Road Trips from Aurora, CO
If you're in Aurora and itching for a drive, you've got options ranging from short hops to longer hauls. There are a few destinations less than two hours away with parks nearby, perfect for a day trip. For more ambitious journeys, you can reach places over 200 miles out, some with significant mountain driving and multiple national parks or monuments accessible. This list covers a variety of terrain and drive times, so you can pick based on how much time you have and the kind of scenery you're after.
Total Routes
23
Shortest
3.4h
With Parks Nearby
19
Full-day getaway
Weekend trip
20 total in this range
Springfield, CO
4h 42m243.5 mi one way
Gunnison, CO
4h 52m206.9 mi one way
Center, CO
4h 49m217.2 mi one way
This 4.8-hour trip offers mountain driving with significant elevation changes and a drive score of 9. It's a longer journey compared to the closer mountain destinations, taking you further into the state's varied terrain.
Durango, CO
7h 51m342.9 mi one way
Rangely, CO
6h 20m290.4 mi one way
Long-haul ideas
Browse by Mood
Springfield, CO
4h 42m243.5 mi one way
Gunnison, CO
4h 52m206.9 mi one way
Cortez, CO
8h 51m387.1 mi one way
Center, CO
4h 49m217.2 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Mountain driving with elevation changes is present in many options, so check conditions before heading out. Parks are accessible, offering opportunities for outdoor activity.
Summer
With multiple routes featuring mountain driving and nearby parks, summer is ideal for exploring the natural landscapes and national monuments.
Fall
The mountain terrain and elevation changes on these routes make for scenic fall drives, especially as the seasons change.
Winter
Several routes involve mountain driving with significant elevation changes; winter conditions may impact travel times and accessibility on these roads.
Starting Somewhere Else?
Other nearby cities with their own escape planners.
Ready to plan?
Pick any destination above for full turn-by-turn directions, fuel cost, rest stops, and weather. Or visit the Aurora, CO city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.