There’s nothing quite like a good road trip. Roll the windows down, turn up your favorite playlist, grab some snacks, and see where the road takes you. Road trips have become a big part of American culture, but they wouldn’t exist without one thing: the automobile.
How Cars Changed the Way We Travel
Before cars, getting from one place to another usually meant traveling by train, horse, or carriage. Once automobiles became more common in the early 1900s, people suddenly had the freedom to travel whenever and wherever they wanted.
Early road trips weren’t exactly easy. Roads were rough, maps were basic, and breakdowns happened often. But as cars became more reliable and highways expanded, road trips became easier and more popular. By the 1950s, loading up the family car for a summer vacation had become an American tradition.
Why We Still Love Road Trips
Even with today’s technology, there’s something special about exploring by car. You can take the scenic route, stop at roadside attractions, or change your plans on a whim. It’s about enjoying the journey as much as the destination.
Living in Fort Collins puts us in the perfect spot for unforgettable drives. Whether you’re heading into the mountains or crossing state lines, a little preparation goes a long way. Before you leave, make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready so you can focus on making memories, not dealing with unexpected repairs.
10 Road Trips Starting From Fort Collins
Ready to explore? Here are some of our favorite road trip ideas starting from Fort Collins.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park | Drive time: About 1.5 hours
A Colorado classic. Take a scenic drive through Estes Park and explore Trail Ridge Road, mountain views, wildlife, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.
2. Colorado Springs & Pikes Peak | Drive time: About 2 hours
Visit Garden of the Gods, explore downtown Colorado Springs, and take in the views from one of Colorado’s most famous peaks.
3. Steamboat Springs | Drive time: About 3 hours
A beautiful mountain drive that offers hot springs, hiking, skiing, and plenty of small-town charm.
4. Estes Park Scenic Loop | Drive time: About 1.5 hours
For a shorter adventure, take a relaxing loop through the foothills with mountain views, local shops, and plenty of photo opportunities.
5. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park | Drive time: About 4.5 hours
One of Colorado’s hidden gems, this trip takes you through mountain landscapes to dramatic canyon views.
6. Moab, Utah | Drive time: About 5.5 hours
A favorite for outdoor lovers. Explore Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and some unforgettable desert scenery.
7. Santa Fe, New Mexico | Drive time: About 7 hours
Enjoy incredible food, art, history, and a beautiful drive through southern Colorado and northern New Mexico.
8. Yellowstone National Park | Drive time: About 8 hours
A longer adventure worth taking. Experience geysers, wildlife, mountains, and one of the most famous national parks in the country.
9. Grand Junction & Colorado National Monument | Drive time: About 4 hours
Enjoy wineries, hiking, and incredible red rock views along Colorado’s western slope.
10. Mount Rushmore & the Black Hills | Drive time: About 5.5 hours
A great family road trip featuring historic landmarks, scenic drives, and unique stops throughout South Dakota.
Before You Hit the Road, Make Sure Your Car Is Ready
The best road trips are the ones where you can focus on the adventure, not unexpected car trouble. Before you head out, make sure your vehicle is prepared for the miles ahead with a quick maintenance check. Got an EV? We can handle that too.
At Houska Automotive, we help drivers in Fort Collins keep their vehicles running safely and reliably, whether you’re planning a weekend trip through Colorado or a cross-country adventure.
So pack the snacks, make the playlist, and enjoy the road ahead. After all, the journey is part of the adventure.