20 Best Road Trips From Denver, Colorado (By A Local!) (2024)

By Abby Price. This Denver road trip guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for the best road trips from Denver, Colorado?

Then you’re in the right place!

Denver, also known as the Mile High City, is packed with things to do—from restaurants and breweries to shopping and outdoor fun.

One of the best parts about Denver is its great location. You can see the Rocky Mountains from the city, and it’s a short drive to fantastic mountain towns, cities, and cool spots out of state.

I lived in Denver for almost two years and loved exploring everything nearby. If you’re looking for some great road trips from Denver, I’ve got you covered.

Free Resources For Your Road Trip From Denver

But first, before we go over the top driving trips from Denver, I invite you to grab Jessie’s freeUltimate Travel Planning Kit— which includes 40+ travel resources— from printables to quizzes to itineraries— all meant to help you explore the world beyond the guidebook!

Some highlights of the kit include:

• Free “Where Should You Travel Next?” personality quiz
• Travel budget calculators to help you save money
• Pre-plotted Google Maps for 45+ destinations
• Printable travel journal with writing prompts
• Packing lists for different types of trips
• And more!

Once you’ve grabbed your copy, keep reading for some epic Denver road trip ideas.

Best Short Road Trips From Denver (No Overnight Needed)

Here you’ll find a great selection of road trips starting in Denver that’ll be perfect whether you’re traveling solo or with a group and want a short road trip not too far away from the city.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

Distance: about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Denver by car

You can’t talk about road trips from Denver and not mention the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park. This park is not only full of incredible mountainous landscapes but it’s also home to diverse wildlife and endless outdoor recreation opportunities.

I’ve personally explored the park and love the endless hiking trails that are suitable for a variety of different skill levels. Whether you are looking for an easy scenic trail or to conquer the backcountry on a multi-day adventure, the opportunities are endless.

And don’t forget to take a drive along the famous Trail Ridge Road, one of the most scenic roads in the United States. It’s one of my absolute favorite things to do in the park!

2. Pikes Peak

Distance: about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Denver by car

No list of the best Denver road trip ideas would be complete without Pikes Peak, one of the most famous mountains in Colorado.

Pikes Peak sits about 100 miles south of Denver and is one of Colorado’s legendary 14ers. This means that the summit sits at over 14,000 feet above sea level!

The most popular way to reach the summit is by driving, but you can also hike or bike. Just be aware that the elevation and steep incline are no joke. To help, here is a Pikes Peak trail map.

3. Colorado Springs

Distance: about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Denver by car

Another major city in Colorado is Colorado Springs, which is one of the best short road trips from Denver thanks to its fun local attractions.

It’s famous for its stunning Garden of the Gods, vibrant downtown, and proximity to popular outdoor adventure spots like Pikes Peak and the Rocky Mountains.

My favorite spot is the otherworldly Garden of the Gods, known for its towering, jagged red rock formations. It’s a fantastic place for hiking, cycling, and rock climbing.

After getting active, you can stroll around Downtown Colorado Springs, which the state has designated a Creative District. Here you can enjoy restaurants, bars, museums, performances, shopping, and lots of fun events.

4. Vail

Distance: about 1 hour and 50 minutes from Denver by car

Vail is one of the best day trips from Denver in winter, which is alsomy favorite time to visit for its world-class ski resort.

It’s one of the best in the state, known for its charming Vail Village, après-ski scene, and legendary Back Bowls—there are 7 of them containing 2,785 skiable acres in total!

However, if winter sports aren’t your thing, Vail is also fun in summer, spring, and fall. It offers countless mountain biking trails and hiking trails, as well as some of the best spas in Colorado.

Plus, exploring Vail Village is enjoyable year-round, with its excellent shops, restaurants, and top-notch accommodations.

If you’re staying overnight, I highly recommend the Sonnenalp Vail, a luxurious resort within walking distance of Vail Ski Resort that also offers lots to do on and off-site.

5. Breckenridge

Distance: about 1 hour and 50 minutes from Denver by car

When it comes to iconic mountain towns in Colorado, Vail and Breckenridge are top contenders. They’re not too far from each other either. Breckenridge, also called Breck by locals, is just 36 miles away from Vail.

But what makes Breckenridge special compared to Keystone, Vail, and other world-class resorts isn’t just its famous ski slopes but also its vibrant downtown area.

Unlike typical ski villages, Breckenridge is a complete town with shops, restaurants, bars, and homes. Its local feel makes it a favorite destination of mine all year round.

For a local tip, if winter sports aren’t your thing and you aren’t necessarily looking for road trips from Denver in winter, I recommend visiting Breck during Oktoberfest.

Breckenridge Brewery hosts this massive celebration every year, offering a fantastic way to enjoy the surroundings, take in the mountain views, and immerse yourself in the area’s culture while sipping delicious local beers.

6. Boulder

Distance: about 45 minutes from Denver by car

One of the best places to visit around Denver is Boulder—which holds a special place in my heart as I’ve visited this charming college town many times, and each visit leaves me with great memories.

I love strolling down Pearl Street and enjoying the various bars and restaurants. The University of Colorado Boulder adds a lively atmosphere to the town. And with the mountains so close, it’s an unbeatable experience.

Plus, it is one of the best kid-friendly road trips from Denver. As a new mom myself, I would highly recommend a visit to Boulder with kids because it’s close, has so much to do, and has plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating to eat al fresco with your little ones.

My personal favorite for this is at the Rayback Collective, a food truck park that also features a bar, coffee, and lawn games as well as events like live music, trivia, and comedy.

Some other things to do with kids in Boulder include going on small hikes, enjoying local parks, and visiting the Junkyard Social Club where kids can have fun in unique play spaces while the adults mingle and enjoy coffee and co*cktails.

7. Fort Collins

Distance: about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Denver by car

Fort Collins is another cool town just a short drive from Denver. It’s one of the best driving trips from Denver thanks to how easy it is to get there.

Fort Collins is known for its origins as a 19th-century military fort, live music venues, and craft beer scene. For the latter, be sure to visit Zwei Brewing Co. for German-style beers and Maxline Brewing for craft beers paired with live bands.

Even if craft beer isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to do, including visiting the CSU Annual Flower Trial Gardens, enjoying Spring Canyon Park, and exploring shops, restaurants, and galleries in Downtown Fort Collins.

There are also beautiful places to hike and enjoy nature nearby, like Horsetooth Reservoir.

If you’re interested in learning about Fort Collins’ military roots, make sure to visit the Armstrong Hotel.

While it’s gone through many changes over the years, it once housed U.S. Army barracks during World War II and is a fascinating place to learn about military history.

8. Glenwood Springs

Distance: about 2 hours and 50 minutes from Denver by car

During a road trip from Denver to Glenwood Springs, I fell in love with this vibrant city for its stunning mountain views and fantastic hot springs.

Glenwood Springs Hot Springs Resort is my favorite hot springs in the United States thanks to its views and top-notch facilities.

The area also has other local wellness options. You can get massages and treatments at sumptuous spas like Splendor Mountain Day Spa or inhale vapors and sweat out toxins at the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves.

If you’re looking to get active, you’ll find loads of hiking trails in the nearby White River National Forest.

Additionally, the town itself is charming. I recommend heading to Glenwood Canyon Brewpub for drinks and a meal during your visit.

Best Weekend Road Trips From Denver

If you’re open to a slightly longer road trip, I’ve got some epic recommendations. These are some of the best weekend trips from Denver that are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

9. Grand Junction

Distance: about 4 hours and 10 minutes from Denver by car

Being on the far west side of Colorado near Utah, I wasn’t sure what to expect from my road trip to Grand Junction; however, once we reached the Colorado National Monument, I knew I’d made the right choice.

The monument’s stunning red rock formations and mountains are breathtaking. It’s the perfect spot for camping and hiking. You can click here for Colorado National Monument trail options and maps.

Afterward, exploring the downtown area with its great restaurants and bars is a perfect way to end your trip. Devil’s Kitchen in The Hotel Maverick is one recommendation for delicious contemporary American food with a gorgeous view of the surrounding mountains.

Grand Junction is a fabulous weekend trip from Denver if you don’t want to leave the state and want to experience unique scenery.

10. Aspen

Distance: about 3 hours and 40 minutes from Denver by car

There are many fun things to do in Aspen, a top ski destination known for its fantastic resorts and amazing conditions.

It’s also famous for its luxury scene, with lavish hotels, upscale shopping, delicious dining, and frequent celebrity visits.

I recommend walking down Main Street and enjoying the local eateries and shops. I particularly love visiting Four Mountain Sports because they have great ski and snowboarding gear including jackets, helmets, gloves, and more.

For hiking in the area, the Maroon Bells—a series of bell-shaped, red-hued mountains—are a must. Opt for the 1.9-mile Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail for breathtaking views.

If you are visiting during the winter season, you can’t miss skiing at any of the four mountains: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Highlands. Each offers diverse terrain and an unforgettable experience.

I’ve skied at 10 resorts throughout Colorado, and Aspen remains one of my top picks for the views, slopes, and amenities.

Ultimately, Aspen is one of the best road trips in Colorado because of the epic mountain vistas and scenic overlooks along the way.

When embarking on the drive from Denver to Aspen, be sure to take Independence Pass, as it’s the most scenic route and has many places to pull over and enjoy the views.

However, it’s important to note that this road closes during the winter due to snowy and icy conditions. During this time, you’ll have to take Roaring Fork Valley. I’ve done both drives and either one is well worth the road trip for a memorable getaway.

11. Telluride

Distance: about 6 hours and 20 minutes from Denver by car

Telluride, a historic silver mining town, is one of my favorite spots in the United States.

What I love most about Telluride is its seclusion. Getting there takes effort, meaning you won’t encounter the crowds you might find in places like Vail, Breckenridge, Denver, or Colorado Springs.

If you’re planning a ski vacation to Colorado and want to avoid crowds, Telluride is a great pick. It features over 2,000 skiable acres, with plenty of slopes catered to all different ski and snowboarding skill levels.

While Telluride shines in winter, it’s also a fantastic year-round destination for hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and fly fishing. You can also ride the Telluride Gondola to Allred’s Restaurant for an upscale meal with stunning views from 10,551 feet!

Beyond outdoor activities, Telluride’s downtown area offers breathtaking mountain views and a charming vibe. Be sure to head to the Historic Bar Telluride in the New Sheridan Hotel, the oldest bar in town and a great local spot with Wild West-themed decor.

12. Steamboat Springs

Distance: about 3 hours from Denver by car

Steamboat Springs is another amazing mountain town and possibly the best road trip through Colorado for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

I enjoy visiting during winter for its great snow, delightful downtown, and fantastic Coloradan ski slopes.

What makes Steamboat Springs unique in winter is its relative remoteness compared to Vail or Breckenridge, resulting in fewer crowds since it’s farther from Denver.

While I particularly enjoy winter visits, Steamboat Springs is fantastic in fall, spring, and summer as well, offering hot springs, hiking, and mountain biking.

If you are looking to enjoy some local hot springs, head to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, which offers a great way to relax and take in the scenery.

13. Moab

Distance: about 5 hours and 40 minutes from Denver by car

Moab in eastern Utah, near the Colorado border, is renowned for its striking red rock formations and is home to Arches National Park, one of the most stunning and distinctive parks in the United States.

While spending a weekend exploring the park is a great idea, I also suggest taking advantage of the other outdoor activities outside the park like ATVing, hiking, camping, and much more.

When you want a break from outdoor adventures, be sure to head to the Historic Moab Main Street where you’ll find shopping, dining, and hotels.

Hungry? Visit the Moab Diner—known for its delicious green chili and taco salad followed by a banana split for dessert.

It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and a must-visit if you’re seeking one of the best weekend road trips from Denver.

Longer Road Trips From Denver

If longer road trips are on your agenda, I have some perfect spots in mind. Some of the road trips I’ve enjoyed most from Denver took me a bit farther out of state, and I can assure you that they are all worth the journey.

14. Mount Rushmore

Distance: about 6 hours from Denver by car

My family’s road trip from Denver to Mount Rushmore stands out as our favorite by far.

We embarked on this 3-day road trip from Denver over the 4th of July weekend and had an unforgettable time exploring South Dakota, camping, and enjoying the local hiking trails.

The most popular trail to see the presidential carvings is the Mountain Rushmore and Presidential Trail Loop, which is less than a mile long and the perfect short hike to take in the views.

The highlight is seeing Mount Rushmore in person. The talent of the artists is incredible, and the mountainous landscape surrounding the memorial is breathtaking.

Additionally, the surrounding towns added immensely to the experience.I recommend checking out Deadwood, a walkable town with a charming Old West vibe. The Saloon No. 10 bar will have you transported back in time thanks to the reenactments, decor, and sawdust on the floor.

15. Jackson Hole

Distance: about 8 hours and 20 minutes from Denver by car

If you are looking for the best road trip out of Denver, Jackson Hole holds a special place in my heart as it was my honeymoon spot. It’s still one of my favorite places in the US.

Jackson Hole is cozy and rustic, surrounded by beautiful mountains, and conveniently located near Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

It has a great western vibe with old-fashioned bars and restaurants. The food scene is amazing, offering everything from delicious steakhouses like Gun Barrel Steak & Game House to yummy Italian joints like Glorietta Trattoria.

Plus, there are many activities like skiing, horseback riding, hiking, and ATVing. If you are visiting during winter, head to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for their incredible ski slopes.

While there are trails for all ski levels, the resort shines for expert skiers thanks to its advanced terrain like Corbet’s Couloir, an unbelievably steep chute that’s on many bucket lists!

16. Santa Fe

Distance: about 6 hours from Denver by car

Doing a road trip from Denver to Santa Fe offers a pleasant and scenic drive. Once at your destination, Santa Fe’s charm is truly unique thanks to the city’s adobe architecture, New Mexican flair, artistic atmosphere, and incredible cuisine and drinks.

If you enjoy salsa, enchiladas, burritos, margaritas, and sangria, Santa Fe will capture your heart stomach. Don’t miss the chance to experience these specialties at the delicious La Choza Restaurant.

If you are looking to uncover the artsy side of the city, explore the exhibits at institutions like The Center for Contemporary Arts or Form & Concept.

Visiting in October is particularly special, as nearby Albuquerque hosts the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. During the event, you’ll see hundreds of colorful hot air balloons fill the sky for an unforgettable scene.

17. Sedona

Distance: about 11 hours and 40 minutes from Denver by car

If you’re looking for the best road trips from Denver by car that will immerse you in dramatic scenery and holistic opportunities, Sedona is a top pick.

This Arizona city is famous for its hiking trails among its famous red rocks and desert scenery as well as its energy vortexes—believed to be swirling centers of strong and concentrated earth energy, conducive to healing, meditation, and self-exploration.

The walkable Downtown Sedona is full of new-age shops, healing centers, and wellness spots as well as delicious restaurants and bars.

For a tasty southwestern meal, opt for Casa Sedona Restaurant, which also offers a lovely patio with outdoor seating among trees, flowers, and fountains.

18. Grand Canyon

Distance: about 11 hours and 20 minutes from Denver by car

Visit one of the top US destinations on a drive from Denver to the Grand Canyon! While it’s a longer road trip, it’s worth it thanks to the breathtaking scenery and plethora of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and camping.

While it’s a fantastic destination year-round, I suggest visiting during the shoulder season for pleasant weather that allows you to fully enjoy the outdoors.

One of the best hikes in the Grand Canyon is the 1.8-mile South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point, which takes you inside the canyon for a unique perspective.

If hiking isn’t your thing, enjoy Desert View Drive, a road trip through the Grand Canyon offering many scenic overlooks and stops along the way.

For one of the most popular viewpoints, visit Mile Marker 251 at Grandview Point. You’ll want to have your camera ready because the views are unreal.

19. Kansas City

Distance: about 9 hours from Denver by car

If you’re looking for the ultimate Denver road trip for hungry sports lovers, Kansas City is a must.

While there aren’t as many outdoor activities as the other road trips from Denver on this list, Kansas City is a fantastic destination for sports enthusiasts and barbecue lovers—especially if you visit during football season and catch a Chiefs game at Arrowhead Stadium.

And of course, don’t forget to indulge in some delicious BBQ afterward. Some of the best barbecue joints in Kansas City are Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Q39 – Midtown!

The city is also full of shopping opportunities. I recommend visiting the Crown Center which has a mix of shops, dining options, theaters, and attractions like ice skating.

Additionally, the Riverfront Heritage Trail is a 15-mile walking and biking path that starts along the riverfront and eventually takes you through some of the most historic parts of Kansas City.

20. Salt Lake City

Distance: about 8 hours and 10 minutes from Denver by car

Salt Lake City is another fantastic destination worth visiting for a longer road trip, as it’s near to mountains, boasts excellent ski resorts, and offers a vibrant downtown area with delicious restaurants and brewpubs.

As a winter sports enthusiast, I highly recommend visiting during the winter to experience resorts like Solitude, Alta, or Snowbird.

However, if you prefer visiting during the fall, spring, or summer, there are plenty of hiking trails, cycling trails, and other outdoor activities to enjoy.

If you are looking for a fun hike just outside of Salt Lake City, the 2.3-mile Lake Mary Trail takes you to Lake Mary for incredible views of the surrounding mountains and forest.

Additionally, Salt Lake City has a professional basketball team, the Utah Jazz, and a hockey team on the rise if you enjoy sports.

Tips For A Safe & Fun Road Trip From Denver

Now that we’ve gone over the best road trips from Denver, let’s discuss some important tips for your journey.

1. Check your vehicle in advance. Ensure that your tires are in prime condition, there are no warning signals on in your car, and all necessary fluids are topped up. I suggest refueling the day before your trip so that you can start your journey in the morning without having to immediately find the nearest gas station.

2. Check the weather forecast. Colorado is known for having some funky weather patterns. Whether it’s late-season snow, hailstorms, thunderstorms, or tornados, you can experience many different forecasts throughout the year in Colorado—so staying informed of weather conditions is key for a great road trip from Denver.

3. Stay hydrated. Denver and its surroundings are known for high altitudes, which can lead to dehydration. Stay healthy by drinking plenty of fluids throughout your road trip adventure.

4. Plan frequent stops. Making frequent stops at rest areas, gas stations, or restaurants not only allows you to refuel and grab a bite to eat, but also provide opportunities to stretch and walk a bit. This helps prevent your body from feeling sore and tired when you reach your final destination.

5. Be flexible with your schedule. Avoid planning activities for the day of your road trip, such as tours or restaurant reservations at a set time upon your arrival. One of the highlights of road trips from Denver is the scenic drive and you don’t want to feel rushed and miss out on enjoying it. Additionally, unexpected factors like traffic, inclement weather, or wildlife sightings can affect your schedule.

6. Make a playlist beforehand. While not a necessity, having a curated playlist ready can significantly enhance your road trip experience. It sets the mood for your adventure and saves you from constantly searching for the right song on the radio.

Final Thoughts On Enjoying A Denver Road Trip

Denver offers a mix of experiences from professional sporting events to outdoor adventures. While there is so much to do within the city, there’s even more worth exploring just a drive away.

Having lived there myself, I’ve explored some amazing road trips near and far. From the gorgeous landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park to the cool vibes of Boulder and Fort Collins, each trip brings lasting memories.

So, if you are looking to embark on one of the best road trips from Denver CO, don’t hesitate to check out any of these Colorado road trip ideas for an incredible time.

Bonus Colorado Travel Resources

21 Best Colorado Hotels With Private Hot Tubs

Notes From A Solo Midwest Road Trip From NYC To Denver

A Curative Day Trip From Denver To Hot Sulfur Springs

Conquering Colorado On A Downhill Mountain Biking Adventure In Winter Park

Best Things To Do In Denver For Solo Travelers

What best road trips from Denver would you add to this list?

About The Author

Abby Price is deeply passionate about skiing and exploring different destinations around the world. Whether she’s diving into local mountains or taking on famous slopes, her goal is to inspire others to embrace the outdoors, uncover stunning mountain landscapes, and expand their horizons through winter sports. She shares her excitement for winter activities and discovering new winter destinations on her blog, Summit Skier.