Best Day Trips from Fort Collins for a Weekend Getaway
Top Day Trips from Fort Collins That Feel Like a Mini Vacation
One of the best parts about living in Fort Collins isn’t just the vibrant community, great schools, or thriving local economy, it’s the unbeatable access to adventure. Within an hour or two of town, you can find yourself soaking in hot springs, hiking alpine lakes, sipping wine, or strolling through charming mountain towns. Fort Collins is perfectly positioned for day trips that feel like true mini vacations.
Here’s a guide to some of the best nearby getaways that make Northern Colorado living so special.
Red Feather Lakes (45 minutes)
If unplugging is your goal, Red Feather Lakes delivers. This quiet mountain community offers serene lakes, pine forests, and a slower pace that invites you to relax. Bring a paddleboard, cast a fishing line, or simply enjoy a lakeside picnic. Looking for winter ice fishing fun, post up on pristine lakes and bask in the winter sun or pop a portable for some great all day ice fishing.
Perfect for: Peaceful retreats, fishing, paddleboarding
Vibe: Cozy, rustic, and calm
Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park (45–60 minutes)
A classic for a reason. With peaks like Long’s in almost every view, Estes Park offers jaw-dropping mountain views, wildlife sightings, and endless outdoor recreation. Spend the day hiking Bear Lake or Emerald Lake, driving Trail Ridge Road (seasonal), or enjoying lunch downtown with views of the Big Thompson River. It’s an easy escape that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Perfect for: Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, photography
Pro tip: Go early to beat crowds, especially in summer and fall. From May 23 through mid-October, a timed entry reservation is required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park
Laramie, Wyoming (1–1.25 hours)
High plains, wide skies, and a true change of pace. Laramie feels like Wyoming the moment you arrive. Quiet streets, mountain views, and room to breathe. This college town sits between the Snowy Range and the Laramie Range, making it a favorite basecamp for hiking, fishing, scenic drives, and low-key exploring.
Downtown Laramie has a relaxed charm with local coffee shops, bookstores, breweries, and historic architecture that feels authentic, not touristy. Pair a stroll through town with a drive up into the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, and it suddenly feels like you’re far from home (in the best way).
Perfect for: Mountain lovers, scenic drives, outdoor weekends, slow mornings, and anyone craving space and quiet
Boulder (1 hour)
Boulder blends outdoor adventure with urban energy. Start the day with a hike at Chautauqua Park, then explore Pearl Street’s shops, restaurants, and street performers. From craft coffee to fine dining, Boulder makes for a dynamic and refreshing day trip.
Perfect for: Hiking, shopping, dining, people-watching
Don’t miss: Flatirons views at sunset
Nederland & Eldora (1.5 hours)
For a quirky mountain-town feel, head to Nederland. Known for its eclectic charm, great live music, and proximity to Eldora Mountain Resort, it’s a fantastic escape year-round. In winter, ski or snowboard; in summer, hike, bike, and explore local festivals.
Perfect for: Live music, skiing, unique local culture
Fun fact: Nederland is home to the famous “Frozen Dead Guy Days” festival
Saratoga, Wyoming (2–2.5 hours)
If you want a true getaway feel without committing to an overnight stay, Saratoga hits the sweet spot. This small Wyoming town is known for its natural hot springs, wide-open landscapes, and no-rush pace that instantly feels like a reset.
Spend the day soaking at the Hobo Hot Springs, grab a relaxed meal downtown, and take in the quiet beauty of the North Platte River Valley. It’s far enough to feel special, but close enough to still make it home the same night.
Perfect for: Hot springs lovers, unplugging, scenic drives, stress-free escapes
Upgrade the day: Sunset soak before the drive back
Why Fort Collins Is Perfect for Adventure-Lovers
Living in Fort Collins means your weekends don’t require extensive planning or airfare. Whether you want mountains, lakes, culture, or relaxation, it’s all within reach. This access to lifestyle-driven amenities is one of the reasons so many people fall in love with Northern Colorado and choose to call it home.
If you’re considering buying or selling a home in Fort Collins, understanding the lifestyle is just as important as the property itself. Location isn’t just about where you live, it’s about how you live.
Thinking about making Fort Collins home? We’d love to help you explore your options and find a home that puts adventure right outside your door.
Written by Matt Ryan with the Weinland Team at RE/MAX Alliance
Phone: (970) 988-3127
Email: Matt@TheWeinlandTeam.com
Written by fortcollinsexperience
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