Denver, Colorado, is a gateway to some of the most stunning national parks in the United States. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, or thrilling outdoor activities, there’s a park for everyone. Here are the 10 best national parks you can visit from Denver, each offering unique experiences.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
Distance from Denver: 70 miles (1.5-hour drive)
Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is one of the most accessible national parks from Denver, making it a top choice for nature lovers. Spanning over 415 square miles, it offers majestic mountains, scenic alpine lakes, and over 300 miles of hiking trails.
Highlights:
- Trail Ridge Road: The highest continuous paved road in North America, offering breathtaking views.
- Bear Lake: A stunning alpine lake with easy hiking trails.
- Longs Peak: A challenging 14,259-ft summit for experienced climbers.
- Wildlife: Spot elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and black bears.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for hiking; winter for snowshoeing and wildlife viewing.
2. Great Sand Dunes National Park (Colorado)
Distance from Denver: 240 miles (4-hour drive)
Great Sand Dunes National Park features the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching up to 750 feet. This surreal landscape is a paradise for adventurers and photographers alike.
Highlights:
- Sandboarding & Sand Sledding: Try boarding down the massive dunes.
- Medano Creek: A seasonal creek perfect for splashing and cooling off.
- Star Gazing: Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, ideal for night photography.
- Hiking: Experience High Dune and Star Dune for a challenging adventure.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for Medano Creek; fall for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)
Distance from Denver: 250 miles (5-hour drive)
Black Canyon of the Gunnison is known for its deep, narrow gorges carved by the Gunnison River. The steep cliffs and dramatic landscape make it one of Colorado’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Highlights:
- South Rim Drive: Offers breathtaking overlooks like Gunnison Point and Painted Wall.
- Hiking: Try the Warner Point Trail for panoramic views.
- Whitewater Rafting: Experience Class V rapids for an adrenaline rush.
- Stargazing: A designated International Dark Sky Park.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for hiking; summer for rafting and camping.
4. Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)
Distance from Denver: 370 miles (7-hour drive)
Mesa Verde National Park is famous for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, offering a fascinating glimpse into Native American history.
Highlights:
- Cliff Palace: The largest cliff dwelling in North America.
- Balcony House: A guided tour featuring ladders and tunnels.
- Petroglyph Point Trail: View ancient rock carvings.
- Mesa Top Loop: A scenic drive showcasing ancient dwellings and panoramic views.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
5. Arches National Park (Utah)
Distance from Denver: 350 miles (5.5-hour drive)
Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, making it one of the most visually striking parks in the U.S.
Highlights:
- Delicate Arch: The most iconic arch in the park, best viewed at sunrise or sunset.
- Landscape Arch: The longest arch in North America.
- Fiery Furnace: A challenging maze of sandstone canyons.
- Devils Garden: A must-hike area with multiple unique formations.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant temperatures.
6. Canyonlands National Park (Utah)
Distance from Denver: 360 miles (6-hour drive)
Canyonlands National Park features a rugged landscape filled with deep canyons, towering mesas, and dramatic rock formations.
Highlights:
- Island in the Sky: Stunning viewpoints such as Mesa Arch and Grand View Point.
- The Needles: Great for off-the-beaten-path hiking.
- White Rim Road: A 100-mile backcountry road adventure.
- Rafting on the Colorado River: For thrill-seekers.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures.
7. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Distance from Denver: 500 miles (8-hour drive)
Yellowstone, the first national park in the world, is famous for its geothermal features and diverse wildlife.
Highlights:
- Old Faithful: The most famous geyser, erupting regularly.
- Grand Prismatic Spring: A vibrant, rainbow-colored hot spring.
- Lamar Valley: Prime location for spotting bison, wolves, and bears.
- Yellowstone Lake: Ideal for kayaking and fishing.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for full access; winter for snow-covered beauty.
8. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
Distance from Denver: 480 miles (7.5-hour drive)
Grand Teton National Park is known for its jagged peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights:
- Jenny Lake: Scenic boat rides and hiking trails.
- Snake River: Perfect for rafting and photography.
- Cascade Canyon: Stunning views of the Teton Range.
- Wildlife Watching: Moose, elk, and grizzly bears roam freely.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall.
9. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)
Distance from Denver: 400 miles (6.5-hour drive)
Badlands National Park features rugged rock formations, colorful canyons, and one of the richest fossil beds in the world.
Highlights:
- Badlands Loop Road: A scenic drive with multiple overlooks.
- Fossil Exhibit Trail: Displays prehistoric fossils.
- Notch Trail: A thrilling hike with a ladder climb.
- Prairie Wildlife: Home to bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather.
10. Zion National Park (Utah)
Distance from Denver: 600 miles (9.5-hour drive)
Zion National Park is known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, lush valleys, and thrilling hikes.
Highlights:
- Angels Landing: A challenging but rewarding hike.
- The Narrows: Hike through a river in a stunning slot canyon.
- Emerald Pools: A family-friendly hike with waterfalls.
- Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: A breathtaking route through the park.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures.
Conclusion
If you’re in Denver, you’re in a prime location to explore some of the best national parks in America. Whether you’re looking for high-altitude adventures, desert landscapes, or rich history, these 10 national parks offer unforgettable experiences just a road trip away.
