5 Easy Day Trips You Can Take From Denver, My Favorite Included

If you ask me, one of the best things about living in Denver is that there are so many amazing things to do not only in the city, but just outside the city as well.

I've lived in Denver since 2013, and on dozens of occasions each year, I opt to take a spontaneous day trip to other parts of the state. I can quickly drive up into the mountains, explore an area all day, and return at night with plenty of time left in the evening. There's so much to see and do in the great state of Colorado, and I'm thankful for it all! Read more to learn about five of my top recommendations for day trips departing from The Mile High City.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park

I've been to national parks all over this vast nation of ours, and one of my very favorites—Rocky Mountain National Park—is only a little over an hour from my house. This vast national park is full of mountains, alpine lakes, creeks, wildlife, trees, wildflowers, and spectacular hiking trails. Whether you enter through Estes Park or Granby, you're sure to be blown away by the beauty you see all around you in this park.

Of course, you'll need to make advance reservations to enter during the park's busier months, so be sure to plan ahead. Trail Ridge Road, the highest contiguous road in North America, is one of the best scenic drives I've ever experienced, and I make an effort to drive at least once each summer. I feel so fortunate to live close enough to this amazing park to do that!

2. Garden of the Gods and Colorado Springs

Whenever someone who has never visited The Centennial State before visits me here in Colorado, I make a point to take them to the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. The drive there from Denver is easy—it's along I-25 the whole way, but it's still quite scenic—and it's only a little over an hour to the south.

Garden of the Gods is spectacularly beautiful and unique, and anyone and everyone will be impressed by the red rock formations found there. Afterward, we venture into Colorado Springs for lunch or dinner; the city's Old Colorado City neighborhood is an excellent representation of Colorado of old. You and your companions will love this quick and easy day trip to the south.

3. Leadville

If you'd like to explore an authentic Colorado mountain town, then Leadville is the place to go and be! Leadville is one of my favorite small towns in the state, and I visit it whenever I can. It's a little under 2 hours from Denver, but the drive on I-70 to get there will take you deep into the Rocky Mountains, and you'll feel like the drive went by in a flash.

Upon arrival, you can enjoy strolling Leadville's historic streets, visiting the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum, riding on the Leadville Railroad, or hiking on the local trails. Leadville is pleasant, easy, and welcoming; you'll love learning about it during your visit.

4. Boreas Pass and Breckenridge

If you ask me, one of the best scenic mountain passes in Colorado is Boreas Pass near Breckenridge. I try to drive over this mountain pass at least once or twice yearly. It's closed in the winter but passable by passenger cars during the warmer months. You might find it a bit bumpy in places, but the adventure and views are well worth it. At its highest point, you'll be at 11,481 feet!

I recommend that you start from the town of Como off Route 285 so that you'll end up at Breckenridge on the other side. That way, you can treat yourself to a meal at any one of Breckenridge's fantastic restaurants after you've worked up an appetite, and before you head back to Denver along I-70.

5. Bishop Castle

If you're hoping to visit something unique on your day trip from Denver, head south to Rye and Bishop Castle. This incredible structure was built by one man over his entire life, and it's free to visit and explore. You'll be amazed by this incredible castle and all of its interesting nooks and crannies. You can climb to the very top—if you dare—and you'll marvel at all the details you view along the way.

Don't miss Bishop Castle. I went for the first time last year after contemplating a visit for over a decade, and it far exceeded my high expectations. I can't wait to go back. It's about 2.5 hours from Denver, but trust me—it's worth it.

If you haven't been to one or all of these, what are you waiting for? Pick one, gas up the car, and plan your trip—the beauty and glory of Colorado await you.