There’s no better way to experience Colorado’s beauty than by taking to the open road on your favorite car, truck, or motorcycle.
Many of Colorado’s roads have spectacular views, and no matter where you decide to go, you’re sure to discover something amazing and unexpected along the way. Check out our list of the top 10 scenic drives near Denver that you must visit and get ready to be blown away!
1. Red Rocks Park and Ride
Nestled on the base of the Rocky Mountains and just minutes from downtown Denver, Red Rocks Park and Ride is a scenic 6-mile drive that’s well worth it. In addition to multiple trailheads and two restaurants, you’ll also be greeted by towering red rock formations, which seem to just melt into the Colorado landscape.
It’s easy to feel at peace here — so much so that you may even forget you’re near one of the country’s most populous cities. This lush oasis is perfect for a picnic date or outdoor movie night (there are plenty of picnic tables), but its main attraction remains people looking for an escape from busy city life — as evidenced by bumper-to-bumper traffic heading out every weekend during peak season.
2. Kenosha Pass
Kenosha Pass is a serene and scenic mountain pass on Highway 285, just six miles west of Bailey, Colorado.
The paved highway climbs to over 12,000 feet in elevation and offers stunning views of the Rockies. It’s an awe-inspiring place to enjoy high-altitude activities like hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, or skiing. I highly recommend a stop for anyone looking for some time outdoors.
3. Hanging Lake Trail
One of the most popular trails in all of Colorado, Hanging Lake Trail is just minutes away from both Evergreen and Conifer. This 4.5-mile trail requires a bit of endurance due to its uphill incline, but it’s worth the view at the end.
The whole hike feels as if you are walking inside a rock canyon and halfway through, you reach what’s called the world’s tallest natural bridge, which you can walk right underneath. From there, the trail levels out and leads to Hanging Lake – an exquisitely serene site that has clear blue water pouring over multiple tiers. Locals and visitors alike love the tranquility this tranquil spot provides for those seeking respite from life’s stresses.
4. Tennessee Pass
Located approximately three hours southwest of Denver, Tennessee Pass is a small, quiet town with breathtaking natural beauty. The drive to Tennessee Pass from nearby Interstate 70 offers many beautiful sights to see: the Rocky Mountains and recreational areas such as Tarryall Reservoir, which boasts great fishing and boating opportunities.
There are also plenty of wildlife-watching opportunities at or near Tennessee Pass, including wildlife habitats along the Eagle River or Fossil Creek Wilderness Area. Visitors will even have an opportunity to learn about coal mining history when driving through the old mining towns of Nucla and Naturita.
There are various gas stations along I-70 for your convenience; otherwise, prepare for it to be an expensive ride on your wallet if you decide to fill up at any other point along your scenic drive.
5. Tennessee Pass to Empire
While many families are heading up to their cabin or mountain home for the weekend, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 scenic drives near Denver that you must visit and enjoy. And don’t worry if you live too far away–check out our handy tips for creating your drive!
Tennessee Pass has been providing Colorado residents with a picturesque view since it was first paved back in 1937. This 12-mile scenic route will take you from Idaho Springs over to Empire. No matter what time of year it is, you’ll be treated to some seriously beautiful sights as you traverse the continental divide and make your way down the mountainside.
6. Bear Lake Trailhead
If you love driving along and soaking up the scenery, then be sure to check out this drive that showcases the beauty of Colorado’s mountains.
Located in Berthoud Pass, the hike is a bit long at 5 miles round trip. There is a restroom on-site if you need it before heading off. The ascent begins with some steep switchbacks and ends with gorgeous views from the top of Berthoud Pass–where Lake Tahoe can be seen among other scenic landscapes.
One reviewer noted that for being one of the highest mountain passes in Colorado, Berthoud Pass didn’t feel as high and was pleasantly accessible even for those not completely acclimated to the elevation change.
7. Highway 93 S. and Lake Tahoe
One of the most scenic drives, Highway 93 South and Lake Tahoe is an easy route that has mountains on one side and the lake on the other. The lake is home to several bays, including Emerald Bay and Rubicon Bay.
Rubicon Bay was voted as one of the top ten beaches in America by TripAdvisor. Emerald Bay, like it, sounds, can be surrounded by green water with shades of blue depending on what time of day you are there. This bay also is home to a natural stone bridge that will take your breath away!
Lake Tahoe usually has the best weather out of all mountain lakes because it sits high up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains– making it perfect for boating, fishing, and hiking!
8. Buffalo Creek Trailhead
The Buffalo Creek Trailhead is an excellent way to start exploring the Great Outdoors. Located just off Highway 285, this trailhead has loads of nature waiting for you to explore and enjoy! Drive up Highway 285 from Denver and go past Chatfield State Park.
Turn left onto Blue River Parkway and drive about 3 miles on a gravel road until you see the entrance to the Buffalo Creek Trail. If you’re looking for more diversity and more natural beauty, head on down to the Johnson Mesa Park-n-Ride just a few miles before reaching this area.
9. Veteran’s Memorial Highway – Silverthorne/Breckenridge, Colorado
Stretch your legs with a scenic drive on the Veteran’s Memorial Highway from Silverthorne to Breckenridge, Colorado. This gorgeous 43-mile route will take you through a diverse array of landscapes, starting with an abundance of towering evergreens and spanning into a mountainous region dotted with winding rivers and lakes.
Follow the mountainous terrain as you pass ski resorts such as Keystone and Arapahoe Basin before descending back down the mountain for views of pastures, farmlands, and local wildlife. Round out your trip with a stop at Breckenridge Brewing Company for craft beer samples or Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for free tours of their factory store.
10. Blue Lakes Road – Silverthorne/Breckenridge, Colorado
This scenic drive is perfect for the avid hiker who wants to head out and explore Colorado’s rugged beauty while also taking time to be filled with absolute awe at the gorgeous views.
Blue Lakes Road runs alongside a chain of three lakes (Blue Lake, Twin Lakes, Turquoise Lake) as well as several mountain peaks and more breathtaking vistas than you can shake a stick at.
Hiking the Blue Lakes Loop Trail is among one the many adventures that you can have on this exhilarating drive. If you are up for more strenuous adventure hikes, try traversing one of the peaks in sight—there are seven that surround this stunning basin which means there is plenty of opportunity for some amazing photos.
