Colorado is home to 58 mountains over 14,000 feet (known locally as “fourteeners”), beautiful national parks, and no shortage of vibrant communities and cities across the state, leaving plenty of fun for both the outdoor enthusiast and the urban explorer. With most adventures within a day’s drive away, Colorado offers the ideal outdoor adventure paradise for the weekend road warrior. Here are four of our favorite weekend road trips within a few hours of the Independence Neighborhood, our conservation-oriented community that offers beautiful new homes in Elizabeth, Colorado.
Garden of the Gods
Located about an hour south of Elizabeth in the shadow of Pikes Peak mountain, Garden of the Gods is one of our state’s most popular hiking destinations – and for good reason! With its unique rock formations and over 15 miles of hiking trails, Garden of the Gods has some of the most breathtaking scenery the state has to offer. It’s free to visit, and trails are easily accessible year-round. The Ridge Trail and the Siamese Twins Trail are among a few favorites.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Located roughly 3.5 hours south of Elizabeth, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to our country’s tallest sand mountains that stretch for 30 square miles. While it attracts plenty of campers, hikers, and stargazers, many also visit this bucket-list-worthy destination to sand sled and snowboard down the dunes. If you don’t have your own sled or board, there are plenty of rental stores in the area. Not to worry, if camping is not your thing, consider staying in nearby Alamosa to make the most out of your weekend adventure at this beautiful park and preserve.
Boulder
Located about an hour and a half north of Elizabeth, Boulder is a great place to escape for the weekend for several reasons. For one, Boulder is a lively community with a vibrant culture that lacks the fast pace city-feel of nearby Denver. Food lovers will definitely appreciate the town’s diverse scene of local restaurants and bars, with Frasca Food and Wine, Blackbelly, and Black Cat topping the list of favorites. Meanwhile, the Pearl Street Mall offers plenty of opportunities for retail therapy with its countless unique stores and locally owned shops. Additionally, Boulder is conveniently located near the Flatirons – a beautifully unconventional rock formation affording some of the most surreal hiking opportunities in Colorado.
Glenwood Springs
Located about 3.5 hours west of Elizabeth, the appropriately named Glenwood Springs is an eclectic town famous for its huge geothermally heated hot springs. Whether you are sore from a long day on the mountain or simply in need of a little self-care, Glenwood Springs is the perfect place for the ultimate relaxation-weekend. While you are there, be sure to check out the rides and explore the caves at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park!
If exciting weekend road trips and adventure are on your docket for 2021 and you’re living in one of Independence Neighborhood’s brand-new homes in Elizabeth Colorado, you won’t have to travel very far. Conveniently located within a short drive of countless must-see weekend road trip destinations, Independence also offers views for miles while planning your next trip – right outside your front door! Interested in learning more about our brand-new family oriented community? Please contact our team to learn more.