Obviously, we at Wandering Whittles, love a good hiking trail. However, there are some days when you just don’t feel like being active. Luckily, in Colorado, you can still enjoy many fantastic views without a 10 mile trail. Here are 10 beautiful spots to visit in Colorado (no hiking required!)

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Download this free GoogleMaps  guide to all of the places listed in this article. This allows you to fully customize your trip!

1. Royal Gorge

The Royal Gorge is a 1,250 foot deep canyon located near Canon City in central Colorado. You can experience this magnificent area in one of several ways:

• Royal Gorge Rafting Trip – This half day rafting trip takes you through the middle of the gorge along the Arkansas River. It’s an amazingly fun experience and also suited for all ages (no rafting experience required!)

• Royal Gorge Bridge & Park – Secondly, explore and admire the depths of the canyon from above at the Royal Gorge Park. Here, you can walk across the highest suspension bridge in the US at 956 feet or take the aerial gondola that glides you across the gorge.

• Royal Gorge Railroad – Lastly, take the railroad that runs alongside the Arkansas River at the bottom of the canyon. You’ll get spectacular views from here and you can also enjoy a drink along the way!

2. Dillon Reservoir

The Dillon Reservoir is a large body of water located in the central part of the state near the towns of Breckenridge, Frisco and Silverthorne. During the winter, this entire lake is completely frozen over, so we recommend visiting during the summer for the most options for activities. Things to do here include:

• See a concert at the Dillon Amphitheater – This iconic venue sits at the edge of the reservoir. The amphitheater hosts many popular artists as well as weekly free concerts.

• Rent a boat or kayak at the Dillon Marina – You can rent several types of water “toys” at the marina – kayaks, SUPs, pontoon boats and also sailboats.

• Watch the sunset at Sapphire Point – This lookout point has the best view of the reservoir and also spectacular sunsets.

3. Red Rocks

Located only 20 minutes from downtown Denver, this famous music venue can easily be enjoyed without any hiking. While you should definitely try to see a concert here if you can, it’s also possible to visit during the day (for free!) In addition to concerts, Red Rocks also hosts yoga classes and movie showings.

4. Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells are supposedly the most photographed place in Colorado. Once you’ve seen them, however, you’ll understand why. For the most iconic view of the Bells, you’ll want to check out the scenic overlook (no hiking required.) If you visit in the fall, this area really comes to life with the reflection of the golden Aspen trees on the lake and the peaks in the background.

Just a note: visiting this area requires a reservation from May to October (it’s not open the rest of the year.) You can either reserve an individual parking spot or take a shuttle to the overlook.

5. Garden of the Gods

A natural “red rocks” park, the Garden of the Gods is completely free to visit. There are several driving routes throughout the park as well as scenic overlooks. Since this spot is located close to Colorado Springs, combine it with a trip to the charming town of Manitou Springs and the drive up to 14,115 foot Pikes Peak.

Keep reading for the remainder of the 10 beautiful spots to visit in Colorado (no hiking required!)

6. Trail Ridge Road

One of Colorado’s 26 scenic byways, Trail Ridge Road is located within the remarkable Rocky Mountain National Park. This 48 mile section of highway stretches from Estes Park to Grand Lake, Colorado. Along this drive, you’ll find stunning high mountain passes, herds of elk and many lovely alpine lakes. Plan for at least half a day to explore and enjoy the sights of the drive.

Just a note: Trail Ridge Road is not open during the winter and requires a timed entry permit to visit during the summer/fall. Rocky Mountain also requires you purchase a day entrance pass or annual pass.

7. Great Sand Dunes

Another one of Colorado’s 4 National Parks, the Great Sand Dunes are an extraordinary spot to explore. While you can hike across the dunes in any direction, you can also see a great view easily from the visitor center and parking area here. Be sure to check the event calendar for the park, as they regularly host full moon events and dark sky presentations.

8. Penny Hot Springs

These free hot springs are literally found along the road (Highway 133) near Carbondale, Colorado. Enjoy the several small pools, which have varying temperatures, as you gaze at the mountains surrounding you. While you can visit any time of year, it is a particularly magical place in the winter!

9. Black Canyon of the Gunnison

While this National Park may be the least visited of Colorado’s four NPs, it certainly doesn’t mean it is any less spectacular than the others. Per the theme of this guide, most of the best viewpoints are easily accessible through a drive. There’s a road that goes through the main section of the park; be sure to check out the Painted Wall Overlook and Tomichi Point.

10. American Basin

Last, but not least, is the amazing American Basin. While this getting to this area doesn’t require any hiking, it does require a 4WD car and some serious nerve. However, if you can get here, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best (and untouched) views in Colorado. To get here, base yourself in nearby Lake City, rent a jeep and drive the Alpine Loop that includes Cinnamon and Engineer Pass.

Enjoy these 10 beautiful spots to visit in Colorado (no hiking required!)

Caroline & Jonathan