Day trips from Denver

Question

Hi looking for suggestions for day trips out of Denver with a car.

We land at 1pm early April. We have that day to explore. Then I have a conference for two days then I have another full day to explore.

Staying in Denver. Long drives ok. Hiking up to 2 ish miles that aren’t difficult.

Must see: red rocks

Would like to see wildlife and great views.

Thanks!

Answer

For your time in Denver and your interest in day trips with a car, there are several excellent options that combine scenic views, wildlife spotting, and easy hikes. Since you only have a few free days, I’ll suggest itineraries that are manageable with a vehicle and short walks.

Day of arrival (after 1pm):

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre: About 25 minutes west of Denver. Explore the visitor center, take the short Trading Post Trail loop (~1 mile) for spectacular rock formations and views of the city. Great for sunset photography if your flight and check-in allow.
Lookout Mountain: A quick drive from Red Rocks. Provides panoramic views of the foothills and Denver. Easy short trails and wildlife sightings possible, especially deer and birds.

First full day trip (after your conference):

Boulder & Flatirons: Approximately 40 minutes from Denver. Take the Chautauqua Park trails for easy hikes (1-2 miles) among iconic Flatirons formations. Enjoy the town of Boulder with dining and local breweries. Watch for local wildlife like foxes and birds along trails.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway: About 1.5-2 hours from Denver. This drive climbs to over 14,000 feet, offering stunning mountain vistas. Short walks near the summit allow wildlife spotting (mountain goats, marmots). Check road openings in April as snow may restrict access early in the month.
Genesee Park & Buffalo Herd: Roughly 35 minutes from Denver. A short hike or drive through the park provides views of bison herds and easy walking paths. Ideal for wildlife spotting without strenuous effort.

Other options if you have flexibility:

Golden Gate Canyon State Park: About 45 minutes from Denver. Offers several easy 1-2 mile loop trails with mountain and valley views, and wildlife is common.
Staunton State Park: About 1 hour southwest. Easy hikes, wildflowers in spring, and panoramic mountain views.
Chatfield Reservoir & Park: Around 40 minutes southwest. Easy walking paths, birdwatching, and open space. Nice for a relaxing afternoon or early evening.

Tips:

April weather in Colorado can be unpredictable; pack layers and be prepared for snow at higher elevations.
Start early for day trips to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon snow or rain showers common in spring.
Wildlife is more visible early in the morning or late afternoon.

Overall, your plan to see Red Rocks, enjoy wildlife, and do easy hikes is very achievable. With a car, you can access scenic drives and short trails without overexertion, making for a relaxing yet memorable Colorado experience.

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