Best Day Trips from Denver

Denver is the capital of Colorado and one of the most popular cities in the American West. That's why on this site you can find some of the best tours in the area.

Some of the best things to do in Denver include hiking the surrounding mountains, discovering some of the state's highest peaks, marveling at one of the world's most famous natural amphitheaters, and taking the region's rivers on an adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting experience. Here are some of the organized tours that will take you to these sites and more.

If you plan to visit Denver and want to see one of the best places around the state capital, you can't miss the Garden of the Gods. Located about two hours south of the city, this site is a public park in Colorado Springs known for its spectacular rock formations. At these experiences you can visit the characteristic red sandstone and limestone structures.

The Garden of the Gods owes its name to the appearance of these formations, which rise into the sky like natural sculptures. This place is also famous for its geological beauty, which provides an ideal setting for some of the best photographs in the region. Also, if you plan to visit Denver during the summer you will be able to contemplate some of the most beautiful sunsets in Colorado.

On the other hand, this site also offers adventure experiences, with trails to explore, which will allow you to immerse yourself in this unique landscape. In addition, during a full-day excursion, you can climb to the top of Pikes Peak, which rises more than 4,300 meters above sea level. This climb offers panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and the surrounding region, providing a challenge for hikers.

Also note that the scenery here is very changeable throughout the year, so if you plan to visit Denver in November or during the winter months you will be able to see the snow-capped peaks as one of the most beautiful images of this natural wonder.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 176 euros per person, including round-trip transfers by private transportation with hotel pick-up.
• Duration of these excursions: about 8 hours and a half.
• Advantages of these excursions: you will be able to contemplate some of the best landscapes of Colorado and also discover one of the highest points of the region.
• Disadvantages of these excursions: if you participate in these excursions during the winter some points could be closed to the public due to snow accumulation.

One of the best tours you can take from Denver is to Red Rock and Foothills, an experience that combines the natural beauty of the mountain scenery with the rich geological history of the region. There you can experience one of the world's most famous outdoor amphitheaters, which stands out for its location among red sandstone rock formations, creating a perfect natural setting for concerts and events.

The Red Rock amphitheater is also surprising for its acoustics and the panoramic views of the surrounding area that it offers from its bleachers. There you can not only enjoy some of the best local events, but also participate in Denver's most outstanding nightlife activities.

In addition to the amphitheater, during these experiences you can also visit the Foothills neighborhood, which is distinguished by its rolling hills. Here, in addition to experiencing the richness of the local flora and fauna, you will find Buffalo Bill's grave and museum, which will also connect you to Colorado culture.

On the other hand, during these excursions you can also visit the small towns along the route, which offer quaint stores, cozy restaurants and the opportunity to explore the mining history of the region, which is closely related to the Gold Rush of the 19th century.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately €82 per person, including round-trip transfers by private transport with hotel pick-up.
• Duration of these excursions: about 4 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will get to see one of Colorado's most famous natural wonders and take a cultural tour of the Foothills and surrounding towns.
• Disadvantages of these tours: as they are half-day experiences, you will not have much free time to visit the sites on your own.

Rocky Mountain National Park tours will take you to one of Colorado's most famous natural sites. This park, located approximately 1.5 hours west of Denver, is famous for its mountain peaks, alpine forests and diverse wildlife. You can also check out Trail Ridge Road, a scenic byway that winds through snow-capped peaks and valleys.

There are a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy in this park. From hiking on some of the many trails to watching elk, deer and eagles, it's a place that offers a deep connection with nature. On the other hand, the highest peaks, such as Longs Peak, offer challenging climbing and hiking routes for the most intrepid adventurers.

Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver will also allow you to learn about the geological history and diversity of ecosystems that this site is home to. Visitors can also explore educational visitor centers, learn about the formation of the mountains and marvel at the adaptation of flora and fauna to extreme high mountain conditions at one of the most popular sites in the American West.

Details of Interest

• Price: approximately €159 per person, including round-trip transfers by private transportation with hotel pick-up.
• Duration of these tours: about 8 hours.
• Advantages of these tours: you will get to know one of the most visited natural sites of the American West in a complete experience that will also allow you to discover the adventure circuits.
• Disadvantages of these excursions: due to the demands of these tours, they are not recommended for seniors or people with reduced mobility.

If you want an experience that combines the adrenaline rush of rafting with the scenic beauty of the Rocky Mountains, you can't miss a tour on the Clear Creek River. This torrid tributary has become in recent years one of the most famous rafting destinations around Denver, with rapids that vary in difficulty, including stretches suitable for beginners to sections that challenge the most experienced rafters.

These tours, therefore, will give you a unique opportunity to enjoy nature in an exciting way. As you speed down the waters of Clear Creek, you will find yourself surrounded by the surrounding mountain scenery and forests. On the other hand, expert local guides will guarantee you a safe and enjoyable experience, even if you plan to visit Denver during the winter, when the temperature of the river is often very hostile.

Note that these experiences are available for all levels and ages, so it is also an ideal alternative to enjoy with children in Denver.

Details of interest

• Price: approximately 120 euros per person, including round-trip transfers by private transportation with hotel pick-up.
• Duration of these tours: about 4 hours.
• Advantages of these excursions: you will be able to discover the natural beauty of the region on an adventurous tour.
• Disadvantages of these tours: in winter it can be a hostile experience due to Colorado's cold weather.

You can book these tours in advance online or book them once you are in the city, although if you plan to visit Denver during the summer or during the high season months, I recommend that you purchase the tours prior to your arrival in the city to ensure your place on the experiences.

On the other hand, booking in advance will allow you to organize your itinerary and get the most out of your visit, as you can combine these excursions with some of the best guided tours in Denver.

During these tours from Denver you'll immerse yourself in a variety of unique landscapes and experiences that reveal the natural richness and diversity of outdoor activities the city's surroundings have to offer. Booking a visit to Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak will take you to explore the highest rock formations in the region, such as Kissing Camels and Balanced Rock, while enjoying the geological beauty of Colorado Springs.

On the other hand, from the heights of Pikes Peak you can take in panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, which is one of Colorado's most popular sites. Meanwhile, booking an excursion to Red Rocks Park and Foothills will give you experiences that combine natural beauty, outdoor concerts and cultural tours.

If, on the other hand, you're looking for an adventurous experience, the Clear Creek rafting tour will take you down one of the region's fastest-flowing rivers while taking in panoramic views of the nearby mountains and forests.

Colorado has a very changeable climate, so if you plan to visit Denver during the winter be sure to check the weather conditions and wear appropriate clothing. The Rocky Mountains are known for their climatic variations, so it is advisable to carry a coat to cope with temperature variations. Also, don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the trails.

Also, plan your itinerary in advance to get the most out of your visit. Tours from Denver offer a variety of options, but several of them are full-day or multi-hour experiences, which may be incompatible with your trip if you plan a 3-day stay in Denver or even less. So research destinations and select activities that best align with your interests.

Finally, keep an open mind and be prepared for adventure. Excursions from Denver offer the opportunity to explore Colorado's amazing natural diversity, including monumental rock formations and rushing rivers. But these experiences also require visits to national parks that have their own rules, so I advise you to be respectful of the conditions at each location to avoid a bad time.

Taking a tour from Denver around the city could be an unforgettable experience. This destination is strategically located near some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the United States. That is why you should take advantage of this condition to visit the mountains and parks that make Colorado famous as one of the most interesting states in the country.

In addition, the excursions from the city offer a wide variety of activities for all tastes and levels of adventure. Whether you prefer the serenity of natural parks like the Garden of the Gods, the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting at Clear Creek or the cultural experience of open-air concerts at Red Rock, the offer is varied and even offers alternatives for a visit with family and children in Denver.

Denver's proximity to the Rocky Mountains also makes the city the perfect starting point for those seeking outdoor adventures. Hiking, climbing, biking and other alpine activities are within easy reach of a day trip, offering opportunities to explore untouched nature and experience the serenity of the high country in one of America's scenic epicenters.

Opting for a guided tour instead of exploring Denver's surroundings on your own will give you access to specialized knowledge. Guides are often local residents or experts in the region, so they will offer you a unique perspective on the history, culture and geology of the destinations you visit. This information adds depth to your experience, allowing you to better appreciate the sites on each itinerary.

On the other hand, comfort and logistics are also key factors when choosing a tour. The itinerary planning and coordination of activities will be in charge of the guide, freeing you from the organizational burden and allowing you to enjoy your experience to the fullest. In addition, if you decide to book a Rocky Mountain National Park tour, you will be able to access exclusive sites that you would not otherwise be able to access.

Safety is another crucial advantage of the tours. Guides are usually trained in first aid and outdoor mishaps, which ensures a safer environment, especially in activities such as hiking or rafting. In addition, in case of unexpected or unforeseen weather changes, the guide is equipped to make informed decisions to ensure the safety of the group.

Finally, social interaction is a positive aspect of guided tours. By joining a group you will have the opportunity to meet people with similar interests and share experiences. This can enrich your trip by providing additional perspectives and creating bonds with other travelers.