Day Trips from Fort Collins
← All Fort Collins day tripsDay Trips from Fort Collins: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Fort Collins, 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 Fort Collins
Rainbow Curve Overlook
Estes Park, CO 80517
Just 1 hr 24 min from Fort Collins, 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 Overlook
Jefferson, CO 80456
Just 2 hrs 9 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Trail Ridge Road: Rocky Mountain National Park Scenic Byway
Grand Lake, CO 80447
Just 2 hrs 57 min from Fort Collins, rated 4.9 stars by 101 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 1 hr 17 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Peak To Peak Scenic Byway
Estes Park, CO 80517
Just 1 hr 2 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Lookout Near Highway
Boulder, CO 80303
Just 1 hr 5 min from Fort Collins, 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
Louisville, CO 80027
Just 57 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Scenic
Interstate 70, US-6
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Sunshine Canyon Road Viewpoint
Boulder, CO 80302
Just 1 hr 23 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Rainbow Bay Pull-Off and Scenic Stop
Granby, CO 80446
Just 2 hrs 45 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Scenic View, East Bound I-70
CO 80498, USA
Just 2 hrs 9 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Lariat Loop Scenic Byway
Morrison, CO 80465
Just 1 hr 14 min from Fort Collins, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Fort Collins
What are the best scenic drives near Fort Collins, CO?
The best scenic drives near Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins?
Most scenic drives near Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Fort Collins, 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 Fort Collins?
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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