If you’re planning a trip to Denver, Colorado this fall or winter, you’ll be in perfect proximity to the mountains for some outdoor adventures all while staying in the Mile High City and experiencing all the great food and array of attractions the metropolis has to offer. Check out the Botanical Gardens, head to the Highland Neighborhood for some drinks with a view, wander the RiNo districts streets to see some incredible art, or explore the Rockies on the following day trip activities just outside of Denver.
Roxborough State Park
DISTANCE FROM DENVER: 37 miles / 49 minute drive
One cool thing about Colorado is the amount of incredible red sandstone formations that stand out against the Rocky Mountain range. If you’ve ever been to the Garden of the Gods down in Colorado Springs, you know exactly what we’re talking about. Roxborough State Park is just under an hour S/SW of downtown Denver and has some incredible sandstone formations towering over the hiking trails. This would be one to find an alternative if you have a pet, however, since dogs aren’t allowed in the park.
A Day in Boulder, Colorado
DISTANCE FROM DENVER: 29 miles / 36 minute drive
Pearl Street in downtown Boulder has something for everyone. Between incredible restaurants, a multitude of boutiques, and even some art galleries, Boulder is a great destination for an afternoon away from Denver. Pair your time on Pearl Street with a hike in the infamous Flatirons and make a day out of this trip.
BEST RESTAURANTS:
That One Restaurant On The Hill
The Buff
Snooze Eatery
The West End Tavern
River and Woods
POPULAR HIKES:
Royal Arch Trail
Chautauqua Trail
Bear Peak
Wonderland Lake Trail
Panorama Point
Cliffside Ziplining Near Denver, Colorado
DISTANCE FROM DENVER: 33 miles / 39 minute drive
If you’re someone who is looking for more of an adrenaline rush, maybe a mountaintop zipline tour would be right up your alley. AVA Rafting & Zipline has a 6-line course just west of Denver into the foothills. Soar among the treetops for an hour and even do a free fall jump if you’re feeling up for it! This course starts at $99/person before taxes and fees, and there’s truly no better way to view the fall foliage or a winter wonderland in the Colorado Rockies.
Watch this video to see what this adventure looks like in Idaho Springs, Colorado.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
DISTANCE FROM DENVER: 17 miles / 26 minute drive
Arguably one of the most popular and well-known open air amphitheaters in the country, Red Rocks is just under half an hour away from the heart of downtown Denver. This venue has been in business for over a century and not only does it host the most famous bands and artists in the world, many flock to this attraction for yoga classes, a movie, working out, or just hiking around for the day. Though there aren’t many events happening at this time, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is still a cool spot to check out.
Click this link to see upcoming events at Red Rocks!
Mt Evans Scenic Byway
DISTANCE FROM DENVER: 35 miles / 45 minute drive
The start of the Mt Evans Scenic Byway is just off of Exit 240 on I-70. The whole drive will take a few hours once you take the exit, but it’s perfect for some scenic viewing. Be sure to pack a picnic and some warm clothing. You won’t be able to summit Mount Evans at this time of year via car (unless you want to hike up there), but you can get all the way to Echo Lake Campground which is just over 10,500 feet in elevation.
Call AVA Rafting & Zipline today to book your Cliffside Zipline excursion and make the most out of your time in the Colorado Rockies!
