From Boulder Into The Mountains on Highway 119

Boulder is located about 35 minutes north-east of Denver, nestled right up against the picturesque rock formations known as the Boulder Flat Irons. Boulder is also home to Colorado University. From here, drive west into the mountains on Highway 119, also known as Canyon Drive. You will wind up the mountain road next to Boulder Creek, where you may see people floating down in inner-tubes or kayaks. While taking this drive, you will encounter many great places to pull over and take in the scenery, as there are many pull-offs on the sides of the road. After about a 30 minute drive up the canyon, you will arrive at a small mountain town, called Netherland. Eldora Mountain Ski Area is just up the road from here, and if you decide to go even further, you will end up in an old mining town, turned casino town, named Black Hawk. If you end up in Black Hawk, even if you don't want to gamble, there are many cheap food options in town for lunch or dinner. From here, you can head back towards Boulder, towards Estes Park to the north, or back down another canyon towards Golden, Colorado, where you can visit the Coors Brewery for a free tour.