Colorado Travel ⛰️ | One-Day Guide to Hidden Gems Near Denver

This Labor Day long weekend, I explored Denver and the Rockies! Here’s a one-day itinerary featuring lesser-known spots around Denver — perfect for a fall day trip 🍂🚗 1️⃣ Saint Mary’s Glacier ❄️ Less than 1 hour from downtown Denver, located in Arapaho National Forest. A 1.6-mile round-trip hike leads to stunning Saint Mary’s Lake 🏞️, with fall colors at their best in September/October. Climb the ancient glacier (yes, it’s 7,000 years old!) and enjoy views of ice, alpine lakes, and the Rocky Mountains. A refreshing and rewarding experience! 2️⃣ Idaho Springs 🏔️ A charming mountain town nestled in a valley, known for skiing and hot springs. Other fall foliage options nearby: Silverdale Trailhead Mount Evans Mount Bierstadt Georgetown Lake 🍁 Guanella Pass peaks in late September — don’t miss it! 3️⃣ Mount Blue Sky (Mt. Evans) Scenic Byway 🚗💨 A breathtaking drive to the summit of a 14er (over 14,000 ft)! ⚠️ Reserve your timed entry ticket in advance! Epic views, thin air, and an unforgettable high-altitude experience. 4️⃣ Lookout Mountain Park 🌄 A free alternative to Mt. Evans — drive up for panoramic views of Denver skyline on one side and the Rockies on the other. Perfect for sunset or a quick photo stop! 5️⃣ Buffalo Overlook 🐂 Spot bison (if you’re lucky!) and capture the classic shot of the road winding through the mountains. Great for photography and wildlife sightings! 6️⃣ Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre 🎵🧱 A world-famous venue built into giant red rocks — absolutely iconic! Free to visit (unless there’s an event). Walk the trails, feel the acoustics, and take plenty of photos! 7️⃣ Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge 🦌🐾 Near the airport — perfect for a final stop before flying out! Drive through and spot elk, deer, bison, foxes, birds, and prairie dogs. Beautiful grasslands with city views — surprisingly photogenic! Fall is the perfect time to visit — comfortable weather and breathtaking colors! 🍁📸 #WeekendGetaway #USATravel #WestUSA #OffTheBeatenPath #Denver #Colorado #FallFoliage