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
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
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
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
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.
Boulder
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
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.
Littleton
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
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
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.