While Colorado Springs is loaded with public parks and nature in its backyard, national parks are a bit further away. The closest national parks to the city are all best left for an overnight trip, so plan on booking a campsite or nearby hotel.
Colorado is blessed with four amazing national parks, with two of them being only around 2.5 hours from Colorado Springs. Though a bit far for a day trip since you’ll still need time to explore the park if you had to, you could leave early and be back by bedtime. The other two parks range from 4.5 to 6.5 hours away. All are open year-round.
Here’s a look at the national parks near Colorado Springs, in order of proximity:
Rocky Mountain National Park — 134 miles
The most visited national park in Colorado is called a “Land of Extremes”. Much of the park is nestled at an elevation of around 10,000 feet, notably the seasonal Trail Ridge Road that crosses Estes Park to Grand Lake. (east entrance to west entrance). The range is from 7,860 to 14,259 feet (top of Longs Peak), making it one of the highest-elevated national parks in the country.
Due to its massive popularity, timed entry reservations are needed for Rocky Mountain National Park between the peak summer and fall seasons. During winter and spring, you will not need to make any reservations to enter.
Go for a late spring waterfall hike when the waters are raging. Expect snow though if you go too early. Autumn is special to see the fall colors and there is also the elk rut in September, during which Estes Park hosts the annual Elk Fest.
1000 U.S. 36 Estes Park | 970-627-3471 | nps.gov/romo/index.htm
Great Sand Dunes National Park — 166 miles
One of the most unique parks and probably least expected in Colorado is the Great Sand Dunes National Park. It showcases a massive mountain of sand, which you can hike to the top of. Star Dune is the highest with 741 feet of vertical. Alamosa is the closest big town, a 30-minute drive, with around 10,000 people.
This national park doesn’t get nearly as crowded as Rocky Mountain National Park, so you won’t need reservations to come. However, if you’re camping, it’s a good idea to book your site well in advance. There is a seasonal creek, Medano Creek, which runs at the base of the dunes.
Keep in mind if you plan on hiking up the sand dunes that they get hot during the summer. If bringing a dog, you’ll have to summit early in the morning or late in the evening after it cools down. Some say the Great Sand Dunes National Park is best after dark. Nestled in the San Luis Valley, it offers prime stargazing during any season.
11500 Hwy 150, Mosca | 719-378-6300 | nps.gov/grsa/index.htm
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — 227 miles
The least visited national park is a spectacle to see. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is remote, with both a North Rim by Crawford and a South Rim by Montrose, the latter of which is the more frequented entry point.
South Rim Road is a fun auto tour with chances to pull over and gaze out at some overlooks. From the South Rim side, there is an opportunity to drive down into the canyon and fly-fish from the Gunnison River.
This is a terrific park to get away from it all and witness a steep canyon carved out by the Gunnison River. Some backpackers will make the hike down into the canyon but camp out when they do. You’ll need a permit to do so. Others will stick to driving around each rim and going for a day hike atop the canyon.
10346 Hwy 347, Montrose | 970-641-2337 | nps.gov/blcaf
Mesa Verde National Park — 362 miles
Tucked away in Colorado’s Southwest region, Mesa Verde National Park is another special destination worth the long drive. Designated as a national park in 1906, Mesa Verde preserves and showcases thousands of Ancient Puebloan ruins. You’ll find villages built into the side of cliffs, as well as atop the mesas.
Cliff Place is the most known in the park, with both self-guided and guided tours available. Take a ranger-led tour whenever you have a chance, as you’ll get to see some of the cliff dwellings close up with an expert in their history. Mesa Top Ruins Road is an excellent auto tour, featuring places to pull over and hike out to overlooks and see relics like kivas.
Mancos and Cortez are the closest towns, with Mancos being slightly closer and to the east if you’re coming from Denver. Durango also makes a great place to base, especially if you’re looking to tack on a few more bucket-list items, like a narrow-gauge railroad. Aside from camping, the only place to stay within the park is the Far View Lodge.
Mesa Top Ruins Road, near Cortez | 970-529-4465 | nps.gov/meve/index.htm
Those are Colorado’s four national parks and their respective distance to Colorado Springs. Plan a visit in the off-season to have more of these places to yourself. If you’re residing in Denver, check out the closest national parks to Denver.
The National Parks Closest to Denver