Day trips from Estes Park, CO
From Estes Park, Colorado
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Estes Park is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and historic sites in Colorado. With a plethora of day trip opportunities within a 200-mile radius, you can explore everything from dramatic national parks and scenic byways to charming mountain towns and cultural attractions. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors, a taste of local history, or a culinary journey, these diverse destinations offer something for every traveler.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Just a stone's throw from Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park boasts over 300 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks. Don't miss the iconic Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved through-road in the United States, offering stunning views of the alpine tundra. Wildlife spotting is also a highlight, with opportunities to see elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and even black bears.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Trail Ridge Road
- ✓Emerald Lake Trail
- ✓Bear Lake
- ✓Wildlife spotting
Available Tours (10)
Private Jeep Tour to Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver
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Private Rocky Mountain National Park Tour
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Rocky Mountain National Park Tour
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Rocky Mountain National Park Full Day Tour
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Afternoon Rocky Mountain National Park Tour
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Hike Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
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Rocky Mountain National Park Private 6 Hour Tour
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Rocky Mountain National Park Private 4 Hour Tour
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Nature/Birding Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
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Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park
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2. Garden of the Gods
Located in Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods is a geological marvel featuring dramatic red rock formations and scenic hiking trails. The park's unique landscape offers a variety of activities, from leisurely walks to challenging climbs. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the park's visitor center, which houses exhibits on the area's geology, history, and cultural heritage. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a hot air balloon ride over the park.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Scenic hiking trails
- ✓Visitor center
- ✓Hot air balloon rides
- ✓Geological formations
Available Tours (10)
Foothills, History, and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour
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Colorado Springs - Pikes Peak Tour, Garden of the Gods with the Airforce Academy
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Garden of the Gods: Private ½ Day
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Garden of the Gods: Private Full Day
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Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour
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Private Tour of Pike's Peak & Garden of the Gods
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Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods Tour
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Pike's Peak and Garden of the Gods
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Garden of the Gods Segway Tour
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Seven Falls and Garden of the Gods
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3. Durango and the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway
Step back in time with a historic steam train journey aboard the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway. This scenic route winds through the San Juan Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. In Durango, explore the charming downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby San Juan National Forest offers a wealth of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway
- ✓Downtown Durango
- ✓San Juan National Forest
- ✓Historic sites
4. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
The iconic twin peaks of the Maroon Bells are a sight to behold, reflected perfectly in the glacial lake below. Located near Aspen, this area offers a variety of hiking trails and alpine beauty that is unparalleled. The Maroon Bells are often referred to as the most photographed peaks in North America, and it's easy to see why. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual nature lover, the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is a must-visit destination.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Maroon Bells
- ✓Hiking trails
- ✓Alpine scenery
- ✓Photography opportunities
5. Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway
Formerly known as the Mount Evans Byway, the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is a high-altitude road that leads to the summit of Mount Blue Sky. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to stop at various overlooks and hiking trails. The summit of Mount Blue Sky is the highest paved road in North America, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Scenic drive
- ✓Mountain views
- ✓Overlooks and hiking trails
- ✓High-altitude experience
6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a geological wonder, featuring steep and narrow canyons that offer dramatic cliffs and scenic overlooks. This park is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. The park's visitor center provides information on the area's geology, history, and cultural heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the park's various trails, which range from easy to challenging.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Scenic overlooks
- ✓Hiking trails
- ✓Visitor center
- ✓Geological formations
7. Colorado National Monument
Located near Fruita, the Colorado National Monument is a spectacular landscape of red rock canyons and monoliths. The park offers a variety of activities, from hiking and scenic drives to rock climbing and mountain biking. The park's visitor center provides information on the area's geology, history, and cultural heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the park's various trails, which range from easy to challenging.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Scenic drives
- ✓Hiking trails
- ✓Rock climbing
- ✓Mountain biking
8. Vail and Nearby Mountain Towns
Vail is famous for its world-class skiing, luxury resorts, and charming alpine towns. Even in the summer, Vail offers a wealth of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to golfing and shopping. The nearby towns of Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, and Keystone also offer a variety of attractions and experiences. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the area's many restaurants, bars, and cultural events.
What to See & Do:
- ✓World-class skiing
- ✓Luxury resorts
- ✓Hiking and mountain biking
- ✓Cultural events
9. Mountain Biking Trails near Fruita
Fruita is a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts, with a variety of trails that range from easy to challenging. The area's desert terrain offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the area's many trails, which are suitable for all skill levels. The nearby Colorado National Monument also offers a variety of activities, from hiking and scenic drives to rock climbing and mountain biking.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Mountain biking trails
- ✓Desert terrain
- ✓Scenic views
- ✓Colorado National Monument
10. Breckenridge
Breckenridge is a charming mountain town that offers a variety of attractions and experiences. The town is famous for its world-class skiing, luxury resorts, and historic downtown area. Even in the summer, Breckenridge offers a wealth of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to golfing and shopping. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the area's many restaurants, bars, and cultural events.
What to See & Do:
- ✓World-class skiing
- ✓Luxury resorts
- ✓Historic downtown
- ✓Cultural events
Available Tours (9)
Ski Shuttle to Breckenridge
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Oxygen Rental • Breckenridge
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Denver to Copper, Breckenridge and Keystone
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Breckenridge
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Mountain Tour Summit County & Breckenridge
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Digiscope Telescope Rental
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Build-a-Buddy Kits
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Snowshoe Rentals
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Celebration Amenity
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11. Keystone
Keystone is a charming mountain town that offers a variety of attractions and experiences. The town is famous for its world-class skiing, luxury resorts, and historic downtown area. Even in the summer, Keystone offers a wealth of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to golfing and shopping. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the area's many restaurants, bars, and cultural events.
What to See & Do:
- ✓World-class skiing
- ✓Luxury resorts
- ✓Historic downtown
- ✓Cultural events
Available Tours (8)
24' Keystone Hideout Bunkhouse Travel Trailer With Slideout
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Keystone Resort
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Oxygen Rental • Keystone
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24' Keystone Springdale Bunkhouse
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24' Keystone Hideout Bunkhouse Travel Trailer
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Ski Shuttle to Keystone and Arapahoe Basin
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Keystone Canyon Rafting
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12. Beaver Creek
Beaver Creek is a charming mountain town that offers a variety of attractions and experiences. The town is famous for its world-class skiing, luxury resorts, and historic downtown area. Even in the summer, Beaver Creek offers a wealth of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to golfing and shopping. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the area's many restaurants, bars, and cultural events.
What to See & Do:
- ✓World-class skiing
- ✓Luxury resorts
- ✓Historic downtown
- ✓Cultural events
Available Tours (4)
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