Looking for a quick getaway from the downtown Denver grind, where towering peaks kiss the sky and crisp mountain air rejuvenates your spirit? This guide covers all of the best day trips from Denver you can add to your Colorado getaway, including nearby hiking trails, quaint, charming towns, a legendary craft beer scene, and natural wonders.
For an extra special time in Denver, book your stay with us at our luxurious vacation rentals. These homes make the perfect home base to enjoy Denver and the surrounding hot spots.
Find out where you can go for a day of adventure or relaxation, all within a few hours’ drive from the city.
Drive Distance From Denver: 35 min, 30 miles
Just a short 35-minute drive northwest of downtown Denver, Boulder is an easy day trip that feels worlds away from the city’s chaos.
Known for its proximity to nature, Boulder boasts several hiking trails just minutes from downtown, with the Flatirons serving as a striking backdrop for your outdoor adventures. Anchors are also in place for those looking to scale the fingers of the Flatirons, and Boulder boasts a strong rock climbing community. Those eager to hit the dusty trail wind through the Flatirons and offer breathtaking vistas that will leave you huffing and puffing in awe.
Downtown Boulder, particularly Pearl Street, is a lively pedestrian area perfect for shopping and dining. This bustling street is lined with unique shops, cozy cafes, and street performers, making it a great spot to relax and refuel after a hike. The vibrant youth culture, fueled by the university campus, adds an energetic vibe to the town, making it a favorite among young adventurers.
Drive Distance From Denver: 1 hour, 70 miles
Just 70 miles south of Denver, Colorado, lies Colorado Springs, a city renowned for its natural beauty and diverse outdoor adventures. This charming mountain town is home to the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods, renowned for its stunning red rock formations and otherworldly natural phenomenon. Whether you’re exploring on foot or renting an e-bike, the park offers various trails and scenic drives that showcase its breathtaking vistas and Colorado’s truly unique landscapes.
Another must-visit is Pikes Peak, where you can experience the majestic mountain views in a truly unique way aboard the historic cog railway.
For those seeking a challenge, the Manitou Incline offers a knee-shaking ascent of nearly 2,000 feet in just under a mile and rewards your efforts with unobstructed mountain peak views at the top. Colorado Springs is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Drive Distance From Denver: 1 hour 20 min, 65 miles
Rocky Mountain National Park, just 1.5 hours from Denver, is a dream destination for nature lovers in the Rocky Mountains. To manage the park’s popularity, visitors are required to acquire a timed entry permit, ensuring a more peaceful experience among the stunning landscapes. The scenic Trail Ridge Road, one of the park’s highlights, offers breathtaking panoramic views and is a must-drive route for anyone's Colorado vacation.
Bear Lake is another popular spot within Estes Park, known for its picturesque setting and easy accessibility. Whether you’re taking a short hike around the lake or venturing on more challenging trails, the park’s diverse hiking opportunities cater to all skill levels. Wildlife viewing tours in the park offer a unique opportunity to observe elk, moose, and other animals in their natural habitats, adding an exciting element to your visit.
The Alpine Visitor Center serves as an educational hub, offering insights into the park’s geology and wildlife. For a historical experience, the Old Fall River Road allows visitors to explore the park’s nature while following a scenic, winding path. Rocky Mountain NP is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit on your list of day trips from Denver.
Drive Distance From Denver: 20 min, 15 miles
Just 20 minutes from Denver, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is a unique blend of natural beauty and musical history. The park’s stunning red rock formations create an otherworldly atmosphere that must be seen to be believed. The amphitheater, recognized as the only naturally occurring acoustically perfect venue globally, offers a magical experience for concert-goers.
Be sure to check the concert dates in advance, as Red Rocks hosts some of the most iconic live performances in the world, making it a must-visit destination for music and entertainment lovers.
Beyond its musical allure, Red Rocks Park features hiking trails that provide great views of Denver and the plains. The Trading Post Trail is a favorite, providing a 1.4-mile loop that winds through stunning red rock formations and offers spectacular views of Denver and the surrounding Front Range. For a longer hike, the Red Rocks Trail connects the park to nearby Morrison and stretches about 6 miles, perfect for those seeking a more challenging adventure.
These trails showcase the park’s natural beauty and provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography, making Red Rocks a must-visit destination for hikers of all skill levels.
Drive Distance From Denver: 35 min, 30 miles
Evergreen, located just under 40 minutes from Denver, is a charming mountain town captivating its guests with unparalleled beautiful nature. The Lariat Loop, a scenic drive that runs through Evergreen, offers picturesque views perfect for a leisurely drive. For those looking to get active out in nature, the surrounding area provides ample opportunities for fishing, paddleboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
Art lovers will appreciate the local galleries showcasing the work of regional artists. The downtown area is filled with charming shops and eateries, perfect for a relaxing stroll. Evergreen’s blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm makes it a delightful day trip from Denver.
Drive Distance From Denver: 50 min, 45 miles
Georgetown, renowned for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, offers a step back in time with its historic charm in one of Colorado's fairytale alpine towns.
One of the highlights of Georgetown is the Georgetown Loop Railroad, which offers a scenic ride through the historic mining landscape. This quaint mountain getaway is perfect for history enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a scenic trip through Colorado’s past.
Drive Distance From Denver: 1-2 hours
Mount Evans Scenic Byway is one of the most thrilling and scenic road trips you can take from Denver. Known as the highest paved road in North America, this drive takes you from the base at Echo Lake all the way up to the summit of Mount Evans at over 14,000 feet. Along the way, you’ll experience stunning views of the Continental Divide, alpine tundra landscapes, and diverse wildlife, including mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
The journey begins with a picturesque drive through dense spruce forests and past pristine alpine lakes, offering numerous spots to stop for photos or a short hike. As you ascend, the air becomes crisper and the terrain more rugged, culminating in breathtaking panoramic vistas from the summit platform. Here, visitors can take in incredible views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and the Mile High City far below.
Due to the high elevation and rapidly changing weather, it’s essential to dress in layers and be prepared for sudden shifts in conditions. The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is typically open from late May through early October, depending on weather and road conditions.
For those seeking an unforgettable day trip from Denver, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and the thrill of driving one of the highest and most scenic roads in the country.
Drive Distance From Denver: 25 min, 15 miles
Golden, just 25 minutes from Denver, is a town rich in Wild West history and outdoor adventure. Visitors can enjoy a brewery tour at the famous Coors Brewery, hike up Lookout Mountain, or explore the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum.
The Buffalo Bill Museum, situated atop Lookout Mountain, provides an in-depth look into Wild West history and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Golden’s blend of historical attractions and outdoor activities makes it an excellent idea for a day trip.
Drive Distance From Denver: 30 min, 30 miles
Just 30 minutes from Denver, Idaho Springs offers a mix of historical exploration and outdoor fun. Visitors can explore historical sites such as old mines and enjoy various hiking trails in and around the town. The town is home to the Argo Gold Mine and Mill, a historic site from the Colorado Gold Rush, where visitors can try their hand at gold panning.
A popular nearby attraction is Mount Blue Sky, known for its stunning scenery. Although the byway is currently closed for improvements until 2025, Idaho Springs remains a charming mountain town worth visiting for its iconic Main Street and thriving restaurant scene, steeped in history.
Drive Distance From Denver: 1.5 hours, 70 miles
Fort Collins, located 1.5 hours from Denver, is a top destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The city produces 70% of Colorado’s craft beer and is home to over 20 craft breweries, many of which offer unique brewery tours and tastings.
In addition to its vibrant brewery scene, Fort Collins offers outdoor activities such as horseback riding and biking, as well as strolling among the charming local shops in its historic downtown area, which is rumored to have inspired Walt Disney's Main Street, USA. The city’s blend of craft beer culture and small-town charm makes it a delightful destination for a day trip.
Drive Distance From Denver: 20 min, 15 miles
Located just 20 minutes from Denver, Dinosaur Ridge is a fascinating destination for those interested in paleontology and geology. The site is renowned for having over 250 fossil tracks, making it one of the top dinosaur track sites in the United States.
Visitors can choose between guided bus tours or self-guided walks, with interpretive signs along the paved route providing educational insights. The visitor center offers additional resources and a gift shop featuring dinosaur-themed merchandise, making it an ideal spot for families and prehistory enthusiasts. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to visit today!
When planning your day trips from Denver, it's essential to consider the optimal time to visit Colorado.
The state offers distinct seasons, with late spring through early fall (May to September) being ideal for outdoor adventures, such as hiking, biking, and scenic road trips, thanks to mild temperatures and generally clear skies. Fall brings stunning foliage colors, especially in mountain towns and national parks, creating perfect opportunities for breathtaking views and photography.
Winter, while colder and snowy, is excellent for those interested in winter sports and cozy mountain escapes. However, some high-altitude roads and trails may close in winter, so it's recommended that you check local conditions ahead of your trip to make the most of your Colorado experience.
From the stunning red rock formations at Red Rocks Park to the historic charm of Georgetown, the best day trips from Denver offer a diverse array of experiences. Whether you’re hiking the majestic trails of Rocky Mountain National Park or relaxing in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs, there’s something for everyone just a short drive from the city.
These day trips not only provide a perfect mountain escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown Denver but also showcase Colorado’s incredible natural beauty and rich history. Book a stay at one of our vacation rentals in the area to hit the road and explore these unforgettable destinations on your next trip!
4 guests
2 rooms
1 baths
Vail - Beaver Creek, CO
8 guests
4 rooms
3 baths
Estes Park, CO
14 guests
5 rooms
3 baths
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2 baths
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4 rooms
4 baths
Durango, CO
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3 rooms
3 baths
Durango, CO
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2 rooms
2 baths
Winter Park, CO
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2 baths
Bend, OR
6 guests
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3 baths
Moab, UT
6 guests
2 rooms
2 baths
South Fork, CO
10 guests
3 rooms
2 baths
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1 baths
Summit County, CO
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3 rooms
2 baths
Northwoods, WI
8 guests
3 rooms
3 baths
Ridgway, CO
