12 Best Day Trips from Denver 🇺🇸: Guide to Top Destinations near the City

Day trips from Denver offer the perfect way to explore the natural beauty and cultural gems of Colorado. The city of Denver serves as a hub for countless adventures, from scenic drives to charming mountain towns. Whether heading south of Denver to the city of Colorado Springs or exploring Colorado wildlife at Banner Lakes, there are endless opportunities to experience quintessential Colorado just a short drive away.

🏠 Where to Stay in Denver

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons Denver
• ✨ 5-Star: The Crawford at Union Station Denver
• 🏨 4-Star: Grand Hyatt Denver
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Vīb Best Western Denver RiNo
• 💸 Cheap: Sonder Osage
• 🏢 Apartament: Sonder at Skyline
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: The Catbird
• 🏩 For Couples: The Jacquard Autograph Collection

Some of the best Denver day trips are located within 2 hours of Denver, making them ideal for quick getaways. Visit iconic spots like Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park or take a Denver day trip to Golden for breweries and history. For those looking for adventure, Winter Park is perfect for hiking and mountain biking in summer or skiing in winter. After a full day exploring, enjoy the stunning Denver skyline when heading back to Denver.

💁 Best Guided Tours from Denver

• Small-group tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver from € 150 (⭐4.9/5)
• Rocky Mountain National Park Tour from € 145 (⭐4.9/5)
• The Winter Ultimate Mountain Trip from € 130 (⭐4.9/5)
• Visit Red Rocks Park, Continental Divide, and Breckenridge from € 140 (⭐4.9/5)
• Foothills of the Rockies from € 85 (⭐4.8/5)

Best Day Trips from Denver

1. 🏔️ Rocky Mountain National Park & Estes Park

Visit duration: 5-6 hours / Travel duration: 1.5 hours (70 miles/112 km from Denver)

Alpine Majesty: Rocky Mountain National Park is a sprawling wilderness of over 415 square miles, offering some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the United States. Its peaks soar above 14,000 feet, and the park features over 300 miles of hiking trails, from easy walks like Bear Lake to challenging treks like Sky Pond. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting elk, moose, and bighorn sheep in their natural habitat.

Gateway Charm: Just outside the park lies Estes Park, a quaint mountain town filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and the historic Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining. Stroll along the Riverwalk for scenic views or grab a bite at one of the many local restaurants serving hearty mountain fare. Estes Park also serves as a hub for outdoor activities like horseback riding and fly fishing.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure parking at popular trailheads like Bear Lake or Sprague Lake. During peak season (May–October), use the park’s shuttle system to save time and avoid congestion at busy spots.

⭐ Best Activities

• Rocky Mountain National Park Tour: Experience one of the best Denver day trips, where breathtaking alpine scenery and wildlife await. This guided tour takes you along Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in North America, offering panoramic views of quintessential Colorado landscapes.
• Private Tour: Discover Rocky Mountain National Park: Enjoy a personalized experience on this private day trip, tailored to your preferences. Explore the park’s natural beauty, including serene lakes, towering peaks, and opportunities to spot Colorado wildlife.

2. 🌄 Boulder

Visit duration: 4-5 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes (30 miles/48 km from Denver)

Outdoor Bliss: Nestled against the Flatirons, Boulder is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Start your day with a hike at Chautauqua Park, where trails range from beginner-friendly loops to steep climbs offering panoramic views of the city and beyond. The Flatirons themselves are iconic rock formations that make for stunning photo backdrops year-round.

Urban Energy: After exploring the outdoors, head to Pearl Street Mall, a lively pedestrian area filled with street performers, boutique shops, and local eateries. Don’t miss the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, an intricately hand-carved gift from Boulder’s sister city in Tajikistan. Craft beer lovers will find plenty of breweries to explore, including Avery Brewing Company and Upslope Brewing.

Top Tip: Parking near Pearl Street can be tricky—use public lots or park-and-ride shuttles to save time and avoid frustration. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays when crowds are smaller.

⭐ Best Activities

Private Boulder Tour from Denver: Discover the stunning natural beauty of Boulder’s Flatirons on this guided day trip from Denver. Enjoy scenic hikes and explore Boulder’s vibrant downtown, including Pearl Street Mall, known for its shops, cafes, and street performers.

3. 🌟 Colorado Springs & Pikes Peak Region

Visit duration: 6-7 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour (70 miles/112 km from Denver)

Natural Wonders: Colorado Springs is home to Garden of the Gods, a stunning park featuring towering red rock formations that seem to defy gravity. Take an easy walk along the paved Perkins Central Garden Trail or explore more rugged paths for unique vantage points of these geological marvels. Nearby Pikes Peak offers breathtaking views from its summit at over 14,000 feet—accessible by car, bike, or the famous Cog Railway.

Quirky Charm: Just minutes away lies Manitou Springs, a quirky town known for its mineral springs and artsy vibe. Visit attractions like the Manitou Cliff Dwellings or take on the Manitou Incline—a challenging hike with over 2,700 steps that rewards you with spectacular views at the top.

Time Saver: Book tickets online for Pikes Peak Cog Railway and Garden of the Gods Jeep tours to avoid long lines during weekends or peak travel seasons. Arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds at Garden of the Gods’ most popular trails!

⭐ Best Activities

Small-Group Tour of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods: Explore two of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks on this small-group day trip from Denver. Visit the towering red rock formations at Garden of the Gods and ascend Pikes Peak, one of the highest summits in the Rockies, famous for its breathtaking views and the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

⭐ U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum – Check availability of tickets

4. 🏘️ Golden

Visit duration: 3-4 hours / Travel duration: 30 minutes (15 miles/24 km from Denver)

Historic Appeal: Golden is steeped in history as Colorado’s first capital and retains its Old West charm with preserved buildings and museums. Take a stroll along Clear Creek Trail for picturesque views or visit Lookout Mountain for sweeping panoramas of Denver and beyond. History buffs will enjoy exploring attractions like the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave atop Lookout Mountain.

Craft Beer Paradise: Golden is also home to Coors Brewery, one of the largest single-site breweries in the world. Take a guided tour to see how this iconic beer is made or stop by smaller craft breweries like Golden City Brewery for a more intimate experience. Downtown Golden offers plenty of dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants serving locally sourced dishes.

Money Saver: Many hiking trails around Golden are free—pack your own snacks and water for an affordable outdoor adventure! Visit during weekdays for quieter trails and fewer visitors at popular spots like Lookout Mountain.

⭐ Best Activities

Foothill Explorer Tour from Denver: Discover the beauty of Colorado’s foothills on this guided tour departing from Denver. Visit highlights like Lookout Mountain, Bear Creek Canyon, and the historic town of Golden, home to the famous Coors Brewery.

5. 🌲 Evergreen & Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans)

Visit duration: 4-5 hours / Travel duration: 40 minutes (30 miles/48 km from Denver)

Mountain Serenity: Evergreen offers year-round outdoor activities in a peaceful mountain setting just a short drive from Denver. In summer, paddleboard or kayak on Evergreen Lake; in winter, enjoy ice skating surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The town itself features charming shops and cafes perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors.

High-Altitude Adventure: Nearby Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway takes you on one of Colorado’s most famous drives up to over 14,000 feet above sea level. Along the way, stop at Echo Lake Park for picnicking or short hikes before continuing to Summit Lake—a high-alpine gem with incredible views of surrounding peaks and valleys.

Top Tip: The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is open seasonally (typically May–October). Check road conditions before heading out to ensure safe travel at higher elevations!

⭐ Best Activities

• Evergreen, Squaw Pass & Echo Lake Year-Round Tour: Explore the serene beauty of Colorado’s foothills on this year-round tour from Denver. Visit the charming mountain town of Evergreen, drive along the scenic Squaw Pass, and enjoy breathtaking views at Echo Lake.
• Summer Mountain Summit Tour: Experience the best of Colorado’s summer scenery on this mountain summit tour. Travel west of Denver to explore stunning alpine landscapes and take in panoramic views from high-altitude vantage points.

6. 🎸 Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Visit duration: Half day / Travel duration: 30 minutes (16 miles/26 km from Denver)

Iconic Concert Venue: Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is one of the most unique places to visit near Denver. Known for its world-class acoustics and stunning natural setting, the amphitheater hosts concerts, movie nights, and yoga sessions throughout the year. Even without an event, exploring the amphitheater’s towering red rock formations is an unforgettable experience that embodies quintessential Colorado.

Hiking and History: The park offers two scenic hiking trails—the Trading Post Trail (1.4 miles) and Red Rocks Trail (6 miles)—that wind through geological marvels and provide panoramic views of the Denver skyline. The area also features dinosaur fossils and prehistoric tracks that can be spotted along the trails, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Insider Tip: Check the schedule for concerts or events before visiting to avoid closures at the amphitheater. Arrive early in the morning to enjoy peaceful hikes before crowds gather later in the day!

⭐ Best Activities

Red Rocks Walking Tour: Discover the natural beauty and history of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre on this guided walking tour. Learn about the park’s unique geology, its role as a world-famous concert venue, and its prehistoric significance with dinosaur tracks and fossils. 

Unique Day Trips for Adventurers

1. 🚂 Georgetown

Visit duration: 3-4 hours / Travel duration: 1 hour (45 miles/72 km from Denver)

Historic Train Ride: Nestled in the mountains, Georgetown offers a step back in time with its famous Georgetown Loop Railroad. This historic narrow-gauge train winds through stunning alpine scenery, crossing bridges and passing remnants of Colorado’s mining history. Pair your ride with a stop at the Lebanon Silver Mine for a guided tour into the region’s rich mining past.

Charming Downtown: Georgetown’s Victorian-era charm is evident in its well-preserved buildings, antique shops, and cozy cafes. Stroll through the town’s quaint streets or stop by The Happy Cooker for a hearty breakfast or lunch. It’s an ideal destination for history buffs and families alike.

Insider Tip: Book your train tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and autumn when the fall foliage draws large crowds. Arrive early to explore downtown before your train departs!

⭐ Best Activities

The Winter Ultimate Mountain Trip: Embark on a full-day adventure through Colorado’s most scenic winter destinations. This tour includes stops at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, the historic town of Georgetown, and breathtaking views from Loveland Pass.

2. 🎰 Central City & Black Hawk

Visit duration: 4-5 hours / Travel duration: 45 minutes (35 miles/56 km from Denver)

Casino Fun Meets History: Central City and Black Hawk are twin towns known for their vibrant casino scene and rich gold rush history. Try your luck at one of the many modern casinos or take a tour of historic sites like the Central City Opera House or Teller House. The towns’ historic architecture adds a unique charm to this gaming destination.

Scenic Drives & Small-Town Charm: The Peak-to-Peak Scenic Byway connects these towns to other mountain destinations, offering breathtaking views along the way. Stop for a coffee at a local café or enjoy a meal at one of the area’s restaurants featuring hearty mountain cuisine.

Time Saver: Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds at casinos and enjoy quieter streets for exploring the historic landmarks. Parking is easier to find during off-peak times!

3. 🌊 Glenwood Springs

Visit duration: Full day / Travel duration: 2.5 hours (157 miles/253 km from Denver)

Relaxation Central: Glenwood Springs is famous for its rejuvenating hot springs, including the world-renowned Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and Iron Mountain Hot Springs. Soak in mineral-rich waters while surrounded by stunning mountain views—a perfect way to unwind after a busy week. For thrill-seekers, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park offers roller coasters, cave tours, and family-friendly fun perched high above the valley.

Hiking Paradise: Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Hanging Lake, one of Colorado’s most iconic hikes featuring crystal-clear waterfalls and lush greenery. The trail requires a permit but rewards visitors with breathtaking views of this natural wonder. Other trails around Glenwood Springs offer opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic vistas.

Top Tip: Reserve permits for Hanging Lake well in advance as slots fill up quickly, especially in summer. For hot springs visits, aim for early morning or late evening to avoid peak crowds!

4. 🚶‍♂️ Fort Collins

Visit duration: Full day / Travel duration: 1 hour (65 miles/105 km from Denver)

Craft Beer Capital: Fort Collins, home to Colorado State University, is one of the best day trip destinations for beer lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With nearly two dozen craft breweries, including the renowned New Belgium Brewing Company, the city is a haven for sampling local brews. Guided brewery tours are available, or visitors can explore on their own while enjoying the lively atmosphere of this vibrant city.

Outdoor Escapes: Beyond its craft beer fame, Fort Collins offers stunning natural beauty. Horsetooth Reservoir is a must-visit for kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing, while Horsetooth Mountain Open Space provides nearly 30 miles of hiking and biking trails. For a cultural touch, Old Town Fort Collins features historic architecture, boutique shopping, and art galleries that make it one of the top day trips from Denver.

Top Tip: Visit during summer or fall to enjoy outdoor activities at their peak. Parking in Old Town can get busy on weekends—arrive early to secure a spot and explore the area before the crowds.

Seasonal Day Trips from Denver

⛷️ Winter Trips

Visit duration: Full day / Travel duration: 2 hours (80 miles/129 km from Denver)

Breckenridge: Just under two hours from Denver, Breckenridge is a winter wonderland with over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain and a charming historic downtown. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, or even exploring the International Snow Sculpture Championships if visiting in late January. The town’s Victorian-era architecture adds a cozy, festive touch during the holiday season.

Vail: Known for its luxury ski resorts and European-inspired village, Vail is a top choice for those seeking a more upscale winter escape. The slopes cater to all skill levels, while après-ski options include world-class dining and boutique shopping. Families will love activities like ice skating at Solaris Plaza or tubing at Adventure Ridge.

Insider Tip: For both destinations, book lift tickets and accommodations early to secure better prices during peak ski season. Arrive midweek to avoid weekend crowds on the slopes and in town.

🌞 Summer Trips

Visit duration: Full day / Travel duration: 1.5 hours (70 miles/113 km from Denver)

Dillon Reservoir: Located about an hour and a half from Denver, Dillon Reservoir is a summer hotspot for water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Surrounded by the majestic Rockies, the reservoir also offers scenic biking trails and picnic areas for a relaxing day outdoors. Nearby Frisco Marina provides rentals and guided tours for those new to water sports.

Buena Vista: A haven for thrill-seekers, Buena Vista is famous for whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River. Adventure outfitters offer trips ranging from beginner-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping Class IV rapids. After a day on the water, unwind in one of the area’s natural hot springs or explore hiking trails with panoramic mountain views.

Top Tip: For Dillon Reservoir, arrive early to secure parking at popular spots like the marina or Sapphire Point Overlook. In Buena Vista, book rafting trips in advance during peak summer months to ensure availability!

Family-Friendly Day Trips Near Denver

1. 🌉 Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Visit duration: Full day / Travel duration: 2 hours (130 miles/209 km from Denver)

Thrilling Views: Located about two hours from Denver in Canon City, the Royal Gorge Bridge is one of Colorado’s most iconic attractions. Spanning 1,250 feet above the Arkansas River, this suspension bridge offers jaw-dropping views of the gorge below. For thrill-seekers, ziplining across the canyon or riding the Royal Rush Skycoaster are unforgettable experiences!

Family Fun: The park also features kid-friendly attractions like a carousel and play area, making it an excellent choice for families with children of all ages. Take a scenic gondola ride across the gorge for an alternative way to soak in the stunning landscape without the adrenaline rush.

Top Tip: Arrive early to beat midday crowds and take advantage of cooler morning temperatures in summer months. Purchase tickets online for discounts and faster entry into the park!

2. 🦁 Wild Animal Sanctuary

Visit duration: Half day / Travel duration: 45 minutes (40 miles/64 km from Denver)

Unique Wildlife Experience: Just 45 minutes northeast of Denver in Keenesburg, this sanctuary spans over 10,000 acres and provides rescued lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and other animals with vast open habitats to roam freely. Visitors can walk along elevated platforms that offer incredible views of these majestic creatures in their naturalistic environments while learning about their rescue stories.

Educational Fun: The sanctuary emphasizes conservation and animal welfare through interactive exhibits and educational programs that are perfect for kids and adults alike. Bring binoculars for better wildlife spotting across its expansive grounds!

Money Saver: Pack your own lunch—while there’s a café onsite, outside food is allowed in designated picnic areas to help keep costs down during your visit!

Planning Tips for Day Trips from Denver

Best Times to Visit: Timing is everything when planning day trips from Denver! Fall (September–October) offers stunning foliage in destinations like Rocky Mountain National Park or Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. Winter (December–March) is perfect for skiing in Breckenridge or Vail, while summer (June–August) is ideal for hiking, rafting, and exploring mountain towns like Buena Vista or Dillon Reservoir.

Packing Essentials: Always pack layers—Colorado weather can change rapidly throughout the day! Sunscreen is crucial year-round due to high altitude exposure. Don’t forget water bottles to stay hydrated during outdoor activities and snacks for long drives or hikes.

Traffic Tips: Leave early in the morning—especially if heading westbound on I-70—to beat traffic heading into mountain destinations. On your return trip, aim for late afternoon or evening departures to avoid congestion caused by travelers returning from ski resorts or weekend getaways.

❓ Popular Questions

What are the top day trips from Denver for outdoor enthusiasts?

If you’re looking for top day trips from Denver to enjoy the outdoors, Rocky Mountain National Park, Mount Evans, and Garden of the Gods are must-visit destinations. Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning alpine scenery, abundant wildlife. Mount Evans, just an hour west of Denver, features the highest paved road in North America, leading to breathtaking views at over 14,000 feet. These destinations are perfect for Denver residents or visitors looking to escape the city and spend the day immersed in natural beauty.

What are some easy day trips from Denver within 2 hours?

For those seeking day trips around Denver that are less than two hours away, Golden, Boulder, and Fort Collins are excellent choices. Golden is just 30 minutes west of Denver and offers highlights like tubing in Clear Creek, hiking at Lookout Mountain, and visiting the Buffalo Bill Museum. Fort Collins, home to Colorado State University, is about an hour drive from Denver. It’s known for its craft breweries like New Belgium Brewing and outdoor activities at Horsetooth Reservoir.

What are the best day trips from Denver without a car?

If you don’t have a car, several exciting day trips can still be enjoyed using public transportation or guided tours. Boulder is accessible via RTD buses from downtown Denver, making it one of the best places to visit near Denver without driving. You can hike the Flatirons or explore Pearl Street Mall with ease. Golden is another great option; take an RTD bus or light rail to enjoy its charming downtown or hike Lookout Mountain.

What are some popular winter day trips from Denver?

Denver serves as a gateway to incredible winter day trip destinations, including Breckenridge, Evergreen Lake, and Idaho Springs. Breckenridge is a world-class ski resort just under two hours away that offers skiing, snowboarding, and a charming downtown filled with shops and restaurants. These day trips around Denver are perfect for enjoying Colorado’s winter wonderland while staying close to the Mile High City.

What are some unique places to visit near Denver?

For unique day trip options, consider Nederland or Banner Lakes State Wildlife Area. Nederland is a quirky mountain town about an hour drive from Denver that offers access to Indian Peaks Wilderness Area for hiking and fishing as well as its famous Frozen Dead Guy Days festival in March.

What are some scenic train rides you can take from Denver?

If you’re looking to take a train ride, there are several options that combine history with breathtaking views around Colorado. The Georgetown Loop Railroad is just under an hour west of Denver and offers a scenic ride through Clear Creek Canyon paired with optional mine tours.