Spring break in Colorado is a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Whether your family craves adrenaline-pumping activities or serene moments in nature, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Join us as we explore five incredible ways for you and your kiddos to experience spring break in the Centennial State, from the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park to the hidden gems of Southern Colorado.
Experience Rocky Mountain National Park
When in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must. Spring in the Rockies is the best of both worlds: the mountains are still capped in snow, wildflowers have begun to peep through the snow, and the weather is getting warmer, but the crowds still have yet to arrive.
When you take your family to Rocky, they’ll gain a profound appreciation for nature. RMNP is home to some of the most epic scenery in the country, from meadows found in the montane zone to glistening alpine lakes and up to the towering mountain peaks. The park offers plenty of sightseeing, easy hikes for little ones, longer and more difficult hikes for experienced outdoorsmen, and of course, plenty of places to picnic.
If you’re looking to spend multiple days exploring the park, check out accommodations in Estes Park, the quirky town that neighbors the park, for easy access. However, if you’re looking to take one or two-day trips from Denver with your big kids (ages 8+), a guided tour from Denver is the best way to do it. Whether you’re looking to break a sweat on a five-mile hike or want someone who knows the park like the back of their hand to take you to all the best spots, we’ve got you covered.
Let us take you to Rocky for an epic spring break!
All Things Pike’s Peak
Just an hour South of Denver is the famous Pike’s Peak, the highest summit in Colorado’s Front Range, featuring the highest road in North America. The Pike’s Peak region is full of natural wonders that can easily keep any spring breaker occupied. Pike’s Peak itself is of course unmissable. While the road to the top doesn’t open until Memorial Day weekend, the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway runs year-round – just make sure to pack extra layers. This old timey train is tons of fun for all ages and offers spectacular 360-degree views.
On the way to Pike’s Peak, you’ll pass through the adorable vacation town of Manitou Springs, which could easily keep anyone occupied for a few days. The town is home to an extensive, fully operational penny arcade, dozens of art galleries and exhibits, and eight natural springs you can drink straight from, hence the town’s name. For visitors looking for a challenge, the Manitou Incline is a hike up 2,744 steps at an incline of up to 68 percent. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re up for it, the views won’t disappoint.
The area is also home to Garden of the Gods, an absolutely stunning natural landmark made up of unique red rock formations with a rich geologic history. It’s worth at least driving through and walking around the accessible and scenic trails. We can show you these sights with transportation from Denver metro plus more on a private experience with Aspire Tours, or simply enjoy at your leisure.
Get to Know the City of Denver
If you’re planning a trip to Colorado to spend time in the mountains, we honestly can’t blame you – they’re pretty spectacular. However, when you spend your entire visit there, you miss the vibrant culture, history, and experiences that Denver offers. We recommend starting your Denver exploration week with a do-it-all experience: the Denver, Red Rocks, and Beyond Tour. On this tour, we’ll take you to the top sights and spill all on the best neighborhoods to explore, unique features of the city, and everything in between.
After the tour, there’s an endless list of things to do around Denver. We recommend the Denver Children’s Museum, the Denver Zoo, and the Denver Botanic Gardens which all offer fun for kids and grown-ups. Older audiences will also appreciate History Colorado, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, tours of the US Mint and the Colorado Capitol, and the Denver Museum of Art.
Some must-do activities include grabbing a local, craft beer and checking out the 100+ murals in the River North district, walking by or touring the massive Coors Field, getting a bite to eat at one of the 27 Michelin-recommended restaurants in Denver, and taking a stroll in City Park, Cheesman Park, or Wash Park. For more ideas, check out our recommendations on our 24 hours in Denver guides.
Mining Towns Road Trip
Colorado’s gold rush started back in 1859, and it’s legacy lives on today in the form of preserved mines and historic mountain towns up and down the Colorado Rockies. Spend your week or a couple of days back in the 1800s on this unique and scenic road trip.
Start your journey just half an hour from Denver in Central City, a charming town that came to be known during the Colorado Gold Rush as the “richest square mile on earth.” Central City still has many of the original buildings, architecture, gold mines, and Old-West cemeteries intact. History buffs and mining enthusiasts can take a tour of the Coeur D’Alene or Hidee mines, and your kids will love panning for gold there.
Just twelve scenic miles from Central City is Idaho Springs, home to the Argo Mill and Tunnel, an old mill that was instrumental in ore processing and transportation to the Denver Mint which you can still tour today. The town offers endless charm and a great environment to spend an afternoon.
Next, head to Georgetown and ride the Georgetown Railroad, the historical railroad that miners used to transport them to mines back in the day. Today, it’s a scenic route that’s tons of fun for all ages. Make sure you book in advance and add on the mining tour to step into a real mine.
These three towns are the closest to Denver, but expand your horizons by continuing on and venturing to Cripple Creek, Leadville, Silverton, Ouray, and even the ghost town of St. Elmo. On the way, be sure to window shop in the quaint downtowns, take a stroll through marked trails, and stop and smell the roses – literally – it’s wildflower season in Colorado.
Southern Colorado & Great Sand Dunes National Park
Southern Colorado is its own world, and perhaps the most alien place in the region is the Great Sand Dunes National Park. This unique oasis is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, towering over 750 feet high. Spend your days hiking, sandboarding, or simply marveling at gorgeous dunes and mountain backdrops.
The area is also home to a large selection of natural hot springs. Spend a day soaking at the stunning Mt. Princeton hot springs or the more relaxed Desert Reef Hot Springs. Of course, Southern Colorado, just like the rest of the state, is also home to many charming and quaint mountain towns. Cañon City hosts the Royal Gorge Park and Railroad, both worthy sights to add to your itinerary.
In Conclusion…
Spending spring break in Colorado offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences for families and adventurers alike. Whether you seek adventure, cultural immersion, or tranquil moments in nature, Colorado offers an unparalleled spring break experience that will leave lasting memories for years to come. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let Colorado's wonders captivate your soul.
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