8 Most Amazing Road Trips from Denver

Denver, the vital center of Colorado and referred to as the Mile-High City, welcomes you with a unique combination of natural beauty and urban sophistication. It is tucked away at the base of the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Denver has a lot to offer everyone, whether they are outdoor adventurers, foodies, history buffs, or art enthusiasts. Here travelers we will cover the best routes, must see sights, crucial advice for nine road trips you can initiate from Denver.

01) Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park

Best Time to Visit: mid-June to mid-august which is the summertime is the finest time to visit the park since all the routes in the park have been mostly melted. But if you are trying to visit the park in the late spring and early fall that would be also an excellent time because there is less snow on the lower slopes and fewer people to share the trails with.

Average time to cover highlights: 3 days

Rocky Mountain National Park is a 415 square mile natural marvel with towering peaks, alpine lakes, lush woods, and a wide variety of animals. It stands roughly 70 miles northwest of Denver. The highest continuous paved road in North America, Trail Ridge Road, can be found in this park and offers several beautiful extractions and stunning views.
With more than 355 miles of hiking trails, tourists may experience anything from relaxing walks like the Bear Lake Loop to hard hikes like the Glacier Gorge Trail's Sky Pond. Moose, black bears, elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep can all be spotted by wildlife enthusiasts, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. The Alpine tourist Center and Beaver Meadows are two of the park's tourist centers, and they both offer vital details and displays on the natural and cultural history of the area. And the park is made more beautiful by the changing seasons: summer wildflowers, autumn foliage, winter snowscapes, and spring waterfalls.

Other Key attractions while road trip Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park

• Boulder
• Visit the university of Colorado
• Explore Pearl Street Mall
• Take a hike at Chautauqua Park
• Estes Park - a little town with stores, eateries, and the renowned Stanley Hotel at the park's entrance.
• Trail Ridge Road - For panoramic views, take a drive on one of North America's highest paved roads.

02) Denver to Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak

Best Time to Visit: March to May and from September to October

Average time to cover highlights: 2 days

How long should you spend I spend at Pikes Peak: 2-3 hours

About 70 miles south of Denver, Colorado Springs is a city renowned for its wide range of outdoor adventures and stunning natural scenery. It is tucked away at the foot of the Rocky Mountains and has a lot to offer, such as the stunning Garden of the Gods, where guests can take in the striking red rock formations and go hiking and rock climbing to enjoy moments. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center, where you can see how the best athletes train, and the U.S. Air Force Academy, with its beautiful structures and picturesque panoramas, are both located in the city. Manitou Springs, a quaint town nearby, has a thriving arts scene, historic natural springs, and unique stores. Known as "America's Mountain," Pikes Peak is a huge 14,115-foot peak situated to the west of Colorado Springs. You can summit there by three routes, which are Pikes Peak Highway (approximately takes 2,3 hours), the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway (approximately takes 3 hours), and the strenuous Barr Trail for hikers (approximately takes 6, 8 hours). The stunning views from the peak, which encompass the plains and mountains, are well known for having inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful." in the summit, guests will find exhibits on the geology and history of the mountain in the Summit Visitor Center.

Other key attraction while road trip to Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak

• Garden of the Gods - Hiking pathways and magnificent red rock formations
• Manitou Springs: a tiny town at the bottom of Pikes Peak, renowned for its lively arts scene, charming downtown, and historic mineral springs. A variety of attractions can be found in the town, such as restaurants, unique shops, and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which offers a beautiful journey to the top of Pikes Peak

03) Denver to Great Sand Dunes National Park

Best Time to Visit: Autumn (September to October)

How long should you spend I Great Sand Dunes National Park: 3 days

How long does it take to get to the top of the sand dunes: 2 Hours

Guiding Tip: You can also plan your trip to great sand dunes park passing through Colorado Springs.

The largest sand dunes in North America await you upon reaching Great Sand Dunes National Park. The unique scene of sweeping sand peaks rising to 750 feet will amaze you. This is the place to hike the dunes, do sledding or sandboarding, and cool off in the seasonal Medano Creek that runs at the foot of the dunes. In addition, the park has a variety of routes that pass-through marshes, alpine forests, and grasslands. Remember to stay after dark for some of the nation's best sky.

Other key attraction while road trip to Great Sand Dunes National Park

• The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park - The main attraction is the 1,260-foot-long Royal Gorge Bridge, which rises 956 feet above the Arkansas River and is among the world's tallest suspension bridges

04) Denver to Aspen and Maroon Bells

Best Time to Visit Aspen and Maroon Bells: Late July to September

How long should you spend I Maroon Bells: 2-3 hours

How long does it take to get to the top of the Maroon Bells: 1 hour

Aspen is a luxury mountain town that is well-known for its magnificent scenery and lively arts and culture scene. Aspen, which is tucked away in the middle of the Rocky Mountains, has something to do for every kind of person. In the summer, the town becomes a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor happenings; in the winter, you can hit the slopes at one of the top ski resorts, such as Aspen Mountain or Snowmass. Wander about the small downtown area, where you'll find upscale shops, luxurious restaurants, and art galleries that capture the sophisticated yet laid-back spirit of the area. Don't pass up the opportunity to visit the Aspen Art Museum or see a show at the iconic Wheeler Opera House. Aspen delivers an amazing experience that appeals to both adventure seekers and those wishing to indulge in a little luxury with its blend of natural beauty and expensive facilities.

Moon bells located about 10 miles southwest of Aspen, these iconic twin peaks are famous for their beauty and are a must-see for any nature lover. The sight of Maroon Lake, which reflects the amazing Maroon Bells in an ideal manner, will welcome you as you get closer. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake on the short Scenic Loop Trail or go out on one of the many hiking routes that lead into the surrounding wilderness if you're feeling adventurous. Immerse yourself in the peaceful majesty of alpine meadows, aspen trees, and crystal-clear streams at The Maroon Bells, a peaceful haven. The views from here are quite breathtaking, especially in the fall when the aspens turn a shining gold. Don't forget to pack your camera, otherwise you will miss nice shots.

Other key attraction while road trip to Denver to Aspen and Maroon Bells

• Vail - A luxurious ski resort town including excellent dining and shopping, welcoming neighborhoods, and breathtaking views of the mountains
• Glenwood Springs - Known for its beautiful golf courses, Glenwood Hot Springs, Adventure Park, and many outdoor activities

05) Denver to Steamboat Springs

Best Time to Visit Steamboat Springs: June – August / December – March

Average time to cover highlights: 3 days

In the winter Steamboat Springs, also referred to amazing “Ski Town, USA” offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country. It is located at just three hours northwest of Denver.  Hiking and mountain bike trails showcasing the area's natural beauty can be explored in the summer. You can unwind in a quiet natural setting by taking a bath in the refreshing waters of Strawberry Park Hot Springs. The Yampa River runs through the town, providing opportunities for riverside travels along the scenic Yampa River Core Trail, fishing, and tubing. The town's distinct identity is reflected in the charming mix of shops, restaurants, and art galleries that can be found as you browse through the downtown area.

Other key attraction while road trip to Denver to Steamboat Springs

• Rabbit Ears Pass - A lovely summertime road filled with wildflowers.

06) Denver to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Best Time to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: June – August

Average time to cover highlights: 2 days

Exactly you can take an interesting road trip through some of Colorado's most varied and scenic landscapes as you travel from Denver to Black Canyon in the Gunnison National Park. Heading on US-285 southwest from Denver through scenic foothills and wide valleys, with stops along the way at charming cities like Salida, which is well-known for its vibrant arts community and historic downtown. Proceeding, you will traverse the verdant expanse of the Curecanti National Recreation Area, where you can pause to relish water sports like boating or fishing at Blue Mesa Reservoir. The scenery changes unexpectedly as you get closer to Black Canyon of the Gunnison, where you'll be met with the amazing view of the park's sheer, black cliffs plunging into the thundering Gunnison River below. When you arrive at the park, spend some time exploring the many viewpoints along South Rim Drive, hiking the striking rim trails, or, for a more challenging experience, trekking down into the canyon.

Other key attraction while road trip to Denver to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

• Gunnison - A lovely village close to Curecanti National Recreation Area and Blue Mesa Reservoir
• Montrose - The Black Canyon's entry point, complete with facilities and lodging

07) Denver to Mesa Verde National Park

Best Time to Visit Mesa Verde National Park: Early June or Late August

Average time to cover highlights: 1 day

If you are interesting about discovering the beautiful landscapes and rich cultural history of southwest Colorado, road trip from Denver to Mesa Verde National Park would be ideal. You'll drive through the old city of Pueblo on your way south on I-25 to begin your journey, then divert west towards the stunning San Juan Mountains. While traveling, think about making a stop in Durango, a quaint town where you may ride the well-known Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or explore its historic downtown. If you keep going, you'll reach Mesa Verde National Park, which is home to some of North America's best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff homes. Once you get there, the elaborate architecture of historic buildings like Cliff Palace and Balcony House will charm you with their captivating window into the way of life of the Ancestral Pueblo people. To truly appreciate the park's distinct history and breathtaking natural beauty, take advantage of the many hiking trails, scenic drives, and informational ranger-led tours available.

Other key attraction while road trip to Denver to Mesa Verde National Park

• Cortez - A convenient base with amenities and cultural attractions

08) Denver to Boulder and the Flatirons

Best Time to Boulder and the Flatirons: January – March/ June - August

Average time Climb Flatirons: 6 Hours

If you are looking for a quick travel from Denver, take an enjoyable day trip from Denver to Boulder and the Flatirons, which is just a short, beautiful 30-mile drive away and provides the ideal balance of outdoor adventure and urban charm. After driving US-36 northwest, you'll soon find Boulder, a vibrant city. Take a stroll down Pearl Street Mall to start your stay and take in the unique collection of shops, restaurants, and street entertainers. Once you've taken in the vibrant vibe of downtown, head over to the Flatirons, which are a short distance away and include impressive rock formations rising above the city. Explore Chautauqua Park to hike the many trails winding through the Flatirons, which provide amazing panoramas of Boulder and the surroundings. You will be impressed by the Flatirons' outstanding natural splendor whether you prefer a strenuous hike or a relaxing stroll.

Other key attraction while road trip to Boulder and the Flatirons

• Boulder Creek Path - A beautiful Boulder Creek walking, running, and biking path