Denver Day Trips: Top 5 Outdoor Adventures Near the City

Living near Denver, Colorado has so many perks, but honestly one of the biggest is that quick access to the Rocky Mountains. If you are ready to swap that city noise for nature’s calm, here are five outdoor adventures to try. Each offers a unique Colorado flavor, easily fitting into just a single day . So pack a snack, charge that camera, and get going!

1. Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

Alright, Rocky Mountain National Park just has to lead the list, very likely because it’s so close and so beautiful. So, that means that very popular trails, like the Emerald Lake Trail or the Bear Lake Loop, will certainly reward you with beautiful alpine views. That’s pretty much an understood expectation for all guests. But to escape those crowds just a bit, you know, very, very tiny bit, you may want to check out trails on the park’s west side. Actually, there is one of them right near Grand Lake. Very few travelers know how simple to access the Rocky Mountains on the west side

The drive itself, too, is something special; because you are winding along Trail Ridge Road. That will take you over 12,000 feet! Along the way, you’ll have chances for all kinds of wildlife sightings, stunning overlooks, and short hikes to keep things interesting. In some respects, I’d say don’t miss the chance to walk around the Alpine Visitor Center at the top; arguably the views are just stunning!

Oh, and by the way: reservations are typically required to enter the park during peak season, sometimes during off-season. I mean you should make sure you check the park’s website beforehand, so too it’s easy to find that reservation. In fact, just do a little pre-planning, and you will definitely get treated to one of Colorado’s outdoor treasures.

2. Soak in the Mount Princeton Hot Springs

Ok, for those seeking some relaxation, so this place is perfect: Mount Princeton Hot Springs is right there, a great choice! So after you’ve enjoyed the views from your hike through the area, it’s really awesome to let your muscles unwind. The hot springs facility boasts several pools with widely different temperatures, so that means that you can usually find the water that’s just right. Also, they have some pretty neat creekside hot spring pools. What makes them special? They are naturally heated! Plus, apparently they have a pretty awesome water slide!

Mount Princeton’s location makes it, too, really, pretty great for mixing relaxation with adventure. Just a short drive away are plenty of opportunities for some very excellent hiking, fishing, and exploring historic towns like Buena Vista. Typically, Buena Vista has so many places to stop for dinner and sightseeing on the way back.

Now that I think about it, the access might be even better: these hot springs are open year-round. Typically, this provides that warm escape even during winter months. Anyway, with that natural warm water, it’s almost a picture perfect setting for a refreshing soak any time of the year!

3. Explore Golden Gate Canyon State Park

So just looking for something closer to Denver? In that case, Golden Gate Canyon State Park will fit your needs really, very, very perfectly. Nestled just northwest of the city, this park is quite wonderful as it really offers something for everyone! So, from its extensive hiking trails that take you past old, rustic homesteads to panoramic viewpoints, to places you can picnic! Plus, Golden Gate Canyon really serves up that gorgeous Colorado scenery, as I was saying. You’ll want to photograph it!

Oh, but I really can’t forget the incredible camping facilities that are also there. That, in particular, makes it that great weekend escape option, that is if you’re looking to extend your outdoor visit just a bit longer than usual! But day-trippers will still very much find lots to enjoy, and that can include a nice relaxing afternoon by the pond!

Typically, the park can get crowded on weekends, more or less, so arriving earlier may not be a bad idea. This could mean more solitude on those trails; but anyway with so many different things that are available to do, so Golden Gate Canyon is, too, really easy to access for a fantastic day away.

4. Drive the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway

Actually, want an outdoor adventure that is really not hiking-intensive? Then arguably the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway will be it! Now that you’re up in the mountains, I suppose driving is just what you need to enjoy the scenery! So this 55-mile route winds past amazing views of the Continental Divide! All sorts of stunning mountain landscapes await; too it’s nice that the colors are bright when you get out of the car to see the local beauty.

Just so you know, the byway passes through a few awesome historic towns, actually that includes Nederland and Estes Park, I’d say! Both towns have a fun mix of mountain charm, plus with shopping and dining opportunities, what is not to love? Make sure to check it out, anyway.

Typically, this drive is just incredible during the fall when those aspen leaves start changing! I mean arguably, there’s almost nothing quite like it! Plan to take your time; I would, anyway, as this is the drive to take to truly appreciate the awesome Colorado outdoors.

5. Discover Red Rocks Amphitheatre (and the surrounding trails)

Oh but you did you realize Red Rocks wasn’t only for concerts? Apparently during the day, the park transforms to become this surprisingly awesome outdoor space, that many would agree! So, Red Rocks Amphitheater might be one of those awesome outdoor destinations that, in a way, is worth checking out near Denver. In fact, arguably it is even cooler that there is even that added bonus: the chance to catch a concert with the backdrop of gorgeous rock formations.

Speaking of those trails, there are several that wind around the amphitheater! Also, you might enjoy scenic hikes with seriously awesome views of Denver; in that case make it happen. The Trading Post Trail is also very short, yet that can loop right through those red rock formations, like I said, if that’s the kind of scenic loop you’re trying to see. Typically, it is worth taking advantage of the stairs and doing some very vigorous exercise. Who knows how long these scenic views will remain?!

Typically, Red Rocks is, too, a great place to visit even when there isn’t a show going on. Anyway, just walking around, arguably it is going to allow you to soak in the unique atmosphere and landscape that makes this spot that cool. Take this advice today. Trust me.