13 Unimaginable Day Journeys From Colorado Springs (I’ve Tried Them All)

It’s change into a little bit of a ritual for me… slipping away from bed earlier than the solar, pouring espresso into my dented journey mug, and tossing my worn digital camera bag onto the passenger seat.

From my driveway in Colorado Springs, I’ve watched greater than 100 sunrises within the rearview mirror as I headed out for an additional day of exploring. And that’s the factor about day journeys from Colorado Springs — they’re not simply handy, they’re an open invitation to expertise Colorado in all its moods and colours.

After residing right here for a number of years, and returning on numerous events even earlier than I referred to as it dwelling, I’ve discovered this metropolis is a uncommon form of base. In lower than an hour’s drive, you possibly can go from strolling beneath towering crimson rock spires in Backyard of the Gods to inhaling alpine air on the summit of Pikes Peak.

Stretch that to 2 or three hours, and immediately you’re soaking in a steaming scorching spring, trekking throughout the surreal dunes of the San Luis Valley, or wandering the art-filled streets of Denver. That selection is precisely why locals and guests alike discuss concerning the greatest day journeys from Colorado Springs with the identical pleasure normally reserved for full holidays.

I’ve tried all of them — some greater than as soon as — and every comes with its personal rhythm. A winter journey to Breckenridge with recent snow underfoot feels nothing like a late-summer hike in Florissant Fossil Beds. However that’s the fantastic thing about it. Whether or not you’re chasing fall colours on a mountain cross, testing your nerve on the Royal Gorge Bridge, or wandering by means of a quiet mountain city, there’s all the time one thing new to find.

This information is the sum of years behind the wheel, with my fair proportion of unsuitable turns, climate surprises, and serendipitous finds alongside the way in which.

These aren’t locations I pulled from a brochure — they’re locations I’ve personally walked, photographed, eaten in, and infrequently gotten misplaced looking for.

So if you happen to’re prepared for insider-tested routes, actual challenges, and sincere evaluations, let’s discuss planning your personal good day journeys from Colorado Springs.

I. Tips on how to Plan Your Good Day Journey from Colorado Springs

Through the years, I’ve discovered that the distinction between a terrific day journey and a irritating one normally comes right down to preparation. Not the type that takes weeks — only a few considerate decisions earlier than you flip the ignition.

Transportation is the primary resolution. Most of my journeys have been in my very own automobile, which I like for the flexibleness. If you happen to’re visiting, renting a automobile is usually the smarter transfer, particularly if you wish to sort out mountain roads or make last-minute detours.

I’ve used compact SUVs for winter drives to ski cities and smaller sedans for summer time loops to locations like Cañon Metropolis — each labored positive, however snow tires and all-wheel drive have saved me greater than as soon as.

Timing is every little thing right here. I normally intention to go away between 6:30 and seven:00 a.m., partly to catch the comfortable morning mild, however principally to beat the inevitable weekend visitors towards Denver or the mountain passes. In summer time, the early begin helps you keep away from afternoon thunderstorms that roll in like clockwork. In winter, it’s about maximizing daylight — quick days can sneak up on you within the Rockies.

Your packing record will range by season, however I all the time carry a heat layer (sure, even in July), loads of water, and snacks I can eat on the go.

Altitude can shock guests — I’ve watched associates go from positive to lightheaded in beneath an hour — so hydration is non-negotiable. My digital camera bag comes with each journey, together with a conveyable charger and offline maps downloaded from Google Maps. If I’m climbing, I examine AllTrails forward of time for path circumstances.

One of many joys of day journeys from Colorado Springs by automobile is how dramatically the seasons form every journey. A July drive to Buena Vista would possibly imply kayaking in shorts; in October, that very same route turns right into a golden tunnel of aspens.

Funds-wise, gasoline is the primary expense, although parking charges and entry tickets (just like the $25 per automobile at Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park) add up. I’ve additionally discovered that packing a picnic not solely saves cash however allows you to get pleasure from your meal someplace scenic — like a quiet pull-off alongside the Pikes Peak Freeway.

Plan simply sufficient to be ready, however depart area for detours. A few of my favourite discoveries — a hidden path at Mueller State Park, an surprising wildlife sighting in Bighorn Sheep Canyon — occurred once I ignored my schedule for some time. In Colorado, that’s usually when the actual magic begins.

II. The 13 Unimaginable Day Journeys from Colorado Springs(with private tales)

Let’s discover 10 superb and enjoyable day journeys from Colorado Springs…

1. Backyard of the Gods (Native Gem)

It nonetheless amazes me that probably the most spectacular scenic day journeys from Colorado Springs doesn’t even require leaving the town limits. Backyard of the Gods is the form of place that feels unreal — towering crimson sandstone formations jutting out of the earth, backed by the snow-dusted peaks of the Colorado Rockies. I’ve visited no less than two dozen instances, usually once I simply want a number of hours to reset, and it by no means will get outdated.

The magic right here adjustments with the sunshine. Dawn bathes the rocks in heat golds and pinks, making it my favourite time for pictures. Sundown, alternatively, brings cooler tones and longer shadows — good if you happen to’re strolling the Perkins Central Backyard Path. Most guests persist with the primary paved loop, however I like to recommend the lesser-used Palmer Path or Siamese Twins Path for quieter views (and fewer folks in your pictures).

Better part? Entry is totally free, making this one of many simple day journeys from Colorado Springs for households, {couples}, or solo vacationers on a finances. The Backyard of the Gods Customer & Nature Middle has interactive reveals that children love, and on weekends you would possibly catch a free geology stroll with native guides.

Professional Tip: If you happen to’re visiting in summer time, arrive earlier than 8:00 a.m. to snag parking close to the primary lot — by mid-morning, it might really feel like half the town is right here. In winter, you’ll usually have trails nearly to your self, particularly after a light-weight snowfall when the crimson rock contrasts superbly towards the white.

2. Pikes Peak (America’s Mountain)

Driving up the Pikes Peak Freeway was one in every of my first day journeys from Colorado Springs by automobile, and it’s nonetheless among the many most unforgettable.

The street climbs to 14,115 ft, and each mile feels such as you’re peeling again one other layer of Colorado’s persona — from pine forests to alpine tundra to wind-swept summit. I’ve additionally taken the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway, and whereas the views are equally beautiful, there’s one thing particular about pulling over at your personal tempo to snap a photograph or watch marmots dart between the rocks.

One July afternoon, I discovered the mountain’s climate can activate you quick. A heat, sunny morning became a hailstorm close to the summit — in the course of summer time. The lesson? At all times carry layers and examine the forecast, even if you happen to suppose it’s overkill.

On the high, you’ll discover a customer heart serving the well-known high-altitude doughnuts (and sure, they actually do style totally different up right here). The sweeping views stretch throughout the Nice Plains to the east and deep into the guts of the Rocky Mountains to the west.

Finest Time to Go to: Late June by means of September is the most secure for driving, as snow usually lingers into spring and returns by early fall. However if you happen to’re up for winter journey, the Cog Railway operates year-round and affords a comfy different when the freeway is icy.

Professional Tip: Altitude can sneak up on you — I’ve seen even skilled hikers really feel lightheaded. Tempo your self, drink loads of water, and keep away from overexertion within the first hour on the summit.

3. Manitou Springs

Only a quick drive west of the town, Manitou Springs is a type of mountain cities close to Colorado Springs that feels prefer it’s been plucked out of one other period. I’ve spent numerous lazy afternoons right here, wandering previous artwork galleries, vintage retailers, and the well-known penny arcade that also has machines older than I’m.

However what makes Manitou really distinctive are its pure mineral springs. Armed with a reusable water bottle, I as soon as adopted the “spring tour,” tasting from a number of public fountains scattered by means of city. Every spring has its personal distinct taste profile — some pleasantly crisp, others barely effervescent.

Locals will let you know these waters have been wanted for hundreds of years, first by Native People and later by guests in search of their supposed therapeutic properties.

If you happen to’re after a slower-paced outing, seize a seat at one of many cafés alongside Manitou Avenue and watch the world go by. For one thing extra lively, the Manitou Incline — a steep former railway observe turned climbing problem — affords one of many hardest exercises in Colorado. I’ve executed it twice, and each instances questioned my sanity about midway up… however the panoramic views on the high make each step value it.

Finest for: {Couples} searching for a romantic stroll, households wanting a enjoyable, walkable city, or solo vacationers in search of a unusual, artistic vibe. It’s simply one of many enjoyable day journeys from Colorado Springs which you could get pleasure from year-round, although fall weekends carry a particular allure with crisp air and golden aspen leaves framing the encircling hills.

4. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

About an hour’s drive from Colorado Springs, close to Cañon Metropolis, you’ll discover probably the most dramatic sights within the state — the Royal Gorge Bridge, the tallest suspension bridge within the U.S. I nonetheless bear in mind my first stroll throughout it… the Arkansas River chopping deep by means of the gorge 956 ft under, the boards creaking ever so barely with every step. It’s not for the faint of coronary heart, however if you happen to can push previous the vertigo, the views are unbelievable.

Through the years, I’ve tried extra than simply strolling the bridge. The zipline throughout the gorge is pure adrenaline — gliding above that sheer drop with the wind dashing previous your face is unforgettable. The Royal Rush Skycoaster, alternatively, would possibly simply be the scariest factor I’ve ever willingly executed; it swings you out over the canyon in a free-fall arc that makes your abdomen drop.

If you happen to’re visiting in summer time, weekends can get crowded. I’ve discovered that arriving proper when the park opens offers you a quieter expertise and cooler temperatures for exploring. In winter, the crowds vanish, and the snow-dusted cliffs flip the scene into one thing out of a postcard.

Professional Tip: Pair your go to with a experience on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad — the prepare winds alongside the river on the base of the gorge, supplying you with a completely totally different perspective from the bridge above. It’s a type of scenic day journeys from Colorado Springs that’s simply as a lot concerning the journey because the vacation spot.

5. Cripple Creek

Nestled excessive within the mountains about an hour west of city, Cripple Creek appears like stepping straight into Colorado’s gold rush previous. My first journey right here was throughout fall, when the drive up was lined with aspens in full golden glow — actually one of many nice day journeys from Colorado Springs if you happen to love autumn colours.

The city itself is a mixture of historical past and modern-day leisure. On one hand, you could have the historic buildings, museums, and outdated mines that inform the story of one in every of Colorado’s richest gold strikes. On the opposite, there’s the on line casino scene, which brings a little bit of Las Vegas flash to the in any other case quiet streets.

I’ve discovered a stability works greatest: tour the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine within the morning (descending 1,000 ft underground is an expertise in itself), seize lunch at a neighborhood diner, after which strive your luck with a small on line casino finances within the afternoon.

For households, Cripple Creek affords seasonal occasions just like the Ice Competition in February and the Donkey Derby Days in summer time — sure, precise donkeys wander the streets, descendants of the pack animals miners as soon as used.

Professional Tip: The drive itself is half the enjoyable, particularly if you happen to take the scenic route by means of Victor. It’s much less busy, with wide-open mountain views and occasional wildlife sightings.

6. Woodland Park

Generally you don’t want a protracted haul to really feel such as you’ve escaped the town. Woodland Park is simply about 25 minutes from downtown, however it’s worlds away in environment. I’ve come right here on spontaneous afternoons once I had no huge plans — only a yearning for mountain air and a slice of pie from one of many native diners.

The city payments itself as “The City Above the Clouds” because of its 8,465-foot elevation, and you actually do really feel such as you’re perched on the sting of the Rockies right here. From Woodland Park, you possibly can simply attain climbing trails in Pike Nationwide Forest, fishing spots alongside Rampart Reservoir, or smaller hidden gems just like the Purple Rock Canyon Open Area simply down the street.

One among my private highlights was visiting the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Useful resource Middle. It’s extra partaking than you would possibly anticipate, with life-sized fossil skeletons and actual paleontologists engaged on digs and restorations. Children adore it, however I’ve gone with adults who had been simply as fascinated.

Finest for: Fast escapes, low-key climbing, and household outings. It’s one of many quick day journeys from Colorado Springs that works any season — although summer time weekends carry a energetic farmers market, and winter mornings are particularly quiet if you would like a slower tempo.

7. Denver Day Journey

A Colorado Springs to Denver day journey is one in every of my go-to choices once I’m craving big-city power with out the effort of an in a single day keep. The drive takes about 70–80 minutes relying on visitors, however I’ve discovered to keep away from weekday rush hours and intention for a mid-morning arrival.

Denver has just a little of every little thing — world-class museums, a thriving craft beer scene, and neighborhoods that every really feel like their very own small metropolis.

My “perfect day” normally begins within the RiNo (River North) Artwork District, wandering by means of colourful road murals and stopping for espresso at Crema or Huckleberry Roasters. From there, I would head to the Denver Botanic Backyard for a dose of nature in the course of the town, particularly in late spring when the tulips and roses are in full bloom.

Lunch usually means a cease at Union Station — not only for the meals, however for the environment. The historic constructing has been superbly restored, with retailers, eating places, and even a lodge. Within the afternoon, I would browse the Tattered Cowl Bookstore or head over to Meow Wolf Convergence Station for an immersive artwork expertise that’s not like anything in Colorado.

Professional Tip: Parking downtown may be costly. I’ve had good luck utilizing mild rail from a Park-n-Journey lot on the south aspect of the town, which cuts down each value and stress. For {couples}, this makes one of many extra enjoyable day journeys from Colorado Springs by automobile for {couples} — begin with city exploring, finish with a romantic dinner in LoDo earlier than heading again beneath the celebrities.

8. Cañon Metropolis

Whereas most individuals consider Cañon Metropolis as simply the gateway to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, it’s truly value a devoted go to by itself.

The primary time I got here right here, I skipped the bridge solely and centered on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad — a scenic prepare that hugs the Arkansas River because it winds by means of Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Sitting within the open-air automobile with the wind in my face and the canyon partitions rising dramatically on both aspect is one thing I’ll always remember.

In summer time, whitewater rafting on the Arkansas is a thrill for the adventurous. I joined a half-day journey that left me each exhausted and exhilarated — and deeply appreciative of my information’s ability at navigating Class IV rapids. Afterward, warming up with a espresso at one of many native cafés in downtown Cañon Metropolis was the proper approach to come again to earth.

If you happen to’re right here in winter, the city is quieter however nonetheless charming, with vintage retailers, galleries, and the seasonal mild shows alongside Important Avenue. That is a type of nice day journeys from Colorado Springs that may be as adventurous or as relaxed as you need it to be.

Professional Tip: For photographers, late afternoon mild alongside Skyline Drive (a brief, slim ridge-top street) is spectacular. Simply be ready for steep drop-offs on either side.

9. Florissant Fossil Beds Nationwide Monument

About 45 minutes northwest of the town, Florissant Fossil Beds Nationwide Monument is a spot I first visited on a whim — and ended up spending far longer than deliberate. This space is dwelling to one of many richest fossil deposits on the earth, with big petrified redwood stumps and delicate insect fossils preserved in positive shale. Standing subsequent to a fossilized tree that after towered 300 ft excessive places time into perspective in a method few locations can.

The climbing right here is light however rewarding. I just like the Petrified Forest Loop Path for its mixture of open meadows, forest, and fossil websites. In summer time, wildflowers dot the panorama, whereas autumn brings crisp air and golden mild that’s good for pictures.

It’s additionally a simple spot to pair with different points of interest — I’ve usually mixed it with lunch in Woodland Park or a brief drive to the Paint Mines Interpretive Park for a very totally different geological expertise. Households will admire the ranger-led packages, which make the science come alive for teenagers.

Professional Tip: Deliver a hat and water, even on cooler days — the open meadows provide little shade. And if you happen to’re visiting in winter, examine for path closures as a result of snow.

10. Buena Vista

Tucked into the Higher Arkansas River Valley, Buena Vista is a type of cities that feels effortlessly inviting. I first stopped right here on a street journey and ended up staying the entire afternoon, wandering by means of the small however energetic downtown and soaking within the mountain views that appear to observe you in all places.

If you happen to’re right here in summer time, whitewater rafting is virtually a ceremony of passage — this stretch of the Arkansas is understood for a number of the greatest rapids in Colorado. However Buena Vista isn’t all adrenaline. The city has a surprisingly good meals scene; I’ve had a number of the greatest craft espresso of my life at The Roastery and a memorable riverside dinner at Home Rock Kitchen.

The encompassing space can also be a playground for hikers and 4×4 fanatics. The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness has trails that vary from simple creek walks to difficult 14er summits. If you happen to’re searching for one thing extra low-key, the Cottonwood Scorching Springs simply west of city are good after a protracted day outside.

For {couples}, this spot is one in every of my favourite romantic day journeys from Colorado Springs in summer time, mixing journey and rest in a single drive.

Professional Tip: If you happen to’re heading again towards Colorado Springs within the night, time your drive so that you crest Trout Creek Go at sundown — the sunshine on the mountains is unreal.

11. Breckenridge

Breckenridge is greatest referred to as a winter ski city, however I’ve discovered it’s simply as magical in summer time and fall. The historic Important Avenue feels prefer it’s been plucked from an outdated mining postcard — colourful buildings, flower packing containers in bloom, and the hum of dwell music drifting from patios.

In winter, a day journey from Colorado Springs to Breckenridge means early departure (and a stable espresso) to profit from the slopes. Snowboarding right here is world-class, however even if you happen to’re not strapping on skis, there’s snowshoeing, fats biking, and sleigh rides by means of the snow-covered forests. In summer time, the ski runs flip into climbing and mountain biking trails, whereas the Breckenridge Gondola affords easy accessibility to alpine surroundings with out the climb.

One among my favourite experiences right here was stumbling upon the Worldwide Snow Sculpture Championships — watching artists carve huge, intricate sculptures out of compacted snow was nothing in need of mesmerizing. Breckenridge additionally hosts loads of seasonal festivals, from Oktoberfest to the Ullr Fest in winter, making it one of many extra enjoyable day journeys from Colorado Springs by automobile irrespective of the season.

Professional Tip: Parking fills up rapidly, particularly throughout occasions. I’ve had higher luck utilizing the free gondola from the satellite tv for pc tons into city.

12. Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park

The primary time I visited Nice Sand Dunes Nationwide Park, I used to be satisfied I’d landed on one other planet. Rising as much as 750 ft, the tallest dunes in North America look surreal towards the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. From Colorado Springs, it’s a few 2.5–3 hour drive — lengthy for a day journey, however completely value it.

Sandboarding and sand sledding are the large attracts right here, and belief me, it’s each bit as enjoyable (and exhausting) because it sounds. The hike up the dunes can have your calves burning, however the view from the highest — infinite waves of golden sand rolling into snow-capped peaks — is unforgettable.

In late spring and early summer time, Medano Creek flows on the base of the dunes, creating a brief seaside the place households splash round and funky off.

I’ve additionally camped right here in a single day, and the stargazing is phenomenal because of the park’s darkish sky designation. However even in a single day, you will get a style of its magic with a mixture of dune climbing, creek wading, and a scenic picnic.

Professional Tip: Deliver gaiters or plan to empty sand out of your footwear usually — it will get in all places. Additionally, the sand can get extraordinarily scorching in summer time, so intention for mornings or evenings.

Sensible Suggestions for Planning Your Colorado Springs Day Journeys

If you happen to’re something like me, half the enjoyment of a visit is within the planning… however just a little preparation could make your day journeys from Colorado Springs run an entire lot smoother. Through the years, I’ve picked up a number of methods (typically the arduous method) that may prevent from missed turns, chilly lunches, or operating out of daylight.

Finest Occasions to Go

• Summer season: Nice for high-country adventures like Buena Vista, Breckenridge, and mountain hikes. Simply anticipate extra crowds and better lodging costs if you happen to lengthen your journey in a single day.
• Fall: The altering aspens are breathtaking in September and early October — particularly round Cripple Creek and Breckenridge.
• Winter: Good for ski journeys, snowshoeing, or cozy romantic escapes. Simply examine street circumstances earlier than heading out.
• Spring: Decrease crowds, wildflowers beginning to bloom, and cooler temps for locations like Backyard of the Gods or Florissant Fossil Beds.

Tips on how to Get Round

When you can be a part of group excursions, I’ve all the time discovered the very best experiences come from self-driving. It offers you the liberty to cease at roadside cafes, take spontaneous detours, or linger at a viewpoint. If you happen to’re visiting from out of state, renting a automobile with good clearance is value it, particularly for locations like Shelf Street or rougher trailheads.

Packing Necessities

Right here’s a fast desk I want I’d had earlier than my first few journeys:

Last Ideas on Exploring Colorado Springs Day Journeys

From scenic drives close to Colorado Springs to romantic day journeys for {couples} and full-on adventures in Colorado’s wild corners, the fantastic thing about residing in — or visiting — this a part of the state is what number of worlds you possibly can discover in a single day.

Some journeys are about quiet moments… like sipping espresso whereas watching morning mild hit the Backyard of the Gods.

Others are about heart-pounding journey, whether or not you’re sandboarding at Nice Sand Dunes or tackling rapids in Buena Vista. After which there are these in-between days — the place you set out with out a lot of a plan and come upon one thing unexpectedly good.

If I needed to give only one piece of recommendation, it’s this: don’t attempt to cram too many stops into in the future. The magic of those day journeys is in letting the tempo decelerate, even when it’s only for a number of hours. You’ll be able to all the time come again… Colorado has a method of pulling you in many times.

Steadily Requested Questions