Colorado’s 5 Best Summer Road Trips for 2019
Summer in this beautiful state means an abundance of wildflowers, snow-capped peaks to climb, and perfect temperatures. Take advantage of the beautify this summer and get out of Denver for a while. Our 2019 guide to Colorado’s best summer road trips will help you make the most of the Rocky Mountains.
Additionally, we’ll help you step out of your comfort zone with new activities and destinations. Ever wanted to try skydiving? Wonder what thru-hiking 100 miles would feel like? For the adventurous, Colorado is bursting with opportunity. However, don’t worry if sitting back and sipping wine is more your thing. Some summer road trips are luxury experiences, and we’ve got you covered there too. Read on, gear up, and get out there!
1) The Great American Southwest
Photo courtesy of Discover Moab
This is one of those summer road trips that takes a while, but we can’t stress how worth it the experience is. The Four Corners area has so much to offer, so why not see it all? Start with a trip to Moab, UT, which includes two breathtaking national parks. Explore Arches for incredible land forms like the one above, and check out Canyonlands for some of the best views of your life.
Next, it’s on to the Grand Canyon, a must-see for summer road trips in this area. Marvel at the sheer size of the gorge, hike the rim, or delve down to the river below on one of many tours. Topping off the Four Corners tour is a trip to Santa Fe, NM, a gem in its own right with access to incredible hiking, dining, and shopping. Don’t miss Meow Wolf, in immersive art experience that we won’t tell you much more about… Back in Colorado, soak up the scenery in lovely Pagosa Springs before making the drive home.
Driving Time: 25 Hour Loop (Map)
Highlights: National Parks, Scenery, Hiking, Camping
2) Crested Butte
Our perennial favorite, Crested Butte comes alive in the summertime. Named the wildflower capital of Colorado, the town practically glows with color on every hillside, and long sunny days help you take advantage of all that beauty. Stand-Up Paddle Board on Lake Irwin, catch a meal at the world-famous Secret Stash, and then head to Public House for some live music and fantastic drinks.
Driving Time: 4 Hours, 9 Minutes (Map)
Highlights: Wildflowers, Dining, Hiking (More Info)
3) Garden of the Gods
Photo courtesy of Colroado.com
Just a short drive from Denver is one of geology’s most awe-inspiring creations. Garden of the Gods is a National Natural Landmark with an extensive history and endless opportunity for exploration. As far as summer road trips go, this is a short one, so there’s no excuse not to hop in your Mercedes-Benz and check it out. If you’re feeling adventurous, the area is famous for its rock climbing, but you can also enjoy the views via hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Finally, geology nerds can geek out for hours at the park’s natural landforms, all of which are well documented in the visitor’s center.
Driving Time: 1 Hour, 8 Minutes (Map)
Highlights: Views, Hiking, Climbing, Mountain Biking (More Info)
4) Cañon City
Photo courtesy of WIkipedia
If you want to step a little off the beaten track, Cañon City offers the many wonders of Colorado without the crowds. Don’t worry, all of your favorite activities are available. You’ll find whitewater rafting, hiking, fishing, or mountain biking. But anyone feeling up for it should try Skydiving in this gorgeous scenery. What could be more fun than falling out of a plane straight into the Rockies?
Driving Time: 2 Hours (Map)
Highlights: Lower Crowds, Skydiving, Whitewater Rafting (More Info)
5) Silverton
Photo courtesy of Silverton and Durango narrow gauge railroad
Looking for a slice of the Wild West? Silverton is the place for you. Experience a truly rustic small town and a slow pace of life in this out-of-time oasis. The historic railroad is the unquestioned highlight, and you can combine your trip with a visit to Durango, the Western Terminus of the Colorado Trail. This 487-mile thru-hike spans almost the entire state, and if that sounds like too much, consider hiking a small section in the gorgeous San Juan Mountains near Silverton.
Driving Time: 6 hours, 15 minutes (Map)
Highlights: History, Shopping, Dining, Hiking, Historic Railroad (More Info)
Road Trip Readiness
Before you head out on one of our summer road trips, get your luxury vehicle into tip-top shape. Bring your car in for a full examination, and our world-class service team will make sure there are no kinks in the system. Furthermore, with our Service and Parts specials, you can outfit your Mercedes-Benz for less. Be sure to check back every month for new offers on maintenance and parts. Finally, if you’re gearing up for a big adventure, be sure to explore our offerings on accessories. A bike rack can make the difference between a simple road trip and an adventure.
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