13 Incredible Day Trips from Colorado Springs (I’ve Tried Them All)

It’s become a bit of a ritual for me… slipping out of bed before the sun, pouring coffee into my dented travel mug, and tossing my worn camera bag onto the passenger seat.

From my driveway in Colorado Springs, I’ve watched more than a hundred sunrises in the rearview mirror as I headed out for another day of exploring. And that’s the thing about day trips from Colorado Springs — they’re not just convenient, they’re an open invitation to experience Colorado in all its moods and colors.

After living here for several years, and returning on countless occasions even before I called it home, I’ve learned this city is a rare kind of base. In less than an hour’s drive, you can go from walking under towering red rock spires in Garden of the Gods to breathing in alpine air at the summit of Pikes Peak.

Stretch that to two or three hours, and suddenly you’re soaking in a steaming hot spring, trekking across the surreal dunes of the San Luis Valley, or wandering the art-filled streets of Denver. That variety is exactly why locals and visitors alike talk about the best day trips from Colorado Springs with the same excitement usually reserved for full vacations.

I’ve tried them all — some more than once — and each comes with its own rhythm. A winter trip to Breckenridge with fresh snow underfoot feels nothing like a late-summer hike in Florissant Fossil Beds. But that’s the beauty of it. Whether you’re chasing fall colors on a mountain pass, testing your nerve on the Royal Gorge Bridge, or wandering through a quiet mountain town, there’s always something new to discover.

This guide is the sum of years behind the wheel, with my fair share of wrong turns, weather surprises, and serendipitous finds along the way.

These aren’t destinations I pulled from a brochure — they’re places I’ve personally walked, photographed, eaten in, and occasionally gotten lost trying to find.

So if you’re ready for insider-tested routes, real challenges, and honest reviews, let’s talk about planning your own perfect day trips from Colorado Springs.

I. How to Plan Your Perfect Day Trip from Colorado Springs

Over the years, I’ve learned that the difference between a great day trip and a frustrating one usually comes down to preparation. Not the kind that takes weeks — just a few thoughtful choices before you turn the ignition.

Transportation is the first decision. Most of my trips have been in my own car, which I love for the flexibility. If you’re visiting, renting a vehicle is often the smarter move, especially if you want to tackle mountain roads or make last-minute detours.

I’ve used compact SUVs for winter drives to ski towns and smaller sedans for summer loops to places like Cañon City — both worked fine, but snow tires and all-wheel drive have saved me more than once.

Timing is everything here. I usually aim to leave between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m., partly to catch the soft morning light, but mostly to beat the inevitable weekend traffic toward Denver or the mountain passes. In summer, the early start helps you avoid afternoon thunderstorms that roll in like clockwork. In winter, it’s about maximizing daylight hours — short days can sneak up on you in the Rockies.

Your packing list will vary by season, but I always bring a warm layer (yes, even in July), plenty of water, and snacks I can eat on the go.

Altitude can surprise visitors — I’ve watched friends go from fine to lightheaded in under an hour — so hydration is non-negotiable. My camera bag comes with every trip, along with a portable charger and offline maps downloaded from Google Maps. If I’m hiking, I check AllTrails ahead of time for trail conditions.

One of the joys of day trips from Colorado Springs by car is how dramatically the seasons shape each journey. A July drive to Buena Vista might mean kayaking in shorts; in October, that same route turns into a golden tunnel of aspens.

Budget-wise, fuel is the main expense, though parking fees and entry tickets (like the $25 per car at Great Sand Dunes National Park) add up. I’ve also found that packing a picnic not only saves money but lets you enjoy your meal somewhere scenic — like a quiet pull-off along the Pikes Peak Highway.

Plan just enough to be prepared, but leave space for detours. Some of my favorite discoveries — a hidden trail at Mueller State Park, an unexpected wildlife sighting in Bighorn Sheep Canyon — happened when I ignored my schedule for a while. In Colorado, that’s often when the real magic begins.

II. The 13 Incredible Day Trips from Colorado Springs(with personal stories)

Let’s explore 10 amazing and fun day trips from Colorado Springs…

1. Garden of the Gods (Local Gem)

It still amazes me that one of the most spectacular scenic day trips from Colorado Springs doesn’t even require leaving the city limits. Garden of the Gods is the kind of place that feels unreal — towering red sandstone formations jutting out of the earth, backed by the snow-dusted peaks of the Colorado Rockies. I’ve visited at least two dozen times, often when I just need a few hours to reset, and it never gets old.

The magic here changes with the light. Sunrise bathes the rocks in warm golds and pinks, making it my favorite time for photography. Sunset, on the other hand, brings cooler tones and longer shadows — perfect if you’re walking the Perkins Central Garden Trail. Most visitors stick to the main paved loop, but I recommend the lesser-used Palmer Trail or Siamese Twins Trail for quieter views (and fewer people in your photos).

Best part? Entry is completely free, making this one of the easy day trips from Colorado Springs for families, couples, or solo travelers on a budget. The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center has interactive exhibits that kids love, and on weekends you might catch a free geology walk with local guides.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in summer, arrive before 8:00 a.m. to snag parking near the main lot — by mid-morning, it can feel like half the city is here. In winter, you’ll often have trails almost to yourself, especially after a light snowfall when the red rock contrasts beautifully against the white.

2. Pikes Peak (America’s Mountain)

Driving up the Pikes Peak Highway was one of my first day trips from Colorado Springs by car, and it’s still among the most unforgettable.

The road climbs to 14,115 feet, and every mile feels like you’re peeling back another layer of Colorado’s personality — from pine forests to alpine tundra to wind-swept summit. I’ve also taken the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway, and while the views are equally stunning, there’s something special about pulling over at your own pace to snap a photo or watch marmots dart between the rocks.

One July afternoon, I learned the mountain’s weather can turn on you fast. A warm, sunny morning turned into a hailstorm near the summit — in the middle of summer. The lesson? Always bring layers and check the forecast, even if you think it’s overkill.

At the top, you’ll find a visitor center serving the famous high-altitude doughnuts (and yes, they really do taste different up here). The sweeping views stretch across the Great Plains to the east and deep into the heart of the Rocky Mountains to the west.

Best Time to Visit: Late June through September is the safest for driving, as snow often lingers into spring and returns by early fall. But if you’re up for winter adventure, the Cog Railway operates year-round and offers a cozy alternative when the highway is icy.

Pro Tip: Altitude can sneak up on you — I’ve seen even experienced hikers feel lightheaded. Pace yourself, drink plenty of water, and avoid overexertion in the first hour at the summit.

3. Manitou Springs

Just a short drive west of the city, Manitou Springs is one of those mountain towns near Colorado Springs that feels like it’s been plucked out of another era. I’ve spent countless lazy afternoons here, wandering past art galleries, antique shops, and the famous penny arcade that still has machines older than I am.

But what makes Manitou truly unique are its natural mineral springs. Armed with a reusable water bottle, I once followed the “spring tour,” tasting from several public fountains scattered through town. Each spring has its own distinct flavor profile — some pleasantly crisp, others slightly effervescent.

Locals will tell you these waters have been sought after for centuries, first by Native Americans and later by visitors seeking their supposed healing properties.

If you’re after a slower-paced outing, grab a seat at one of the cafés along Manitou Avenue and watch the world go by. For something more active, the Manitou Incline — a steep former railway track turned hiking challenge — offers one of the toughest workouts in Colorado. I’ve done it twice, and both times questioned my sanity about halfway up… but the panoramic views at the top make every step worth it.

Best for: Couples looking for a romantic stroll, families wanting a fun, walkable town, or solo travelers seeking a quirky, creative vibe. It’s easily one of the fun day trips from Colorado Springs that you can enjoy year-round, though fall weekends bring a special charm with crisp air and golden aspen leaves framing the surrounding hills.

4. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

About an hour’s drive from Colorado Springs, near Cañon City, you’ll find one of the most dramatic sights in the state — the Royal Gorge Bridge, the tallest suspension bridge in the U.S. I still remember my first walk across it… the Arkansas River cutting deep through the gorge 956 feet below, the boards creaking ever so slightly with each step. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you can push past the vertigo, the views are incredible.

Over the years, I’ve tried more than just walking the bridge. The zipline across the gorge is pure adrenaline — gliding above that sheer drop with the wind rushing past your face is unforgettable. The Royal Rush Skycoaster, on the other hand, might just be the scariest thing I’ve ever willingly done; it swings you out over the canyon in a free-fall arc that makes your stomach drop.

If you’re visiting in summer, weekends can get crowded. I’ve found that arriving right when the park opens gives you a quieter experience and cooler temperatures for exploring. In winter, the crowds vanish, and the snow-dusted cliffs turn the scene into something out of a postcard.

Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad — the train winds along the river at the base of the gorge, giving you a totally different perspective from the bridge above. It’s one of those scenic day trips from Colorado Springs that’s just as much about the journey as the destination.

5. Cripple Creek

Nestled high in the mountains about an hour west of town, Cripple Creek feels like stepping straight into Colorado’s gold rush past. My first trip here was during fall, when the drive up was lined with aspens in full golden glow — honestly one of the great day trips from Colorado Springs if you love autumn colors.

The town itself is a mix of history and modern-day entertainment. On one hand, you have the historic buildings, museums, and old mines that tell the story of one of Colorado’s richest gold strikes. On the other, there’s the casino scene, which brings a bit of Las Vegas flash to the otherwise quiet streets.

I’ve found a balance works best: tour the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in the morning (descending 1,000 feet underground is an experience in itself), grab lunch at a local diner, and then try your luck with a small casino budget in the afternoon.

For families, Cripple Creek offers seasonal events like the Ice Festival in February and the Donkey Derby Days in summer — yes, actual donkeys wander the streets, descendants of the pack animals miners once used.

Pro Tip: The drive itself is half the fun, especially if you take the scenic route through Victor. It’s less busy, with wide-open mountain views and occasional wildlife sightings.

6. Woodland Park

Sometimes you don’t need a long haul to feel like you’ve escaped the city. Woodland Park is only about 25 minutes from downtown, but it’s worlds away in atmosphere. I’ve come here on spontaneous afternoons when I had no big plans — just a craving for mountain air and a slice of pie from one of the local diners.

The town bills itself as “The City Above the Clouds” thanks to its 8,465-foot elevation, and you really do feel like you’re perched on the edge of the Rockies here. From Woodland Park, you can easily reach hiking trails in Pike National Forest, fishing spots along Rampart Reservoir, or smaller hidden gems like the Red Rock Canyon Open Space just down the road.

One of my personal highlights was visiting the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center. It’s more engaging than you might expect, with life-sized fossil skeletons and real paleontologists working on digs and restorations. Kids love it, but I’ve gone with adults who were just as fascinated.

Best for: Quick escapes, low-key hiking, and family outings. It’s one of the short day trips from Colorado Springs that works any season — though summer weekends bring a lively farmers market, and winter mornings are especially quiet if you want a slower pace.

7. Denver Day Trip

A Colorado Springs to Denver day trip is one of my go-to options when I’m craving big-city energy without the hassle of an overnight stay. The drive takes about 70–80 minutes depending on traffic, but I’ve learned to avoid weekday rush hours and aim for a mid-morning arrival.

Denver has a little of everything — world-class museums, a thriving craft beer scene, and neighborhoods that each feel like their own small city.

My “perfect day” usually starts in the RiNo (River North) Art District, wandering through colorful street murals and stopping for coffee at Crema or Huckleberry Roasters. From there, I might head to the Denver Botanic Garden for a dose of nature in the middle of the city, especially in late spring when the tulips and roses are in full bloom.

Lunch often means a stop at Union Station — not just for the food, but for the atmosphere. The historic building has been beautifully restored, with shops, restaurants, and even a hotel. In the afternoon, I might browse the Tattered Cover Bookstore or head over to Meow Wolf Convergence Station for an immersive art experience that’s unlike anything else in Colorado.

Pro Tip: Parking downtown can be expensive. I’ve had good luck using light rail from a Park-n-Ride lot on the south side of the city, which cuts down both cost and stress. For couples, this makes one of the more fun day trips from Colorado Springs by car for couples — start with urban exploring, end with a romantic dinner in LoDo before heading back under the stars.

8. Cañon City

While most people think of Cañon City as just the gateway to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, it’s actually worth a dedicated visit on its own.

The first time I came here, I skipped the bridge entirely and focused on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad — a scenic train that hugs the Arkansas River as it winds through Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Sitting in the open-air car with the wind in my face and the canyon walls rising dramatically on either side is something I’ll never forget.

In summer, whitewater rafting on the Arkansas is a thrill for the adventurous. I joined a half-day trip that left me both exhausted and exhilarated — and deeply appreciative of my guide’s skill at navigating Class IV rapids. Afterward, warming up with a coffee at one of the local cafés in downtown Cañon City was the perfect way to come back to earth.

If you’re here in winter, the town is quieter but still charming, with antique shops, galleries, and the seasonal light displays along Main Street. This is one of those great day trips from Colorado Springs that can be as adventurous or as relaxed as you want it to be.

Pro Tip: For photographers, late afternoon light along Skyline Drive (a short, narrow ridge-top road) is spectacular. Just be prepared for steep drop-offs on both sides.

9. Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

About 45 minutes northwest of the city, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a place I first visited on a whim — and ended up spending far longer than planned. This area is home to one of the richest fossil deposits in the world, with giant petrified redwood stumps and delicate insect fossils preserved in fine shale. Standing next to a fossilized tree that once towered 300 feet high puts time into perspective in a way few places can.

The hiking here is gentle but rewarding. I like the Petrified Forest Loop Trail for its mix of open meadows, forest, and fossil sites. In summer, wildflowers dot the landscape, while autumn brings crisp air and golden light that’s perfect for photography.

It’s also an easy spot to pair with other attractions — I’ve often combined it with lunch in Woodland Park or a short drive to the Paint Mines Interpretive Park for a completely different geological experience. Families will appreciate the ranger-led programs, which make the science come alive for kids.

Pro Tip: Bring a hat and water, even on cooler days — the open meadows offer little shade. And if you’re visiting in winter, check for trail closures due to snow.

10. Buena Vista

Tucked into the Upper Arkansas River Valley, Buena Vista is one of those towns that feels effortlessly inviting. I first stopped here on a road trip and ended up staying the whole afternoon, wandering through the small but lively downtown and soaking in the mountain views that seem to follow you everywhere.

If you’re here in summer, whitewater rafting is practically a rite of passage — this stretch of the Arkansas is known for some of the best rapids in Colorado. But Buena Vista isn’t all adrenaline. The town has a surprisingly good food scene; I’ve had some of the best craft coffee of my life at The Roastery and a memorable riverside dinner at House Rock Kitchen.

The surrounding area is also a playground for hikers and 4×4 enthusiasts. The Collegiate Peaks Wilderness has trails that range from easy creek walks to challenging 14er summits. If you’re looking for something more low-key, the Cottonwood Hot Springs just west of town are perfect after a long day outdoors.

For couples, this spot is one of my favorite romantic day trips from Colorado Springs in summer, blending adventure and relaxation in one drive.

Pro Tip: If you’re heading back toward Colorado Springs in the evening, time your drive so you crest Trout Creek Pass at sunset — the light on the mountains is unreal.

11. Breckenridge

Breckenridge is best known as a winter ski town, but I’ve found it’s just as magical in summer and fall. The historic Main Street feels like it’s been plucked from an old mining postcard — colorful buildings, flower boxes in bloom, and the hum of live music drifting from patios.

In winter, a day trip from Colorado Springs to Breckenridge means early departure (and a solid coffee) to make the most of the slopes. Skiing here is world-class, but even if you’re not strapping on skis, there’s snowshoeing, fat biking, and sleigh rides through the snow-covered forests. In summer, the ski runs turn into hiking and mountain biking trails, while the Breckenridge Gondola offers easy access to alpine scenery without the climb.

One of my favorite experiences here was stumbling upon the International Snow Sculpture Championships — watching artists carve massive, intricate sculptures out of compacted snow was nothing short of mesmerizing. Breckenridge also hosts plenty of seasonal festivals, from Oktoberfest to the Ullr Fest in winter, making it one of the more fun day trips from Colorado Springs by car no matter the season.

Pro Tip: Parking fills up quickly, especially during events. I’ve had better luck using the free gondola from the satellite lots into town.

12. Great Sand Dunes National Park

The first time I visited Great Sand Dunes National Park, I was convinced I’d landed on another planet. Rising up to 750 feet, the tallest dunes in North America look surreal against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. From Colorado Springs, it’s about a 2.5–3 hour drive — long for a day trip, but absolutely worth it.

Sandboarding and sand sledding are the big draws here, and trust me, it’s every bit as fun (and exhausting) as it sounds. The hike up the dunes will have your calves burning, but the view from the top — endless waves of golden sand rolling into snow-capped peaks — is unforgettable.

In late spring and early summer, Medano Creek flows at the base of the dunes, creating a temporary beach where families splash around and cool off.

I’ve also camped here overnight, and the stargazing is phenomenal thanks to the park’s dark sky designation. But even in a single day, you can get a taste of its magic with a mix of dune climbing, creek wading, and a scenic picnic.

Pro Tip: Bring gaiters or plan to empty sand from your shoes often — it gets everywhere. Also, the sand can get extremely hot in summer, so aim for mornings or evenings.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Colorado Springs Day Trips

If you’re anything like me, half the joy of a trip is in the planning… but a little preparation can make your day trips from Colorado Springs run a whole lot smoother. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks (sometimes the hard way) that might save you from missed turns, cold lunches, or running out of daylight.

Best Times to Go

• Summer: Great for high-country adventures like Buena Vista, Breckenridge, and mountain hikes. Just expect more crowds and higher lodging prices if you extend your trip overnight.
• Fall: The changing aspens are breathtaking in September and early October — especially around Cripple Creek and Breckenridge.
• Winter: Perfect for ski trips, snowshoeing, or cozy romantic escapes. Just check road conditions before heading out.
• Spring: Lower crowds, wildflowers starting to bloom, and cooler temps for places like Garden of the Gods or Florissant Fossil Beds.

How to Get Around

While you can join group tours, I’ve always found the best experiences come from self-driving. It gives you the freedom to stop at roadside cafes, take spontaneous detours, or linger at a viewpoint. If you’re visiting from out of state, renting a car with good clearance is worth it, especially for places like Shelf Road or rougher trailheads.

Packing Essentials

Here’s a quick table I wish I’d had before my first few trips:

Final Thoughts on Exploring Colorado Springs Day Trips

From scenic drives near Colorado Springs to romantic day trips for couples and full-on adventures in Colorado’s wild corners, the beauty of living in — or visiting — this part of the state is how many worlds you can explore in a single day.

Some trips are about quiet moments… like sipping coffee while watching morning light hit the Garden of the Gods.

Others are about heart-pounding adventure, whether you’re sandboarding at Great Sand Dunes or tackling rapids in Buena Vista. And then there are those in-between days — where you set out without much of a plan and stumble upon something unexpectedly perfect.

If I had to give just one piece of advice, it’s this: don’t try to cram too many stops into one day. The magic of these day trips is in letting the pace slow down, even if it’s just for a few hours. You can always come back… Colorado has a way of pulling you in again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions