You’ve hiked through Garden of the Gods, you’ve seen the view from Pikes Peak, and you’ve explored the charming streets of Old Colorado City. Now what? The real magic of the Pikes Peak region unfolds when you venture just beyond the city limits, where canyons plunge, gold rush towns sleep, and prehistoric giants are frozen in time.
Using Colorado Springs as your home base is the smartest way to explore. You get all the city’s amazing restaurants and comforts while being perfectly positioned to launch into a new adventure every single day. Forget packing and unpacking—just pick a direction and drive.
This isn’t your average list of things to do in Colorado Springs. This is your guide to the adventures that lie just an hour or so away, turning a great vacation into an unforgettable one.
Table of Contents
- Why Use Colorado Springs as Your Adventure Basecamp?
- Day Trip 1: The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park (Awe-Inspiring Heights)
- Day Trip 2: Cripple Creek & Victor (A Step Back in Time)
- Day Trip 3: Florissant Fossil Beds & Mueller State Park (Prehistoric Wonders & Alpine Serenity)
- Day Trip 4: Cañon City & The Skyline Drive (Wine, Rails, and Ridges)
- Day Trip 5: The North Pole - Santa’s Workshop (Year-Round Festive Fun)
- Where to Stay: Your Perfect Colorado Springs Home Base
- Colorado Springs Day Trips FAQ
Why Use Colorado Springs as Your Adventure Basecamp?
Location, location, location. Colorado Springs sits at the junction of the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains, making it a launchpad for incredibly diverse experiences. You can be in a deep river canyon, a high-alpine forest, or a historic mining town in about an hour.
Staying in a Colorado Springs vacation rental means you get the best of both worlds: easy access to I-25 and Highway 24 for your day trips, and a comfortable, amenity-rich home to return to each evening. Think about it: after a day spent staring down into a 1,000-foot canyon, you can be back in your private hot tub, grilling on the deck, and sleeping in a comfortable bed—ready for the next day’s quest.
Day Trip 1: The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park (Awe-Inspiring Heights)
What It Is
Prepare for your jaw to drop. The Royal Gorge is a stunning, 1,250-foot-deep canyon carved by the Arkansas River. The main attraction is the Royal Gorge Bridge, America’s highest suspension bridge, which you can walk or drive across. But it’s more than just a bridge—it’s a full-blown adventure park.
Getting There
It’s a straight shot, about a 60-minute drive southwest of Colorado Springs via CO-115 S. The drive itself is beautiful as you leave the city and enter the high desert landscape. - Address: 4218 Co Rd 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212
Don’t Miss
- The Bridge: Walk across it. Seriously. The wooden planks creak under your feet, and peering over the side is a dizzying, thrilling experience.
- Aerial Gondola: For a less terrifying but equally spectacular view, ride the silent, enclosed gondola across the gorge. You get panoramic views of the bridge and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
- Cloudscraper Zip Line: This is for the adrenaline junkies. You’ll soar 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River, making it one of the highest zip lines in the country.
- Royal Rush Skycoaster: Essentially a giant swing that launches you out over the edge of the canyon at 50 mph. Not for the faint of heart.
Local’s Tip
Buy your tickets online in advance. You’ll save a few bucks and, more importantly, skip the ticket line at the entrance, which can get long, especially on summer weekends. Also, plan to spend at least 3-4 hours here to do it justice; don’t try to rush it. The wind can be intense on the bridge, so bring a jacket even on a warm day.
Good to Know
The park is open year-round (weather permitting), but hours vary by season. General admission gets you access to the bridge and gondola; the thrill rides are an extra cost. It’s an investment, but the views and experience are truly one-of-a-kind.
Day Trip 2: Cripple Creek & Victor (A Step Back in Time)
What It Is
Ready to strike it rich? Or at least feel like you could have? Cripple Creek and the nearby ghost town of Victor are the heart of a historic gold mining district. In the late 1800s, this was the “World’s Greatest Gold Camp.” Today, Cripple Creek is a unique blend of preserved history and modern-day casino gaming, while Victor feels like a town frozen in time.
Getting There
The drive is part of the adventure. It’s about a 45-mile (1-hour) drive west from Colorado Springs via CO-24 W and CO-67 S. The last leg of the journey winds through scenic mountain passes that are stunning, especially in the fall when the aspens are golden.
Don’t Miss
- Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour: Descend 1,000 feet underground in a miner’s cage to see what life was like for the gold miners. It’s a fascinating and slightly chilly experience.
- Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad: This 45-minute train ride on a vintage steam locomotive takes you through the historic mining district, past abandoned mines and glory holes. The conductor’s narration is fantastic.
- The Victor Lowell Thomas Museum: Get the authentic, non-casino side of the area’s history in Victor. It’s a small but packed museum that tells the story of the hardy people who lived and worked here.
- American Eagles Overlook: Just outside of Victor, this spot gives you a mind-boggling view of the modern, massive Newmont open-pit mining operation. The scale is hard to comprehend.
Local’s Tip
Skip the bigger casinos in Cripple Creek and pop into the smaller, historic ones. They have more character. My personal favorite is Bronco Billy’s. For food, The Creekside Restaurant has surprisingly good, non-casino-style food. And whatever you do, don’t leave without driving the 5-mile “Phantom Canyon Road” or “Gold Belt Scenic Byway” if you have a capable vehicle—it’s a spectacular, unpaved journey through the canyon.
Good to Know
Cripple Creek is at an elevation of 9,494 feet, so drink plenty of water and take it easy if you’re not acclimated. The weather can change in an instant, so layers are your best friend.
Day Trip 3: Florissant Fossil Beds & Mueller State Park (Prehistoric Wonders & Alpine Serenity)
What It Is
This is a two-for-one day trip for nature lovers. First, visit Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, where volcanic eruptions 34 million years ago preserved an entire ecosystem. You can see impossibly detailed fossils of insects and plants, plus massive petrified redwood stumps. Then, head just 15 minutes down the road to Mueller State Park for stunning hiking among aspen and pine forests with epic views of the Continental Divide.
Getting There
It’s an easy and scenic 35-mile (50-minute) drive west from Colorado Springs, taking US-24 W through Woodland Park. - Florissant Fossil Beds Address: 15807 Teller County Rd 1, Florissant, CO 80816 - Mueller State Park Address: 21045 CO-67, Divide, CO 80814
Don’t Miss
- At Florissant: Walk the Petrified Forest Loop (1 mile). It’s an easy, accessible trail where you can see the giant petrified redwood stumps up close. The indoor exhibit at the visitor center is also fantastic, with microscope stations to see the fossil details.
- At Mueller: Hike the Outlook Ridge Trail to the scenic viewpoint. It’s a moderate 2.6-mile loop that pays off with some of the best panoramic mountain views in the entire region. In the fall, this park is an explosion of gold. Keep an eye out for elk, mule deer, and even black bears.
Local’s Tip
Pack a picnic. There aren’t many food options right near the parks. Find a spot at Mueller State Park’s Preacher’s Hollow Overlook for lunch with a world-class view. The best time to visit is on a weekday to avoid crowds, especially during the peak fall color season (mid-to-late September).
Good to Know
You’ll need to pay an entrance fee for the National Monument and a separate vehicle pass for the State Park. Both are well worth it. Dogs are not allowed on the trails at Florissant Fossil Beds but are welcome on most trails at Mueller State Park (on-leash).
Day Trip 4: Cañon City & The Skyline Drive (Wine, Rails, and Ridges)
What It Is
While many people just pass through Cañon City on their way to the Royal Gorge, the town and its immediate surroundings are a destination in their own right. It’s home to a historic downtown, a surprisingly robust winery scene, and one of the most thrilling scenic drives in Colorado.
Getting There
Just like the Royal Gorge, it’s about a 45-60 minute drive southwest via CO-115 S.
Don’t Miss
- Skyline Drive: This is a must-do. It’s a narrow, one-way road that climbs to the top of a razorback ridge, with sheer drop-offs on both sides. The views of Cañon City and the Arkansas River Valley are breathtaking. There are pull-offs for photos, but the driver should definitely keep their eyes on the road!
- Royal Gorge Route Railroad: If you’d rather see the canyon from below, this is the way to do it. This scenic train ride follows the Arkansas River through the bottom of the Royal Gorge. Book a seat in the Vista Dome car for the best views. It’s a relaxing, beautiful 2-hour trip.
- The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey: Located in a beautiful, historic setting, this winery offers tastings of its award-winning Colorado wines. It’s a peaceful and tasty way to spend an afternoon.
- Museum of Colorado Prisons: For something completely different, this museum is housed in the former Women’s Prison and offers a chilling, fascinating look at the history of the state’s correctional system.
Local’s Tip
After you survive Skyline Drive, head straight to The Owl Cigar Store on Main Street for a “local’s only” burger experience. It’s a no-frills institution. For the railroad, book your tickets well in advance, especially for the dinner trains or peak season rides, as they sell out.
Day Trip 5: The North Pole - Santa’s Workshop (Year-Round Festive Fun)
What It Is
Perfect for families with young kids, this charming vintage amusement park is nestled at the base of Pikes Peak. It’s Christmas-themed, of course, with rides, shows, and a chance to meet Santa himself, no matter the season.
Getting There
This is the easiest day trip of all. It’s just a 15-20 minute drive west of Colorado Springs up the scenic Ute Pass on US-24 W. - Address: 5050 Pikes Peak Hwy, Cascade, CO 80809
Don’t Miss
- The Candy Cane Coaster: A surprisingly zippy little rollercoaster that’s perfect for first-timers.
- The Sky Ride: A classic chairlift-style ride that gives you great views of the park and the surrounding forest.
- Santa’s House: The main event! Kids can meet Santa and get a photo.
- The Glass Blower: Watch artisans create beautiful hand-blown glass ornaments right before your eyes.
Local’s Tip
Go on a weekday if you can, as weekends get very crowded. The park is best for kids under 10. You can bring your own food and drinks, which is a great way to save money. The park’s elevation is around 7,500 feet, so once again, stay hydrated.
Where to Stay: Your Perfect Colorado Springs Home Base
After a full day of exploring canyons, mines, or fossil beds, you need a comfortable and convenient place to recharge. That’s where finding the right Colorado Springs vacation rental makes all the difference.
For larger families or groups, a home with built-in entertainment is a lifesaver. The Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games is a destination in itself. Imagine coming back from a day trip and letting the kids burn off their remaining energy with a round of mini-golf in the backyard while you relax in the private sauna or hot tub. It’s the perfect way to end an adventurous day.
If your group is slightly smaller or you prioritize a central location and stunning views, look no further. A property like our Stunning Mountain Views, Hot Tub, Game Room home is ideal. You can plan your next day’s adventure from the comfort of a deck with panoramic views of the Front Range. It’s close to the main highways, making it an incredible launchpad for any of these day trips, and the game room provides hours of fun for the whole family.
Colorado Springs Day Trips FAQ
Q: What is the best day trip from Colorado Springs? A: It truly depends on your interests! For pure, jaw-dropping spectacle and adventure, the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is hard to beat. For history buffs and a unique atmosphere, Cripple Creek is fantastic. For families with young children, The North Pole is a guaranteed winner.
Q: How far is Royal Gorge from Colorado Springs? A: The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is located near Cañon City, which is about 45 miles southwest of Colorado Springs. The drive typically takes about one hour, making it a very easy and popular day trip.
Q: Can you do a day trip to the mountains from Colorado Springs? A: Absolutely! Colorado Springs is located at the foot of the mountains. A drive to Mueller State Park or Cripple Creek (both under an hour) will put you deep into the beautiful alpine scenery of the Rocky Mountains. You can also drive part of the Pikes Peak Highway for incredible mountain views without committing to the summit.
Q: What is there to do between Colorado Springs and Denver? A: The 70-mile stretch between Colorado Springs and Denver offers several great stops. You can explore the Outlets at Castle Rock for shopping, visit the historic town of Palmer Lake, or hike the scenic trails at Castlewood Canyon State Park. The U.S. Air Force Academy, located on the north end of Colorado Springs, is also a fantastic stop with its iconic chapel and visitor center.
Ready to start planning your adventure? The Pikes Peak region is packed with more to see and do than you could ever fit into one trip, but these day trips are a great place to start.
When you’re ready to find your perfect home base, skip the extra fees on third-party sites. Book directly with Springline Stays for the best rates and local service on your Colorado Springs vacation rental. We can’t wait to host you!
The Broadmoor — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.
Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets — Book your stay →
Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games — Book your stay →