Top Places to See When Driving From Boulder, Colorado to Fort Collins, Colorado

If you're planning a road trip from Boulder to Fort Collins, you're in for a treat! Along the way, you'll drive through some of the most scenic parts of the state while encountering many unique attractions. You'll see sprawling mountainscapes, old mining towns, beautiful parks, and more. In this blog post, we'll guide you on your journey by sharing the top places to see when driving between Boulder and Fort Collins.

Exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park

One of the most breathtaking places to visit along the way is the Rocky Mountain National Park, which spans over 415 square miles. The park offers stunning scenery, including waterfalls, glaciated peaks, and alpine meadows. A ride through the Trail Ridge Road is a must. It is an incredible route that winds through the park and Rocky Mountains. You'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and wildlife. Pack a picnic, take a hike, and soak in the beauty of the landscapes along the way.

Visiting Estes Park

Estes Park is a charming old-town and the eastern gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park. It's a great place to stop and explore for a few hours. Nestled in the valley and surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, it has a vibrant arts community and a bustling population of elk and deer. Downtown is home to a variety of art galleries, restaurants, and shops. Head over to The Stanley Hotel and take on their interactive ghost tours if you dare, or enjoy the nature from one of the many hiking trails.

Touring the Swetsville Zoo

If you're seeking something more offbeat, make a stop at Swetsville Zoo, a unique outdoor sculpture park. It's a funky array of creations made from recycled materials. As you wander through the zoo, you'll see an alligator made from lawnmower blades, a dragon built from hubcaps, and numerous other eclectic artifacts. It's an ideal destination for art and nature enthusiasts.

As you Near Fort Collins

Exploring Horsetooth Reservoir

Dive straight into kayaking, sailing, fishing, or hiking at Horsetooth Reservoir, located west of Fort Collins. The reservoir is a perfect place to take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery around you. The reservoir is surrounded by rugged mountains and has a 70-foot tall dam as a backdrop. There are several hiking trails to choose from, with different levels of difficulty and length. It's perfect If you're looking for a family-friendly place to swim, picnic, hike, boat, or camp.

Touring Colorado State University

Colorado State University is located right in the heart of Fort Collins and is a great campus to tour for those who love architecture. The historic Oval at the center of the campus has trees and buildings dating back to the late 1800s. The University also has a floral and garden area that is worth a visit and free to the public. Check out the Lagoon, with its picturesque roundabout and wildlife, including turtles and ducks. The university has an extensive art and natural sciences museum worth a visit too.

Conclusion

Driving from Boulder to Fort Collins affords one with incredible opportunities to explore the best of nature's wonders, unique art, culture, and history. Whether it's a stroll in the park, a hike on a mountain, or a tour of the prestigious Colorado State University, there's something for everyone. We hope our list has helped you plan an unforgettable journey and that you'll have the best experience on your travels.