Weekend Trips from Highlands Ranch

Nestled in the heart of Douglas County, Highlands Ranch offers more than just picturesque views and suburban comfort—it’s a prime launch point for unforgettable weekend escapes. Whether craving outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or tranquil retreat, residents can access a diverse array of destinations within just a few hours’ drive. From towering peaks to historic towns, here are some of the best weekend trips from Highlands Ranch that blend convenience with a dose of discovery.

Just under two hours from Highlands Ranch, Rocky Mountain National Park is a top-tier destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With over 350 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Emerald Lake and Sky Pond routes, the park provides year-round activities ranging from summer wildflower hikes to winter snowshoeing. Trail Ridge Road, one of America’s highest paved roads, offers breathtaking alpine views and is a must during the warmer months. Wildlife sightings—elk, marmots, and bighorn sheep—are common, making this a rewarding experience for all ages.

Only 75 minutes south of Highlands Ranch, Colorado Springs combines natural beauty with cultural richness. Visitors can ascend the 14,115-foot Pikes Peak via the scenic highway or the newly restored Cog Railway. Nearby, the Garden of the Gods’ dramatic red rock formations invite climbers, hikers, and photographers alike. For a dose of history and military heritage, the U.S. Air Force Academy and the National Museum of World War II Aviation offer enriching tours. The city’s walkable downtown, with its local breweries and cafes, adds urban charm to the mix.

For a weekend centered around relaxation and recreation, Glenwood Springs—about three hours west—is ideal. Famous for its geothermal hot springs, the town invites visitors to soak in mineral-rich waters at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort or Iron Mountain Hot Springs. Adventure seekers can raft the Colorado River, hike to Hanging Lake (permit required), or explore Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. The historic Hotel Colorado and vibrant dining scene make Glenwood a balanced blend of adventure and leisure for couples, families, or solo travelers.

Located two hours away via I-70, Breckenridge is a former mining town turned premier mountain retreat. During the winter, it’s one of Colorado’s most popular ski destinations, but the town shines year-round with alpine activities like mountain biking, fly fishing, and scenic gondola rides. Breckenridge’s downtown is a charming grid of preserved Victorian buildings housing art galleries, distilleries, and locally owned boutiques. Events like Oktoberfest and the International Snow Sculpture Championships offer compelling reasons to visit throughout the year.

Tucked along the Arkansas River, Buena Vista (about 2.5 hours southwest) offers an appealing blend of rugged landscapes and relaxing amenities. The town is known for whitewater rafting, particularly through Browns Canyon National Monument, and features excellent hiking trails like those on Cottonwood Pass. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort provides scenic soaking spots nestled at the base of towering Collegiate Peaks. Buena Vista also has a growing art and music scene, especially visible in the South Main neighborhood with its mix of shops, eateries, and riverfront walkways.

Roughly 3.5 hours northwest of Highlands Ranch, Steamboat Springs is a quintessential mountain town offering year-round activities. Known for its “Champagne Powder” snow, Steamboat Ski Resort attracts skiers from around the globe. In warmer months, the Yampa River Core Trail, Fish Creek Falls, and Howelsen Hill offer excellent hiking, biking, and tubing. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs provide a rustic, rejuvenating experience surrounded by forest. Downtown Steamboat brims with western character, from its historic buildings to its seasonal farmers markets and festivals.

Estes Park serves as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and is only about two hours north of Highlands Ranch. With its charming downtown lined with shops and riverside cafes, the town is perfect for those seeking a laid-back mountain experience. The Stanley Hotel, inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” adds a touch of eerie intrigue and hosts regular ghost tours. Lake Estes offers paddle boating and picnic spots, while elk are frequently seen wandering through town, especially in the fall during rutting season.

Situated around four hours south near Alamosa, Great Sand Dunes National Park is a surreal landscape of towering sand dunes—the tallest in North America—backed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Popular activities include sandboarding, sledding, and hiking atop Star Dune. The Medano Creek runs at the base of the dunes in spring and early summer, creating a beach-like environment for families. Camping is available within the park, and nearby Zapata Falls is a rewarding detour for those willing to trek a short, chilly trail.

Just under two hours northeast, Fort Collins is a vibrant college town with a historic downtown, craft beer culture, and scenic biking trails. As home to Colorado State University and more than 20 breweries—including the iconic New Belgium Brewing—it offers an energetic mix of youthful buzz and local pride. The Cache la Poudre River provides whitewater opportunities, while Horsetooth Reservoir invites boating and paddleboarding. Fort Collins also supports a lively arts scene, with murals, live music, and seasonal food festivals enhancing its community vibe.

At over 10,000 feet in elevation, Leadville is the highest incorporated city in the United States and lies just over two hours from Highlands Ranch. Steeped in mining history, it offers a unique weekend retreat with attractions like the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum and the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad, which provides scenic summer rides. Hiking and biking are plentiful in nearby areas such as Turquoise Lake and Mount Elbert, Colorado’s tallest peak. Despite its remote feel, Leadville’s cozy cafes and restored architecture create a warm welcome.

Weekend trips from Highlands Ranch offer more than a break from routine—they open doors to adventure, inspiration, and deeper connections with Colorado’s rich tapestry of landscapes and communities. From soaking in hot springs to hiking sky-high trails or strolling through historic towns, each destination promises unique rewards. Whether it's a spur-of-the-moment getaway or a planned mini-vacation, these trips affirm that memorable escapes don’t require crossing state lines—just a curious spirit and a full tank of gas.

The David Bell Group understands that where people live shapes how they live—and proximity to Colorado’s incredible weekend destinations is just one of the many perks Highlands Ranch has to offer. Their team specializes in helping clients find homes that not only meet their needs but also connect them to the lifestyle they love. For those seeking a home that balances comfort, convenience, and access to adventure, The David Bell Group is ready to guide the journey.