Hi, I'm Abigail, a Denver local who has
explored much of the state of Colorado. In this video I'm going to take you through
8 of my go-to day trips from Denver. Be sure to watch until the end as I'll
tell you about the hidden gems in one of my favorite nearby mountain towns.
After this video, click the link in the description to read our full Denver
day trips guide on TravelLemming.com. If you only have time for one
day trip from Denver, then head to Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park.
Whenever friends and family come to visit, this destination is always on the itinerary.
You'll find hiking trails of all skill levels, along with activities like horseback riding,
mountain biking, and winter snowshoeing. But even if you prefer a more sedentary
trip, there's still plenty to do. You can take photos of Colorado
wildlife like elk and pika. And, of course, grab a souvenir or two.
Also, be sure to drive the scenic routes along Trail Ridge Road and Bear Lake Corridor.
If you don't have a car, know that there are also popular group tours available.
I'll drop a link to those in the description. Boulder, Denver's hip cousin, is actually
on the way to Rocky Mountain National Park. And may make a good compliment
for a full day's adventure. But there's so much to explore in Boulder alone. Check out the craggy rock formations of the famed
Flatirons and take a drive up Flagstaff Mountain. You can also shop, dine, and watch street
performers at the Pearl Street Pedestrian Mall. Note that most destinations on this
list are best accessed with a vehicle. However, from Denver's Union Station you can take
the Flatiron Express Bus to Boulder, making this a great destination for budget travelers.
Meanwhile, a day trip to the Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge is
especially great for families. Activities at the park include
ziplining and riding an aerial gondola over the expansive canyon.
But the start attraction at this Canon City destination is the highest
suspension bridge in the United States. Supported by more than 4,000 steel cables, the
bridge hangs 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Whitewater rafting this powerful section of river
is truly one of the best experiences in the state. But it's not the #1 activity on our list.
Want to know what is? You'll have to watch our things
to do in Colorado video next. Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods
is another great day trip for the whole family, and budget travelers too, having free entry.
Several trails in the park are easy and paved, and come up close to giant
red sandstone formations. I highly recommend Perkins Central Gardens trail,
as it's one of the best hikes in the state. To my fellow adventure seekers, I encourage you
to book a Garden of the Gods rock climbing tour. No experience is necessary and, if you're curious
to learn more, there's a link in the description. The next day trip on our list is
a quick trip to that like button. Just kidding.
But in all seriousness, it's a lot of work to put these videos together,
and your support really means a lot to us. Plus, that click allows you to see similar
videos to help you plan your Colorado adventures. Next, let me tell you about Idaho Springs.
This nearby mountain town is steeped in mining history.
Fun and educational attractions include the Phoenix Gold Mine
and the Might Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel. Of course, outdoor recreation is
also abundant, with nearby skiing, ATVing, and fly fishing opportunities.
Be sure to grab a slice of Colorado style pizza at the original Beau Jo's location downtown.
And stop at Tommy Knocker Brewery next door too. Their green chili lager is a personal favorite.
The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is another attraction not far from Idaho Springs.
From town, you'll head southwest, making your way up the tallest paved road in North America.
The byway climbs to the top of Mt. Evans, one of Colorado's many 14ers.
14ers are mountains that exceed 14,000 feet in elevation and many locals
look to "peak bag" all 58 found in state. But, if you're visiting, that type
of extreme hike may not be ideal, especially if live closer to sea level.
Rather, you can climb switchbacks from the comfort of your vehicle.
Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep and mountain goats. And at the summit
enjoy panoramic views of the Front Range. If you find this video to be inspiring, you've
got to check out the Travel Lemming blog. Our guides are written by knowledgable
locals from all over the world. They're experts in their regions and provide
honest and comprehensive insights. Take advantage of this free travel
resource by visiting TravelLemming.com or simply add the word "lemming" when
searching any destination on Google. Red Rocks Amphitheatre is also
another great day trip from Denver. Located in Morrison, this world famous
venue hosts musicians of all genres. Performers local to Colorado are often
featured, like jam band String Cheese Incident and electronic jazz group Big Gigantic.
But headliner musicians from across the map are also honored to perform
at this unique outdoor space. Red Rocks also hosts events like
movie nights and Yoga on the Rocks. Even if your day trip doesn't coincide with
an event, it's absolutely worth visiting regardless of day or season.
Last but not least, Golden. Found just 30 minutes outside of Denver, this
town is most associated with Coors Brewery. Of course, their tours are fun. But there
are so many hidden gems here that few out of state visitors know about.
First, if visiting in the summer, go tubing along Clear Creek.
You can rent your tube right there along the water.
Second, take a drive up Lookout Mountain. The views are beautiful and the Buffalo Bill
Museum and grave makes for an interesting stop. And, lastly, the trails in
Golden are just incredible. Hike Mt. Galbraith, go mountain biking
on North Table, and be sure to visit Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
Remember to click the link in the description to read our full guide featuring
even more epic day trips from Denver! And remember that there is still plenty of
adventure to be had without ever even leaving Denver’s city limits. In fact, I’ll bet you
haven’t even yet checked off everything on my list of the 14 Best Things To Do In Denver. But I guess
you’ll have to watch that video next to find out!