Day Trips from Aurora
← All Aurora day tripsDay Trips from Aurora: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Aurora, CO. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Aurora
Valley Viewpoint
CO 80921, USA
Just 1 hr 10 min from Aurora, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Pikes Peak Lookout on Rampart Road
Cascade, CO 80809
Just 1 hr 59 min from Aurora, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lookout Near Highway
Boulder, CO 80303
Just 38 min from Aurora, rated 4.9 stars by 266 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Jefferson, CO 80456
Just 1 hr 26 min from Aurora, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mesa Overlook
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Just 1 hr 4 min from Aurora, rated 4.9 stars by 1,454 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Lost Gulch Overlook
CO 80302, USA
Just 51 min from Aurora, rated 4.9 stars by 1,689 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rainbow Curve Overlook
Estes Park, CO 80517
Just 1 hr 50 min from Aurora, rated 4.9 stars by 1,793 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic spot
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Just 1 hr 8 min from Aurora, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Peak To Peak Scenic Byway
Estes Park, CO 80517
Just 1 hr 27 min from Aurora, rated 4.9 stars by 270 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
High Point Overlook
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Just 1 hr 11 min from Aurora, rated 4.9 stars by 1,404 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Sunshine Canyon Road Viewpoint
Boulder, CO 80302
Just 1 hr 3 min from Aurora, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
Louisville, CO 80027
Just 31 min from Aurora, rated 4.8 stars by 413 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Aurora
What are the best scenic drives near Aurora, CO?
The best scenic drives near Aurora include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Aurora?
Most scenic drives near Aurora range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Aurora?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Aurora, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Aurora?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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