One of the biggest perks of living in Littleton is how close you are to Colorado’s most beloved destinations. Whether you're craving mountain air, a walkable downtown, or a scenic drive that leads to something unexpected, you don’t have to go far to find it. From charming towns to iconic landmarks, these easy day trips from Littleton make it simple to explore more of what Colorado has to offer without packing an overnight bag.
Evergreen, CO – A Quick Escape into the Foothills
Less than 45 minutes from Littleton, Evergreen feels worlds away in the best possible sense. It’s the kind of place where pine-scented trails, mountain views, and lakeside strolls are part of the everyday rhythm.
Spend your morning on the water at Evergreen Lake, where you can paddleboard or canoe in summer or lace up your skates when it freezes over in winter. Nearby trails like Three Sisters and Elk Meadow Park offer peaceful hikes with sweeping views, which are especially beautiful during fall when the aspens turn. After your outdoor adventures, head into town for a bite at The Wildflower Café or browse local shops and galleries along Main Street.
Close, calming, and effortlessly beautiful, Evergreen is a top contender for one of the best day trips from Littleton.
Spend your morning on the water at Evergreen Lake, where you can paddleboard or canoe in summer or lace up your skates when it freezes over in winter. Nearby trails like Three Sisters and Elk Meadow Park offer peaceful hikes with sweeping views, which are especially beautiful during fall when the aspens turn. After your outdoor adventures, head into town for a bite at The Wildflower Café or browse local shops and galleries along Main Street.
Close, calming, and effortlessly beautiful, Evergreen is a top contender for one of the best day trips from Littleton.
Colorado Springs – A Full Day of Iconic Views
Just about an hour south of Littleton, Colorado Springs offers a full lineup of natural beauty and Colorado landmarks. It’s a destination where you can cover a lot in a single day, from red rock formations to mountaintop vistas.
Begin with a walk through Garden of the Gods, where dramatic sandstone spires rise against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. The park is free and easily walkable, with plenty of trails for all fitness levels. From there, take a drive or hop on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for an unforgettable ride to the summit. You’ll gain perspective (literally and figuratively) at over 14,000 feet.
On your way back, explore Old Colorado City, a charming historic district with shops, breweries, and relaxed dining. With so much to see in one place, it’s no surprise this is one of the most popular day trips for Littleton residents.
Begin with a walk through Garden of the Gods, where dramatic sandstone spires rise against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. The park is free and easily walkable, with plenty of trails for all fitness levels. From there, take a drive or hop on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for an unforgettable ride to the summit. You’ll gain perspective (literally and figuratively) at over 14,000 feet.
On your way back, explore Old Colorado City, a charming historic district with shops, breweries, and relaxed dining. With so much to see in one place, it’s no surprise this is one of the most popular day trips for Littleton residents.
Golden, CO – A Historic Town That’s Close to Home
Only 35 minutes from Littleton, Golden offers small-town charm, riverside walks, and a rich sense of Colorado history. It’s a great spot for a low-key day trip that still offers plenty to do.
Kick things off with a walk along the Clear Creek Trail, a paved path that runs through the center of town and offers spots to stop, wade in the water, or watch kayakers during the summer months. History buffs can check out Golden History Park, while those looking for a workout might opt for a short hike up North Table Mountain.
If you’re hungry or thirsty, downtown Golden is packed with options, from Sherpa House’s Himalayan cuisine to craft brews at Golden Mill. The town is also home to the Coors Brewery, where you can take a tour and sample a cold one at the source.
Whether you’re after a scenic stroll, good food, or just a new spot to explore, Golden delivers on every front.
Kick things off with a walk along the Clear Creek Trail, a paved path that runs through the center of town and offers spots to stop, wade in the water, or watch kayakers during the summer months. History buffs can check out Golden History Park, while those looking for a workout might opt for a short hike up North Table Mountain.
If you’re hungry or thirsty, downtown Golden is packed with options, from Sherpa House’s Himalayan cuisine to craft brews at Golden Mill. The town is also home to the Coors Brewery, where you can take a tour and sample a cold one at the source.
Whether you’re after a scenic stroll, good food, or just a new spot to explore, Golden delivers on every front.
Georgetown & Guanella Pass – Mountain Beauty, Just an Hour Away
Tucked into the Rockies about an hour west of Littleton, Georgetown offers the kind of picturesque setting that feels straight out of a postcard. It’s especially beautiful in the fall, but it's worth the trip any time of year.
Start with a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a scenic train that winds through mountainous terrain and over dramatic bridges. From there, you can explore the town’s historic district, full of Victorian architecture, antique shops, and small cafés. If the weather’s right, take a drive along Guanella Pass Scenic Byway for jaw-dropping alpine views and, during September and October, brilliant displays of golden aspens.
For those craving that high-elevation mountain feel without going too far, this is one of the most satisfying day trips from Littleton.
Start with a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a scenic train that winds through mountainous terrain and over dramatic bridges. From there, you can explore the town’s historic district, full of Victorian architecture, antique shops, and small cafés. If the weather’s right, take a drive along Guanella Pass Scenic Byway for jaw-dropping alpine views and, during September and October, brilliant displays of golden aspens.
For those craving that high-elevation mountain feel without going too far, this is one of the most satisfying day trips from Littleton.
Boulder, CO – Hikes, Shops, and a Vibrant Downtown
About an hour north of Littleton, Boulder is a perfect blend of natural beauty and city energy. It’s known for its strong local culture, scenic views, and food scene, and it’s easy to explore in a single day.
Start your morning with a hike at Chautauqua Park, where well-marked trails lead up to the base of the iconic Flatirons. After working up an appetite, head to Pearl Street Mall, Boulder’s lively outdoor shopping area filled with restaurants, boutiques, bookstores, and street performers.
Foodies will appreciate Boulder’s range of dining options, from casual eats to chef-driven spots, and if you’re into craft beverages, Avery Brewing is a local favorite. Boulder offers a different vibe than the mountain towns, but is equally rewarding when you want to mix things up.
Start your morning with a hike at Chautauqua Park, where well-marked trails lead up to the base of the iconic Flatirons. After working up an appetite, head to Pearl Street Mall, Boulder’s lively outdoor shopping area filled with restaurants, boutiques, bookstores, and street performers.
Foodies will appreciate Boulder’s range of dining options, from casual eats to chef-driven spots, and if you’re into craft beverages, Avery Brewing is a local favorite. Boulder offers a different vibe than the mountain towns, but is equally rewarding when you want to mix things up.
Idaho Springs – A Relaxing Retreat with a Taste of Adventure
Just under an hour west, Idaho Springs is a gem for those who want to combine relaxation with just a little adrenaline. It's best known for its hot springs and mining-town history, but there’s more here than meets the eye.
Soak in the geothermal pools at Indian Hot Springs, which include a tropical indoor domed pool, private baths, and even a geothermal cave spa. If you’re up for some activity, drive up to St. Mary’s Glacier and take a short but steep hike to a year-round snowfield and alpine lake.
After your adventure, reward yourself with a pizza from Beau Jo’s, a Colorado staple known for its thick-crust “mountain pies.” Idaho Springs is low-key and a little quirky, in all the right ways.
Soak in the geothermal pools at Indian Hot Springs, which include a tropical indoor domed pool, private baths, and even a geothermal cave spa. If you’re up for some activity, drive up to St. Mary’s Glacier and take a short but steep hike to a year-round snowfield and alpine lake.
After your adventure, reward yourself with a pizza from Beau Jo’s, a Colorado staple known for its thick-crust “mountain pies.” Idaho Springs is low-key and a little quirky, in all the right ways.
More Than a Home Base: Littleton’s Location Is a Lifestyle Perk
The beauty of Littleton isn’t just in its neighborhoods, schools, or downtown charm; it’s also in how quickly you can change your scenery. From alpine lakes and red rock trails to bustling city centers, these day trips open the door to something new any day of the week.
Whether you're planning an outdoor adventure, browsing local shops, or just looking for a fresh perspective, the options are all within reach.
Whether you're planning an outdoor adventure, browsing local shops, or just looking for a fresh perspective, the options are all within reach.
Thinking About Making Littleton Home? Let’s Connect.
Living in Littleton puts you at the crossroads of comfort and Colorado adventure. If you’re considering a move or curious about the area’s neighborhoods, schools, or homes for sale, Mile High Home Group is here to help. Their team combines deep local expertise with a personalized, no-pressure approach to real estate. Reach out today to start your journey toward calling Littleton home.
