The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Colorado

There are so many scenic day drives in Colorado that it's impossible to ever feel bored! Even when you think you've done it all, you can rest assured something new will catch your eye and drag you into the wonderland that is the Centennial State. Embark on one of the best day trips in Colorado to enjoy some time spent in the mountains, cities, and towns that make our state the absolute best in the nation. Whether you're looking for the best day trips in Colorado, "day trips near me," or even some great day trips from Denver, Colorado, you'll find something amazing on this list.

1. San Juan Mountain Blue Lakes

If you have never seen these magnificent pools of blue before, you’re not alone; the lakes can only be accessed via an 11-mile hike (round trip) through the rough and bumpy mountains. However, if you are up for the walk, the end goal is well worth it. (Are you seeing these pristine, turquoise waters?)

2. Royal Gorge Bridge (Canon City)

Built in 1929, the 1,260 foot long, 18 foot wide bridge was built within a six month period as an intended tourist attraction. This 1,292 planked wonder can hold numerous pedestrians at a time and is truly a Colorado rite-of-passage that must be experienced once.

3. Strawberry Park Hot Springs (Steamboat Springs)

Located just outside of the popular Steamboat Springs, Strawberry Park features several stream-fed soaking pools that vary in temperature from 101 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit. No matter the time of year, you are guaranteed a relaxing and well-deserved break at this incredible resort!

4. Chimney Rock National Monument (Archuleta County)

Located in the scenic San Juan National Forest, Chimney Rock is a massive 4,726-acre national monument that features not only the beautiful colors you would come to expect from the San Juans, but also Ancestral Puebloan sites from some odd 1,000 years ago. (Please note: Since the area is highly protected, it is only accessible via guided tours.)

5. Denver Botanic Gardens (Denver)

Quite possibly the most tranquil spot (with the most recognizable garden) in the Mile High City, the Botanic Gardens are home to 24 acres of flourishing gardens, special events, and concerts. (P.S. If you think they look spectacular in the spring, wait until you see them all lit up at Christmas!)

6. Old Town Museum (Burlington)

Situated near the Colorado/Kansas border lies the small town of Burlington, which boasts such family-friendly activities as their turn-of-the century Old Town (complete with 21 fully restored buildings, working soda fountain, shops, and can-can dancers) and stunning Philadelphia Toboggan Company Carousel #6.

7. St. Elmo

One of Colorado's most famous and well-preserved mining towns is that of St. Elmo: a now ghost town that continues to intrigue and excite anyone who visits. During the 1890s, St. Elmo was seemingly unstoppable, continually welcoming new families to the area as well as an array of (once) thriving businesses. Sadly, as quickly as the town grew, it diminished, even losing its post office in the early 1950s.

8. Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs)

With its winding, scenic and unforgettable trails, the Garden of the Gods may just have the best hike in the entire state. Offering both short beginner (like the Perkins Central Garden Trail, which features a short, 1 1/2 mile trek through the heart of the formations) and moderate hikes (the Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Trail runs 3-miles around the main park and contains uneven, rocky paths), there is truly something for everyone at this Colorado gem.

9. Colorado Gators Reptile Park (Mosca)

Check out the wide variety of both reptiles (including, of course, alligators, tortoises, snakes, iguanas, and much more) and birds at this remarkable sanctuary! You'll feel like you're on safari, and can have up-close encounters with these misunderstood little dinosaurs.

10. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (Colorado Springs)

Coming in at #6 on USA Today’s 10 Best Zoos competition (2017), Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a multi-award winning zoo that allows guests the opportunity to see (and feed) exotic animals via their African Rift Valley, Aquatics, and Rocky Mountain Wild exhibits. In addition to "just" the animals, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo also houses a number of other various attractions like carousel rides, the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun, Mountaineer Sky Ride, and numerous classes and special events.

11. Palisade

No matter your interest, you are sure to find it here in this Western Slope town! Do you crave fresh produce and exciting farmer's markets? Palisade's got it. Locally produced wines? Sip, sip, hooray; this is Colorado wine country, baby! Hiking with a jaw-dropping view? Let's just say that you haven't seen ANYTHING until you have seen the view from the Mount Garfield Trail!

What did you think of these scenic day drives in Colorado? Who will you be taking with you on your epic day trip? Let them know by tagging them in the comments! For more of the best places to spend a day here in Colorado, read about these 12 unforgettable Colorado day trips and mark your calendar for a year of adventures!