Check Out These Awe-inspiring Natural Wonders in & Around Denver, USA

Discover the scenic gems of this Colorado capital…

There are many great things you could say about the Mile High City, the greatest probably being its close proximity the iconic Rockies and Colorado Mountains, and the breath-taking natural attractions and exciting day trips that are available to experience here. The region is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the US, including alpine valleys, wildflower fields, meadows, dramatic rock formations and snow-capped peaks. We’ve compiled a list of the natural highlights in and around Denver, all located within 2 hours of the city.

Roxborough State Park
This stunning state park is a designated National Natural Landmark that’s set under a 45 min drive from Denver’s city centre, with some beautiful landscapes which are open to the public for exploration. The park is home to many native wildlife species, including mountain lions, black bears and mule deer. You can go hiking and admire rock formations, mountains, forests, grasslands and tropical plants at Roxborough State Park. It’s an adventurer’s paradise.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre
The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is around a 30 min drive from the city centre, and not only is it an awe-inspiring man-made wonder; it’s also a landmark of the city that has hosted concerts for renowned international artists. Enjoy many picture-perfect settings in this open air theatre and city park, including lush valleys and the spectacular red sandstone rocks to which the attraction is named after. This geological wonder is the only naturally occurring amphitheatre in the world, and is designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Flatirons
The Flatirons comprise of giant sandstone rock slabs on the lush foothills of Boulder. The site is accessible for visitors to explore and wildlife species reside here, including bears, mountain lions, eagles and bats. There are various nature trails that take you to and around the Flatirons, which offer beautiful vistas whichever season you visit. The Flatirons can be viewed and admired from all across Boulder; the natural phenomenon is best viewed and photographed at Chautauqua Park and the Davidson Mesa Overlook, both of which are around a 40 minute drive from Denver.

Rocky Mountain National Park
The famed Rocky Mountain National Park is around a 1 hr 30 minute drive from Denver city, and is well worth the day trip. It comprises of 415 square miles, with remarkable mountain settings, over 300 miles of scenic trails, peaks towering over 12,000 ft. with hiking trails, wildlife, wildflowers, the highest paved road in the US and crystal clear lakes and streams. Rocky Mountain National Park is a haven of natural wonders, some of which have been preserved for over 100 years.

Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods is another designated National Natural Landmark and geological marvel, around 70 miles from the city. The garden has 300ft towering rock formations and dramatic vistas of mountain peaks, grasslands and woodlands. It’s absolutely breath-taking, and an unmissable attraction. It’s nothing like you would have ever seen before in your lifetime, and it definitely lives up to its name. Garden of the Gods is also really fun, with 15 miles of trails, bike tours, horseback riding, rock climbing and segway rides.

Broadmoor Seven Falls
The Broadmoor Seven Falls is an incredible sightseeing spot of Colorado and one of the state’s most captivating falls; it’s the only one designated as an International Waterfall by National Geographic. The series of waterfalls are set in a tall box canyon, and cascade majestically down 181 ft. It’s a short hike to the top of the falls, and totally worth it with spectacular vistas of lush green valleys, the prairies, rock formations and the glistening stream that feeds the waterfall. If you’re feeling super brave, there’s even a zip-lining adventure at Broadmoor Seven Falls…

Royal George Bridge and Park
The Royal George Bridge and Park is a little bit further out from Denver at around a two hour drive, and it’s 100% worth taking the time out to see, because it’s totally awe-inspiring. Spanning 360 acres, the park is home to the country’s highest suspension bridge, which happens to be an iconic natural wonder in Colorado, rising above the Arkansas River and extending across the Royal Gorge canyon. It’s a true manmade phenomenon that offers amazing natural vistas - you can walk across the bridge or alternatively take a scenic gondola ride.

A huge bonus of Denver is that it’s blessed with over 300 days of sunshine each year, so you’ll more than likely enjoy great sunshine backdrops at these attractions if you visit.

Brightsun Travel features holiday packages to Denver with a fair choice for different budgets. We definitely recommend the Mile High City as a travel destination, with all of these natural wonders plus all of the other holiday highlights, including colourful neighbourhoods, delicious food, craft beer, museums galore and a booming music scene.