Colorado’s Capitol is packed with plenty of things to do, with attractions and sights for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to try Southwest staples like fry bread and chili or you’re seeing outdoor adventures, Denver has plenty to do. Locals and visitors alike are often looking to make the most of their time in Colorado by taking day trips from Denver to nearby cities and attractions.
Hiking Around Denver
Hiking is one of the biggest pastimes for people in Denver, with plenty of mountains, walks, and nature trails to enjoy. After visiting our Denver RV dealership, visit some of the area’s most popular hiking spots, including:
- Mount Evans, which includes a scenic drive that is the highest paved road in North America. It is recommended to only bring smaller vehicles on this drive, check the Colorado Department of Transportation site to learn more about driving this road.
- Mount Bierstadt, a 7.8 mile hike that is most popular from May through October with incredible views throughout.
- Lost Gulch Overlook, just past Boulder, is famous for its breathtaking vistas that provide the perfect lookout into the foothills.
- Castlewood Canyon State Park offers historical sights, wildlife sightings, and stunning landscapes.
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, which is a famous music venue built among stunning red rocks.
There are hikes to enjoy all throughout Denver and its surrounding areas, with plenty of trails for all skill levels to enjoy.
How Far are The Rockies from Denver?
The Rocky Mountains, also known as the Rockies, extend from Canada all the way down to New Mexico. Denver is situated right along the Rockies in Colorado, with a short distance to travel in order to experience the famous mountain range.
Denver is approximately 66 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park, which is around an hour and a half drive. There are many destinations in the Rockies that are even closer to Denver, including Staunton State Park.
The Best Day Trips from Denver
When you’re ready to explore even further into some of Colorado’s best adventures, we invite you to explore some of the best day trips from Denver for RVers.
Colorado Springs, 1.5 Hours South
Colorado Springs is a quick drive on the highway, making it a great day trip from Denver. Attractions include Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Manitou Cliff Dwellings, waterfalls, and museums. There are historic and cultural sights to enjoy all throughout Colorado Springs.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, 4 Hours South
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a beautiful sight by day, and at night it’s among some of the top weird roadside attractions in America. The park includes towering sand dunes and hiking trails into the varying habitats that surround the dunes. The park is also a designated dark sky destination, with impressive vistas of the night sky. There are UFO-watching themed attractions near the park that capitalize on the area’s dark skies.
Skiing in the Rockies, 1.5-5 Hour Drives
With its close proximity to the famous mountain range, Denver is a skiing paradise. There are single destinations to enjoy, ski resorts, and towns dedicated to the sport all throughout the Rockies. Best of all, these destinations are a great Denver day trip.
Some of the most popular skiing destinations near Denver include:
- Copper Mountain
- Loveland Ski Area
- Winter Park Resort
- Aspen
- Arapahoe Basin Ski Area
- Monarch Mountain
Be sure to visit our Loveland RV Dealership for cold-weather RV accessories while you’re on your way to your skiing destination!
Fort Collins, 1 Hour North
Whether you’re looking for natural sights, cultural attractions, or breweries, there’s plenty to see in Fort Collins. This Colorado destination is home to museums, trails, multiple breweries, and even a historical streetcar that visitors can ride through the area.
Eastern Plains Region, 4 Hours Southeast
When most people think of things to do in Colorado, they think of the Mile High City and the Rockies. But further east, there are equally exciting things to see. The Eastern Plains region of Colorado is home to historic sights and unique natural wonders that can only be seen in this region. Visit La Junta to see Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site and step back in time. You can step even further back in time when you visit The Picket Wire Canyon Trail. There, you will encounter the largest known dinosaur track site in North America that features over 1,400 dinosaur footprints.
RVing in Colorado
Ready to hit the road with these day trips from Denver? We invite you to explore our wide selection of RVs for sale including fifth wheels, pop-up campers, and more! Stop by today to find your dream RV to bring along for your adventures.
