Day Trips from Denver
← All Denver day tripsDay Trips from Denver: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Denver, 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 Denver
Pikes Peak Lookout on Rampart Road
Cascade, CO 80809
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Denver, 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.
Valley Viewpoint
CO 80921, USA
Just 1 hr 16 min from Denver, 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 35 min from Denver, 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 18 min from Denver, 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 9 min from Denver, 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 47 min from Denver, 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 46 min from Denver, 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.
Peak To Peak Scenic Byway
Estes Park, CO 80517
Just 1 hr 23 min from Denver, 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.
Scenic spot
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Just 1 hr 13 min from Denver, 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.
Scenic Overlook
Louisville, CO 80027
Just 27 min from Denver, 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.
Sunshine Canyon Road Viewpoint
Boulder, CO 80302
Just 59 min from Denver, 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 15 min from Denver, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Denver
What are the best scenic drives near Denver, CO?
The best scenic drives near Denver 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 Denver?
Most scenic drives near Denver 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 Denver?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Denver, 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 Denver?
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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