Gorgeous landscapes and byways surround Denver, and you don’t even need to leave your car to see them. Our local experts compiled a list of the best scenic drives near Denver that will make you yearn to jump in your car and hit the road. Read on to plan your next adventure.
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Top 5 Scenic Drives Near Denver
Mount Evans Scenic Bypass
Length: 28 miles
Best Season: Summer
One of Colorado’s most famous fourteeners, Mount Evans reaches an altitude of 14,130 ft., allowing roadsters to view a variety of Colorado landscapes from the luxury of their vehicle. This scenic drive, known for its wildlife sightings, starts and ends at Idaho Springs, so you can grab a quick bite in the quaint mountain town before the ride and then soak in the Indian Hot Springs after the descent from the peak. This fourteener remains open between Memorial Day and the first weekend in October, weather permitting. Visiting closer to the opening day means spectacular views of flourishing wildflowers, while visiting near the end of season will leave you awestruck with the variety of autumnal colors covering the landscape.
Peak to Peak
Length: 55 miles
Best Season: Fall
Established in 1918, Peak to Peak stretches from Estes Park to the I-70 alongside the Continental Divide and bursts with charming views. Although this drive is gorgeous year-round, our favorite season to visit is the Fall. Once the Aspen trees that line the roadway start to golden, they set a stark contrast to the mountains in the background. On this roughly 3-hour drive, you’ll pass by many retired gold mines that prompt tourists and locals alike to try their luck panning for gold in the creek. Stop by St. Malo’s Chapel on the Rock, Nederland, and Brainard Lake for the full experience.
Trail Ridge Road
Length: 48 miles
Best Season: Spring
The most popular scenic drive in Colorado, Trail Ridge Road, is a crucial road to hit for an eventful and picturesque ride. This proclaimed “highway to the sky” connects Estes Park to Grand Lake, allowing astonishing views of the Rockies and the Continental Divide. Travelers will find themselves gaining 4,000 ft. in shockingly quick time to a total elevation of 12,183 ft. Each season provides its own unique touch on Trail Ridge Road, but Spring invites vivid colors sprinkled across the expansive landscape. Don’t miss the Forest Canyon Overlook, Rainbow Curve, and Lava Cliffs to catch some stunning views you won’t find anywhere else.
Littleton Crabapple Route
Length: 7 miles
Best Season: Spring
One of Littleton’s most famous routes, Littleton Crabapple Route, was established in 2011 as part of the city’s beautification program. The idea for a crabapple-lined road came about almost 40 years ago by former Mayor Vaughn Gardinier, and the community has since rallied behind the cause. As a result, the city has planted about 7,000 crabapple trees on the route, which drivers, bicyclists, and runners alike enjoy. In 2012, philanthropic citizens banded together to create a non-profit to make donations possible for the continuation of the planting and maintaining of crabapple trees on the blossoming Littleton route.
Lariat Loop
Length: 40 miles
Best Season: Any
This National Scenic Byway runs through the breathtaking towns of Golden, Evergreen, Morrison, and Kittredge, supplying awe-inspiring views from the comfort of your air-conditioned or heated vehicle. If your legs get cramped from the road trip, stretch them out with a picturesque hike at Golden Gate Canyon State Park when you pass through the stunning town of Golden. A sea of emerald hues will encapsulate you when cruising through Evergreen. This town, a popular destination for Denverites, is less than a 45-minute drive from the Mile High City, and it bursts with outdoor activity options. At Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, a must-see on this loop, the vibrant red and orange hues and astonishing size of the rocks will take your breath away. This famous concert venue has been visited by all types of musicians, from The Beatles to Bon Iver. Don’t miss the iconic Buffalo Bill grave and memorial museum in Golden.
Now that you know our local experts’ top picks for scenic drives near Denver, get out there and cruise through Colorado’s beautiful landscapes.
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Set Up an Apartment Base Camp in Denver
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* The original version of this article was first published on January 13, 2020.
Heather was a Content Marketing Associate at AptAmigo. When she isn't creating and designing content, you can find her sipping on crafty cocktails at local Denver bars, thrifting for the best vintage items, or hitting the slopes in Breckenridge.
