Last Updated on June 13, 2024 by foxintheforest

Travel like a local, not a tourist with this list of weekend trips from Denver. Catering to everyone from the hardcore outdoor adventurer to the casual weekend getaway from Denver, you’ll have it all.

Seriously.

I’ve lived here for over 15 years and I write about Colorado for a living folks. Not to mention, I spent 12 years living in Denver and traveling every weekend to explore everything that Colorado and the surrounding areas have to offer.

Having personally traveled to every location on this list, multiple times, you can know that you’re getting the best list of weekend trips on the web!

Hands down.

From the unbelievable mountain views of the San Juan Range to the family-friendly streets of Breckenridge and Steamboat, there is a weekend trip from Denver for everyone.

The Best Weekend Trips from Denver within a 3-Hour Drive

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, then this lineup of places to visit within a 3-hour drive of Denver is for you.

Typically we opt to stay within 3 hours of Denver if we are going for a regular weekend and don’t have an extra day to spare. This has become more true now that we have a toddler in tow!

Local Tip: I-70 traffic is NUTS! Plan to add 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to your journey if you head westbound on Friday from 12 pm to 5 pm or Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm. Add 1 hour to your journey if you plan to head eastbound from 11:30 am to 4 pm on a Sunday.

1. Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park

Okay, so if you live in Denver I’m not positive you’re going to want to spend a weekend in RMNP and Estes, but we’ve done it a few times. Typically we will just spend the day in Rocky Mountain National Park. Or we head there for one particular thing.

But, locals might want to scope out the fall here. The crowds of summer are gone and things get a little bit quieter – especially after the leaves have turned.

If you’re visiting from out of town, then looking at Estes Park as a weekend trip is an excellent idea. For a quieter experience, you can also stay at Grand Lake or Granby, which puts you on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Another popular – yet worthy – way to spend your weekend in Estes is to explore Rocky Mountain National Park. Littered with incredible things to do, Rocky Mountain is a must-see any time of year. Don’t miss some of the other beautiful hikes in Estes Park like Sky Pond, Emerald Lake, and Gem Lake!

For a quieter experience, visit the nearby Indian Peaks Wilderness for a few fantastic views and even more beautiful trails.

Wildlife is everywhere here. Don’t miss the fall elk rut. Or go for an early morning drive along Trail Ridge Road, one of the best scenic drives near Denver to spot the ram in the high alpine – a great activity if you don’t want to hike.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: Virtually all of the hiking trail parking lots in Rocky Mountain National Park fill up before 6 am, especially on weekends (you’ll need a permit to enter Rocky).

Distance from Denver: 1.5 hours, 65 miles
Best for: Families with school-aged children, national park enthusiasts, visitors to Colorado, those who like to check off best-of lists, hikers, wildlife photographers, mountaineers, and climbers.
When to go: Late June through October.
Highlights: RMNP, Peak-to-Peak scenic byway, Indian Peaks Wilderness, Trail Ridge Road
Lowlights: BIG crowds, traffic, timed entry requirements for RMNP
Family-friendly? Yes, but if you are coming from out of town, be aware of the altitude, especially with babies!

2. Skip the Crowds at Breckenridge and Head to Frisco Instead

Frisco often gets overlooked in favor of Silverthorn and Breckenridge. However, not exploring this small town at the base of the Tenmile Range is a huge mistake.

Hot take here, but Breckenridge is COMPLETELY over-run and has not much to write home about aside from traffic and over-priced, mediocre food. Not to mention, you can easily get to Breck or Vail from Frisco, making it an ideal choice for a home base (and one that we locals prefer).

Reservoir access gives you tons of options for water-based recreation. While the bike path literally goes through town. You can road bike on paved trails all over the I-70 corridor. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top of Vail Pass (keep going – the ride down is AWESOME!)

Hikers will love the easy access to simple hikes right from their lodging. If you’re a sport climber, then rope up and climb the Royal Flush (5.9, 7 pitches) for an alpine climbing-like experience to the top of Mount Royal.

There are plenty of cool things to do for families, such as riding the bike path toward Breck and hanging out at the creek, playground, or rec center right along the path.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Distance from Denver: 1.5 hours, 69 miles
Best for: Water sports, mountain biking, road biking, hiking.
When to go: Early June through October. Ski season: best from January to mid-March.
Highlights: Lots of hiking within walking distance to town, developed bike paths, free shuttle busses that go to Breck and Vail, marina, and some campgrounds.
Lowlights: Limited lodging options, parking can be challenging, and you are very close to I70 noise.
Family-friendly? Yes!

3. Soak in the Hot Springs at Glenwood Springs

I’m always up for a quick escape to Glenwood Springs with our little family. This is a really manageable way to spend the weekend immersed in beautiful scenery with young kids. The hot springs are great and there are a few active attractions worth seeing.

You can also hop over to nearby Carbondale, one of my absolute favorite weekend getaways for a quiet escape into the mountains.

You should visit Glenwood Springs at least once. Nearby you’ll find a cool (and kid-friendly) adventure park and a gondola there’s plenty for families here.

Don’t miss the iconic Hanging Lake hike, an easy hike. It also happens to be one of the most unique hikes in Colorado. You’ll need to make a reservation for a $12 permit, but it’s worth it.

The town of Glenwood Springs offers plenty of entertainment, with lovely local eating options and a charm that welcomes you with open arms to the great Centennial State.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: Couples will also enjoy visiting Iron Mountain Hot Springs!

Distance from Denver: 2 hrs 45 mins, 157 miles
Best for: Families with babies and young kids, road trippers, first-time visitors, couples looking for a romantic getaway, and hot springs enthusiasts.
When to go: Year-round
Highlights: Lots of hot springs, easy access from I-70, different lodgings options and various prices, access to Aspen and Carbondale.
Lowlights: Can be very busy during the summer, does not have a “mountain town” feel, and you are very close to I70 noise.
Family-friendly? Yes, probably the most family-friendly location on this list!

4. Enjoy Solitude in Carbondale

I always love the time I spend in Carbondale. Honestly, if it weren’t for the need for my spouse to be near a metro area for work, we would live here.

It’s a lovely, laid-back place that has quick and easy access to nearby hot spots Aspen and Glenwood Springs. The restaurants here are really delicious and the local nature of the place provides an awesome weekend escape from Denver’s hustle and bustle. Not to mention, Mt Sopris is so pretty to look at!

Think of it as the local getaway, where many people come to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Elk Mountain Range without the pretentious mindset that you’ll find in Aspen.

The first Friday of the month features a budding art scene – where downtown Carbondale turns into a hot spot for local artists. Head up Mt Sopris or go for a gravel bike ride in the mountains to soak in the beautiful scenery.

After a long day outdoors, skinny dip in the Penny Hot Springs for a real local experience.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: Carbondale is a bit pricey compared to Glenwood Springs and traffic heading to/from Aspen can be a nightmare, so head that way early!

Distance from Denver: 3 hours, 170 miles
Best for: Hikers looking for a base to explore the Elks and Maroon Bells Wilderness, those looking for a quiet escape.
When to go: Mid-June through September.
Highlights: Great local food, bike paths, some quieter hikes, great if you want to split your time between Aspen and Glenwood Springs.
Lowlights: Expensive, not any best-of Colorado things in the immediate vicinity, can feel really sleepy if you’re looking for a lot of action.
Family-friendly? Yes

5. Ski and Relax in Steamboat Springs

Steamboat is a pretty sweet spot to spend the weekend. Most people come here for the skiing, but there is plenty to do in the summer too!

Oh ya, and there’s a ski resort that has some of the best tree skiing in the country.

As one of the few places in Colorado where you can ride on dedicated snowmobile trails, you’ll want to book a rental or tour for this classic Colorado winter activity.

During the summer be sure to check out the Zirkle Wilderness, Rabbit Ears Pass (lots of ATVing), and Fish Creek Falls!

After a day of high-adrenaline fun, hit up Strawberry Park Hot Springs for a natural soak. This is THE hot springs to visit in Colorado, so don’t miss out!

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: You will need an advanced reservation to visit Strawberry Park and they sell out quickly! It can be slick and there isn’t a lot of privacy for changing, so come prepared!

Distance from Denver: 3 hours, 156 miles
Best for: Skiiers, ATVers, snowmobilers, and some hiking, but not a ton.
When to go: Mid-June through September and January through March
Highlights: Lots to do in the village, top hot spring in Colorado, tours and rentals of ATVs/snowmobiles. Great hunting out here too.
Lowlights: Expensive, mountain scenery isn’t too dramatic
Family-friendly? Yes

Escape to These Scenic Locales 3-6 Hours from Denver

So I would personally recommend these Denver getaways if you have a long weekend, just because they are quite a drive. However, if you’re a road warrior, certainly get after it.

If you are coming from out of town, you may want to consider bundling a few of these locations for a Colorado road trip, as a quick weekend will feel like a lot of driving.

6. Telluride: Denver’s Best Weekend Getaway for Mountain Lovers

I love any opportunity I get to come to the San Juans and Telluride is a special treat! It’s one of the more expensive locales on this list, but it’s nestled in a stunning mountain valley with insane views at every turn.

We love to go 4×4 driving in and out of Telluride and stay in nearby Ouray. This is an excellent option if you have more than a weekend.

But if you want luxury accommodation and picture-perfect mountain scenes right outside of your doorstep, then this is the spot to be!

Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this charming mountain locale has everything: waterfall hikes, some of the best alpine lake hikes in Colorado, great eats, an adventurous Telluride via Ferrata, and more.

In the winter, you’ll be treated to world-class skiing at Telluride Resort and you can even hop over to Ouray for a day at the ice climbing park (no experience required).

It’s easy to spend a lifetime here indulging in Telluride’s best hikes and tackling on some of the most scenic dirt roads in the state. You’ll for sure want a vehicle with some clearance and 4WD to make the most of your stay here.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: There is only one road in and out of Telluride – making it a pain to access. If you’re only here for a weekend, it’s best to just stick to activities in the immediate vicinity to avoid a long 1-hour drive in and out of town.

Distance from Denver: 6.5 hours, 327 miles
Best for: 4×4 road drivers, skiers, luxury travelers, and hikers (most hikes are challenging due to the steep surrounding terrain).
When to go: Mid-June through September and January through March.
Highlights: Picture-perfect town, waterfalls, via Ferrata, Blue Lake hike, 4×4 roads in and out of town, great for road trips along the San Juan Scenic Byway.
Lowlights: Expensive, food isn’t great and over-priced, isolated, difficult to get around town by car.
Family-friendly? Not as much as other places on the list. Suitable for older children.

7. The Switzerland of America: Ouray

A little ways past the turnoff for Telluride you’ll find Ouray, Colorado. Dubbed “the Switzerland of America” this jaw-dropping mountain town got its start with mining. Nearby you’ll find the famous Million Dollar Highway – the most scenic drive in Colorado.

This is my all-time favorite mountain in Colorado. I can’t get enough of this place. It’s a stretch for a weekend, simply because there’s so much to do nearby. I’d recommend spending at least 3 full days here, but I included it because it’s just that stunning!

Ice Lake Basin is a world-famous hike nearby. Not to mention there are plenty of 4×4 trails, fishing opportunities, and drool-worthy vistas to keep you occupied for a weekend getaway from Denver.

The town itself boasts plenty of adorable shops and delicious eats. A must-do weekend trip from Denver for sure!

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Distance from Denver: 5.5 hours, 301 miles
Best for: 4×4 road drivers, hikers (most hikes are challenging due to the steep surrounding terrain), ice climbers, via Ferrata enthusiasts, scenic drives, great camping options
When to go: Year-round, but it’s best from mid-June through September. Winters are lovely, but the weather can close the roads.
Highlights: Beautiful town that’s easy to access, right along the famous Million Dollar Highway, lots of hiking, Ouray Adventure Park offers ice climbing and via Ferrata for free, and ATVing options.
Lowlights: Windy driving on roads without guardrails can be intimidating for the uninitiated, not a lot of beginner-friendly hikes (and trails can be crowded), best if you have a 4Runner, Jeep, or equivalent.
Family-friendly? Great for school-age kids and up. Challenging for toddlers and babies.

Local Tip: July is prime time to see the wildflowers blooming in the mountains. Coupled with dramatic views of red-capped peaks, this place is unbelievable.

8. Mountain Bike and Hike the Deserts of Fruita and Grand Junction

We visit Fruita and Grand Junction Fall through Spring multiple times a year. It helps that we have family out here, but it’s also a great place to get outside when it’s not quite warm enough in the mountains.

The feel in Grand Junction and nearby Fruita (15 minutes down the road) is more of a red rock desert. We love to come here for a quick escape into the desert without committing to southern Utah.

Fruita is a budding little hipster town on the western slope is best known for some of the best mountain biking trails in Colorado.

After you’re finished with single-track riding, check out some incredible hikes in the Colorado National Monument.

You’ll feel like you’re in Moab with these stunning sandstone canyons. Don’t forget to check out hikes like Devil’s Canyon Loop Trail just outside the park too.

Afterward, snag a slice at the Hot Tomato, an amazing pizza joint in town!

Grand Junction is a great nearby home base if you want more options for dining or you’d like to be close to the wine country in nearby Palisade. But realistically you’ll be within arms reach of all the amazing things to do at either Fruita or Grand Junction.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: If the weather looks yucky in the rest of the state, definitely give Fruita and Grand Junction a peep, you may find that you can skirt the storms!

Distance from Denver: 4 hours, 254 miles
Best for: mountain biking, wine tasting, desert scenery.
When to go: Mid-October through early May.
Highlights: Famous mountain biking trails, Palisade wine country is nearby, The Colorado National Monument (views, hikes, intrepid rock climbing, and camping)
Lowlights: It does not have any classic mountain views, realllllly hot in the summer
Family-friendly? Yes! Although it’s not as geared towards children as other places on this list (think cliffs, cacti, and you’ll need some stamina to bike!)

9. Visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison

One of my first experiences in Colorado was hiking to the bottom of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. I can’t say I recommend that for first-timers with little hiking experience (I got left at the bottom), but either way this place is impressive.

Here you’ll find sweeping views of 1,000-plus foot black granite walls. Super impressive views can be found here!

It’s often often overlooked in favor of other Colorado national parks in the state, but that’s a mistake. It’s so quiet and super beautiful here.

Now I come to climb these cliff walls (yes, you can climb here and it’s just as intense as it looks). But I always love soaking up a sunset at one of the many overlooks.

There isn’t a ton to do for the average visitor, which means a weekend is perfect here.

Camp along the rim of the national park and enjoy easy rim hikes, a challenging hike to the bottom of the canyon, or explore the rad climbs in the area.

You can also see the canyon by boat – a really unique way to grasp just how large this canyon system is.

Relax in the nearby town of Gunnison, known for its classic ranching charm. Eat at High Alpine Brewing for some post-canyon noshing.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Distance from Denver: 5 hrs, 262 miles
Best for: National Park lovers, photographers, experienced hikers or leisurely hikers, great camping.
When to go: Spring and fall. This park closes its gates in the winter. Summers are scorching.
Highlights: Unique views, unique hikes, great camping, and very difficult trad climbing.
Lowlights: Not a whole lot to do compared to other places on this list, difficult to access the North Rim of the park, not a lot of infrastructure nearby.
Family-friendly? No. You can take your kiddo here, but there are very few guardrails and not a lot of things to do for children.

Local Tip: An America the Beautiful Parks Pass gets you into all 4 of Colorado’s National Parks, and many more scenic Colorado hot spots.

10. Enjoy the Fall Colors of Crested Butte

Crested Butte is my second favorite mountain town next to Ouray.

I’ve been here a LOT over the years. There’s always something to do in Crested Butte from stunning wildflower blooms to skiing. But my personal favorite is coming to Crested Butte to check out the fall color displays.

Okay, so you can certainly visit Crested Butte year-round, but the best time to visit has to be in the fall.

Kebler Pass is the most amazing place to view the aspens. In fact, it’s got one of the largest aspen groves in the world. Did you know that each grove is a single tree? How’s that for some local know-how?

The winters are an excellent time to ski Mount Crested Butte, Colorado’s favorite local mountain. While the summer is prime time for mountain biking – a Colorado hot spot.

The town of Crested Butte is the Colorado mountain town you dream about. Uber-cute boutique shopping is everywhere and Teocalli Tamale serves up an excellent breakfast burrito.

Enjoy that post-hike hunger at the Secret Stash a pizzeria serving up unique flavors with attitude.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Distance from Denver: 4.5 hours, 228 miles
Best for: Mountain bikers, skiers, hikers (although not as dramatic as other hiking areas).
When to go: Year-round.
Highlights: Stunning wildflower displays, incredible fall colors, and great skiing
Lowlights: Gotten pricier over the years, a bit isolated, and can be very busy.
Family-friendly? Yes.

11. Pamper Yourself in Aspen

Personally, I’m not a huge fan of the town of Aspen. It’s mostly rich people from Texas with their mega-mansions. The traffic is awful, parking sucks, and everything is overpriced.

BUT, it has a few redeeming qualities. First, being seen in designerwear in the mountains might be your jam. And the restaurants are quite good here.

However, the BIGGEST reason to check out Aspen is the nearby Maroon Bells Wilderness.

I pop up for a weekend here not to enjoy the town, but to go backpacking or trail running these stunning mountains.

It is also home to one of the most iconic scenes in Colorado – the Maroon Bells Scenic Area – and it is worth checking out. But I personally only recommend coming to Aspen if you’re looking for an overpriced luxury experience OR to spend time sleeping in the backcountry.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: Permits and parking for the Maroon Bells Wilderness sell out almost immediately. Plan well in advance!

Distance from Denver: 3.5 hours, 198 miles
Best for: Photographers, hikers, backpackers, and uber-luxury travelers.
When to go: Late June through September and January through March (skiing only)
Highlights: Amazing mountain scenery, some of the best backpacking and hiking in the state, advanced 14er summits, and designer shops.
Lowlights: CROWDED with lots of traffic, difficult to plan a trip here, extremely expensive, even backcountry trips are busy.
Family-friendly? No. Older kids may enjoy backpacking.

12. Camp with the Kiddos at the Great Sand Dunes National Park

If you’re looking for the ultimate kid-friendly weekend away, look no further than the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

We’ve been camping here with our daughter, and pretty much the entire campground was families with kids. And it makes sense, who DOESN’T want to play on nature’s biggest sand castle?

Did you know that the largest sand dunes in North America are in Southern Colorado? These mega-dunes create one of the best weekend trips from Denver.

The sand bubbles up from a spring (considered sacred to many Native Americans in the area) and creates a natural masterpiece.

With backdrops of the Sangre de Cristo Range, this picture-perfect landscape is ripe with opportunities for enjoyment.

Make your reservations in advance to camp at the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Drive a 4×4 road, park at the dunes, and play in the sand, or take on a type 2 fun hike up Star Dune.

During late spring, there is a stream that traverses the dunes, making it an ideal place for kids and dogs to play.

Don’t forget to bring your camera. Sunsets from the campground are incredible. Not to mention the park is in designated Dark Sky Territory.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Local Tip: Camping in the National Park sells out almost immediately. Plan well in advance!

Distance from Denver: 3 hrs 30 min, 230 miles
Best for: Campers, families with kids, photographers
When to go: June through September
Highlights: Great campground, 4×4 driving, ATVing (not in the park but nearby), accessible sand dunes.
Lowlights: Campground reservations sell out immediately, not a lot of infrastructure around, and mosquitos can be really intense.
Family-friendly? YES! This place is very popular with families.

Weekend Getaways from Denver that Are in Other States

Getting out of Denver sometimes means crossing the state lines. I know, we live in the best state ever, but our neighbors also have a TON of cool scenes to check out.

Spring and Fall are great times to head to the desert of southern Utah. While Wyoming occasionally avoids those pesky summer storms that take up your entire weekend.

These are a few of my favorite out-of-state spots to check out in just a weekend.

13. Climb, Camp, and Hike in Laramie, Wyoming

Whenever the weather sucks over a summer weekend, I always peep the forecast in Laramie. We love to come here to climb, but there are other things on the table too. This is a great spot to look when we get a stormy weekend across the Rockies.

Known as “Laradise” by locals, this quirky, western college town has a lot on offer.

Nearby Vedauwoo is something from another planet. Hiking trails and camping are abundant (and accessible) through these huge, lumpy rock pillars. Trad climbers flock here to try their luck at the brutal off-width climbing.

After a day of exploring head to Laramie for endless food options, quirky bars, and fun shopping.

Don’t forget to go for a hike in the Medicine Bow National Forest!

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Distance from Denver: 2 hrs 15 mins, 129 miles
Best for: Climbers, BLM camping, easy forested hikes, and some mountain biking.
When to go: May through September
Highlights: Vedauwoo, Medicine Bow National Forest, not on I-70 corridor.
Lowlights: Not a ton going on here.
Family-friendly? For older kids sure, bringing a baby here was tough.

14. Visit Moab Moab: Utah’s Adventure Capital

I cannot count how many times I’ve been to Moab. It’s my go-to weekend getaway location. Now that I live about 40 minutes closer, I go even more.

I’ve been here countless times fall through spring and spent several Christmases here – Moab in winter is absolute magic if you can stomach the cold. I’ve done everything from climbing the famous Castleton Tower to hiking in Arches with my toddler.

What makes it great is that you can extend your camping season by months! The scenery here is other-worldly and there’s lots of it to uncover!

There are SO MANY things to do in Moab, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again. Here are just a few of the activities on offer:

• Rock climbing near Moab
• Hiking in Arches National Park – hello Delicate Arch!
• Mountain biking
• Checking out Moab’s most scenic drives
• Backpacking in Canyonlands
• 4×4 driving on the White Rim Road

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Distance from Denver: 5.5 hours, 355 miles
Best for: National park enthusiasts, mountain bikers, hikers, campers, climbers, 4×4 drivers, photographers, and families.
When to go: October through April
Highlights: Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, 4×4 drives, world-class mountain biking, Dead Horse Point State Park, desert scenery galore!
Lowlights: It can be very crowded. Avoid travel here during Easter Jeep Week. Advanced planning for permits and timed entry in national parks is required. Camping is highly restricted.
Family-friendly? Moab can be as family-friendly or as rugged as you want it to be. My daughter has been here plenty and I’ve been here multiple times while pregnant.

Local Tip: Avoid this place in the summer. It’s chock full of obnoxious tourists. Visit in November through March for the slowest season.

15. Go for a Swim in Lake McConaughy, Nebraska

I’ve been coming to Lake McConaughy (or Lake Mac) for the better part of a decade. My spouse’s dad lives on the lake.

This place offers up a lot of swimming, beach camping (reservation required), and a totally different vibe than anything you’ll get near Denver.

Sick of the mountains? Head east. Okay, so before you knock me for putting a flatland locale on this list, Lake McConaughy is actually pretty unique.

It’s the largest (think speed boats, jet skis, kayaks, and spearfishing) lake within a weekend trip from Denver. 

It’s huge, the water is warm (unlike the icy alpine lakes of the Rockies), and you’ll find incredible beach-front camping.

The sand here is like being on a Caribbean beach. Fishing and camping permits are available and you can pitch your tent – or, more popular – RV right on the water’s edge. 

Come for the sand, stay for the sunsets.

Quick Facts and Local Tips

Distance from Denver: 3.5 hours, 209 miles
Best for: Families, boating, camping on the beach, spending time on the water.
When to go: May through September
Highlights: Beach camping, boating activities, fishing.
Lowlights: It can be very crowded during the holidays. The nearest large town is quite far.
Family-friendly? Yes!

Additional Colorado Travel Resources

Tired of playing the tourist? Get local, real advice about how to see Colorado like a local.

• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Colorado
• The Only 4-day Road Trip Itinerary in Colorado You’ll Ever Need
• Your Guide to Camping in Colorado

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