Littleton, Colorado, is perfectly positioned for adventure. Nestled just outside Denver, it gives you quick access to mountains, lakes, iconic parks, and charming old towns. And the best way to experience all of it? A rental car.
A rental car means flexibility. You can pull over at viewpoints, choose your own route, avoid crowded group tours, and explore hidden gems that most travelers miss. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adrenaline seeker, Littleton puts endless unforgettable destinations within reach.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best day trips from Littleton—each carefully chosen to help you make the most of your Colorado experience. Expect detailed driving tips, highlights at each location, and insider suggestions to level up your trip.
Top Scenic Day Trips from Littleton
1. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Driving Distance: ~25 minutes
Perfect for: Hiking, photography, music lovers
Red Rocks is more than a concert venue—it’s a geological masterpiece. The moment you drive up, the massive, tilted red sandstone formations make it feel like you’re entering another world. It’s quick, easy, and the perfect warm-up to Colorado’s bigger adventures.
Things to Do
- Hike Trading Post Trail – A 1.4-mile loop with jaw-dropping formations.
- Explore the visitor center – Learn how Red Rocks was naturally formed over millions of years.
- Check out the amphitheater steps – A great workout with unforgettable views.
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds and catch magical lighting for photos.
Why it’s a great day trip:
It’s close, beautiful, and easy to reach—ideal if you don’t want to spend the whole day driving.
2. Garden of the Gods
Driving Distance: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Perfect for: Families, casual hikers, photography enthusiasts
Garden of the Gods feels like stepping into a natural sculpture garden. Towering red rock pillars shoot up against the backdrop of Pikes Peak, creating postcard-perfect views at every turn.
Highlights
- Central Garden Trail: A paved, accessible trail suitable for all ages.
- Balanced Rock: A famous Instagram-worthy stop.
- Rock climbing areas: If you have a permit, you can climb some formations.
- Visitor and Nature Center: Interactive exhibits and panoramic views.
Insider Tip:
Arrive early on weekends—parking lots fill fast due to its popularity.
3. Rocky Mountain National Park
Driving Distance: ~1 hour 45 minutes
Perfect for: Wildlife spotting, serious hikers, scenic driving lovers
This park is one of the crown jewels of Colorado. With your rental car, you can cruise through Trail Ridge Road, climbing to over 12,000 feet above sea level. The alpine tundra, wildflowers, and panoramic mountain views are simply unforgettable.
What You Can Do
- ** Wildlife spotting:** Elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and marmots.
- Bear Lake Loop: Easy, scenic trail for all fitness levels.
- Emerald Lake Trail: A moderate hike with rewarding lakeside views.
- Picnicking: Many scenic picnic areas surrounded by forests.
Best Time to Go:
Summer and early fall—Trail Ridge Road often closes during winter due to snow.
Cultural and Historic Day Trips
4. Colorado Springs
Driving Distance: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Perfect for: Culture lovers, families, museum enthusiasts
Colorado Springs is a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural spots.
Must-Visit Attractions
- U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: A modern, interactive experience.
- Old Colorado City: Filled with boutiques, galleries, and cafés.
- Seven Falls: A series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by towering cliffs.
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: One of the highest-elevation zoos in the U.S.
Driving Tip:
Take I-25 for a smoother drive, with chances to stop at scenic overlooks.
5. Georgetown
Driving Distance: ~50 minutes
Perfect for: History buffs, train lovers, mountain explorers
Georgetown is a preserved 19th-century mining town that feels like a living museum.
Top Activities
- Georgetown Loop Railroad: A thrilling ride over high bridges and through forests.
- Historic downtown walking tour: Beautiful Victorian architecture.
- Mine tours: Learn how miners worked during the 1800s.
- Local coffee shops: Cozy and perfect for relaxing.
Why It’s Worth Visiting:
It’s peaceful, charming, and gives a real taste of Colorado’s mining heritage.
6. Golden
Driving Distance: ~30 minutes
Perfect for: Beer lovers, families, museum fans
Golden sits at the base of the foothills and offers a perfect mix of recreation and culture.
Things to Check Out
- Coors Brewery Tour: The world’s largest single-site brewery.
- Clear Creek: Ideal for riverside walks or summer tubing.
- Colorado Railroad Museum: Full of vintage trains and interactive exhibits.
- Buffalo Bill Museum: Historic artifacts and sweeping views.
Bonus:
Golden’s sunny weather and scenic streets make it great for strolling.
Adventure-Filled Day Trips
7. Idaho Springs
Driving Distance: ~40 minutes
Perfect for: Outdoor adventure, hot springs, thrill seekers
Idaho Springs is an adventurous mountain town with activities year-round.
Adventures Waiting
- Whitewater rafting: Especially exciting on Clear Creek in summer.
- Indian Hot Springs: A peaceful soak in geothermal waters.
- St. Mary’s Glacier: A short hike to a year-round snowfield.
- ATV and Jeep rentals: Explore mountain trails the wild way.
Why Go:
It’s an action-packed destination perfect for adrenaline lovers.
8. Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Driving Distance: ~1 hour to the start of the byway
Perfect for: Scenic drives, photographers, those seeking unforgettable viewpoints
This is one of the highest paved roads in North America—an adventure you won’t forget.
Experiences Along the Way
- Summit Lake: A glacial lake at 12,000 ft.
- Mountain goats and bighorn sheep: Common sightings.
- Challenging curves: Makes renting a reliable vehicle essential.
- Epic summit views: Feels like you’re on top of the world.
Safety Note:
Check conditions before you go—weather can change fast.
Relaxing Getaway Day Trips
9. Evergreen Lake
Driving Distance: ~35 minutes
Perfect for: Relaxation, picnics, gentle outdoor activities
Evergreen is peaceful, refreshing, and a great place to slow down.
Things to Do
- Rent a kayak or paddleboat in summer.
- Walk the Evergreen Lake Trail for simple, scenic views.
- Visit downtown Evergreen: Beautiful local shops and galleries.
- Winter ice skating: One of the prettiest rinks in the state.
Relax Level: 10/10
Perfect for couples and anyone who just wants to breathe.
10. Boulder
Driving Distance: ~45 minutes
Perfect for: Foodies, shoppers, hikers, students
Boulder is lively, stylish, and full of energy. Whether you want shopping, hiking, or great food, you’ll find it here.
Must-See Spots
- Pearl Street Mall: Pedestrian-only street filled with shops and buskers.
- Chautauqua Park: Gateway to the iconic Flatirons.
- Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse: A hand-crafted gift from its sister city.
- University of Colorado campus: Beautiful architecture and museums.
Great For:
Those who love culture, nature, and great dining in one place.
Tips for Enjoying a Day Trip from Littleton
Check Road Conditions
Colorado’s mountain weather is unpredictable—snow in May, sun in February. Always check before heading out.
Start Early
More time = more stops. Plus, early mornings offer golden-light photography.
Carry Water, Snacks, and Layers
Weather changes quickly, and some areas have limited stores.
Choose the Right Rental Car
For mountain trips, choose:
- SUV
- AWD or 4WD
- Good ground clearance
For city-focused trips, a compact sedan works fine.
Keep a Paper Map
Some mountain areas have limited cell service.
Fuel Up Before Leaving
Gas stations can be miles apart in remote locations.
Conclusion
Littleton is the perfect launching pad for unforgettable adventures. With a rental car, the entire region opens up to you—from dramatic mountain peaks to peaceful lakes, historic towns, hot springs, and world-famous natural landmarks.
Whether you want a family-friendly outing, a romantic escape, or a thrilling mountain drive, these destinations deliver unique memories just a short drive away. Pack your snacks, fuel up the car, and hit the road—your perfect Colorado day trip starts now.
FAQs
1. What is the best day trip closest to Littleton?
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is the quickest and most iconic destination just minutes away.
2. Which trip is best for outdoor adventure?
Idaho Springs and the Mount Evans Scenic Byway offer incredible outdoor activities and dramatic scenery.
3. Is Rocky Mountain National Park too far for a day trip?
Not at all—just start early, and you can explore lakes, wildlife, and scenic drives comfortably.
4. What kind of rental car do I need for mountain drives?
An SUV with AWD or 4WD is ideal for safe mountain driving.
5. Are these destinations open year-round?
Most are, but high-altitude routes like Mount Evans may close during winter. Always check ahead.