5 Best Road Trips from Denver to Explore the Rockies
Looking for a memorable road trip that explores the beautiful landscapes of the Rockies? Denver is the perfect starting point as it sits at the foot of the Rockies and offers easy access to some of the most scenic routes in the region. Here are the five best road trips from Denver that you must explore.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
One of the most popular road trips that starts from Denver is the drive to Rocky Mountain National Park. The park offers stunning views of the mountains, wildlife, and hiking trails. The Trail Ridge Road, also known as the ‘Highway to the Sky,’ is a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of the park. The road offers breathtaking views of the mountains, alpine tundra, and wildlife.
2. Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Drive from Denver to the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, and you’ll find yourself at the highest paved road in North America. The road takes you to the summit of Mount Evans, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Rockies. Along the way, there are numerous pullouts to stop and admire the views.
3. The Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway is a scenic byway that runs through the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. The road takes you from the old mining town of Silverton to the ski-resort town of Ouray. The route offers spectacular views of the mountains and valleys, along with some steep cliffs and hairpin turns. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the views are worth it.
4. Mesa Verde National Park
If you are looking for a more historical road trip, head to Mesa Verde National Park. The park is home to some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the world. The drive to the park takes you through the southwest corner of Colorado, past the San Juan Mountains. The drive offers incredible views of the mountains, mesas, and canyons.
5. Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak is one of the most iconic mountains in Colorado and offers a scenic drive to its summit. The road takes you through the historic town of Manitou Springs, past the Garden of the Gods, and up the mountain. The views from the top are breathtaking and offer a 360-degree view of the surrounding area.
Conclusion
From dramatic mountain peaks to stunning desert landscapes, these five road trips from Denver offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for nature, history, or adventure, these scenic drives are the perfect way to explore the Rockies. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car and hit the road!
