A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
To begin with a statistic: 58 out of America’s 96 Fourteeners—mountains exceeding 14,000 feet—are situated in Colorado. If your interpretation of beauty encompasses towering peaks, steep canyons, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and impressive rock formations, Colorado offers an abundance of transformative destinations far beyond what can be encapsulated in a mere ten articles.
Whether you wish to hike or ski through the trails of the Rocky Mountains, navigate canyon rivers, or experience the urban appeal of cities such as Denver and Aspen, Colorado is a state designed for exploration.
The capital of Colorado, Denver, is not only the largest city in the Rocky Mountains region but also a favored destination for travelers wishing to experience some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States.
Named after the river with the same name, Colorado is situated in the southwestern United States and is a prominent member of the Mountain States. It encompasses most of the Southern Rocky Mountains and the northeastern portion of the Colorado Plateau.
Colorado serves as a distinct sanctuary, situated within the Rocky Mountains. This Western state is acclaimed for its exceptional skiing, stunning natural landscapes, and invigorating fresh air.
The town of Eagle is nestled in Colorado’s northwestern region, situated between Denver to the east and the Utah state line to the west.
Woodland Park is situated near the geographic center of Colorado, specifically in Teller County.
Cortez serves as the seat of Montezuma County, situated in the far southwestern corner of Colorado. It lies near the Four Corners area, where the states of Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico converge, forming distinct right angles at their borders.
Steamboat Springs is one of Colorado’s distinguished resort towns, offering a plethora of outdoor activities available throughout the year.
Canon City is a town of approximately 17,000 inhabitants situated near the geographic center of Colorado. As the seat of Fremont County, it has emerged as a favored destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
Situated in the west-central region of Colorado along the shores of the Colorado River, Grand Junction is a city with a population of approximately 60,000 residents and serves as the county seat of Mesa County.
Colorado is home to some of the most stunning wilderness and mountain ranges in the United States. Renowned for its captivating Wild West history and celebrated wildlife, the state also features vibrant urban centers like Denver, which is rich in museums and art for those who favor cityscapes over nature. Whether you are an avid mountaineer or an art enthusiast, Colorado presents diverse offerings for all.
Lafayette is a city with a population of around 25,000, situated in the northwestern corner of the Denver metropolitan area.
Johnstown is a modest community of approximately 11,000 inhabitants situated within Weld and Larimer Counties in Colorado’s north-central region, nestled between Denver to the south and Fort Collins to the north.
Superior is a compact municipality situated in north-central Colorado’s Boulder County, nestled between Boulder to the northwest and Denver to the southeast.
Durango is a modest city situated in the southwestern region of Colorado, serving as the seat of La Plata County. As the most populous city in the county, it is conveniently located near the Four Corners, where Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah converge seamlessly.
Colorado is a destination that appears on numerous travel itineraries, and for good reason.
Coloradoboasts an undeniable reputation for its stunning landscapes, including imposing mountain vistas, sun-kissed plains, striking red rock formations, and expansive high deserts. Each of these sights is especially captivating when viewed through the windshield of a vehicle.
Colorado, a four-season state, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Offering 28 top-ranked ski resorts, reliable snowfall, towering dunes, white water rapids, and a staggering 39,000 miles of hiking trails, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With 42 state parks and four national parks, including the famedRocky Mountain National Park, Colorado is undoubtedly a treasure trove for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Don’t tell winter, but summer is my favorite season in Colorado. While skiing is enjoyable, I eagerly await the melting snow, thawing ground, and the emergence of the pale purple pasque flowers that herald the arrival of spring, quickly followed by summer’s glory. Each year, I plan several long weekends in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains from May to September, filled with outdoor dining, hiking, mountain biking, festivals, and more. Here are my top tips for planning the ultimate summer vacation in the Colorado mountains.