• Why is Denver a great city to explore?
    • Denver is an excellent city with a lot to offer, making it a great destination for visitors.
  • What makes Denver a prime location for mountain trips?
    • Due to its prime location right by the Rocky Mountains, Denver is an excellent gateway for all kinds of thrilling mountain day trips.
  • What are some of the best mountain day trips from Denver?
    • There are many amazing mountain trips for families and friends to enjoy direct from Denver. Read on to explore some of the best options.

Best Time for Mountain Day Trips from Denver, Colorado:

  • May to June – Snow-free trails and fresh alpine air make this ideal for hikes and wildflower spotting.
  • July to August – Summer brings perfect weather for mountain lakes, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures.
  • September to October – Crisp air and golden aspens create stunning backdrops for fall foliage drives and hikes.
  • November – Early snow dusts the peaks—perfect for quiet towns, hot springs, and cozy getaways.
  • December to April – Winter turns the mountains into a playground for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowy retreats.

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1. Mount Evans Scenic Byway


Drive to breathtaking alpine views and admire wildlife along the highest paved road.

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

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The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a little under two hours away from Denver by car. No other paved road anywhere in America has such a high elevation, and the Mount Evans Scenic Byway lets you drive all the way up to the top of Mount Evans, climbing to an extraordinary height of over 14,000 feet above sea level.

The road runs for about 14 miles and the drive is amazing, offering world class views you wouldn't find anywhere else. Plus, when you get to the top, you can enjoy a little half-mile hike to the true summit.

2. Manitou Springs


Walk along charming streets and explore mineral springs in this historic mountain town.

Manitou Springs

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A foothills town some 90 minutes away from Denver and quite closely situated to Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs is a popular mountain day trip destination for people in Denver. You'll find the Cave of the Winds Mountain Park nearby for ziplining and aerial adventures, or you can try exploring the ruins of the awe-inspiring Manitou Cliff Dwellings. You can also simply take in the mountain town itself, meeting friendly locals, exploring the various art galleries, and shopping in the city's charming boutiques.

3. Canon City Day Trip from Denver


Visit Royal Gorge and explore scenic hiking trails on a quick trip.

Canon City Day Trip from Denver

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A Home Rule Municipality in Fremont County, Canon City is over two hours away from Denver, but it's one of the top mountain destinations you can choose for a day trip. Situated in the Royal Gorge, Cañon City features the Royal Gorge Railway, a highly scenic train ride taking you through the surrounding mountains for some extraordinary views and memorable experiences. River rafting and hiking are also popular activities in this part of the state.

4. Conifer


Discover peaceful mountain trails and admire stunning pine forests in this quiet town.

Conifer

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Conifer is a small unincorporated community out in Jefferson County, not far from Denver. You can follow US-285 to get there, and the drive shouldn't take too long at all. When you arrive, you'll be able to enjoy one of the best mountain zipline experiences in the entire United States. You'll be soaring through the skies at peak heights of 8,000 feet above sea level, enjoying extraordinary views all around you and making some magical memories with your fellow travelers.

5. Bear Creek Canyon


Hike rugged trails and see cascading waterfalls surrounded by stunning rock formations.

Bear Creek Canyon

© Sean Xu/stock.adobe.com

Bear Creek Canyon, also known as the Bear Creek Canyon Scenic Mountain Drive, is only half an hour out of Downtown Denver, so it's one of the closest and most convenient mountain day trips you can do from the Colorado state capital. Part of the city's park system, this scenic mountain drive is perfect for wildlife spotting and admiring the amazing scenery of the state. You can make stops along the way to take photos or go on little hikes as well.

6. Garden of the Gods


Walk along towering red rock formations and explore scenic nature trails.

Garden of the Gods

© John Hoffman/stock.adobe.com

A National Natural Landmark since 1971, Garden of the Gods is a public park situated in the city of Colorado Springs. You'll need to drive about an hour and a half to get there, but the mountain views and unique beauty of this location definitely justify the time you'll spend in the car. There are some truly fascinating rock formations to be seen in this area, with lots of good climbing, mountain biking, and hiking routes in the local area too, along with a couple of nearby museums and all the conveniences of Colorado Springs.

7. Golden


Visit historic sites and bike on picturesque mountain trails in this charming town.

Golden

© jzehnder/stock.adobe.com

Golden is an old gold rush mining town located just west of Denver. It only takes about half an hour to get there from Downtown Denver, so it's another very convenient option for your Denver day trip needs. This city is home to some lovely hiking trails, as well as unique attractions like the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum and the Colorado Railroad Museum, offering amazing insight and glimpses into the fascinating past and mining heritage of the Denver area.

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