Road Trips from Thornton, CO
Thornton's location offers a solid mix of quick trips and longer adventures. You've got several destinations less than an hour away for a fast escape, and a few options that are a solid half-day's drive if you're looking to get further out. For those seeking nature, there are a couple of spots with nearby national parks or monuments, perfect for a more immersive outdoor experience. This range means you can easily tailor your weekend getaway based on how much time you have and what you want to see.
Total Routes
7
Shortest
2.7h
With Parks Nearby
7
Full-day getaway
Weekend trip
6 total in this range
Rangely, CO
6h 11m283.9 mi one way
This is one of your longest options at 283.9 miles and 6.2 hours, mostly highway with a drive score of 8. It includes nearby parks like Dinosaur National Monument, offering a substantial nature-focused getaway.
Crested Butte, CO
5h 37m235.1 mi one way
A longer drive of 235.1 miles and 5.6 hours, mostly on highways with a drive score of 8. This destination is notable for its proximity to Curecanti National Recreation Area, providing significant park access.
Grand Junction, CO
4h 46m250.4 mi one way
Alamosa, CO
4h 37m243.5 mi one way
Paonia, CO
5h 11m235.4 mi one way
This trip spans 235.4 miles and takes 5.2 hours, largely via highway with a drive score of 8. It's a considerable drive that offers access to Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park.
Browse by Mood
Cripple Creek, CO
2h 41m120.6 mi one way
Rangely, CO
6h 11m283.9 mi one way
Crested Butte, CO
5h 37m235.1 mi one way
Grand Junction, CO
4h 46m250.4 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Consider trips like Holyoke or Rangely, which mention parks. The longer drives are feasible as days get longer.
Summer
With access to multiple national parks and monuments on longer routes like Orchard City or Rangely, summer is ideal for exploring.
Fall
The longer drives to places like Crested Butte or Paonia, with their park proximity, offer good fall color opportunities.
Winter
Shorter trips to destinations like Arvada or Applewood are most practical, as longer routes might face winter conditions.
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 Thornton, CO city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.