Garden of Gods

Question

Flying into Denver how is traffic going to GOG, Royal Gorge and Estes Park? Any recommendations on what to see first time in Denver will have car for 3 days. Thank you!

Answer

Flying into Denver and planning a three-day road trip with a car gives you flexibility, but traffic and driving distances in Colorado should be considered, especially when visiting scenic areas like Garden of the Gods, Royal Gorge, and Estes Park.

Traffic and Driving Considerations:

Denver to Garden of the Gods: Garden of the Gods is in Colorado Springs, roughly 70 miles south of Denver. Without heavy traffic, it typically takes 1 hour 15 minutes. Morning and evening rush hours in Denver can add 20–30 minutes.
Denver to Royal Gorge: Royal Gorge is about 120 miles southwest of Denver (near Cañon City). Travel time is roughly 2.5–3 hours one way. The route includes I-25 south, then US-50 west. Traffic near Denver is heavier during peak commute times, but once you leave the metro area, roads are generally clear.
Denver to Estes Park: Estes Park is approximately 70 miles northwest of Denver, about 1.5–2 hours drive. Typical congestion is near Denver exits, but roads through the foothills (Highway 36) can be winding, and tourist traffic near Estes Park increases on weekends and fall foliage season.

Recommendations for First-Time Visitors with a Car:

Start with areas closer to Denver for your first day to get a feel for Colorado and avoid long drives initially. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre and Lookout Mountain are easy drives with great views.
Allocate a full day for Garden of the Gods and nearby Pikes Peak region. Garden of the Gods is free and has easy walking trails; Pikes Peak Highway or the Cog Railway are iconic options if time allows.
Plan Royal Gorge as a day trip from Denver only if you are comfortable with longer drives. Alternatively, consider staying overnight in Canon City to reduce travel fatigue.
For Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, choose a day when you can leave early from Denver to maximize daylight for hiking and scenic stops. Trail Ridge Road may be partially closed depending on season.
Parking in Garden of the Gods and Estes Park can fill up, especially mid-morning to afternoon. Arriving early helps ensure access to popular viewpoints.

Suggested Order for 3-Day Trip:

Day 1: Denver area highlights (Red Rocks, Golden, Lookout Mountain, Denver Botanic Gardens). Light driving and sightseeing.
Day 2: Garden of the Gods and Colorado Springs. Optional: Pikes Peak or Manitou Springs.
Day 3: Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, with scenic stops along the way.

This plan balances driving times and sightseeing, maximizing your first-time experience in Colorado without feeling rushed. Carry water, snacks, and be mindful of elevation changes, especially around Garden of the Gods and Estes Park.

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