Travel Discovery

Mountain Day Trips from Denver: Escaping to the Peaks

Destination: Denver, Colorado

    1. Rocky Mountain National Park
    2. Overview: Awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife encounters await at Rocky Mountain National Park, less than two hours from Denver. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, this park showcases the best of the Rockies' natural beauty, including the iconic Longs Peak and Trail Ridge Road, which offers panoramic views stretching as far as the eye can see. The park boasts a rating of 4.9/5 on travel platforms, making it a must-visit destination.
    3. Duration: Full Day (approx. 6 hours excluding travel)
    4. Suggested Start Time: 7:00 AM

    5. Don't Miss: Picnic by Bear Lake, spot elk herds at Horseshoe Park, and drive along the scenic Trail Ridge Road.

    6. Mount Evans Scenic Byway

    7. Overview: Ascend to new heights on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, the highest paved road in North America reaching an elevation of 14,264 feet. This drive, about an hour from Denver, rewards visitors with sweeping vistas of the Front Range, alpine tundra, and if lucky, glimpses of bighorn sheep. Rated 4.6/5, it’s an easy yet thrilling escape into the mountains.
    8. Duration: Half Day (approx. 3-4 hours)
    9. Suggested Start Time: 9:00 AM

    10. Highlight: Summit Mount Evans and explore the historic Crest House ruins.

    11. Breckenridge

    12. Overview: Step back in time in the charming Victorian town of Breckenridge, nestled among the Tenmile Range. Just under two hours from Denver, Breckenridge offers year-round activities, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and mountain biking during summer months. The town itself is a 4.8/5 rated gem, brimming with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants.
    13. Duration: Full Day (approx. 8 hours)
    14. Suggested Start Time: 8:00 AM

    15. Gourmet Delight: Sample local cuisine at one of Breckenridge’s many eateries; don't miss the chance to try some hearty Colorado fare like bison burgers or green chili.

    16. Garden of the Gods

    17. Overview: While technically not in the mountains, Garden of the Gods, located near Colorado Springs (about 1.5 hours south of Denver), is a geological wonderland not to be missed. Its towering red rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak create a striking contrast that leaves visitors in awe. Rated 4.9/5, this free-to-enter park invites exploration via walking paths and Jeep tours.
    18. Duration: Half Day (approx. 4-5 hours)
    19. Suggested Start Time: 10:00 AM
    20. Must-Do: Take the Perkins Central Garden Trail and capture the perfect photo with Kissing Camels rock formation.