Colorado sits at the crossroads of the Rockies and the Southwest, which makes it an ideal launch pad for quick escapes. From alpine lakes and hot springs to red rock deserts and world-class art towns, you can reach remarkably different landscapes in just a few hours. Whether you want relaxation, outdoor adventure, or a culture-packed city break, this guide rounds up the best weekend getaways from Colorado that deliver big experiences with minimal planning.
In the sections below, you’ll find short trips near Colorado that fit neatly into 2–3 days, complete with travel times, can’t-miss activities, and smart lodging ideas. You’ll also get planning advice, packing tips, and budget guidance to make your next spontaneous escape smooth and affordable. If you’re searching for the best weekend destinations near Colorado, consider this your curated, traveler-tested shortlist.
Why Plan a Weekend Getaway from Colorado?
A 2–3 day escape resets your routine without the logistics of a long vacation. You keep costs in check, yet you still bank real memories—sunrise hikes, hot-spring soaks, and dinners that turn into stories. Because Colorado borders six states and houses diverse regions inside its own borders, you can shift from high-alpine forests to desert arches or historic adobe plazas within half a day of driving.
As a rule of thumb, aim for destinations that sit 1.5–6 hours from the Front Range (Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins). That window covers most mountain towns, southern Colorado gems, and parts of New Mexico, Utah, and South Dakota. Keep your itinerary tight, limit lodging changes to one property, and build in one signature activity per day. Two nights often hits the sweet spot: arrive Friday night, play all day Saturday, and ease home Sunday after a memorable brunch or scenic stop.
Why should I plan a weekend trip from Colorado?
- You’ll maximize variety in minimal time, thanks to short driving distances and scenic routes.
- You’ll test-drive new destinations before committing to longer stays.
- You’ll snag better deals by traveling off-peak or mid-shoulder seasons.
- You’ll recharge fast: one perfect hike or hot-spring soak often does the trick.
Top Weekend Getaways from Colorado
Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park — Alpine Lakes, Wildlife, Stargazing
• Distance/Travel Time: About 1.5–2 hours by car from Denver; 2–2.5 hours from Colorado Springs. Seasonal shuttles run inside Rocky Mountain National Park; timed-entry reservations may apply in peak season.
• Why Visit: If you want classic Colorado scenery on a tight timeline, Estes Park delivers. Trail Ridge Road climbs above treeline for jaw-dropping panoramas, elk wander through town, and alpine lakes glitter just a few miles from the gateway. A weekend getaway from Colorado to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park pairs easy access with unforgettable high-country drama.
• Top Things to Do:
- Hike to Dream Lake and Emerald Lake at sunrise.
- Drive (or bike) Trail Ridge Road when it’s open, usually late May to October.
- Watch elk bugling in fall; join a ranger-led program for astronomy nights.
- Stroll the Riverwalk and grab local fudge or taffy.
• Where to Stay: Choose creekside cabins for privacy, cozy lodges near the park entrance for convenience, or family-friendly hotels downtown. Book refundable rates on major platforms for flexibility, and look for properties with hot tubs to soothe post-hike legs.
• Best Time to Visit: Late May–October for hiking and scenic drives; September–October for fall color and elk rut. Winter brings quiet trails and snowshoeing.
Pro tip: If you plan to visit more than two national parks this year, buy the America the Beautiful Pass to save money and time at entrances.
Glenwood Springs & Hanging Lake — Hot Springs, Canyon Trails, Amtrak Arrival
• Distance/Travel Time: Roughly 3 hours by car from Denver via I-70, traffic and weather permitting. Alternatively, ride the Amtrak California Zephyr straight to Glenwood Springs’ historic station for a car-free weekend.
• Why Visit: Hot springs, waterfalls, and red-walled canyons line up for a restorative yet adventurous escape. A weekend getaway from Colorado to Glenwood Springs means soaking in mineral pools, hiking iconic Hanging Lake with a reservation, and exploring White River National Forest right out your door.
• Top Things to Do:
- Reserve Hanging Lake permits in advance; hike early to avoid crowds.
- Soak at Glenwood Hot Springs Pool or Iron Mountain Hot Springs.
- Bike the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path along the Colorado River.
- Paddleboard or raft with local outfitters in summer.
• Where to Stay: Book a room at a historic downtown hotel for easy walking, a riverside lodge for views, or a budget motel along Grand Avenue. Families often prefer properties with on-site pools. For easy access to town without a car, stay near the Amtrak station.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild temps and fewer visitors; summer suits water adventures; winter soaking feels magical with snow-capped canyon walls.
Helpful tip: If you’ll take the Zephyr, snag seats on the scenic side and pack a lightweight daypack. Reserve flexible hot-springs tickets on busy weekends.
Santa Fe, New Mexico — Adobe Art Scene, Hatch Chiles, Big Skies
• Distance/Travel Time: Around 5.5–6 hours by car from Denver; about 4–4.5 hours from Pueblo. You can also fly to Albuquerque and connect via Rail Runner Express or shuttle, but driving gives you the freedom to explore.
• Why Visit: Santa Fe blends museum-caliber art with Pueblo-Style architecture and a thrilling food scene. Walk Canyon Road galleries, sample red and green chile, and tour centuries-old chapels. A weekend getaway from Colorado to Santa Fe brings culture and cuisine in a compact, walkable package.
• Top Things to Do:
- Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum; book timed tickets.
- Meander Canyon Road galleries and artisan studios.
- Eat your way through the Santa Fe Railyard and the Plaza.
- Hike in the nearby Sangre de Cristo foothills or ski Santa Fe in winter.
• Where to Stay: Choose a boutique inn near the Plaza for easy strolls, casitas with kitchens for longer stays, or spa resorts in the foothills for quiet nights under the stars. Look for weekday deals or shoulder-season discounts on major booking sites.
• Best Time to Visit: September–October for golden aspens and harvest festivals; December for farolito-lit evenings; spring for mild temps and fewer crowds.
Money-saver: Book a refundable rate early, then watch for price drops the week before arrival. Many platforms allow easy rebooking if the nightly rate falls.
Moab, Utah — Arches, Canyonlands, and Desert Sunsets
• Distance/Travel Time: Approximately 5–6 hours by car from Denver, depending on I-70 traffic and weather. Car wins here, though seasonal flights to Canyonlands Field (CNY) may appear from Denver.
• Why Visit: Moab dishes up photogenic arches, slot-filled canyons, and slickrock playgrounds. You’ll squeeze a surprising amount of adventure into two days. A weekend getaway from Colorado to Moab puts two national parks—Arches and Canyonlands—plus the Colorado River at your fingertips.
• Top Things to Do:
- Catch sunrise at Mesa Arch; watch sunset at Delicate Arch.
- Mountain bike the Slickrock Trail or ride mellow paths along the river.
- Book a half-day rafting trip or scenic jet boat tour.
- Explore Dead Horse Point State Park for panoramic viewpoints with lighter crowds.
• Where to Stay: Choose a modern motel downtown for walkability, desert-view resorts for pool time and stargazing, or glamping tents and cabins just outside town. Secure park-entry reservations and tours first, then lock in lodging.
• Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–October deliver ideal temps. Summer brings heat; plan dawn and dusk activities and siestas midday.
Gear tip: Pack sun sleeves, a wide-brim hat, and a hydration pack. If you plan multiple park visits, that annual parks pass pays for itself quickly.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado — Ranch Vibes, Hot Springs, Four-Season Trails
• Distance/Travel Time: About 3–3.5 hours by car from the Front Range via US-40. Winter storms can stretch that, so check road conditions. Seasonal flights serve Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN), but driving usually makes sense.
• Why Visit: Steamboat feels laid-back yet adventurous. Skiers chase famous “Champagne Powder.” Summer brings wildflower hikes, gravel rides, and tubing the Yampa River. A weekend getaway from Colorado to Steamboat Springs balances activity with genuine Western charm.
• Top Things to Do:
- Ski or ride Steamboat Resort; in summer, hike Mount Werner or Emerald Mountain.
- Soak at Strawberry Park Hot Springs (book ahead; 4WD recommended in winter).
- Bike the Yampa River Core Trail, then grab craft beer at a local brewery.
- Visit Fish Creek Falls for a short, scenic hike.
• Where to Stay: Pick slopeside condos for ski weekends, boutique lodges near the river for couples, or family-friendly hotels on the shuttle line. If you want a cabin feel, look for rentals outside town with meadow or valley views.
• Best Time to Visit: December–March for snow sports; June–September for hiking, biking, and river fun; September delivers golden aspens and crisp air.
Savings idea: If you ski more than a couple of days per year, compare Ikon or Epic Pass options and look for lodging bundles that include lift discounts.
Taos, New Mexico — High Desert Art, Ski Steeps, Pueblo Heritage
• Distance/Travel Time: Roughly 5–6 hours from Denver by car, or about 4.5–5 hours from Colorado Springs. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway makes a great loop if you can spare the time.
• Why Visit: Taos pairs a vibrant arts community with serious mountains. Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, anchors centuries of living history. In winter, Taos Ski Valley challenges expert riders; in summer, you’ll find hiking, river rafting, and galleries galore. A weekend getaway from Colorado to Taos offers a soulful blend of culture and mountain adventure.
• Top Things to Do:
- Tour Taos Pueblo with a local guide (check seasonal openings).
- Ski Taos or hike Williams Lake and Wheeler Peak in summer.
- Drive the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge at sunset.
- Explore galleries around the Plaza and Ledoux Street.
• Where to Stay: Choose adobe inns with kiva fireplaces near the Plaza, slope-adjacent lodges in Taos Ski Valley, or casitas with courtyards for privacy. Book early for winter weekends and major art events.
• Best Time to Visit: February–March for reliable ski conditions; September–October for golden aspens and cool hiking weather; spring brings lower rates and quiet museums.
Cultural note: Respect photography guidelines and closures at Taos Pueblo. Your entry fee supports the community; consider buying artisan crafts directly.
Black Hills, South Dakota — Granite Spires, Bison Herds, American Icons
• Distance/Travel Time: About 5.5–6.5 hours by car from Denver to Rapid City/Keystone/Custer area. The drive stays straightforward and scenic.
• Why Visit: The Black Hills surprise first-timers with needle-like rock formations, forested peaks, and wildlife-rich plains. Beyond Mount Rushmore, you’ll wander among bison in Custer State Park, squeeze through the Needles Highway, and plunge into cave systems. A weekend getaway from Colorado to the Black Hills brings classic road-trip vibes and big-sky sunsets.
• Top Things to Do:
- Tour Mount Rushmore early, then visit Crazy Horse Memorial.
- Drive Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road; stop at scenic pullouts.
- Cruise Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park to spot bison and pronghorn.
- Choose a half-day at Wind Cave or Jewel Cave National Monument.
• Where to Stay: Opt for cabins or lodges inside Custer State Park for nature-first mornings, family hotels in Rapid City for restaurants and museums, or rustic-chic inns in Keystone for proximity to Rushmore.
• Best Time to Visit: Late May–September for full access to scenic roads and visitor services; September offers thinner crowds and cool nights.
Logistics tip: Secure timed cave tours and popular park lodges early. If you plan multiple stops, a flexible hotel rate lets you pivot around weather.
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Alamosa — Otherworldly Dunes, Dark Skies, Hot Springs
• Distance/Travel Time: Around 3.5–4 hours by car from Denver and Boulder; closer for southern Front Range travelers. Roads stay open year-round, though Medano Creek flows seasonally.
• Why Visit: Imagine North America’s tallest dunes rising against 14,000-foot peaks. Add a seasonal, sparkling creek that creates a beach in the mountains. A weekend getaway from Colorado to Great Sand Dunes and nearby Alamosa gives families and photographers a dreamlike backdrop.
• Top Things to Do:
- Sled or sandboard the dunes; rent boards in Alamosa or near the park.
- Time your visit for Medano Creek’s surge (usually late May–June).
- Stargaze under certified dark skies; bring a red-light headlamp.
- Soak at nearby hot springs like Sand Dunes Recreation or Joyful Journey.
• Where to Stay: Book a simple motel in Alamosa for value, a rustic cabin in the San Luis Valley for solitude, or a boutique lodge with on-site soaking pools for romance. Camping near the park fills fast; reserve early.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring and early summer for Medano Creek; September–October for cooler sand temperatures and crisp nights. Winter feels empty and beautiful, but pack for cold.
Safety note: Sand heats up quickly under midday sun. Wear closed-toe shoes and start early to avoid heat and wind.
Gunnison & Crested Butte — Wildflowers, Singletrack, and Historic Streets
• Distance/Travel Time: About 4.5–5 hours by car from Denver; 3–3.5 hours from Colorado Springs to Gunnison, then another 30–45 minutes to Crested Butte. Winter weather can extend the drive.
• Why Visit: Gunnison’s wide-open valley and Crested Butte’s colorful historic core set the stage for spectacular trails and festivals. In July, meadows explode with wildflowers. In winter, Nordic and alpine terrain beckon. A weekend getaway from Colorado to Crested Butte rewards outdoor lovers and photographers alike.
• Top Things to Do:
- Hike or bike the Lupine or Snodgrass trails; time July for peak blooms.
- Stroll Elk Avenue’s galleries, cafes, and creaky wooden boardwalks.
- Paddle Blue Mesa Reservoir or fish the Gunnison River.
- Ski Crested Butte Mountain Resort or glide the Nordic track network.
• Where to Stay: In Crested Butte, book boutique inns or slopeside condos; in Gunnison, snag value hotels close to dining and the airport. For extra space, look for dog-friendly cabins outside town.
• Best Time to Visit: Late June–August for wildflowers and long days; September for aspen gold and cool temps; December–March for skiing with fewer crowds than larger resorts.
Transport tip: If you want to skip mountain passes in winter, fly into Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) and take a shuttle to town.
Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Colorado
Packing light is the easiest way to gain time back on a short break. Choose a carry-size duffel or backpack, pre-pack a clear toiletries kit, and keep a “go bag” with essentials ready for Friday departures. Next, lock in one must-do per day: a sunrise hike, a museum tour, or a soak. Then leave the rest open for spontaneous stops.
Transportation
- Drive when your destination sits within 4–6 hours; you’ll save time door-to-door.
- Use Amtrak for Glenwood Springs or Winter Park ski weekends; arrive right in town.
- Check Colorado road conditions on COtrip and avoid peak traffic windows on I-70 by leaving early or late.
- Consider travel insurance if winter weather might disrupt your plans.
Booking and Accommodation
- Reserve flexible hotel rates, especially in shoulder and winter seasons.
- Prioritize location: in-town hotels save time on quick trips.
- Bundle where possible—lift/lodging packages, hot springs plus hotel deals, or museum passes.
- For national parks, secure timed-entry or trail permits (Rocky Mountain, Hanging Lake, Arches) before booking lodging.
What should I pack for a weekend trip from Colorado?
- Layers: base layer, fleece or light puffy, and a wind/rain shell.
- Footwear: broken-in hiking shoes or winter boots; camp sandals for hot springs.
- Sun kit: SPF 30+, lip balm, wide-brim hat, sunglasses.
- Hydration: reusable bottle or hydration pack; electrolytes for high-altitude days.
- Extras: compact first-aid kit, headlamp, phone power bank, swimsuit, microspikes in winter, and traction-friendly snow brush for your car.
Helpful tip: a packable down jacket, collapsible trekking poles, and a universal travel adapter for hotel USB shortages all earn their keep on short trips.
Best Time to Plan Weekend Getaways from Colorado
Colorado’s seasons shape your options, so match your weekend to the weather and your goals.
Spring (March–May)
- Expect shoulder-season deals, snow at higher elevations, and mud-season closures on some mountain trails.
- Front Range temps hover around 45–70°F; mountains stay cooler (25–55°F).
- Ideal for city breaks (Santa Fe, Taos), hot springs (Glenwood, Steamboat), or desert trips (Moab).
Summer (June–August)
- Long daylight and open mountain passes fuel adventure. Thunderstorms often roll in afternoons—start hikes early.
- Front Range: 70–95°F; high country: 55–75°F; deserts: 85–105°F midday.
- Pick mountain towns for hiking and biking; aim for dawn/dusk activities in Moab.
Fall (September–October)
- Crisp air, golden aspens, and fewer crowds. Elk rut and harvest festivals highlight weekends.
- Front Range: 50–80°F; high country: 35–65°F; nights grow chilly.
- Great for Rocky Mountain NP, Crested Butte, and Santa Fe’s art and food scene.
Winter (November–February)
- Snow transforms the high country; roads remain clear most days but watch for storms.
- Front Range: 20–50°F; high country: 0–35°F; deserts: 25–55°F with cold nights.
- Best for ski weekends (Steamboat, Taos), hot-spring soaks (Glenwood), and quiet national parks.
Planning tip: For holiday periods and fall-color weekends, book 6–8 weeks out. Otherwise, monitor rates and pounce when prices dip midweek.
Budget and Planning Advice
A smart budget for a 2–3 day trip includes four buckets: lodging, transport, food, and activities. Here’s a realistic range for two travelers from the Front Range.
- Lodging (2 nights): $220–$700
- Budget motels: $110–$160 per night
- Midrange/boutique: $170–$280 per night
- Resort or ski-lift proximity: $300–$450 per night
- Transport: $60–$200
- Gas for a 400–700 mile round trip: $60–$120 depending on MPG
- Amtrak to Glenwood: often $80–$180 round trip per person, sales vary
- Airport parking or shuttles: $15–$40 if you fly
- Food & Drink: $150–$350
- Mix casual meals with one splurge dinner; pack breakfast to save
- Activities & Passes: $30–$200
- National park entrance: $30–$35 per vehicle (or $80 annual pass)
- Lift tickets, guided tours, hot springs, or museum passes vary
How much does a weekend trip from Colorado cost?
- Lean weekend: $450–$700 for two with budget lodging, mostly free hikes, and a few paid activities.
- Comfortable weekend: $800–$1,400 with boutique hotels, a guided tour or lift tickets, and memorable dining.
- Splurge weekend: $1,500+ with resort stays, spa time, and premium experiences.
Tools to streamline planning
- Routes and traffic: Google Maps plus COtrip for live road cams and closures.
- Booking: Use platforms with price alerts and free cancellation windows; compare total costs including resort fees and parking.
- Itinerary apps: Wanderlog or Roadtrippers for mapping stops; Trailforks and AllTrails for hikes and rides.
- Park logistics: Recreation.gov for timed entries and permits; check official park sites for seasonal changes.
Helpful suggestions:
- Grab an annual parks pass if you’ll visit three or more fee sites.
- Book refundable hotel rates early, then rebook if prices drop.
- Consider a hot springs + hotel package, ski-and-stay bundle, or city museum pass for built-in savings.
By starting from Colorado, you unlock a rare mix of mountains, desert, and culture within a half day’s drive. Pick one destination, keep your plans focused, and travel with intention. With the right weekend setup, you’ll return energized—and ready to plan the next quick escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
– For mountains: Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park (1.5–2 hours), Steamboat Springs (3–3.5 hours), Crested Butte via Gunnison (4.5–5 hours).
– For hot springs: Glenwood Springs (3 hours), Strawberry Park in Steamboat (3–3.5 hours), Mount Princeton near Buena Vista (2.5–3 hours).
– For desert scenery: Moab, Utah (5–6 hours).
– For culture: Santa Fe (5.5–6 hours) and Taos (5–6 hours).
– For icons and wildlife: Black Hills, South Dakota (6–6.5 hours). These spots fit a 2–3 day plan with one signature activity per day.
Yes. The drive runs 5–6 hours via I-70, so leave early to beat weekend traffic over the Eisenhower Tunnel and through Glenwood Canyon. Plan one park per day—Arches for sunrise/sunset and Canyonlands (Island in the Sky) for overlooks. In spring and fall, expect ideal temps; in summer, hike at dawn and rest midday. Check if Arches requires timed-entry permits for peak months.
Yes, in peak season you often do. Rocky Mountain National Park uses timed-entry permits most years from late May through October; book on Recreation.gov. Hanging Lake requires a separate reservation year-round with limited daily slots. Arches National Park in Moab also frequently uses timed entry in spring through fall. Always confirm current rules on each park’s official site before booking lodging.
Aim for mid-September to early October, but timing shifts with elevation and weather. High-elevation passes (like Kenosha Pass and Guanella Pass) usually peak mid to late September. Lower elevations near Boulder, Golden, and Colorado Springs often turn late September into early October. For weekend leaf-peeping from Denver, consider Peak to Peak Byway, Maroon Bells (near Aspen), or Crested Butte’s Kebler Pass.
Westbound traffic spikes Friday afternoon/evening and Saturday morning. Eastbound return traffic builds Sunday from late morning through evening. To avoid jams, leave before 6 a.m. or after 7 p.m., use COtrip for live cams and alerts, and consider alternate routes: US-285 for Buena Vista/Salida/Crested Butte access, or US-36/CO-66/CO-7 for Estes Park. In winter, check traction laws and carry proper tires.
Top picks within a weekend range include:
– Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and Iron Mountain Hot Springs (Glenwood Springs, 3 hours).
– Strawberry Park Hot Springs (Steamboat Springs, 3–3.5 hours).
– Mount Princeton Hot Springs (near Buena Vista, 2.5–3 hours).
– Hot Sulphur Springs Resort (Hot Sulphur Springs, about 2–2.5 hours). Book weekend time slots for popular pools and bring sandals plus a quick-dry towel.
Absolutely. The park sits about 3.5–4 hours from Denver and pairs huge dunes with Sangre de Cristo views. Sandboard or sled the dunes, stargaze under dark skies, and visit nearby hot springs. For a unique experience, time Medano Creek’s seasonal flow (typically late May to June). Start dune hikes early to avoid hot midday sand and frequent afternoon winds.
Choose Santa Fe for walkable art, standout dining, and adobe architecture near the Plaza and Railyard; it’s about 5.5–6 hours from Denver. Pick Taos for mountain adventures, Taos Pueblo (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge at sunset, and Taos Ski Valley; drive time runs 5–6 hours. For culture-forward weekends, Santa Fe wins; for a blend of culture and alpine terrain, go Taos.
Yes. The Amtrak California Zephyr runs from Denver Union Station to Glenwood Springs, delivering you to the walkable downtown near hot springs and the river path. In ski season, the Winter Park Express offers select weekend service from Denver directly to Winter Park Resort. If you fly to Albuquerque, you can connect to Santa Fe on the Rail Runner Express or a shuttle for a car-light trip.
Plan on:
Budget: $450–$700 with value lodging, mostly free hikes, and simple dining.
Midrange: $800–$1,400 with boutique hotels, a guided activity (like rafting or a cave tour), and one splurge meal.
Splurge: $1,500+ with resort stays, spa time, and premium experiences. Save with an America the Beautiful annual pass if you’ll hit three or more national park sites, and book refundable hotel rates so you can reprice if rates drop.
Susan CalliesSusan Callies is a travel writer at Travleon.com, where she shares guides, itineraries, and hidden gems from around the world. When she’s not writing about new destinations, Susan enjoys playing the violin, ice skating during the winter months, and exploring local food scenes wherever she travels. She's also passionate about photography, journaling her adventures, and visiting art museums. Susan believes that the best stories are found off the beaten path — and she’s always chasing the next one.