Discover the National Parks of Colorado
With spectacular vistas, scenic drives, and opportunities to spot wildlife, geological marvels, and echoes of ancient civilizations, Colorado’s national parks dazzle. Whether you’re looking to go on a short stroll with your kids or do some hardcore hiking, there’s a walk for everyone here. Moreover, did we mention the sunshine? There are approximately 300 days of it every year.
Not surprisingly, visitor numbers grow year after year, but don’t let that deter you. Every one of Colorado’s national parks is well worth a visit.
Rocky Mountain National Park: A Wealth of Opportunities for Every Visitor
With over 4.6 million visitors per year, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the US—and with good reason. Encompassing 415 sq miles, this majestic giant contains hundreds of granite peaks and wildlife big and small.
Adventure is possible year-round. Summertime brings shimmering alpine lakes and wildflower-filled meadows crossed with hiking trails and leafy campsites. In the winter, the park is blanketed in snow, becoming a quiet, magical place—perfect for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.
The busiest time of year for the park is summer, with hiking being the primary draw. More than 300 miles of trails traverse its diverse terrain, catering to every hiking ability. Families with kids might enjoy the easy hikes in the Wild Basin to Calypso Falls or to Gem Lake in the Lumpy Ridge area. For those with ambition, summiting Longs Peak is a challenge worth taking.
Beyond the main trails, impressive vistas and beautiful solitude can be found in the park’s backcountry, where herds of elk and scattered bighorn sheep roam.
Visiting the Trails
For sightseers, Trail Ridge Road is a must during the warmer months, typically closed due to snow from November to May. Stretching 47 miles between Estes Park and Grand Lake, it’s the highest continuously paved road in the US, climbing steadily to a high point of 12,183 ft. Dubbed the Highway to the Sky, the drive offers sweeping mountain vistas with numerous turnoffs for exploring.
Explore Mesa Verde National Park’s Rich Heritage
Mesa Verde National Park is a unique destination, home to the largest and best-preserved Indigenous American archaeological site in the US. Spanning 81 sq miles, this UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses over 5000 Ancestral Puebloan sites inhabited from 550 CE to 1300 CE. Today, visitors can explore cliff dwellings, rock art, and the mysteries of the first Americans.
Ranger-led tours offer the most rewarding way to experience the park, with experts providing historical insights and a glimpse into ancient life. The tour of Cliff Palace, for instance, involves descending stone stairways and ladders to enter the site, showcasing a grand engineering achievement full of history.
Admire the Great Sand Dunes National Park
In a state known for its mountainous terrains, Great Sand Dunes National Park presents a surreal landscape of sand dunes bordered by mountain peaks. The park features a vast dune field, covering over 30 sq miles, that attracts adventure seekers looking to hike or sled down the slopes. Indeed, the dunes present a thrilling experience for visitors willing to explore their unique terrain.
Experience the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park features a massive, 2700-foot-deep canyon carved by the Gunnison River. The park offers breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and exhilarating climbs. Most visitors favor the South Rim Road, winding its way to eleven spectacular overlooks reached via short trails.
Planning Your Visit
Each of Colorado’s national parks provides ample opportunities for exploration and adventure, appealing to a wide range of visitors including families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you find yourself drawn to the high peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park, the cultural richness of Mesa Verde, the surreal sand dunes, or the awe-inspiring depths of the Black Canyon, each destination offers a unique experience to remember. Remember to check conditions and plan ahead to ensure a successful visit to these stunning natural environments.
