Do you need a break from winter’s doldroms? Grab the kids and hop in the car to enjoy these nearby adventures!
Winter Day Trips Close to Denver
Red Rocks & Golden
While the concert season at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre may be over, this natural wonder remains a year-round destination. The Red Rocks Visitor Center is open daily, where you can explore the Red Rocks Hall of Fame, showcasing over 40 years of legendary performances. Discover the massive rock formations in the Geologic Niche and embark on the 1.4-mile Trading Post Loop Hiking Trail, winding through breathtaking rock formations, valleys, and a natural meadow. After your Red Rocks adventure, visit nearby Golden, a charming Old West-style town with unique shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Central City & Black Hawk
Take I-70 West and exit at 243 onto Central City Parkway for a trip to the historic mining towns of Central City and Black Hawk, located just 34 miles (55 km) west of Denver. These vibrant destinations boast over 30 casinos featuring blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, and more than 10,000 slot machines. In 2009, the betting limit was raised to $100, drawing in high rollers. Beyond gaming, these towns are home to some of the best-preserved Victorian architecture in the West. Explore the historic Teller House Hotel, once visited by President Grant, and the renowned Central City Opera House, which has hosted world-class performances for over a century. Don’t miss the opportunity to tour historic mines, visit mining museums, or even try your hand at in-stream gold panning—where over half a billion dollars’ worth of gold was once discovered. Visit the Gilpin History Museum to learn about Colorado’s mining past. During the winter, some areas offer sledding and snow play, making it a fun stop for kids.
Rocky Mountain National Park
For a breathtaking winter escape, head north on I-25 to Exit 217, then take US Hwy. 36 west to Estes Park. Just an hour from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park offers unparalleled family-friendly snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities, leading you to some of Colorado’s most serene and picturesque landscapes. Rent gear in Denver before making the short drive, and check with rangers at visitor centers for guidance on the best trails suited to your skill level. Keep an eye out for elk and other wildlife! After your outdoor adventure, stroll through downtown Estes Park, where kids will love the local candy shops, toy stores, and a stop at the famous Stanley Hotel, inspiration for The Shining.
Evergreen & Echo Lake
Just 30 miles west of Denver, Evergreen is a fantastic winter getaway for families. Bundle up and head to Evergreen Lake, where you can enjoy ice skating with stunning mountain views (rentals available on-site). If you prefer hiking, check out Elk Meadow Park for easy trails with great wildlife viewing opportunities. Warm up with hot chocolate at one of the town’s cozy cafés before taking a scenic drive to Echo Lake, nestled at the base of Mount Evans. This peaceful spot is perfect for a winter picnic, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air.
Georgetown & Loveland Ski Area
Take a step back in time with a visit to Georgetown, a charming historic town about 45 minutes from Denver. Families can hop aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, which offers seasonal winter rides through a beautiful alpine landscape. If your family loves winter sports, Loveland Ski Area is just a short drive away, offering affordable skiing and snowboarding with beginner-friendly terrain and a great ski school for kids.
Winter Day Trips Close to Denver for Families
Red Rocks & Golden
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre isn’t just for concerts—it’s a stunning natural playground perfect for a family outing. The Red Rocks Visitor Center is open year-round, featuring the Hall of Fame with memorabilia from legendary performances. Kids will love exploring the Geologic Niche to learn about the massive rock formations and hiking the 1.4-mile Trading Post Loop Trail, which winds through breathtaking red rock formations, valleys, and meadows. Afterward, take a short drive to Golden, where families can stroll through the Old West-themed downtown, visit the Colorado Railroad Museum, or stop by the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave for a fascinating look at frontier history.
Evergreen & Echo Lake
Just 30 miles west of Denver, Evergreen is a fantastic winter getaway for families. Bundle up and head to Evergreen Lake, where you can enjoy ice skating with stunning mountain views (rentals available on-site). If you prefer hiking, check out Elk Meadow Park for easy trails with great wildlife viewing opportunities. Warm up with hot chocolate at one of the town’s cozy cafés before taking a scenic drive to Echo Lake, nestled at the base of Mount Evans. This peaceful spot is perfect for a winter picnic, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air.
Georgetown & Loveland Ski Area
Take a step back in time with a visit to Georgetown, a charming historic town about 45 minutes from Denver. Families can hop aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, which offers seasonal winter rides through a beautiful alpine landscape. If your family loves winter sports, Loveland Ski Area is just a short drive away, offering affordable skiing and snowboarding with beginner-friendly terrain and a great ski school for kids.
Rocky Mountain National Park & Estes Park
A family trip to Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect way to experience winter magic. Located just over an hour from Denver, the park offers kid-friendly snowshoeing trails and breathtaking winter scenery. Stop by a visitor center to get trail recommendations and rent gear in Estes Park before heading into the park. Keep an eye out for elk and other wildlife! After your outdoor adventure, stroll through downtown Estes Park, where kids will love the local candy shops, toy stores, and a stop at the famous Stanley Hotel, inspiration for The Shining.
Central City & Black Hawk – Beyond the Casinos
While known for gaming, Central City and Black Hawk also have great family-friendly activities. Visit the Gilpin History Museum to learn about Colorado’s mining past, take a mine tour, or try gold panning at a local site. During the winter, some areas offer sledding and snow play, making it a fun stop for kids.
These easy winter getaways offer plenty of adventure and family-friendly fun—without spending too much time in the car! ❄️🚗
Photo: Visit Denver
Author: Mile High Mamas
