Looking to escape into the mountains for a satisfying day trip adventure from Denver? Us too, let’s get going!
In less than an hour, we could be immersed in that Rocky Mountain high John Denver sang about. It’s just 35-40 minutes from Denver to Boulder, which boasts some of the best views, food, and vibes in Colorado. A Boulder, Colorado day trip is one of the easiest ways to get a group out of the house and into nature without it turning into a big production.
Here’s how to plan a day that works for everyone - hikers, snackers, shoppers, and people-watchers included.
Why Boulder Works Well for a Group Day Trip
An ideal day trip must meet the following checkpoints: close in proximity, flexible to changing plans, and must have something for everybody. Boulder passes the day trip check, no problem.
It’s close. We can leave Denver mid-morning and have your crew hiking before lunch.
It’s walkable. Once you’re downtown, we can handle the parking-stress for you and you’ve got room to wander as you wish.
It’s flexible. What are you in the mood for? An easy stroll? A hike that’ll really work up an appetite? Something in between? Boulder’s got trails to suit everyone.
It’s welcoming. Boulder’s a laid-back, outdoorsy town that has room for every kind of group, from birthday crew to families to out-of-towners.
Pro Tip: Surprise your group with a stop at a coffee shop before we hit the road. Get your caffeine fix and pick up some pastries for the road. It’ll help kick off the day right before we even really get rolling!
And if you’re still mulling over Colorado day trips in general, we’ve got posts covering the fall foliage trips and the day trips our Colorado homegrown drivers most recommend.
Stop 1: Chautauqua Park and the Flatirons
This is Boulder’s postcard view. It’s a must. The Flatirons are those massive, stunning tilted slabs of sandstone leaning against the foothills, and Chautauqua Park is the go-to place to get up close and check them out.
The park sits at the base of the mountains. There’s an idyllic, wide-open meadow, a historic dining hall with a big porch, and trailheads heading straight toward the rocks. It’s the perfect spot for a Flatirons hiking group and trail options for all energy levels.
Picking a hike your whole group will love
Match your route to the slowest paced person in your group, that way nobody ends up feeling rushed or left out. Determine what that pace is before you start. Here are a couple ways to think about it:
Easy peasy: (otherwise known as the hobbit-suitable pace) wander the meadow and the lower trails near Chautauqua. There’ll be impressive, expansive Flatiron views without the need for much climbing. This option is great for families, groups with mixed fitness levels, and anyone planning to show up in sandals.
Moderate: Pick a loop that climbs a bit into the trees and toward the base of the formation. It’s doable for most folks, but you’ll still feel it in your legs and tush enough that you can feel accomplished and outdoorsy. A feeling that we love, personally.
Bigger effort: There are absolutely longer trail options up the foothills for strong hikers. And let us tell you, having a party bus to ferry you home after a strenuous hike, letting everyone skip the having-to-drive-home is as peak-luxury as you can get.
Trail conditions, closures, and distances change, so check the City of Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks website before you go!
Hiking tips for groups
Bring more water than you think you need. It’s better to have it than to get caught without it when you need it.
Wear shoes that suit your trail difficulty - and keep in mind that trails can be rocky and uneven.
Pick a regroup spot in case you’d like to split up. If your group stretches out on the trail, agree on a meeting point.
Leave no trace. Pack out what you pack in and stay on marked trails.
Know your limits. Elevation in Boulder is higher than in Denver, so take it slow if you’re not used to hiking in higher elevations.
The parking situation (and why you won’t care!)
Chautauqua is popular, and for good reason, but nearby parking can fill up quickly. For folks who are caravanning in three separate vehicles, that can be a headache before you’ve even taken a step on the trail.
Having one ride for the whole group is really what makes the day a treat for everyone. And parking is a point in the day when you can feel taken care of - we’ll sort out the drop off and pickup plan with you. No circling the block for your crew! We’ve got it covered.
Stop 2: Pearl Street Mall
What’s the logical follow up to an excellent morning spent on the trail? A tasty lunch!
Head downtown to Pearl Street Mall. Boulder is famous for it, and for good reason. It’s a pedestrian-only stretch of shops, restaurants, and public squares. All walkable, of course, and a lovely, sunny hangout space.
What to do on Pearl Street
Eat! The street’s got everything you’re looking for, from quick bites to impressive sit-down meals. If your group has different tastes or dietary needs, it’s an easy place to split up and easily reconvene.
Watch the street performers. We’re talking musicians, magicians, buskers, and more. It’s half the fun of walking around!
Browse local shops. You’ll find plenty of Colorado-made goods, bookstores, boutiques, gear shops, and more within just a few easily accessible blocks.
Grab a sweet treat. Honestly, a strong coffee and some ice cream (no matter the weather) are perfect follow ups to a long hike.
Sit! There are benches and courtyards to lounge out in. You can people-watch to your heart’s content.
Pearl Street is flat and pedestrian-friendly, making it a great fit for groups with mixed mobility, strollers, or anyone that likes the idea of a gentler pace after the hike.
Planning Tip: For big groups, call ahead to the restaurant you want to visit. It’s a sweet surprise to your crew to already have something on reserve.
Stop 3: The Celestial Seasonings Factory Tour
The stop that usually gets a, “wait, really?” from friends almost always turns out to be the most memorable part of the trip.
Celestial Seasonings, the tea company, is based in Boulder and offers a factory tour that’s an unexpected change of pace from the hike and the shops. You’ll get a look at how tea is blended and packaged, and the scent of the teas alone is worth the visit. The famous mint room is an absolute highlight, but fair warning, it’s strong! Your sinuses will have a very clear day and you’ll feel clean from the inside out.
Plus, it’s always a good idea to have an indoor option in case the weather turns. It’s also a fun spot for group photos. And don’t forget to check out the gift shop and tea room, you can bring a little Boulder home with you.
Planning Tip: Tour schedules, reservation requirements, and group size limits can change. If you’re in a very large group, call ahead to organize.
Stop 4: Boulder Creek (Bonus Stop)
IF you still have the energy, or you find yourselves in desperate need for one last way to slow down and spend more time together, you’re going to want to take a walk along Boulder Creek.
The Boulder Creek Path runs right through town, so you can take a leisurely stroll along the water, or cozy up in a shady spot.
In the summer, floating and tubing the creek is a Boulder tradition. In the fall, the whole area becomes a picturesque Charlie Brown special.
Why a Party Bus Makes Boulder Even Better
Everyone stays together! No chance for anyone to get lost on the way or walk around hoping to find signal because they don’t know where everyone has parked. You leave as a group, arrive as a group, and head home together. The way it should be.
The party starts early. If everyone is travelling separately, the party doesn’t start until Pearl Street. When you book with Jedi, the day starts with everyone together, the music is on, the day is rolling. The morning hike kicks off with everyone in a good mood from the go.
You show up fresh. Arrive ready for the trail, not already tired.
Everyone gets to enjoy the day. There are no designated drivers in your crew. That means everyone gets to indulge at a Boulder brewery without worrying about safety. We’ve got you all covered.
Room for the whole crew. Including gear, jackets, souvenirs, and slightly-overpacked tote bags. We’ve got the space for it!
Ready to Plan Your Boulder Day?
Let us handle the ride. You bring the crew, the comfy shoes, and the snacks. Let us worry about everything else. Plan your Boulder day with Jedi Charter and we’ll make sure your day is a good one.
