Colorado is famous for its breathtaking outdoors and adventurous activities. Whether you are living in or visiting Denver, there are a plethora of options to explore the natural beauty. The best way to experience the wilderness is through road trips, and in this article, we have listed down some of the top outdoor adventures that you can embark on to indulge in the beauty of nature:
1. Rocky Mountain National Park: Located just an hour and 30 minutes away from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts. With over 355 miles of trails, it offers some of the most spectacular views in Colorado, including waterfalls, lakes, wildlife, and the beautiful Rocky Mountain range. There are also several camping sites, picnic areas, and outdoor activities such as fishing, biking, and horseback riding.
2. Vail: A scenic drive of around two hours from Denver will take you to the charming mountain town of Vail. Apart from being a world-famous skiing destination, Vail also has plenty of outdoor activities to offer in the summer months. There are several hiking trails, including the Booth Lake trail, which takes you through stunning wildflowers and ends at a picturesque alpine lake. You can also go bike riding, rafting, or even try ziplining.
3. Estes Park: If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Estes Park is just an hour and a half away from Denver. This picturesque town offers a host of outdoor activities and scenic sights. Explore the downtown area with its quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants. You can also visit the Rocky Mountain National Park or take a walk around Lake Estes.
4. Great Sand Dunes National Park: A drive of around four hours from Denver will lead you to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. Hiking up the dunes can be challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Other activities include sandboarding, stargazing, and backcountry camping.
5. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a hidden gem located around five hours away from Denver. It boasts some of the steepest cliffs in North America, and the Gunnison River below provides ample opportunities for kayaking and fishing. You can also take a scenic drive along South Rim Road and stop at several overlooks to take in the breathtaking views.
6. Telluride: Telluride, located around six hours from Denver, is a charming little town. Surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, it offers several outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Take the scenic gondola ride to Mountain Village, where you can enjoy dining, shopping, and mountain biking.
7. Mesa Verde National Park: Mesa Verde National Park is home to some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America. Located around seven hours from Denver, the park offers guided tours of the dwellings and unique insights into the history of the indigenous people who once inhabited the region. Other activities include hiking, camping, and stargazing.
8. Grand Junction: Grand Junction is around four hours away from Denver and is known for its stunning red rock formations. The Colorado National Monument is a must-visit, with its scenic drives and hiking trails. You can also go wine tasting at one of the several local wineries or visit the Grand Mesa, which is the world’s largest flat-top mountain.
In conclusion, Colorado has a plethora of outdoor adventures to offer, and there’s no better way to experience them than through road trips. With these eight-hour road trips from Denver, you can explore the beauty of nature, indulge in adventurous activities, and create unforgettable memories.
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