Day Trips from Denver, Colorado: Top Sights in 2023 (2023)

Denver is a great city to explore, but sometimes it pays to get away from the hustle and see more of what Colorado has to offer. Fortunately, there are many great places within a few hours' drive of Denver. In this post, we will share some of them with youthe best day trips from Denver and the best places to visit in Colorado.

Colorado is a state with some of the most stunning and diverse natural landscapes in the country. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to colorful sandstone formations, from lush forests and grasslands to arid deserts and canyons, Colorado has it all. You can experience Colorado's natural beauty and diversity by visiting its national parks, state parks, scenic drives, wilderness areas and more.

One thing that makes Colorado unique is its elevation.Colorado is the highest state in the country with an average elevation of 6,800 feet above sea level. There are also 58 peaks higher than 14,000 feet known as Fourteenths. These high mountains offer spectacular views, challenging hikes and snow all year round. You'll also find some of Colorado's highest cities, roads and attractions.

TheBest time to visit Coloradodepends on what you want to do and see. Colorado has four distinct seasons, each with its own charm and activities. Spring is a wonderful time to see blooming flowers and enjoy the mild weather. Summer is ideal for hiking, biking, camping and rafting. Autumn is a beautiful time to watch the changing colors of the aspens and enjoy the fresh air. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice skating.

If you're looking for a scenic and adventurous day trip from Denver, consider a visit to Golden and Clear Creek Canyon Park. These locations offer a variety of outdoor activities, historical landmarks and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

Golden is a quaint town that was once the capital of the Colorado Territory. It is home to the Coors Brewery, the Colorado School of Mines, and several museums and heritage sites. You can stroll through the historic city center, eat or drink at one of the many restaurants and breweries, or shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts.

Clear Creek Canyon Parkis a natural gem that stretches along Clear Creek, a tributary of the South Platte River.The park features steep canyon walls, fast-flowing water, and diverse wildlife. Depending on your ability and preference, you can hike, bike, fish, kayak, raft, or rock climb in the park.

One of the highlights of Clear Creek Canyon Park is the Gateway section of the Peaks to Plains Trail, a 1.75-mile paved trail that connects Golden to Tunnel 1 along US 6. The trail offers spectacular views of the canyon and creek, as well as access to three new bridge crossings, two new trails with parking and restrooms, and a restored wooden canal from historic Welch Ditch.

To get to Golden and Clear Creek Canyon ParkFrom Denver, you can take I-70 West and take the US 6 West exit (Exit 261). Follow US 6 for approximately 5 miles until you reach Golden. To continue to Clear Creek Canyon Park, stay on US 6 and continue through the canyon until you reach your choice of trailhead or parking lot.

Park Red Rocks und Amfiteatris a must for anyone visiting Denver. This natural wonder offers breathtaking views, amazing acoustics and a variety of activities for all ages and interests. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is located just 15 miles west of Denver in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.The park includes 738 hectares of sandstone formations, meadows, forests and wildlife. You can explore the park on foot, bike, or drive and enjoy scenic views, hiking trails, and picnic areas.

TheThe amphitheater is the park's main attraction and one of the most iconic places in the world.The amphitheater consists of two huge rocky outcrops that create a natural soundstage and seating area. The amphitheater hosts over 150 events each year, including concerts, graduations, film screenings, and fitness events. The amphitheater has a seating capacity of 9,525 and has hosted some of the most legendary performers in music history.

The park also features a visitor center, retail store, and the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. The visitor center features interactive exhibits, a short film, and a gift shop. The shop sells souvenirs, snacks and tickets for guided tours. The Colorado Music Hall of Fame honors musicians and music industry professionals who have influenced Colorado's musical heritage.

Is parking ok at Amfiteatr Red RocksPerfect day trip from Denverif you want to experience the beauty and culture of Colorado. Whether you're looking for a relaxing picnic, an exciting concert or a fascinating history lesson, you'll find it at Red Rocks.

Boulder is a vibrant and diverse city that blends urban culture with outdoor adventure.Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder offers breathtaking scenery, a rich history and a progressive spirit.

Boulder is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. You can hike, bike, climb or ski in the surrounding mountains or enjoy the views from the famous Flatirons. You can also relax at Boulder Reservoir, walk the Boulder Creek Path or explore Chautauqua Park.

Boulder is also a center for innovation and education. Here is the University of Colorado Boulder, a renowned research institution with a beautiful campus and a vibrant student scene. Boulder is also home to several national laboratories, high-tech companies and start-ups that foster creativity and entrepreneurship.

Boulder has a diverse and dynamic culture that reflects its values ​​and passions. Fine dining, shopping and entertainment can be found in historic downtown and at the Pearl Street Mall. You can also experience arts, music and festivals that showcase the talent and diversity of Boulder.

boulders isPerfect day trip from Denverif you want to experience a different side of Colorado. Whether you're looking for a challenge, discovery or fun, you'll find it in Boulder.

Idaho Springs is a historic anda quaint town that offers a glimpse into Colorado's gold rush past. Located in Clear Creek Canyon about 35 miles west of Denver, Idaho Springs is a great destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and adventurers.

Idaho Springswas founded in 1859 by George A. Jackson, who discovered gold at the confluence of Chicago Creek and Clear Creek. The city became the center of the region's mining district and was home to the famous Argo Tunnel and the Argo Gold Mine and Mill. Learn about the city's history and heritage at the Idaho Springs Heritage Museum, the Underhill Museum and the Phoenix Gold Mine.

Idaho Springs is also known for its natural attractions and outdoor activities. Relax and rejuvenate at Indian Hot Springs, a mineral hot springs resort operating since 1905. You can also enjoy scenic views and hiking trails on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America. If you are looking for a thrill, you can try rafting, abseiling or mountain biking in the canyon.

Idaho Springs is the perfect day trip from Denver if you want to see a different side of Colorado. Whether you're looking for a historical tour, a relaxing swim, or an exciting adventure, you'll find it in Idaho Springs.

George Town isa historic and quaint town that has retained the charm and character of Colorado's mining era. Located in the Clear Creek Valley about 45 miles west of Denver, Georgetown is a great destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and train enthusiasts.

Georgetown warFounded in 1859 after the discovery of gold and silver in the area. The town grew into a prosperous mining center and the county seat of Clear Creek County. The city also developed into a cultural center with a theatre, an opera house and several schools and churches. The city's historic district has over 200 buildings from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Georgetown is also known for its natural attractions and outdoor activities. Enjoy scenic views and hiking trailsGeorgetown Loop Historic Mining and Railroad Park, which includes a restored narrow-gauge railway that crosses a viaduct. You can also visit the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, which offers spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and access to Mount Bierstadt, one of Colorado's fourteen.

Georgetown is the perfect day trip from Denver if you want to see a different side of Colorado. Whether you're looking for a historical tour, a scenic drive, or a train ride, you'll find it in Georgetown

Mount Evans istthe highest peak in the Mount Evans Wilderness and the highest paved road in North America. Located about 60 miles west of Denver, Mount Evans is a great place for scenic drives, hikes, wildlife viewing, and stargazing.

Mount Evansit rises to 14,271 feet above sea leveland is one of 58 14-year-olds in Colorado. The summit is accessible via the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, a 28-mile road that runs from Idaho Springs to the summit. The road is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting, and requires reservations for admission for a limited period of time.

Along the way, you can stop at a variety of attractions, such as Echo Lake Park, a popular picnic and fishing spot; Mount Goliath Natural Area, where ancient bristlecone pines can be seen; Summit Lake Park, where you can hike around the glacial lake; and the Mount Evans Interpretive Site, where you can learn about the area's history and ecology.

Mount Evans is also home to a variety of wildlife including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, northern pike and ptarmigan. They can often be seen grazing or resting on roadsides or rocky slopes. Remember to keep a safe distance and do not feed or approach them. Mount Evans is the perfect day trip from Denver if you want to experience the beauty and majesty of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you're looking for a relaxing drive, a challenging hike, or spectacular views, you'll find it at Mount Evans.

Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are two of Colorado's most popular travel destinations. Located approximately 70 miles northwest of Denver, Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park offer a variety of activities, attractions, and scenery for all seasons and interests.

Este Park jokecharming mountain townserving as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park has a rich history and culture dating back to the Native American explorers, settlers and entrepreneurs who shaped the area. Learn about the city's past and present at the Estes Park Museum, the Stanley Hotel and the MacGregor Ranch Museum.

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the country. TheThe park covers 415 square milesbreathtaking mountain landscapes, from meadows and forests to lakes and peaks. The park has over 300 miles of hiking trails, as well as camping, wildlife viewing, scenic drives and snow sports.

Rocky Mountain National Park is home to some of Colorado's most famous landmarks and attractions. Enjoy the view from Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in North America. You can explore the alpine wonderland of Bear Lake, Dream Lake and Emerald Lake. Watch the elk rut in the fall or watch the wildflowers bloom in the summer. You can also visit attractions like the Holzwarth Historic Site and the Fall River Pass Ranger Station.

Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are ideal day trips from Denver if you want to experience Colorado's beauty and diversity. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway, a cultural immersion, or an outdoor adventure, you'll find it in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Colorado Springs is the second largest city in Coloradoand a center for culture, education, and the military. Colorado Springs has a rich history and heritage dating back to the Native Americans, explorers, settlers and entrepreneurs who shaped the region. Learn about the city's past and present at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, the National World War II Air Museum, and the American Olympic and Paralympic Museum.

The Garden of the Gods is a public park and national natural landmark with spectacular red rock formations. The park includes 1,367 acres of land donated by Charles Perkins in 1909 on condition that it remain open to the public. There are over 15 miles of hiking trails in the park, as well as opportunities for biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.

The Garden of the Gods is home to some of Colorado's most famous landmarks and attractions. Enjoy the view from the Gateway Rock formation, made up of two massive sandstone pillars that flank Pikes Peak. You can explore the Balanced Rock Formation, which looks like a giant boulder perched precariously on a pedestal. You can also visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, which features interactive exhibits, a theater, gift shop, and tours.

Colorado Springs and the Garden of the Gods are ideal day trips from Denver if you want to experience the beauty and diversity of Colorado. Whether you're looking for a cultural immersion, a relaxing getaway, or an outdoor adventure, you'll find it in Colorado Springs and Garden of the Gods.

Breckenridge is a historic and vibrant city that offers a variety of activities, attractions, and scenery for all seasons and interests. Located about 80 miles west of Denver, Breckenridge is a great place for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, shopping, dining and more.

Breckenridge was founded as a mining town in 1859 during the Colorado Gold Rush. The city has a rich history and heritage, with over 200 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. To learn more about the city's past and present, visit the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance, which operates several museums and historic sites.

Breckenridge is also known for world class skiing and snowboarding. The city is homeBreckenridge Ski Resort, which includes five peaks and 2,908 acres of terrain. The resort has 180 slopes, 34 lifts, four fun parks and a superpipe. In addition, several events and competitions are held at the resort throughout the season.

Leadville is a historic and scenic city that offers a variety of activities, attractions, and scenery for all seasons and interests. Located about 100 miles west of Denver,At 10,152 feet above sea level, Leadville is the highest city in North America.Leadville was founded as a mining town in 1859 during the Colorado Gold Rush. The city has a rich history and heritage, with over 200 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Learn about the city's past and present at the Leadville Heritage Museum, National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum, Healy House Museum and Dexter Cabin.

Leadville is also known for its outdoor recreation.The city is surrounded by two of Colorado's highest peaks at 14,000 feet: Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. You can hike, bike, fish, ski or snowshoe in the surrounding mountains, or take in the views from the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad, a scenic train ride that travels downtown.

Leadville is also close to several other Colorado attractions and landmarks. You can visit the Turquoise Lake Recreation Area, a popular spot for camping, boating, and fishing. You can also visit the Camp Hale Historic Site, where the 10th Mountain Division trained during World War II. You can also drive to nearby Ski Cooper, a family-friendly ski resort that offers affordable skiing and snowboarding.

Leadville is the perfect day trip from Denver if you want to experience a different side of Colorado. Whether you're looking for a historical tour, a scenic drive, or an outdoor adventure, you'll find it in Leadville.