There are several charming mountain towns near Denver that offer stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and a cozy small-town vibe. Here are some of the best options:
Enjoy the cute mountain town Golden, Colorado
Golden
- Distance from Denver: About 15 miles west
- Highlights: Known for its historic downtown, Golden offers access to nearby outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and rock climbing, especially around Lookout Mountain and the nearby parks. It’s home to the Coors Brewery and has a lively arts scene.
Camp and enjoy the views in Evergreen, Colorado
Evergreen
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Distance from Denver: About 30 miles west
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Highlights: A beautiful mountain town set near Evergreen Lake and surrounded by dense forests. Perfect for hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing in the winter. It has a quaint downtown with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
The best cliffside zipline in Idaho Springs, Colorado
Idaho Springs
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Distance from Denver: About 30 miles west
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Highlights: A historic mining town that has become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers easy access to the Mount Evans Wilderness, and you can enjoy whitewater rafting on Clear Creek, high-flying ziplining adventures, and soaking in hot springs.
Winter Park, Colorado offers plenty of snow activities
Winter Park
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Distance from Denver: About 67 miles northwest
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Highlights: A popular year-round destination, Winter Park is known for its extensive ski slopes in the winter and offers mountain biking, hiking, and events in the summer. The town has a cozy, small-town vibe with plenty of shops, restaurants, and nearby outdoor activities.
Take the scenic route as you drive up to Silverthorne, Colorado
Silverthorne
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Distance from Denver: About 70 miles west
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Highlights: A small town located near several popular ski resorts, including Keystone, Breckenridge, and Copper Mountain. Silverthorne is a great spot for outdoor adventures like fishing, hiking, and skiing. The town is also home to the Silverthorne Outlets, a great stop for shopping.
You’re just minutes from the Rocky Mountains when in Estes Park, Colorado
Estes Park
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Distance from Denver: About 70 miles north
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Highlights: A bit further than some of the other towns, but worth the drive for its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, from hiking to wildlife viewing, and its historic downtown is full of charm and shops.
Take in the views in Frisco, Colorado
Frisco
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Distance from Denver: About 80 miles west
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Highlights: Located in Summit County, Frisco is a great base for visiting nearby ski resorts such as Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain. In the summer, it’s a hub for mountain biking, hiking, and lake activities on Lake Dillon. The town has a charming downtown area with restaurants and local shops.
Breckenridge, Colorado is a snow sport haven
Breckenridge
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Distance from Denver: About 80 miles west
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Highlights: While it’s a bit farther out, Breckenridge is a popular destination year-round for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking, mountain biking, and festivals in the summer. Its Victorian-style downtown is full of shops, bars, and restaurants.
Conquer the rapids as you raft in Buena Vista, Colorado
Buena Vista
- Distance from Denver: About 105 miles southwest
- Highlights: Buena Vista has a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the outdoors while enjoying a friendly, laid-back town. Whether you’re into rafting, hiking, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, Buena Vista is a great option!
A scenic fall stroll in Salida, Colorado
Salida
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Distance from Denver: About 125 miles southwest
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Highlights: Located on the Arkansas River, Salida is a beautiful town popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Known for rafting, kayaking, and mountain biking, Salida also has a thriving arts scene and a historic downtown area filled with galleries and restaurants. The nearby Collegiate Peaks Wilderness offers great hiking and scenic drives.
Each of these towns has its own unique character, so depending on whether you’re looking for more outdoor adventure, a quiet retreat, or a lively arts scene, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste!
