Jake Cain is an entrepreneur and writer from Cincinnati, Ohio. He spends his free time driving around the country in his late 90’s conversion van, affectionately known as the “Monster Van” with his wife and 3 boys.
Colorado Springs is a true nature’s paradise thanks to its Alpine surroundings which are home to a plethora of hiking trails. Which is why the city has grown into day trips from colorado springs.
Visitors can explore the nationally renowned museums, universities, and a rapidly developing restaurant scene while in Colorado Springs.
Plus, the city makes for a great jumping point from where you can take numerous day trips around the state. Let us explore the best day trips from Colorado Springs.
Garden of the Gods, Colorado
As the name suggests, Garden of the Gods is a spectacular park spread out over 1,300 acres where you will find majestically towering sandstone formations, spires, and stacks dotted throughout this diverse pocket of landscapes.
The garden has a combination of grassland, woodland, and alpine mountain forest which makes for one of the most fascinating places to visit.
Visitors can explore the plethora of winding hiking trails that are there between impressive sandstone formations. You can either explore on foot, on a horse, or if you are feeling more adventurous, by an open-air jeep for an authentic off-road experience.
- Distance: 12 minutes
- Ideal for: Nature lovers
Royal Gorge, Colorado
Located just an hour away from Colorado Springs, Royal Gorge is a spectacular canyon crossed by the Arkansas River. The canyon is most known for its suspension bridge, which is one of the highest in the United States.
Needless to say, it is not for people who experience vertigo. But if you are adventurous, then this surely is an exciting adventure.
Visitors come to Royal Gorge to cross the suspension bridge, all while enjoying an adrenaline-packed experience and 360 degrees of breathtaking views.
If you are an adventure enthusiast, then Royal Gorge is the place to be. Here you can zip-line, do aerial gondolas, Royal Rush Skycoaster, and much more.
- Distance: 1 hour and 12 minutes
- Ideal for: Adrenaline junkies
Woodland Park, Colorado
Woodland park makes for an accessible one day trip from Colorado Springs. It is a 20-minute drive away from the city and the journey takes you up northwest where you go through some of the most pristine alpine Colorado landscapes in the entire state.
The elevation in the road means that you will be surrounded by pearl white, snow-covered scenery, which makes the drive between attractions even more enchanting.
Woodland Park offers accommodations, dining, and entertainment options and if you arrive here in summer there will be a plethora of outdoor concerts and events.
Visit here for fresh mountain air, clear-blue skies, and unspoiled wilderness.
- Distance: 28 minutes
- Ideal for: Family getaway
Paint Mines Interpretive Park, Colorado
Paint Mines makes for a surreal landscape and for a great day trip from Colorado Springs. Located near Pikes Peak, Paint Mines Interpretive Park this park is a 45-minute drive southwest from Colorado Springs.
Paint Mines is spread out over 750 acres and the brightly colored rocks make for great scenery. These multi-colored rocks that range from purple to beige and yellow and were even used for local ceramics in the early days.
There are many hiking trails and other wonders to be found here. In addition to that, it even holds evidence of human life from 9,000 years ago.
- Distance: 47 minutes
- Ideal for: Scenic beauty
Pikes Peak, Colorado
Located just around half an hour away from Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak makes for a great day trip. It is the highest peak in the Southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.
The region has plenty to offer besides mountain sports and adventure and is an excellent choice for a family getaway. Visitors can try out thrilling zip lines, scenic train rides, local breweries, and family-friendly attractions.
- Distance: 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts
Phantom Canyon, Colorado
Located in the Pikes Peak region, Phantom Canyon makes for a great drive from Colorado Springs. The Phantom Canyon Road connects the towns of Florence and Victor and is a scenic roadway.
Enjoy Colorado’s backcountry roads and the striking curves. The spectacular roads and views will make the drive unforgettable.
Once you are in Phantom Canyon, then you can explore the majestic canyon walls, check out Adelaide Bridge, or take Phantom Canyon Road further and look for the ghost towns of Glenbrook, Wilbur, and Adelaide.
- Distance: 2 minutes
- Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts
The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, Colorado
Located just 40 minutes away from Colorado Springs, The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center make for a great day trip from the springs. You will most likely experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get an up-close look at wolves, foxes, and coyotes.
The non-profit animal protection sanctuary is located in Divide and is the place that many wolves and other animals call home.
- Distance: 40 minutes
- Ideal for: Animal lovers
Eldorado Canyon State Park, Colorado
The beautiful Eldorado Canyon State Park is unimaginably beautiful thanks to the mixture of pine forests, golden-beige canyon walls, and smaller river that drains into the Colorado River.
Located in Eldorado Springs, the park is spread out on almost 900 acres (360 hectares) of land.
The park attracts a lot of outdoor sports aficionados, as it is the perfect place for hiking and rock climbing.
There are over 500 routes up the sheer canyon face which makes for an exciting climb. The hiking trails are truly beautiful as well, as you will be rewarded with panoramic views from the summits of the various trails.
- Distance: 1 hour and 49 minutes
- Ideal for: Animal lovers
Idaho Springs, Colorado
This small town of Idaho has a dwindling population but a day trip here makes for a great getaway. This is the town where gold was first discovered in Colorado back in 1859.
The city has been home to several mines, some of which you can visit today as well. Visit the main street which is very well preserved. After walking around the neighborhood you can stop off at Beau Jo’s Pizza for some of the best Colorado-style pizza in the state.
- Distance: 1 hour and 41 minutes
- Ideal for: Family getaway
Georgetown, Colorado
The historic city of Georgetown has a small population of 1000 people, and an irresistible small-town charm that sees crowds of people arriving each weekend to sightsee.
A two-hour drive from Colorado Springs, Georgetown boasts a variety of shops and places to eat. Explore the museums in the city and enjoy Mexican-American cuisine.
- Distance: 1 hour and 55 minutes
- Ideal for: Family getaway
Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, Colorado
An easy drive from Colorado Springs, the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area is a popular destination with outdoor lovers. The rugged beauty is worth looking at and the windswept peaks, snowy, forested tundra make for a great day trip from cities like Denver as well.
One of the most highly recommended routes is the Lake Isabelle and Pawnee Pass trail that provides access to three beautiful lakes.
- Distance: 1 hour and 33 minutes
- Ideal for: Outdoor lovers
Estes Park, Colorado
Estes Park is a prime destination for people who are looking for some adventure. surrounded by almost every kind of outdoor activity imaginable, this city makes for a great day trip.
Visitors can explore all kinds of adventurous activities like waterfall hikes and stand-up paddleboarding to snowshoe trails.
If that doesn’t interest you, then there is a commercial side to the town as well, with over 300 shops packed into the fairly small urban area.
Colorado Springs has a lot of natural wonders around the park which you can explore. From Phantom Canyon to Royal Gorge, there is lots to explore.
9 Day Trips From Virginia Beach Full of Rich History
Discover the top day trips from Virginia Beach that offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. From exploring the historical sites of Colonial Williamsburg to witnessing the wild ponies on Chincoteague and Assateague Islands, this article has something for everyone. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of Virginia’s gems!
16 Aesthetic Beach View Day Trips From Santa Barbara
If you’re planning a trip to Santa Barbara, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From hiking in the Los Padres National Forest to relaxing on the beaches of Avila Beach, you’ll enjoy this list of the best day trips from Santa Barbara. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a film buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips.
10 Day Trips From Gainesville
If you’re planning a trip to Gainesville, Florida, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From the historic city of St. Augustine to the beautiful beaches of Daytona and Cedar Key, we’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from Gainesville. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of Florida’s gems!
Best 16 Day Trip Spots From Myrtle Beach
If you’re planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, don’t miss out on exploring the nearby destinations that offer something for everyone. From the charming fishing town of Murrells Inlet to the historic city of Charleston, this article has compiled a list of the best day trips from Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re a beach lover or a history buff, there’s something for everyone on this list of exciting day trips. So, plan your mini-vacation now and explore the best of South Carolina’s gems!