THE 30 BEST Road Trips From Denver, Colorado (2024)

1.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

🚗 239 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 50 minutes

Head to Great Sand Dunes National Park, with the tallest sand dunes in North America. The unbelievable landscape is perfect for hiking and enjoying views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

2.

🚗 70 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 25 minutes

Discover the charm of Colorado Springs, found at the foot of Pikes Peak. With stunning drives and the Garden of the Gods along the way, you are in for a treat.

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3.

🚗 360 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 30 minutes

The rich culture and art scene of Santa Fe draws visitors back time and again. Explore the historic Plaza, charming stores and tasty authentic Southwestern dishes.

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4.

🚗 509 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 30 minutes

You can expect a memorable adventure to Yellowstone National Park, home to geothermal wonders, stunning landscapes and wildlife aplenty. Hike to breathtaking waterfalls, and marvel at the beauty of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

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5.

Sedona

🚗 740 miles ⏱️ 11 hours

Renowned for its red rock formations and vortex sites, in Sedona you can expect hiking trails, breathtaking sunsets, and a chance to recharge and unwind at this desert oasis.

6.

🚗 370 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 30 minutes

Experience the charm of Telluride, surrounded by stunning San Juan Mountains. With world-class skiing in winter, and scenic hikes in summer, its a must for outdoor fans. Plus it's has a historic town to explore too.

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7.

🚗 80 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 30 minutes

Breckenridge, famous for its world-class skiing, it's a must if you want to hit the slops. However whether you're hitting the slopes or strolling through town, Breckenridge offers something for everyone year-round.

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8.

Estes Park

🚗 66 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 25 minutes

Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is stunning, with plenty of scenic trails to soak up the mountain views. Don't miss the charming downtown area with its interesting stores, galleries, and restaurants.

9.

🚗 415 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 10 minutes

Explore the ancient cliff dwellings and rich history of Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn more about the Ancestral Puebloans as you hike this epic Park.

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10.

🚗 430 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 15 minutes

Experience the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park, with striking rock formations. You are likely to catch sight of bison and bighorn sheep as you take on the trails. Time with a sunset for a memorable hike.

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11.

🚗 692 miles ⏱️ 12 hours

Tick off a bucket-list visit to the Grand Canyon, one of the world's most iconic natural wonders. When you stand on the edge of the canyon it's easy to see why this site has captivated visitors for centuries.

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12.

🚗 810 miles ⏱️ 12 hours

There is nothing quite like it! Experience the vibrant energy and endless entertainment of Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world. With dazzling shows and world-class dining from morning to night, it's an unforgettable escape.

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13.

🚗 740 miles ⏱️ 11 hours

Make a visit to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks for a real adventire, where you can wander the towering red rock formations and deep canyons.

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14.

🚗 824 miles ⏱️ 13 hours

The remote wilderness of Big Bend National Park makes this a special Park to visit, where the Rio Grande carves through desert landscapes. A hidden gem to experience calmness and real escape.

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15.

Golden

🚗 15 miles ⏱️ 24 minutes

Discover the charming town of Golden. With the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, here you can explore explore historic landmarks, visit local breweries, and enjoy hiking and biking along Clear Creek.

16.

🚗 185 miles ⏱️ 4 hours

Known world-wide as the place to head for the very best skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor adventure. Aspen also enjoys charming streets lined with boutiques and art galleries, against jaw-dropping views of the Rocky Mountains.

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17.

🚗 375 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 50 minutes

Discover the historic town of Durango, within Animas River Valley. Here Old West charm meets outdoor adventure, so make sure to take a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and explore local ancient ruins.

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18.

🚗 820 miles ⏱️ 13 hours

Escape to the sunny oasis of Phoenix, with desert botanical gardens, scenic trails and a lively atmosphere and nightlife in the heart of the city.

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19.

🚗 480 miles ⏱️ 9 hours, 20 minutes

With stunning red rock formations and iconic national parks like Arches and Canyonlands, Moab is has plenty going on. And if you are a mountain bike fan, then this is the place to head for some world-class trails.

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20.

🚗 525 miles ⏱️ 8 hours

Discover the vibrant capital of Utah, Salt Lake City. Found between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountain, the historic Temple Square, world-class museums, and outdoor activities like skiing and hiking, make this a popular place to head.

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21.

🚗 520 miles ⏱️ 9 hours, 10 minutes

The rich heritage of Albuquerque, where Spanish colonial history meets modern Southwestern charm, makes this an extra special find. Explore Old Town, ride the Sandia Peak Tramway, and enjoy delicious New Mexican treats.

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22.

White Sands National Monument

🚗 564 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 40 minutes

Beautiful White Sands National Monument is hard to beat, where the gypsum dunes make for a stunning place to hike or sled down. Make sure to stay longer and enjoy the memorable sunset views.

23.

🚗 438 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 30 minutes

Explore the stunning landscapes of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks,near the charming town of Moab. The ancient rock art and hiking trails draws in those looking for a sense of history and adventure.

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24.

🚗 580 miles ⏱️ 10 hours

Iconic Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills of South Dakota is a must visit. The faces of four American presidents are carved into the granite cliffs, with the surrounding Black Hills region equally impressive to see.

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25.

Georgetown

🚗 45 miles ⏱️ 50 minutes

Charming Georgetown, Colorado, is a historic mining town located in the Rocky Mountains. Explore its quaint streets lined with Victorian architecture, visit local stores and galleries, and ride the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad.

26.

🚗 330 miles ⏱️ 6 hours

Enjoy the arts scene and rich cultural heritage of Taos, dotted with historic buildings and interesting museums, all surrounded by the impressive Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

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27.

🚗 630 miles ⏱️ 13 hours

Experience the stunning landscapes of Monument Valley, straddling the Arizona-Utah border. It gives a chance to explore the Navajo Tribal Park, where you can take a guided tour and see close-up this incredible landscape.

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28.

Steamboat Springs

🚗 156 miles ⏱️ 3 hours

Experience the charm of Steamboat Springs, a stunning mountain town renowned for its world-class skiing and hot springs. Make sure to visit the scenic Yampa River Botanic Park during your stay.

29.

🚗 98 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 35 minutes

The small village of Vail is amidst the White River National Forest, and well known as a popular skiing destination and vibrant après-ski scene. Experience outdoor adventures, gourmet restaurants, and mountain views during a visit.

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30.

🚗 700 miles ⏱️ 12 hours, 20 minutes

Embark on an adventure to Jackson Hole, a pretty valley surrounded by the stunning Teton Range. From here you can enjoy Grand Teton National Park, the iconic Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, and soak up Old West charm in the town square.

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1.

🚗 1,140 miles ⏱️ 17 hours, 50 minutes

LA, the entertainment capital of the world. Make sure to visit Hollywood Boulevard, Universal Studios, and Santa Monica Pier in the California sunshine.

2.

🚗 1,250 miles ⏱️ 21 hours

Relax in sunny San Diego, and visit Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. There is no end to the adventure you can have in America's Finest City.

3.

🚗 1,394 miles ⏱️ 21 hours, 30 minutes

Enjoy vibrant city of San Francisco, strolling across Golden Gate Bridge, and visiting lively neighborhoods like Chinatown and Mission District.

4.

🚗 1,310 miles ⏱️ 20 hours, 40 minutes

Chicago, known for its iconic architecture and world-class museums, has sites including Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Navy Pier to pay a visit.

5.

🚗 1,300 miles ⏱️ 19 hours, 30 minutes

Discover the eclectic city of Seattle, with beautiful surroundings and landmarks including Space Needle and Pike Place Market to enjoy.

6.

🚗 1,055 miles ⏱️ 17 hours, 45 minutes

Within Montana's Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park is known for its alpine scenery and crystal-clear lakes. Travel Going-to-the-Sun Road to take it all in.