 55 miles along the Continental Divide. Established in 1918, Peak to Peak is Colorado’s oldest Scenic Byway. Since this route stretches from Blackhawk to Estes Park, visitors from Denver can use this route to drive to Estes Park or vice versa.

5. Grand County

The Lake Granby and Grand Lake area has been a favorite Colorado escape for many families over the years. Essentially, it’s the “quiet” side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Buried deep within the Rockies, Granby and Grand Lake do not fall short of its busier counterparts.

I honestly think there are more campsites at Grand Lake than its 471 residents. The town might be small, but it is designed to be enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year! The town sits on its namesake, Grand Lake, which is the largest natural body of water in the state of Colorado.

Day-trip-worthy activities in Grand Lake include boating, paddle boarding, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, walking around the famous Boardwalk downtown, and hiking. Paddling on Grand Lake is one of the most relaxing things I have ever done in Colorado. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and pristine lakes, there’s just nothing that compares.

Some favorite trails in the area include Shadow Mountain Trail , Adams Falls Trail , and Cascade Falls . The National Park’s Kawuneeche Visitor Center is also worth a visit on your trip. For the reader in your family, this Visitor Center boasts a Rocky Mountain Conservancy Bookstore.

Lake Granby

Grand Lake’s big brother, Granby is home to four golf courses, the Winter Park Ski Resort , and several outfitters for horseback riding, dog-sledding and even another lake. Lake Granby is a reservoir and is the third largest manmade lake in Colorado — and is much larger than natural lakes like Grand Lake.

Lake Granby is so big, on a windy day it can be difficult to paddle board or kayak — so boating is a prime activity here. The smaller, more tucked away Monarch Lake  is perfect for paddle boarding or peaceful fishing. Monarch Lake lies at the very end of County Road 6 that runs along the southeastern corner of Lake Granby.

In town, you can enjoy shopping, eating and even a weekend rodeo throughout the summer. After a long day of skiing, hiking, or paddling, travel five minutes down the highway to Hot Sulphur Springs to let help relax in a natural hot tub.

Related Read:   7 Incredible Glamping Destinations Near Denver, Colorado

6. Fort Collins

Just over an hour away from Denver, the brewery mecca of Colorado is full of endless possibilities. From Horsetooth Reservoir to Poudre Canyon, finding something to do is never an issue.

After a day of fun, be sure to take a stroll down the Historic Old Town . There, you will find an ever-booming food and beverage scene. Fort Collins’ most iconic breweries, Odell and New Belgium , offer large patio spaces with yard games and live music for the ultimate summer evening.

Hiking Fort Collins

Some of my personal favorite day hikes in Fort Collins  include Grey Rock , Mount McConnel , Diamond Peaks , and Lower Dadd Gulch Trail . But of course, the must-do trails for any first time visitors should be Horsetooth Rock and Arthur’s Rock .

Between the abundant amount of open spaces, state park trails, and National Forest land in the area, the list of hiking trails is endless.

Poudre Canyon

Going “up the Poudre” might sound weird if you’re not from Fort Collins, but Cache La Poudre Canyon is home to our favorite day trips. Northwest of town you can find rafting, rock climbing , hiking, fly fishing, and even some extreme tubing fun can be had in the canyon.

There are several outfitters in town for rafting and kayaking adventures. No matter your experience level, these guide services have you covered and will teach you the ropes.

There are several day-use areas in the canyon such as Picnic Rock and Poudre Park that are perfect for family gatherings or splashing in the water.

Horsetooth Reservoir

If you’re not ready for any white water or just want to relax, Horsetooth Reservoir has you covered. Visitors can easily set out from Satanka Cove with any non-motorized watercraft. During the summer months, you’ll typically find rental companies here offering paddle board and kayak rentals.

Boating or simply enjoying the many beaches around the reservoir are some of the best ways to cool down in the summer heat. There are a lot of trails surrounding the reservoir that are fun to explore.

7. Summit County

Colorado’s winter wonderland, Summit County , contains world-class skiing/snowboarding terrain and resorts. Summit County boasts names, such as Breckenridge , Vail , Keystone , and others.

Whether you are looking to visit in the winter for prime skiing, or in the summer for some extreme mountain biking or golfing, you’re in for a good time.

Summit County Winter Fun

Skiing and snowboarding are the obvious activities of choice for many visitors to Summit County’s famous resorts. Notably, Keystone is one of the few resorts in Colorado that offers night-skiing, so riders can get the most out of a day on the slopes. Keystone also has a giant snow-tubing operation that stays open during the night-skiing hours.

Each mountain ski resort in the area is known for their different terrain parks. Arapahoe Basin has a more natural terrain park that makes you feel like you’re deep in the forest.

Breckenridge, on the other hand, boasts one of the largest terrain parks in the world. With a terrain park built for national and international competitions, a part of the entertainment here is just watching riders attempt stunts.

Throughout Summit County, visitors can find miles and miles of backcountry skiing/snowboarding, cross-country ski trails, and snowshoe trails. Ice skating is also a great rest-day activity in between hitting the slopes.

Summit County Summer Activities

Most ski resorts turn their slopes into epic mountain bike parks for the summer. In Breckenridge, summer activities white water rafting, hiking trails , fly-fishing, ropes courses, ghost tours, and one of the largest gold mines in Colorado, the Country Boy Mine .

Dillon Reservoir offers boating and non-motorized watercraft fun. Around the reservoir, you will find day-use areas perfect for relaxing by the water. Nearby, the Frisco Adventure Park is full of activities such as mountain biking, disc golf, skate park, and lounging in the Day Lodge.

To wrap up the day, Breckenridge’s downtown offers spectacular food and beverage locations right on the Blue River.

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Seen in: Colorado , Denver , Road Trips , Rockies , West

Posted by Daniell LaFleur

Daniell is a freelance writer based out of Fort Collins, Colorado. She has had the privilege of working for Colorado’s most experienced climbing guide service as an Office & Marketing Manager and an Outdoor Climbing Guide. After guiding several trips through the Western Slope Desert, Daniell fell in love with climbing desert towers and overnight canoe trips down the Colorado River.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Colorado (CO) » 15 Best Day Trips from Denver

15 Best Day Trips from Denver

The capital of Colorado, Denver, is also the largest city in the Rocky Mountains area and a popular tourist destination for those looking to explore some of the most picturesque natural beauty in the United States.

The city is steeped in history thanks to its gold-mining and pioneering past, and these traditions are maintained alongside some of the more modern features of the city.

From museums and galleries, to nightlife and amusement parks, there is something for everyone in Denver.

The city is also surrounded by national parks and villages that provide a great insight into the history and culture of Colorado, as well as giving a great opportunity to take in breathtaking views.

Day trips to these areas can be very rewarding if you are looking to spend some time outside of the city itself.

These are the 15 best day trips you can take from Denver.

1. Rocky Mountain Zipline in Conifer

The dramatic Rocky Mountains are the perfect backdrop for adventure activities, and the zipline at Conifer is one of the closest activities to Denver.

Here you will be able to zip through the mountains and forest at speeds up to 50mph. Starting at 8,000 ft above sea level, you will travel along over 6,000 ft of zipline as you get to take in the breathtaking views and activate your adrenaline.

There are also GoPros available to rent on site, allowing you to capture your memories as you zip through the landscape.

Book online:  Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure Tour

2. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Located just outside of Denver, the Red Rocks Park is a unique landscape filled with towering sandstone formations.

The huge park is listed as a National Historic Landmark in the United States and welcomes thousands of visitors every year. There are plenty of facilities on site, though we do recommend bringing your own lunch. The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is large and carved into the rocks.

There are concerts held here throughout the year, adding a great ambience to the events. Be sure to check their website before you plan your trip.

3. Bear Creek Canyon

Connecting Morrison and Idledale, the Bear Creek Canyon area is a scenic drive through the natural beauty of Colorado.

Officially part of Denver’s Park System, this drive is a gateway into Colorado’s vast mountain parks and is a great way to check out the scenery if you do not have time for a longer tour.

There are plenty of creeks and native flora and fauna along the way. Stopovers are possible along the way for refreshments and toilet facilities.

4. Evergreen

Located along the Bear Creek Canyon, Evergreen is a small town that takes you to the heart of rural life in Colorado.

The artsy vibe makes it the perfect place to discover fine art boutiques and craft stores. There are also plenty of entertainment options, and quirky dining experiences ranging from cafes to upscale restaurants.

Nearby there are some great nature-based activities including fly fishing and hiking. There is also a golf course located just outside of the town.

Golden, Colorado, is a historic town where you can learn more about the pioneering history of the state.

The Coors Brewery is located here, offering free tours every day to visitors interested in checking out the largest brewery in the world. Rail enthusiasts will also enjoy the Colorado Railroad Museum, which offers visitors the opportunity to hop on board a historic train.

Buffalo Bill’s grave is also located within the town limits, and a museum dedicated to his life is right next to it.

6. Manitou Springs

Manitou Springs is nestled within the Rocky Mountain foothills and is a great spot for a more relaxing experience of mountain life.

The area is sacred to a number of Native American tribes thanks to the natural mineral water springs which are said to have healing benefits. These springs are free to access, and a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

The town is also known for its sculptures that line the sidewalks, and there is a vibrant artisan community providing great goods and entertainment across the town.

Sedalia is a small community located south of Denver that was once an important crossroads town.

The old railway line is still the centrepiece of the town, and many of the old buildings remain intact – though they now host a variety of more modern restaurants and craft boutiques.

The Cherokee Ranch is the main attraction in town, built in the style of a Scottish castle. It contains a number of historic artworks from across the globe, as well as a fully operating cattle ranch.

8. Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is another registered National Natural Landmark located just a short drive from Denver. The park is full of facilities and activities to keep you entertained for an entire day.

The large sandstone formations provide excellent natural beauty and show off the unique landscapes of Colorado. There are also rock climbing, fishing, and mountain biking facilities located throughout the park.

The wide array of activities and museums in the area make it a great day trip for families visiting the Denver area, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the geology and history of the area.

9. Cañon City

Cañon City is located within the Royal Gorge and is the main gateway to the region. Here you can ride the Royal Gorge Railway – a spectacular train ride through the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Around the Christmas period this also becomes a Santa train, making it a great trip for families who are in Colorado around the holidays.

There are also plenty of nature-based activities including rafting, river tours, and jeep tours.

There is also a museum dedicated to the Colorado prison system, where you can learn about crime and punishment in the state.

10. Boulder

Boulder is a city in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains located within an hour of Denver. Traditionally a college town, Boulder is full of excellent nightlife options and sports facilities.

It has also more recently spawned its own alternative communities, with a wide range of hipster spots and counterculture venues across the city. The city is also surrounded by fantastic hiking trails and creeks for rafting and tubing.

In October, local artists also open up their studios to the general public, allowing you to check out their work and purchase your favourite items.

11. Mount Evans Scenic Byway

The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a spectacular journey through the mountains of Colorado.

The highest paved road in North America, it winds around mountains and lakes as you climb towards the peak of Mount Evans – an entire 14,264 feet above sea level.

If you are looking for something a little more physical, you can also stop off at one of the many hiking trails along the way and discover some of the views that cannot be accessed by car.

This road is only open through the Spring and Summer months, as the winter snows make it inaccessible.

12. Central City and Black Hawk

History fans will enjoy a visit to the twin towns of Central City and Black Hawk. These towns have revived their historic buildings to give an impressive display of what houses in the region looked like back when Colorado was first settled.

They are also popular destinations for gambling in Colorado, with the most popular casinos being located on the main streets of Central City.

The spirit of revival is kept alive in the cultural activities in the towns, with theatre productions and street parties being held throughout the year.

13. Colorado Springs

Sitting on the eastern edges of the Rocky Mountains National Park, Colorado Springs is a popular tourist resort with plenty of activities to entertain a variety of visitors.

It is a gateway to Pikes Peak, which is great for moderate hiking and taking in the marvellous scenery.

Families will also enjoy the museums scattered throughout the town, as well as a sizeable zoo in the centre. Native wildlife can also be spotted on the outskirts and in the surrounding parks.

14. Georgetown

Georgetown is another great historical village located within easy driving distance of Denver.

The town is a great place to learn about the gold mining history of the region, thanks to the small museums located in the town and the opening up of old gold mines to tourists.

There is also a firefighter museum where you can discover the history of firefighting in rural America, and the recent influx of tourism has resulted in a variety of restaurants and stores opening up along the streets.

The Georgetown Loop Railroad is also a great historical experience in the town and is very popular with visitors in winter.

Another popular winter destination, Vail is the home of a large ski-resort providing a variety of winter activities.

Skiing and snowboarding are available for visitors of all ability levels, and there are excellent aprés ski facilities dotted around the area. The town of Vail itself has a postcard perfect pedestrian street lined with houses and stores that were built in the style of Alpine villages of the ‘60s.

The transport system in the region is free to use, helping you get between the villages and ski resorts with ease.

15 Best Day Trips from Denver:

• Rocky Mountain Zipline in Conifer
• Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
• Bear Creek Canyon
• Manitou Springs
• Garden of the Gods
• Mount Evans Scenic Byway
• Central City and Black Hawk
• Colorado Springs