You Might Be Mistaking Your Mountains for Molehills: There Are No National Parks in Denver (But We Have Some Dandy Alternatives!)
Ever dreamt of waking up in Denver, rolling out of bed, and BAM! You're greeted by a majestic mountain vista, Roosevelt elk casually strolling by, and the sweet smell of... pine needles, probably. Well, buckle up buttercup, because while Denver's a fantastic city, it's not quite a national park doorstep situation.
Now, before you pack your bags and head for the hills (literally, there are some amazing hills nearby!), don't despair! Denver's got you covered when it comes to epic outdoor adventures.
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| What National Park Is In Denver |
The Good News: National Parks are Just a Day Trip Away!
Yes, that's right! Denver is like the cool aunt of the National Park system. It might not live there itself, but it's got all the coolest national parks hanging out nearby. We're talking about the granddaddy of them all, Rocky Mountain National Park, with its sky-piercing peaks, wildflower meadows, and the chance to see a marmot stuffing its face (they're adorable, we promise).
Bonus: Rocky Mountain National Park is only about an hour and a half drive from Denver, making it perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape.
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But Wait, There's More!
Think Rocky Mountain National Park is the only game in town? Think again! Depending on how far you're willing to roam, Denver has a whole rolodex of national park options, each with its own unique flavor.
- Feeling adventurous? Great Sand Dunes National Park will have you feeling like you've stumbled onto a movie set for Tatooine (minus the sand people... hopefully).
- Want to channel your inner Indiana Jones? Mesa Verde National Park boasts cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloan people.
- Looking for dramatic canyons and sheer drops? Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park will have your jaw on the floor (just be careful not to drop it!).
So You Want to Get Your National Park On? Here's How:
How to Choose a National Park:
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
Think about what kind of landscape you're craving. Mountains? Sand dunes? Canyons? Do some research and see what piques your interest!
How to Get There:
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Rental car? Epic road trip with friends? Park shuttle? The choice is yours! Just factor in travel time when making your plans.
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How to Pack:
Layers are your friend, no matter the season. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and good walking shoes. This ain't no stroll through the mall.
How to Avoid Crowds:
QuickTip: Skim the first line of each paragraph.
National Parks are rockstars, and sometimes, rockstars get mobbed by fans (we're looking at you, Yosemite). If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or going on weekdays.
How to be a Good Park Guest:
Leave no trace! Pack out all your trash, be respectful of wildlife, and stay on designated trails.
So there you have it! While Denver might not have a national park calling it home, it's the perfect jumping-off point for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Now get out there and explore!
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