Sophia May
Best Outdoor Attractions In Colorado – Alpine lakes, hot springs, mining towns, mountain towns, dunes and 14s: the abundance of destinations that make up this list of the best places to visit in Colorado is astounding.
Known for its snowy peaks, national parks, hiking trails, skiing and more, Colorado is undoubtedly one of the most exciting states in the United States.
Best Outdoor Attractions In Colorado
If you’re looking for some new Colorado vacation spots to add to your travel itinerary, then this list of Colorado destinations is for you.
Colorado’s Hidden Gems: The Best Places To Visit In Colorado
Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Please see our Disclosure Policy for more details.
Colorado is home to four amazing national parks, and while the Centennial State is known for its incredible Rocky Mountain scenery, each one is unique and worth a visit!
With over 3 million visitors a year, Rocky Mountain National Park is not only the most popular national park in the state, but is easily one of the top tourist attractions in Colorado!
From snow-capped mountains to alpine lakes, from challenging hikes to relaxing scenic drives, Rocky Mountain National Park has something for everyone. Travel – the only reason you really need it is to enjoy the beauty of the mountains.
The Best Colorado Springs Tours And Things To Do In 2023
Some of the most popular things to do in RMNP include visiting Bear Lake, hiking to Emerald and Dream Lakes, driving along the beautiful Trail Ridge Road, and exploring the Old Fall River Road (by car or on foot, depending on location . season) ) .
If you’re visiting in winter, don’t worry, much of the park is still accessible – just be ready to cross-country ski to visit some of the most popular lakes!
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is an often overlooked national park in Gunnison, Colorado, but you’ll be blown away if you add it to your list of beautiful Colorado attractions.
It is one of the deepest canyons in North America at 8,043 feet. It is hard to imagine even if you are there and see it. The easiest way is to visit the South Rim just outside of Gunnison, from where you can also access the river at the bottom of the canyon.
Best Patios And Outdoor Dining In Downtown Colorado Springs
There’s also access to the North Rim, which is perfect if you want to escape the already sparse crowds.
Remember that while the two edges appear close together on the map, they are several hours’ drive apart.
Although there aren’t many hiking trails in the park, there are plenty to choose from and great vantage points to stop at.
Totally worth a visit even if you only have a few hours. Most trails are short, less than three miles round trip.
Outdoor Adventures Near Denver
The Oak Flat Loop Trail is perfect for those who want to hike below the rim but don’t want to go all the way to the river. Two miles round trip, it can be narrow in places so be careful.
The ancient Puebloans built their villages on cliff faces and climbed down from them using handholds and footholds cut directly into the rocks.
Today, you can see many of them from the observation deck atop the mesa and take a guided tour to see some up close. Remember that you will have to climb down stairs or steep steps to visit them.
The rock houses are really amazing. Highlights include the Rock Palace (the largest), the Longhouse and the Porch House (you have to climb through a very narrow tunnel to get out).
The 14 Best Weekend Getaways In Colorado: From Hiking To Hot Springs
Several other homes are also open for small group tours with ranger-guided tours each year. You have to go to these places and often climb down (using modern ropes) along the original paths and footholds.
Whether you see cliff dwellings by sight, on a guided tour or on a country walk, you are sure to be fascinated by them.
Located in Saguache and Alamosa counties in southern Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park has more than 100,000 acres of outdoor adventure.
The charm lies not only in the highest sand dunes in North America, but also in the surrounding forests, snow-capped mountains and river landscapes.
Best Adventures This Time Of The Year In Grand Junction, Colorado
So much to do, 3 days is the minimum to spend in and around the surrounding area. Popular attractions in the reserve include the High Dunes, Zapata Falls and Medano Pass.
Sandboarding is a popular activity not to be missed. Other activities worth trying include skiing, horse riding and hiking to enjoy the beautiful sunrise.
The park is always open and no reservations are required. However, the best times to visit are spring and autumn.
The nearest city is Mosca, but the park is easily accessible from any major city, as the San Luis Valley Airport is only a 45-minute drive from the park entrance.
The 10 Best Things To Do In Colorado Springs
Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the charming town of Estes Park is easily among the best places to visit in Colorado.
With its beautiful downtown (don’t miss a chance to walk along the river!), the abundance of elk living in and around town, the beautiful lake, and nearby world-class elk hiking opportunities, Estes Park belongs on every Colorado bucket list .
While in Estes Park, be sure to stop at the historic Park Theater, consider a white water rafting trip, take a scenic drive, visit one of the town’s breweries, and visit the beautiful Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s Morning.
Of course, the main attractions are just outside of town: no trip to Estes Park is complete without spending a lot of time in Rocky Mountain National Park!
Free Things To Do In Colorado
Crested Butte in the Rocky Mountains is probably one of the most recommended attractions in Colorado.
Known for its ski resorts, it is also considered the wildflower capital, making Crested Butte a great year-round destination in Colorado.
In winter, the challenging slopes attract the best skiers and snowboarders. Cross-country trails around the city contribute to the unique beauty of the landscape.
In the warmer months, mountain bikers and hikers come to experience the region’s unique natural beauty and floral splendor.
Amazing Things To Do In Colorado In Winter Besides Ski
Crested Butte is a very walkable town and as you walk around you will find quaint historic buildings, great restaurants and plenty of mountain views.
Colorado’s capital is arguably one of the trendiest, fastest-growing cities in the country—and since Denver offers a wide variety of activities while also being close to epic rock climbing, it’s no surprise.
Known for its breweries, parks and proximity to popular mountain towns like Rocky Mountain National Park and Boulder and Estes Park, Denver is a great weekend getaway.
While in Denver, consider taking in a game at Coor’s Field, see a show at the iconic Red Rock Amphitheater, stroll down 16th Street, stop by Larimer Square, and of course visit some of the famous breweries.
Best Watering Holes And Swimming Spots In Colorado
If you’re looking to add some museum visits to your Denver itinerary, the city has you covered, too, from classics like the Denver Art Museum to more unique choices like the Museum of Fine Arts. Aviation turns over the Rocky Mountains.
Steamboat Springs may be a popular Colorado ski town and home to many former Olympians, but a visit here might not feel like your typical Colorado ski resort vacation. It’s more of an adventure.
As a year-round destination, Steamboat offers many things to do year-round. But for many people, winter is the most magical time.
Locals even have their own hill in the center of town, and during the annual Winter Carnival in February, the town comes alive with skiing (complete with costumes, lights and fireworks), outdoor concerts, sculptures and a horse-drawn parade Vibrant chariot stimulation. Skateboarders jump right in the middle of the city!
Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places To Visit In Colorado
After all the winter fun, relax at one of the city’s hot springs, like Strawberry Hot Springs, a local favorite for its natural beauty hidden in a canyon.
Consistently voted one of the best places to visit in Colorado, Breckenridge is a charming town in the heart of the Rocky Mountains with non-stop activities and beautiful sights.
Visit the amazing craft breweries and restaurants in this walled city. Breckenridge chefs showcase local produce from farm to table. In the Breckenridge Historic District, learn the stories of this old mining town.
Breckenridge is known for its world-class alpine and cross-country skiing, making it one of Colorado’s premier vacation destinations. Breckenridge Ski Resort has 5 mountains and 187 ski slopes.
Best Places To Visit In Colorado (2023)
In summer you can go into alpine meadows or waterfalls and you will come across wild flowers. In autumn, the vibrant colors of the aspen trees are breathtaking.
Breckenridge is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Rafting, ziplining, fly fishing and cycling are some of the outdoor adventures worth trying. hikers will love it
Attractions in aurora colorado, top 10 attractions in colorado, best attractions in denver colorado, colorado outdoor attractions, family attractions in colorado, attractions in golden colorado, best attractions in colorado, attractions in colorado springs, main attractions in colorado, outdoor attractions in colorado, best attractions in colorado springs, best tourist attractions in colorado