Day Trips from Boulder
← All Boulder day tripsDay Trips from Boulder: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Boulder, CO. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
11 scenic drives near Boulder
Pikes Peak Lookout on Rampart Road
Cascade, CO 80809
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Boulder, 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.
Scenic Overlook
Jefferson, CO 80456
Just 1 hr 36 min from Boulder, 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 51 min from Boulder, 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.
Mesa Overlook
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Just 1 hr 35 min from Boulder, 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.
Rainbow Curve Overlook
Estes Park, CO 80517
Just 1 hr 15 min from Boulder, 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.
Sunshine Canyon Road Viewpoint
Boulder, CO 80302
Just 23 min from Boulder, 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
Interstate 70, US-6
Just 1 hr 34 min from Boulder, rated 4.8 stars by 815 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 View, East Bound I-70
CO 80498, USA
Just 1 hr 37 min from Boulder, rated 4.7 stars by 339 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.
Rainbow Bay Pull-Off and Scenic Stop
Granby, CO 80446
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Boulder, rated 4.7 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.
Lariat Loop Scenic Byway
Morrison, CO 80465
Just 42 min from Boulder, rated 4.6 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway sign
Vail, CO 81657
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Boulder, rated 4.3 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Boulder
What are the best scenic drives near Boulder, CO?
The best scenic drives near Boulder 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 Boulder?
Most scenic drives near Boulder 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 Boulder?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Boulder, 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 Boulder?
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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