Top Denver Nature Parks

The Denver foothills are packed with some of Colorado's best sights, from Red Rocks Amphitheater to Lookout Mountain and scenic Lariat Loop. Throughout this half-day tour from Denver explore the scenic foothills, get panoramic views of the mountain surroundings, and stroll through small, historic towns before stopping in Golden for a coffee or craft beer. It's a quick escape from the big city buzz and a taste of life in the mountains just outside of "Mile High" City.

Climb from the streets of the "Mile High City" to Rocky Mountain National Park, on a day trip that showcases the rugged beauty of Colorado's mountains. Weave through small, historic towns and drive over alpine passes, as you scan the horizon for mountain wildlife such as elk, black bears, or moose.

The Denver Botanic Gardens offers a fragrant, floral escape from the Mile-High City, right in the heart of a historic urban neighborhood. Your general admission ticket grants you access to 'living exhibits' of native Colorado species plus plants from around the world. Wander beautifully landscaped trails at your leisure, pop into Offshoots Cafe for a refreshment, and let the kids explore at a rooftop children’s garden.

Discover the best of the Rocky Mountain National Park on a guided full-day tour. Park entrance, along with round-trip transportation from Denver or Boulder is conveniently included. Set at a moderate pace, the hike 4-mile (6.4-km) is perfect for people with some experience who also want to take time to appreciate the scenery.

Be inspired by Colorado’s majestic scenery on this private, full-day tour from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park. Travel in a luxury SUV or van through historic mining and resort towns to reach the celebrated national park, known for its abundant wildlife and towering vistas. Customize your own itinerary and explore peaceful hiking trails.

The trip kicks off with a 30-minute scenic drive to the iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. We’ll drive through the park, take in the stunning rock formations, and get out to explore the world-famous amphitheater (if open). We’ll continue our trip to Lookout Mountain, with some of the best views of the Rocky Mountains, Great Plains and Denver. From there, we’ll take the Lariat Loop National Scenic Byway into Golden, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains where you have time to enjoy a local coffee shop, craft brewery or stroll along Clear Creek Trail.

Combine a visit to the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak with a trip on the Cog Railway with this tour from Denver. Your driver will pick you up at Union Station and take you to the Garden of the Gods, where you'll explore for a bit before taking the railway up to Pikes Peak. You'll then have time to visit Manitou Springs before returning to Denver.

Visit one of the most beautiful parks in the American West on a full-day tour from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park. Picnic among a summer landscape of thick green trees and wildflower meadows, and drive above timberline on an alpine road with stunning mountain views. Stroll around and look for Colorado wildlife inside the park, with time for a dose of mountain culture in the charming resort town of Estes Park.

Trade the bustle of Denver for the beautiful Rocky Mountains on this private, half-day tour. With just your guide for company, set off by car and take a scenic drive to the mountains, enjoying panoramic views from the comfort of your vehicle. Visit highlights including Idaho Springs, Echo Lake Park, and more, and benefit from a tour that's designed for visitors who are short on time and seeking a customized experience.

Maximize your time in Colorado on this private day trip visiting two of the state's top natural attractions. After leaving Denver, head to Garden of the Gods, known for its dramatic rock formations. Following a stop for lunch in Manitou Springs (own expense), continue to Pikes Peak, the highest summit in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.

There are so many great hikes in the Denver area, how can you choose? Let a local do the work—on this guided tour, you’ll get whisked off to the mountains, where you’ll hike at your comfort level (snacks and breaks as needed), learn about the flora and fauna of the Rockies, and get incredible bird’s-eye photos of Colorado. Simply put, you'll get more out of your time spent in the mountains.

Head south from Denver on a small group tour to two of Colorado’s most majestic places. First, visit Garden of the Gods, a unique geological area with colossal red rock formations. Then take a drive up Pikes Peak, which inspired the song “America the Beautiful.” Have lunch and enjoy a bit of free time or shopping in the charming town of Manitou Springs, then take a scenic drive through the foothills back to Denver.

Enjoy a bespoke hiking experience during this private, full-day tour through Rocky Mountain National Park. Follow a customized, easy-to-moderate trail through the mountains. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off from Denver or Boulder. Tours include snacks, bottled water, and optional snowshoes as needed. Lunch is not provided from November through May.

Enjoy the beauty of a hike in the Rockies without the worry of getting lost or picking an unsuitable trail during this full-day excursion. Plus, save your strength for the hike thanks to round-trip transportation and learn about the wildflowers and wildlife from your guide, something that would be harder to do alone.

Explore Colorado’s famous protected playground on a small-group tour of Rocky Mountain National Park. Drive through the foothills into the unspoiled western wilderness, stopping in the resort town of Estes Park and the historic—and allegedly haunted—Stanley Hotel. Wintertime means stops at snow-ringed lakes, cozy mountain hideouts, and visitors’ centers, while summer allows access over the soaring Trail Ridge Road and other alpine vistas.

If you're seeking a quick adventure, take a four hour tour that treats you to a few of the best things of Colorado. Your tour guide Gem gives you locals only insight into the front range before you set off from gorgeous Red Rocks Park for a hike at the base of Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Trail. Following the moderate two-three mile hike, relax and unwind at a local coffee shop downtown Golden, Colorado. Sip something warm, savor the moment, and take in the mountain town vibes before we head back down to Denver.

Kick back, relax, and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery on this day trip from Denver to Breckenridge before you spend a few hours exploring the charming Victorian mountain town at your leisure. With plenty to offer beyond its iconic slopes, you can shop, grab elevated bites and drinks, ride the free gondola up the mountain, go sledding, take a snowy walk in the woods, and even visit the famous troll. The choices are yours! Along the way, we’ll visit the world-famous Red Rocks, cross over the Continental Divide, and stop for photo ops. The best part? We’ll drive! Tour Highlights -Stop at the stunning Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. -Cross over the Continental Divide at 11,990 feet at Loveland Pass. -Photo op at the Sapphire Point Overlook overlooking the Dillon Reservoir. -Visit the Breckenridge Troll, go sledding, and explore town on your own.