Colorado, a state known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and endless outdoor adventures, offers a wealth of captivating destinations for every type of traveler. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the serene beauty of the Great Sand Dunes, Colorado has something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the best places to visit in this enchanting state.
Rocky Mountain National Park: A Majestic Wilderness
One of Colorado’s most iconic destinations, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This stunning park, located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offers over 400 square miles of pristine wilderness with towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife.
One of the top attractions in the park is Trail Ridge Road. This scenic drive, which reaches elevations of over 12,000 feet, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Stop at one of the many overlooks to take in the panoramic vistas and snap a photo of the majestic landscape.
Take a hike on one of the many trails that wind through the wilderness to get up close and personal with the park’s natural wonders. The Bear Lake Trail, a gentle 0.6-mile loop, offers stunning views of the park’s subalpine ecosystem, while the more strenuous Longs Peak Trail, a 14-mile round-trip hike to the summit of the park’s highest peak, offers an actual test of endurance and a chance to stand on top of the world.
In addition to hiking, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a variety of other outdoor activities, from fishing and camping to wildlife watching and stargazing. Look for the park’s resident elk, bighorn sheep, and moose, and marvel at the stunning night sky, free from the city’s light pollution.
Great Sand Dunes National Park: A Desert Oasis
For a truly unique and otherworldly experience, visit Great Sand Dunes National Park. This stunning park in southern Colorado is home to the tallest dunes in North America, rising over 700 feet above the surrounding landscape.
One of the top activities in the park is sandboarding and sand sledding. Rent a specially designed sandboard or sled from nearby outfitters and spend the day gliding down the giant dunes. It’s an exhilarating experience that will leave you breathless and grinning from ear to ear.
For a more leisurely experience, hike through the dunes and explore the park’s unique ecosystem. The Medano Creek, a seasonal stream that runs along the base of the dunes, is a popular spot for wading and splashing in the cool water. Watch for the park’s resident wildlife, including kangaroo rats, mule deer, and even the occasional black bear.
In the evening, stay for a stunning sunset over the dunes and marvel at the changing colors of the sand and sky. The park is also a designated International Dark Sky Park, which offers some of the best stargazing in the country. Lay back on the sand and gaze up at the Milky Way, counting shooting stars and making wishes on the celestial wonders above.
Mesa Verde National Park: A Journey Through Ancient History
Mesa Verde National Park is a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone fascinated by ancient cultures. This unique park in southwestern Colorado is home to some of the world’s best-preserved ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings.
The park’s main attraction is the Cliff Palace, a stunning complex of 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial chambers) built into a towering cliff face. Take a guided tour of the palace to learn about the lives of the ancestral Puebloans who called this place home over 700 years ago and marvel at the incredible engineering and artistry that went into creating this ancient wonder.
Other must-see sites in the park include the Balcony House, a smaller but equally impressive cliff dwelling that requires some climbing and crawling to access, and the Long House, a sprawling complex that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to exploring the cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde National Park offers a variety of other activities, from hiking and wildlife watching to stargazing and cultural demonstrations. Take a scenic drive along the park’s winding roads, stopping at overlooks to take in the stunning views of the mesas and canyons below.
Denver: A Vibrant City With Something For Everyone
For those seeking a more urban experience, Denver, Colorado’s capital city, is a top destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and outdoor adventure.
Start your exploration in the city’s historic LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood, home to various museums, galleries, and restaurants housed in beautifully restored 19th-century buildings. Visit the Denver Art Museum, which features an extensive collection of Native American art and artifacts, or stroll through Larimer Square, a charming pedestrian mall lined with boutiques, cafes, and street performers.
For a taste of Denver’s thriving food and drink scene, head to the RiNo (River North) Art District. This trendy neighborhood has various breweries, distilleries, and food halls, each offering a unique take on Colorado’s famous craft beer and cuisine. Sample a flight of local brews at the Great Divide Brewing Company, or indulge in a gourmet meal at the Denver Central Market, a bustling food hall featuring a variety of local vendors.
Denver is also known for its stunning outdoor spaces, with over 200 parks and 20,000 acres of open space within the city limits. Stroll through City Park, a sprawling green space home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, or rent a bike and explore the Cherry Creek Trail, a scenic 40-mile path that winds through the city’s heart.
Garden Of The Gods: A Natural Wonder In The Heart Of Colorado Springs
For a truly awe-inspiring natural experience, visit the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This stunning park, located in the city’s heart, features towering red rock formations that defy gravity and logic.
Take a hike through the park’s winding trails, which offer stunning views of the rock formations and the surrounding landscape. The Perkins Central Garden Trail, a gentle 1.5-mile loop, is an excellent option for families and those seeking a stroll, while the more strenuous Siamese Twins Trail, a 1-mile round-trip hike to the base of a towering rock formation, offers an actual test of endurance and a chance to get up close and personal with the park’s natural wonders.
In addition to hiking, the Garden of the Gods offers a variety of other activities, from rock climbing and mountain biking to horseback riding and Jeep tours. Take a guided tour of the park to learn about its unique geology and history, or attend one of the many educational programs and events offered throughout the year.
After exploring the park, head to the nearby Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center. This state-of-the-art facility offers a variety of interactive exhibits, a showcase of the park’s natural and cultural history, and a gift shop and cafe featuring local artisanal products.
Aspen: A Mountain Town With A Touch Of Luxury
To taste Colorado’s high-end mountain lifestyle, visit the charming town of Aspen. This world-famous ski resort in the heart of the Rocky Mountains offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and luxury amenities.
In the winter, Aspen is a skier’s paradise, with four world-class ski resorts offering a variety of terrain for every skill level. Take a lesson with a professional instructor, or hit the slopes alone and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding peaks. In the summer, Aspen transforms into a hiker’s and mountain biker’s haven, with miles of scenic trails winding through the mountains and valleys.
Off the slopes, Aspen offers a variety of high-end shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Stroll through the town’s charming streets, lined with designer boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. Take in a show at the Wheeler Opera House, a historic theater that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, or visit the Aspen Art Museum, which features rotating exhibits of contemporary art.
For a truly luxurious experience, book a stay at one of Aspen’s five-star resorts, such as the Little Nell or the St. Regis. These properties offer a range of amenities, from spa treatments and fine dining to ski-in/ski-out access and private concierge services.
Conclusion
Colorado has endless beauty and adventure, with many destinations offering something for every type of traveler. Colorado has everything from the majestic peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park to the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde, from the vibrant streets of Denver to the luxurious slopes of Aspen.
Colorado’s top destinations will surely leave you breathless and inspired, whether you are seeking outdoor thrills, cultural experiences, or simply a chance to relax and unwind in stunning natural surroundings. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the best this captivating state offers.