Colorado is a living beauty with picturesque landscapes, beautiful natural parks, and skyscraping mountains. The State has a diversity of both plains as well as mountainous biodiversity. The combinations have unleashed some of the most phenomenal scenic beauty mankind has ever witnessed.
From sand dunes far away from any ocean and desert to ice-covered mountain tops, we have curated some of the best places to visit in Colorado. Just scroll through to unfold the mystery this place beholds for you to uncover.
Top Attractions in Colorado
The state of Colorado is a mixture of modern, cultural, and natural beauty. We have a long list to explore but we will be starting off with the ones that are unique and rare to this place only-
Rocky Mountain National Park:
Experience the stunning beauty of the Rocky Mountain National Park, nestled in Colorado. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views, serene alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. With many activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, the park offers an endless experience of adventure throughout your journey.
And if you set your foot here, don't miss the Trail Ridge Road, which provides stunning views of the mountains and valleys, and Bear Lake, one of the most preferred spots for hiking and fishing. Even just a scenic drive past the Rocky Mountain National Park will fulfill your eyes with unforgettable views.
Mesa Verde National Park:
Tucked away in the southwestern region of Colorado lies a true marvel of human history - the Mesa Verde National Park. Make your way 1,400 years back into the past and witness the incredibly well-preserved ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and artifacts, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the people who once called this place home.
However, the way forward unveils breathtaking views of the surrounding mesas, canyons, and valleys that are yet to be witnessed. With the help of guided tours, ranger programs, and museum exhibits, you can explore the cliff dwellings and submerge yourself in the ancient culture and past of the region.
For history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike, Mesa Verde National Park is an absolute must-visit destination.
Garden of the Gods:
Discover the captivating wonder of the Garden of the Gods, nestled in the heart of Colorado Springs. A towering collection of Sandstone rock formations existing there for more than 300 million years, this place provides stunning views of natural wonders mother nature can create.
Outdoor enthusiasts will relish in the array of activities available, from hiking and rock climbing to mountain biking. You can enjoy the park's trails, explore with a guided tour, or absorb the breathtaking surroundings.
Garden of the Gods is one and unique only to Colorado due to its geological formation and its eye-catching natural wonders. This makes the place a vital destination for nature fanatics seeking to experience the untouched beauty of the world.
Pikes Peak:
Enclosed in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, this towering Pikes Peak provides a majestic view of the amazing creation of nature. The peak reaches a height of more than 14,000 feet and blends a unique taste for nature lovers with canyons, valleys, and forests surrounding it.
Visitors can choose to drive up the mountain's winding roads, hike the trails to the summit or even bike down. Pikes Peak is also steeped in history, with connections to the gold rush and the famous "America the Beautiful" song. Being here in Colorado, you can not miss the opportunity to admire the mountain's natural beauty.
Great Sand Dunes National Park:
Located in southern Colorado is a natural wonder that attracts wanderers to admire and wonder about the beauty of the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Incorporating one of the tallest sand dunes in North America, which is set against a backdrop of majestic mountains and vast, open skies far away from any desert or ocean.
Visitors can hike the dunes, explore the surrounding wilderness, or even sandboard down the slopes. A unique combination of ecosystems consisting of alpine tundra and wetlands can be visible in this park. With its unparalleled beauty and opportunities for outdoor adventure, Great Sand Dunes National Park is a true gem of Colorado.
Cities to Visit in Colorado
Not only natural wonders, but some man-made wonders are also spectacular to watch. Here are the examples in the form of the best cities in Colorado you can visit-
Denver:
Denver is the biggest city as well as the capital of Colorado State. Known for its amazing location right beside the mountains, the nature and weather are lovely year-round. Denver is also nicknamed the Mile High City. With its stunning mountain views, abundant outdoor activities, and thriving arts and culture scene, Denver offers something for everyone.
A large collection of museums and galleries, world-class restaurants, live music, and entertainment make Denver an allrounder. Denver offers easy access to hiking, skiing, and other outdoor adventures all in close proximity to the city due to its easy accessibility to the Rocky Mountains.
Boulder:
A progressive and vibrant city, Boulder is situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and bustling downtown, Boulder offers something for everyone. Visitors can hike the Flatirons, bike the Boulder Creek Path, or stroll the Pearl Street Mall for shopping and dining. For people seeking adventure and culture in a beautiful setting, Boulder's unique blend of urban and outdoor lifestyles provides it all.
Colorado Springs:
Colorado Springs is an energetic city located at the foot of Pikes Peak. It is home to a plethora of natural attractions, including Garden of the Gods, Seven Falls, and Pikes Peak itself. The rich history and amazing places such as the U.S. Olympic Training Center and the Air Force Academy make the place a must-visit for sure. For visitors interested in visiting the city, the bustling downtown area, delicious cuisine, and thriving arts scene provide them with an experience of a lifetime.
Best Outdoor Activities in Colorado
Colorado is filled with all kinds of outdoor adventures and activities a person would demand. Just unlocking them is the next step after reaching there. Here are all the things you can do in Colorado-
Skiing:
Colorado is a winter sports paradise with Vail, Breckenridge, and Aspen ski resorts that are ranked the best in the world. Visitors can hit the slopes and enjoy the fresh snow from November to April.
Hiking:
Colorado is known for its variety of hiking trails, with the best-ranked trails it provides to visitors. These trails range from easy strolls to challenging multi-day treks depending on your expertise level. Some popular hiking destinations include Rocky Mountain National Park, Maroon Bells, and the Flatirons in Boulder.
Rafting:
Colorado's rivers and streams offer thrilling whitewater adventures for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. Popular rafting destinations include the Arkansas River, the Colorado River, and Clear Creek.
Biking:
Colorado is a paradise for mountain bikers as the rugged terrain and scenic trails provide the optimal conditions for it. Trails such as the Colorado Trail, the Monarch Crest Trail, and the 401 Trail offer challenging terrain and breathtaking views.
Fishing:
With enormous lakes, rivers, and mountain streams, fishing in Colorado is one of the famous watersports. These popular spots in Colorado that are perfect for trout fishing include the South Platte River, the Arkansas River, and the Fryingpan River.
Hidden Gems in Colorado
Not only famous tourist attractions are fabulous to watch, but sometimes some hidden gems are kept underrated until you really explore them.
Maroon Bells:
Located near Aspen, the Maroon Bells are a pair of iconic peaks that offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Visitors can hike, camp, and fish in the area, with options ranging from easy strolls to challenging summit climbs. In the fall, the aspen trees turn brilliant gold, making for a truly magical experience.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park:
Situated in western Colorado, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a hidden gem that offers rock climbers a paradise on Earth. The canyon's walls are so steep and narrow that sunlight only reaches the bottom for a few hours daily.
Telluride:
Located in the San Juan Mountains, Telluride is a fascinating mountain town having lots of adventurous activities to do here. During winter skiing on the slopes at the Telluride Ski Resort is unforgettable, while in summer you can do hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The Telluride Film Festival and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival is a yearly event conducted in the town that attracts a huge crowd.
Ouray:
Known as the "Switzerland of America," Ouray is a small mountain town that is full of hidden gems. Take a dip in natural hot springs, then hike or bike the nearby trails, if not, take a scenic drive through the mountains whatever pleases your desires.
Best Time to Visit Colorado
Colorado is a state that offers year-round opportunities for adventure and exploration. Depending on what you plan to do in Colorado, your trip will be finalized in various seasons.
Usually, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, and biking to enjoy your time with, summer is the most optimal time to go there. Fall brings vibrant foliage and a quieter atmosphere, perfect for scenic drives and exploring charming towns. Winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding in mountain resorts, while spring offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and the chance to witness wildflowers blooming.
Whenever you choose to visit, Colorado's stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion
So after reading this piece, you must have learned why Colorado is so underrated place and which are the best places to visit in Colorado. Now you can plan your trip accordingly and decide according to your interest which month and place will be ideal for you to visit. Now there are plenty of ways to get there depending on where you are coming from. Usually, Delta Airlines provides the best deal for Denver. So get there and share your experience with others, inspiring them to get out and explore the world even more.
