12 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Colorado

Summer is a magical season in Colorado. Seemingly endless hours of sunshine invite us to explore the great outdoors, whether we're hiking up the Rockies or taking an epic road trip through the plains. No matter which portion of the state you call home, you'll agree that nothing beats a good ol' fashioned day trip in the summertime. The following is a list of the best warm-weather day trips in Colorado, whether you're adventuring with family or friends. So clear your calendar -- we've got quite a list for you to tackle!

1. Santa's Workshop North Pole (Cascade)

First up on our list of the best day trips in Colorado is a place that sounds almost made-up. Whether or not you love Christmas, you are sure to love Santa's Workshop, which features more than 28 rides, restaurants and unique shows perfect for a family staycation. Learn more about why a trip to the North Pole in Colorado might be just the thing you need for an excellent summer adventure.

2. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve (Alamosa County)

Welcome to the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, a southwest Colorado treasure that is comprised of an estimated 5 billion cubic meters of sand within only 30 square miles! Sound amazing? Just wait until you experience it for yourself. It's no mystery why Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of the most popular natural wonders in Colorado.

3. Hanging Lake (Glenwood Springs)

Originally discovered by a man in search of gold (who instead found a gulch that lead to the backend of the lake), the jaw-dropping Hanging Lake is home to not only one of the most popular hikes in Colorado, but to one of the most pristine lakes in not only the state, but the entire country.

4. Skyline Drive (Canon City)

Before summer ends, you really must take a drive along the unforgettable Skyline Drive; a steep and narrow overlook that was (interestingly enough) built by inmates and offers killer 360 degree views of the surrounding countryside! Learn more about what makes Skyline Drive one of the best road trips in Colorado.

5. Brown's Canyon Adventure Park (Buena Vista)

Are you craving a little heart-pounding action this summer? You have come to the right place, as Brown's Canyon Adventure Park is a true hidden gem perfect for any adrenaline junkie with its swings, ropes, and epic canopy courses. Ready to plan your trip? Learn more about visiting Brown's Canyon Adventure Park.

6. Sage Creations Organic Farm (Palisade)

Can't you just smell the fragrant lavender through this picture? Located in Palisade, Sage Creations Organic Farm is a small family-owned farm that turns out three different species of lavender and is open to the public for both picking and classes. It's truly one of the most unique lavender farms in Colorado!

7. Eldorado Springs Swimming Pool (Eldorado Springs)

Named one of "Colorado’s best pools in and around Denver" by the Denver Post, Eldorado Springs Swimming Pool is a large outdoor pool that has been open to the public since 1905 and features warm and all-natural waters fed from an artesian spring. When it comes to family-friendly day trip destinations in Colorado, Eldorado Springs Swimming Pool definitely makes the cut.

8. Gold Run Coaster (Breckenridge)

Nestled within Breckenridge’s Peak 8 Fun Park, the Gold Run Coaster is a 2,500-foot-long alpine coaster that travels through some of the area’s best scenery. Opened year round, Gold Run Coaster is a true experience for the entire family that allows even the smallest of guests (who are at least 3 years old and 38″ tall) to feel the wind in their hair!

9. Molas Lake Park & Campground (Silverton)

Raise your hand if you're ready to camp! For a fun camping experience situated in an unforgettable setting, there is no beating Molas Lake Park & Campground, a colorful 137-acre campground that sits beside the infamously gorgeous Million Dollar Highway.

10. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Durango)

Since you're camping in the area anyway, it's time to climb aboard the exciting Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which boasts amazing views, special events like a Wine & Rails and Cowboy Poetry Train! Learn more about one of the most scenic train rides in Colorado.

11. YMCA of the Rockies’ Snow Mountain Ranch (Granby)

While we love basically everything that Snow Mountain Ranch has to offer, our favorite part of all has to be their summer tubing hill, which is not only the first of its kind in Colorado, but the third of its kind in the country! Learn more about this epic summer slide in Colorado.

12. Sunflower Field (Aurora)

Welcome to what is quite possibly one of Colorado's most beautiful fields, which is along the Eastern Plains near DIA! Every year, photographers, newly engaged couples, and outdoor enthusiasts flock to this sun-shiny field of flowers, which is accessible by taking Pena Boulevard to 56th Ave and heading 5+ miles past the E-470 exit.

Do you agree that these are some of the best summer day trips in Colorado? Which adventures would you add to the list? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you! For even more summertime fun, check out these 9 Amazing Places You Can Go On One Tank Of Gas In Colorado.