Let's Go For A Ride Along the Front Range of Rocky Mountains!
- Jennifer Prestwich
- Nov 22, 2024
- 3 min read
Go For a Ride Day: Set Your Spirit Free
Do you feel tethered to your screen, locked into the same routines? It’s time to break free. November 22 is Go For a Ride Day, a celebration of exploration and movement. This isn’t about errands or commutes. It’s about rediscovering freedom and wanderlust. The mode of transport? That’s entirely up to you. Car, bike, skateboard, or even a sleigh—just go.
Why "Go For a Ride Day" Matters
Life wasn’t always so sedentary. Humans are explorers by nature. Once, adventure meant setting sail for unknown lands or traversing rugged trails to chart new territories. But these days, our “journeys” often begin and end in a browser tab. It’s a far cry from the spirit that drove Lewis and Clark or the pioneers of flight.
Think about it:
You’re just a bike ride away from fresh air.
A scenic drive can reset your perspective.
A walk or ride into the unknown sparks creativity.
It’s not about where you go. It’s about leaving the familiar behind.
The History of Going for a Ride
When did going for a ride become a thrill? Maybe it was your first bike. The moment those training wheels came off, you felt unstoppable. Or maybe it was the day you got your driver’s license—the freedom to leave without asking permission. Transportation has always meant liberation.
But our love of rides goes back much further. In 1804, President Jefferson sent Lewis and Clark to map the West. Their “ride” wasn’t easy:
Distance: Over 8,000 miles
Obstacles: Harsh weather, starvation, injuries, and dangerous waters
Impact: They returned with priceless maps and insights
Now, contrast that with today’s gripes about airport security or traffic jams. It’s a reminder of how easy we’ve got it—and how little we appreciate it.
The Evolution of the Ride
From horses to cars, Americans have always found joy in the journey. The automobile craze of the mid-20th century defined freedom for generations. Weekend road trips, Sunday drives, and iconic Route 66 fueled a love for exploration.
Today, priorities are shifting. Fuel efficiency and practicality dominate car designs. But Go For a Ride Day isn’t about what you drive—or ride. It’s about tapping into the thrill of going somewhere new.
How to Celebrate Go For a Ride Day
Here’s the beauty of it: you don’t need a grand plan. Just pick a mode of transport and move.
Drive – Hit the open road and soak in some scenic views.
Bike – Feel the wind in your hair and enjoy the rhythmic cadence.
Walk or Run – Rediscover local trails or parks.
Get Creative – Try a scooter, skateboard, or even a horse ride.
The key is to go somewhere, anywhere, that breaks your routine.
Top 3 Scenic Drives in Denver’s Front Range
Living in Colorado gives you access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the U.S. Whether you’ve got an afternoon or a weekend, these drives will inspire your inner explorer.
1. Trail Ridge Road
Why it’s special:
This is the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., peaking at 12,183 feet.
It cuts through Rocky Mountain National Park, offering panoramic views of alpine tundra, glacial valleys, and rugged peaks.
Wildlife is everywhere: elk, moose, and marmots often graze near the road.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers! Even in summer, the temperatures drop as you climb.
2. Rocky Mountain National Park
Why it’s worth the ride:
With over 300 miles of road, this park is a driver’s paradise.
Trail Ridge Road is a highlight, but don’t miss the lesser-known Old Fall River Road for a winding, scenic alternative.
Iconic views include Bear Lake, Longs Peak, and Moraine Park.
Make it count: Pack a picnic and pull over to savor the scenery.
3. Estes Park
What makes it magical:
In fall and early winter, Estes Park becomes the stage for elk rutting season.
Drive into town and see herds of elk casually strolling through parks, golf courses, and streets.
The 45-minute drive from Boulder is short, but the payoff is unforgettable.
Don’t forget: Bring binoculars for a closer look—but respect their space. Do NOT attempt to approach the elk. They are extremely protective, especially during rutting season, and can be dangerous if they feel threatened!
Make Every Ride Count
Go For a Ride Day isn’t just about stepping away from your screen. It’s about reclaiming the thrill of movement. When you break free from your routine, you open the door to discovery.
So, what are you waiting for?
Grab your keys or helmet.
Pick a direction.
Let the journey surprise you.
Because life’s greatest moments often happen when you just go for a ride.
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