The Best 8 Hour Road Trips from Denver: Adventures for All Seasons
As one of the largest metropolises in the country, Denver is the perfect starting point for many incredible road trips. With year-round sunshine and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, the Mile High City offers endless opportunities for exploration.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of outdoor adventure, the magic of small towns, or the relaxation of hot springs, here are the best 8 hour road trips from Denver that promise to take your breath away:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Just two hours north of Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, magnificent landscapes, and abundant wildlife, this park is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Drive along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved highway in the country, and enjoy the scenic vistas of the Rockies. Make a stop at the Alpine Visitor Center, grab a picnic lunch, and spot bighorn sheep, elk, and moose.
Buena Vista and Salida
Located three hours southwest of Denver, Buena Vista and Salida are picturesque mountain towns that offer unbeatable outdoor adventures. Enjoy hiking or biking on the Arkansas River Trail, kayaking or rafting on the Arkansas River, or skiing at Monarch Mountain.
Make a stop at the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort, where you can soak in natural mineral pools while taking in panoramic views of the Collegiate Peaks.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
A six-hour drive from Denver, the Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of the most unique and stunning natural features in the state. The park features the tallest sand dunes in North America, as well as a variety of landscapes and wildlife.
Take a hike on the Dune Ridge Trail, sandboard down the dunes, or explore the wetlands and forests near the park. Be sure to stay late and catch the stars at night, as the park is known for its incredible stargazing opportunities.
Rifle Falls State Park
Just a three-hour drive west of Denver, Rifle Falls State Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. This park features a triple waterfall cascading over 70 feet, a limestone cave, and trails that lead to the top of the falls.
Experience the beauty of the park on a moonlit walk, or take a guided cave tour and learn about the geology and history of the area. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the natural beauty of the park.
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
A six-hour drive from Denver, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a breathtaking attraction that offers stunning views and incredible hikes. The park features deep, narrow canyons, dizzying drops, and scenic vistas that will leave you in awe.
Take a hike along the Rim Rock Trail, enjoy a picnic with a view, or take a guided stargazing tour at night. This park is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast.
Crested Butte
Located four and a half hours southwest of Denver, Crested Butte is a charming and picturesque mountain town that offers year-round activities. In the summer, enjoy hiking and mountain biking on the trails, or take a dip in the Blue Mesa Reservoir.
In the winter, hit the slopes at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, or explore the nearby cross-country skiing trails. No matter the season, Crested Butte offers an unforgettable experience.
Estes Park
A two-hour drive from Denver, Estes Park is a classic Colorado mountain town that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Visit the Stanley Hotel, the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” and take a ghost tour.
Explore the Rocky Mountain National Park, or take a scenic drive on the Peak-to-Peak Highway. Estes Park is a great destination for families or couples alike.
Conclusion
From mountain towns to national parks, Colorado offers some of the most spectacular road trips in the country. With endless possibilities and breathtaking scenery, there’s something for everyone in the Centennial State. So grab your car keys, fill up the tank, and hit the road for the adventure of a lifetime.
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