Explore for Miles via the Mile High City

Estes Park by Matt Koffel

An Unforgettable Denver Road Trip

Words by Jerod Morales & Ashley Bowling

From breathtaking mountain peaks to brilliant meadows, the Rocky Mountain state has it all.

Airports to Check Flight Deals: DEN, COS
Good Deal Alert: $40-130 for a round trip flight from AUS

When nature is calling, there is no better place to be than colorful Colorado. From the sweeping meadows and mountain peaks to the rushing rivers and towering trees, experience all the reasons the Rocky Mountain state inspired “America the Beautiful.”

Photo courtesy of RiNo Art District

After touching down in Denver, make the short drive to River North Art District. This is no run-of-the-mill art gallery, but the RiNo art scene is a place where old warehouses and factories are now vibrant walls and open air walkways to display fine art lined with smooth jazz clubs, coffee shops, and trailblazing restaurants.  

Stop at Denver Central Market for a bite from one of the many vendors peddling satiating dishes from Tammens Fish Market, or sample Tin Cup Whiskey ice cream with Pistachio Brittle from High Point Creamery. 

Garden of the Gods by Misael Moreno

From the Mile High City, head south toward Colorado Springs to Pike’s Peak. Take some time in the foothills to hike among the dramatic boulders at Garden of the Gods National Landmark. Entrance is free, and hiking among these geological formations feels like walking on an alien planet. Drive or train to the top of Pike’s Peak for gorgeous panoramic views from “America’s Mountain.” As the trip goes deeper into the Rockies heading toward Independence Pass, the highest paved road in the country, this stretch of highway along the Continental Divide serves up expansive views of the surrounding alpine tundra.

Glenwood Springs by Nathan Anderson

Keep trekking west all the way to Glenwood Springs, home of the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. Soak in the restorative waters, then head toward Hanging Lake Trail. This hike leads to the edge of Glenwood Canyon and a charming turquoise lake where the air feels fresh and breathing is easy. For more heart-pumping fun, let loose at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, with a cavern tour or feel the rush of mountain air at 7,000 feet on their alpine coaster.  

The next notable stop is more of a passage. Trail Ridge Road is considered one of the most beautiful drives in North America for good reason. Traversing the Continental Divide, this stretch of highway reaches heights of over 12,000 feet with views of glaciers, bighorn sheep, and brilliant wildflowers. Magnificent vistas from one of the many pull-offs provide the opportunity to soak in the spirit of the Rockies.

Elk at Rocky Mountain National Park by Vincent Ledvina

Trail Ridge Road ends at Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Accommodations in Estes Park range from The Stanley Hotel (famous setting for “The Shining”) to the YMCA of the Rockies.  Start the morning with a warm cuppa at Kind Coffee before heading out for a hike. Once inside the park, take Emerald Lake Trail to Dream Lake. This crisp alpine lake provides opportunity to spot herds of elk grazing or a rainbow trout swimming in the clear waters.

Turning south toward the city of Boulder is a hiker’s dream. Hike like a local by trekking along Royal Arch Trail, beginning at Chautauqua Park. At the end of the trail, pass under the arch, pause, and wonder at how a sandstone arch could be formed 20 feet in the air. As the day ends, stop at Wild Provisions Beer to sample local craft brews and grab a bite at the food trucks onsite. 

Colorado is an unending playground for outdoor enthusiasts with its breathtaking trails, stone mountain vistas, crystalline alpine lakes, and rushing rivers. A flourishing art scene and creative craft brews are also pervasive throughout the state. This road trip will leave you pining for the next trip to colorful Colorado.