Colorado is known for its stunning scenery, high peaks, and outdoor adventure opportunities, yet is also infamous for its bumper-to-bumper summer traffic on I-70, a major connecting highway through the state. As amazing as Colorado is, navigating this traffic can be a hassle if you are not adequately prepared.

If you do choose to travel on I-70 this summer, be sure to check COTrip for traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, we’ve compiled a list of a few awesome locations for a day, weekend, or summer road trip, where visitors can experience the best of Colorado and avoid the worst of the traffic!

Buena Vista

Buena Vista is a beautiful small town located south of Colorado Springs, off of Hwy 24, and from Denver, the drive is about 2 hours on Hwy 285 S. With its location in the Arkansas River Valley and between the Collegiate Peaks Mountain Range and the Arkansas River, Buena Vista offers countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, including whitewater rafting, ziplining, and Via Ferrata courses.

The area also boasts a plethora of hiking and biking trails, as well as gorgeous views along the Collegiate Scenic Byway. Drive your MileMarker van on this 57 mile route with views of the Continental Divide and the Sawatch Range.  Be sure to drop by one of the area’s three hot springs to relax after your outdoor adventure and check out the top places to eat in the area!

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is south of Denver, about a one hour on Hwy 25 offers an abundance of activities for fellow explorers. Favorite hikes in the area include Garden of the Gods and the Manitou Incline. Conquer Pikes Peak, a local and notable 14er, on foot, bike, or in your van! The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19 mile paved road with stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. I’d also recommend downloading the All Trails app on your phone to explore hiking trails throughout the state.

Downtown Colorado Springs also offers exiting events and festivals this summer including the Pikes Peak Rodeo, the Rocky Mountain State Games, and Labor Day Lift Off, Colorado Springs’s hot air balloon festival.

Boulder

Boulder, Colorado is located north of Denver right off US-36 and is only about a 35–40-minute drive from the Mile High City! This town is well known for its picturesque downtown and abundance of outdoor activities, while remaining accessible from metro Denver. The area offers numerous hiking trails, including the classic flatirons and other hikes from Chautauqua.

Some other local favorites include trails from the National Atmospheric Research Center,  the steep but rewarding Mount Sanitas, and Eldorado Canyon State Park with its refreshing waterfalls.

Be sure to also stop at a restaurant, brewery, or weekly summer farmer’s market on Boulder’s Pearl Street or rent a bike or E-bike to explore the city and its surrounding paths and trails.

Fort Collins

Jump on Highway I-25 and head to Fort Collins, just one hour north of Denver. Not only does this town offer events to explore downtown, including concerts and festivals, but an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities.

Check out the city’s beautiful botanic gardens or the Horsetooth Reservoir – a favorite for stand up paddleboarding, water skiing, sailing, horseback riding, and biking. Located only 45 miles away from Rocky Mountain National Park, the area is also easily within driving distance of the National Park’s notable hikes and destinations.

While in town, be sure to try one of the area’s local breweries, as Fort Collins is the Craft Beer Capital of Colorado! I’d also highly recommend dropping by the Waltzing Kangaroo for a bite to eat for an authentic Australian dining experience.

Whether you choose one of our Colorado destinations away from I-70 or brave the summer traffic, the state offers numerous destinations rife with outdoor and cultural offerings for every traveler. Now that you are aware of how to avoid traffic stress, it’s time to load up your van and hit the road. No matter where your summer Colorado trip takes you, we are sure there is a destination for every traveler in your group. Book your MileMarker van rental today, escape the traffic, and unlock the keys to your summer adventure!

Written by Allison Martin, Contributing Member of the Sales and Marketing Team
Edited by Rosa Canales, Marketing Specialist