Top 25 Breathtaking Destinations in Colorado

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.

Many of these natural marvels challenge the imagination, such as extensive rock formations elevated and angled in seemingly impossible ways due to tectonic shifts, or canyons thousands of feet deep yet so narrow that sunlight barely penetrates their bottom.

This region also possesses an allure reminiscent of the Old West, with historic Gold Rush towns nestled in mountain ranges and landscapes forever recognized in cinematic history, alongside locations rich in history where the Ancestral Puebloans established advanced communities beneath towering cliffs.

This article presents a curated selection of the most extraordinary places to explore in Colorado!

1. Trail Ridge Road

A journey unlike any other, Trail Ridge Road traverses the expanse of Rocky Mountain National Park from its northeastern aspect to the western side, connecting Estes Park and Grand Lake.

Due to its status as the highest paved roadway in the United States, Trail Ridge Road is accessible only between Memorial Day and mid-October.

As you navigate this road, you will witness alpine tundra typically only encountered by the most adventurous mountaineers, with starkly beautiful, nearly lunar landscapes characterized by desolate slopes and jagged peaks that exceed elevations of 12,000 feet.

The apex of this “Highway to the Sky” is the crossing of the Continental Divide at nearly 12,200 feet. It is remarkable to consider that Trail Ridge Road was completed in 1932 and was subsequently listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

2. Telluride

Colorado is adorned with numerous mountain towns encircled by enormous peaks; however, Telluride’s unique position, nestled deeply within a box canyon along the San Miguel River, causes the San Juan Mountains to draw near to this town. The surrounding mountains compel one to tilt their head upwards just to glimpse the summits perched above steep, forested slopes and sheer cliffs.

Originally founded in the 1870s following the discovery of the Smuggler gold vein on the mountainsides, Telluride’s rich history includes the infamous robbery of the San Miguel Valley Bank by Butch Cassidy in 1889.

Characterized by its diverse architecture, Colorado Avenue presents a charming snapshot of the American West, where traditional wooden storefronts have evolved into upscale restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. Telluride is celebrated as much for its winter sports as for its summer bluegrass and film festivals, which occur in June and September, respectively.

3. Pikes Peak

Dominating the landscape above Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write the iconic “America the Beautiful” after taking in the breathtaking vista from its summit.

Exceeding 14,000 feet in elevation, this granite mountain stands taller than any peak in the contiguous United States to the east.

One of the most delightful views of Pikes Peak can be appreciated from the Garden of the Gods. Should you wish to ascend this American landmark and share in the vision experienced by Bates, multiple options are available.

The most distinctive choice is The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which holds the distinction of being the highest cog railway globally, operational since 1890. Alternatively, one can take the Barr Trail, known for its challenging ascent, with a demanding elevation gain of 7,800 feet over a distance of 13 miles, including a camping area situated midway.

For those seeking a less strenuous but equally magnificent route to the summit, the accessible toll road provides access from the northwest side.

4. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

The tallest sand dunes in North America are located in a sheltered alcove beneath the western flanks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The immense dimensions of the Great Sand Dunes are staggering, with the tallest crest reaching 750 feet.

Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy sledding or sandboarding down these soft, forgiving slopes, while capturing stunning photographs of the desert landscape that could easily be mistaken for professional imagery.

While the dunes serve as the primary attraction, they are part of a larger 150,000-acre park teeming with diverse ecosystems across varying elevations, including high alpine lakes and wetlands bustling with birdlife tracing the sand.

The extensive range of activities available is remarkable, whether you are wandering along cool forest trails, refreshing yourself in Medano Creek, observing the migration of sandhill cranes during spring and fall, or marveling at the pristine night skies in this secluded locale.

5. Black Canyon of the Gunnison

It is beneficial for us to be reminded of our modest place in the universe from time to time, and few locations accomplish this as effectively as the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

This national park encompasses the deepest and most imposing section of this 48-mile granite gorge, where adventurers can cautiously approach the edge of cliffs that plummet 2,000 feet to observe the Gunnison River, which appears diminutive at this elevation.

Visitors can drive or walk along the canyon’s rim, and for those seeking further adventure, rugged hiking trails through the inner canyon are available (permits required).

6. Crested Butte

In addition to the stunning mountain vistas on all sides, Crested Butte radiates a unique charm. The renowned Victorian architecture lining Elk Avenue serves as a testament to its mid-19th century coal and silver mining heritage.

While some similar towns declined, Crested Butte thrived due to its strategic position on key supply routes, patiently awaiting its rediscovery as a ski destination.

A skiing paradise with over a thousand acres of terrain at Mt. Crested Butte (9,375 ft) lies just to the east.

During the warmer months, this locale not only transforms into an outdoor adventure haven but also blooms with a stunning array of wildflowers, which paint the landscape with vibrant colors at various elevations. In July, the renowned Crested Butte Wildflower Festival showcases this incredible natural display.

7. Durango

When filmmakers require a setting that encapsulates the essence of the Old West and its rugged mystique, Durango is often the preferred choice.

A series of classic western films were filmed in and around this historic mining town, including the iconic scene from Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) featuring the characters leaping into the river.

That very scene took place at Baker’s Bridge, a location where numerous young people have attempted to recreate the stunts of Redford and Newman for generations.

During the summer months, the Animas River Valley transforms into a paradise for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and tubing, while the nearby Purgatory Resort offers winter sports, boasting close to 100 trails.

To immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and capture the spirit of the West, consider traveling on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, featuring vintage steam locomotives traversing mountains and canyon rims on an unforgettable journey to Silverton and back.

8. Garden of the Gods

It would be understandable to exaggerate when attempting to illustrate a site as remarkable as Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This area, spanning 1,340 acres, is adorned with awe-inspiring, gravity-defying geological formations.

Comprising a mixture of sandstone, conglomerate, and limestone, with hues ranging from crimson to white, these outcrops have experienced tilting and, in some instances, rotation due to the same earth-shaping forces that elevated the Rocky Mountains.

Subsequently, glaciers and wind have sculpted these formations into the surreal shapes we admire today.

Among these is the precariously balanced rock formation known as Balanced Rock, perfect for whimsical photographs, positioned across from Steamboat Rock, which resembles a shipwreck’s bow.

Garden of the Gods features 15 miles of trails that reveal awe-inspiring sights with each step, such as the impressive Pikes Peak to the west.

9. Maroon Bells

When one thinks of Colorado, the picturesque image of these twin mountain peaks mirrored in Maroon Lake often comes to mind.

Both peaks, known as Fourteeners, are made of a delicate maroon-hued mudstone, rendering them perilous to ascend.

Fortunately, the U-shaped contours of the Maroon Creek valley serve as an ideal frame for viewing the mountains from a distance, creating one of the most photographed vistas in Colorado, particularly vibrant during the autumn when foliage complements the peaks.

Due to its immense popularity, access to this viewpoint will be restricted during the summer and fall months. As a suggestion, utilize the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus service and visit mid-week to savor the tranquility this scene warrants.

10. Royal Gorge

Situated just a five-minute drive from downtown Cañon City, this narrow and steep canyon has been vertically carved by the Arkansas River. The Royal Gorge stretches for ten miles, with granite cliffs plunging to staggering depths of 1,250 feet.

The maximum width of the gorge is only 50 feet at its base and 300 feet at the top. Unlike some of Colorado’s more secluded attractions, this destination serves as a genuine tourist hotspot, featuring numerous opportunities to appreciate the awe-inspiring dimensions of the gorge.

Visitors can cross the Royal Gorge Bridge, recognized as the highest suspension bridge in the world, towering 956 feet above the river.

For those seeking excitement, the Royal Rush Skycoaster extends out over the rim, while the Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers a more tranquil excursion along the canyon floor, providing splendid views of the gorge and its wildlife.

11. Colorado National Monument

Despite the abundance of wilderness that Colorado possesses, it remains astonishing how many of the state’s natural attractions are situated mere minutes from major urban areas.

This holds true for Colorado National Monument, characterized by steep cliffs and unique monoliths, all within a short drive from downtown Grand Junction.

The most iconic representation of this high desert region is Monument Canyon, which traverses the park and features stunning reddish sandstone towers.

This vast, gnarled landscape can be admired from the comfort of your vehicle while navigating the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive, which meanders along the plateau.

For those wishing to explore on foot, numerous trails exist; the Monument Canyon Trail gets you remarkably close to the park’s emblematic feature, Independence Monument, a striking sandstone spire.

12. Mesa Verde National Park

Between 600 and 1300 CE, the Ancestral Puebloans constructed an impressive array of dwellings perched high in Southwest Colorado, sheltered by overhanging cliffs.

The preservation of these structures is remarkable, with a spectrum ranging from solitary storage spaces to extensive and interconnected villages consisting of over 150 rooms.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, this national park houses more than 600 such dwellings and conserves upwards of 5,000 archaeological sites.

Beyond its undeniable scenic allure, Mesa Verde provides intimate insights into the lives of ordinary individuals from centuries past through guided ranger-led tours of these ancient structures.

One can observe the sweeping landscape from the Cliff Canyon Overlook and uncover Ancestral Puebloan rock art along the Petroglyph Point Trail.

13. Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an unparalleled concert venue, esteemed in the music industry for its exceptional acoustics and an astonishing setting that borders on disbelief.

Located just 15 miles from downtown Denver, this 9,525-seat arena is a marvel, enveloped by striking outcrops of ochre sandstone that rise dramatically behind and alongside the seating area.

The geological layers align with the slope of the amphitheater, providing breathtaking views from the upper rows, which encompass both Denver and the vast expanse of the plains beyond.

With over 90 concerts each season, along with yoga classes and outdoor movie screenings, be prepared for Red Rocks’ high elevation of 6,450 feet above sea level. Hydration is key, and one should maintain a gradual pace if alcohol consumption occurs.

14. Hanging Lake

The stunning Glenwood Canyon, positioned along the Colorado River, is already breathtaking; however, a short yet rugged hiking trail along the tributary Dead Horse Creek leads to a vista that seems almost fantastical.

Surrounded by towering cliffs and nourished by enchanting waterfalls, Hanging Lake is a rare and delicately sensitive travertine formation, with layers accumulating along the shore, originating from limestone dissolution within Dead Horse Creek.

The dissolved carbonate minerals contribute to the lake’s captivating turquoise hue, while the area also shelters one of the largest and most noteworthy examples of a hanging garden plant community found in the United States.

15. Boulder Flatirons

A striking emblem for Boulder, the array of five monumental sedimentary slabs dominates the western skyline of the city. The Flatirons are aligned along the eastern slope of Green Mountain, part of the Front Range of the Rockies.

These sandstone formations originated approximately 290 million years ago, subsequently elevated and tilted between 35 and 80 million years ago during the mountain-building processes that formed the Rockies.

Within Boulder’s Open Space & Mountain Parks, these formations can be appreciated from afar and explored more closely along trails such as the challenging Royal Arch Trail, culminating in a natural arch that features breathtaking views of the Boulder area.

Adventurous individuals can also scale these formations; multi-pitch routes ascend the first and third Flatirons.

16. Ouray

With its alpine vegetation surrounded by the towering San Juan Mountains, it is easy to understand why this town in Southwest Colorado is often referred to as the “Switzerland of America.”

Founded in 1876, the charming community of Ouray rests in a natural bowl at an elevation of 7,800 feet, and for those inclined towards an active lifestyle, the majestic mountainsides inspire dreams of countless opportunities.

In Ouray, over 60 distinct activities are readily available, whether you are challenging yourself on a rugged trail, uncovering natural wonders like Box Canyon Falls, scaling sheer rock walls, or indulging in relaxation at the Ouray Hot Springs.

17. The Broadmoor Seven Falls

This exclusive attraction located in Colorado Springs has captivated visitors since 1883, showcasing one of Colorado’s most impressive waterfalls.

The Seven Falls consists of a series of seven cascades that descend into a box canyon measuring 1,000 feet, with rugged granite walls framing the scene. The experience is elevated further by a staircase that winds up the canyon, offering a close-up perspective of the falls.

This impressive staircase features 224 steps, with a resting platform halfway to the summit, allowing you to pause and take in the breathtaking beauty of this location.

Upon reaching the top, two hiking trails await: one follows South Cheyenne Creek to another waterfall, while the other leads to Inspiration Point, where expansive views of Colorado Springs and the endless plains beyond can be admired.

The falls have been illuminated since 1947, making it worthwhile to visit both during the day and at night.

18. Paint Mines Interpretive Park

This exceptional site, located outside the Rockies and in El Paso County’s expansive plains, embodies a rich convergence of geology, archaeology, and diverse ecology.

Visually striking, the Calhan Paint Mines consists of grasslands interspersed with peculiar hoodoos, irregular spires, and striated rock faces featuring vivid colors ranging from red to yellow, purple, and bright white.

For millennia, the vibrant clay found here has been utilized for pottery, ceremonial paint, and arrowheads. If you feel fatigued by the prospect of yet another mountain hike, the Paint Mines’ allure unfurls along a gentle 3.4-mile trail dotted with informative signage designed to ignite your imagination.

19. Crystal Mill

Just north of Crested Butte lies the ghost town of Crystal, accessible solely via four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Operating for only about 30 years, Crystal was established in the early 1880s after silver deposits were discovered at the confluence of the North Fork and South Fork of the Crystal River.

During the summer months, adventurers flock here to hike, mountain bike, or navigate the rugged shelf roads while photographing the breathtaking landscapes.

The Crystal Mill, a wooden powerhouse built in 1892 that rests on an outcrop, epitomizes the charm of this region.

The river provided energy for a turbine that powered machinery at the mill. This rustic structure, framed by mountains and forests, elegantly captures the essence of the Colorado wilderness.

20. Bear Lake

My vivid recollection of Rocky Mountain National Park is anchored in the view from Bear Lake, which is dominated by Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain to the west.

Bear Lake is encompassed by a paved path, complete with interpretive signs that narrate the human and natural history of this enthralling site.

On the southeastern edge lies a rocky outcropping providing a serene perch to admire the peaks and surrounding spruce and fir forests, all mirrored in the lake’s surface.

A parking area is conveniently located just off the eastern side, making Bear Lake not just an enjoyable destination but also a great starting point for several hiking trails.

If you are captivated by Bear Lake’s picturesque backdrop, consider tackling the challenging trail leading to Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Lake Haiyaha, and Emerald Lake.

21. Pagosa Springs

A research team from various institutions, including the U.S. Geological Survey, attempted to measure the depth of the geothermal hot springs in this captivating town located in Southwest Colorado in 2020.

Despite employing a measuring device of 1,002 feet in length, it was insufficient to ascertain the true depth of the springs.

The waters, which are crusted with sulfur deposits, can be enjoyed year-round, having been frequented by the Ancestral Puebloans and various Native American tribes, including the Navajo, for whom these springs hold spiritual significance.

The “mother springs” emerge at The Springs Resort & Spa, offering nearly two dozen pools along the banks of the San Juan River.

A plethora of nearby attractions awaits, from the country’s snowiest ski area at Wolf Creek to summer activities such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and camping within the expansive wilderness of San Juan National Forest.

22. Rifle Falls State Park

Rifle Falls, a breathtaking trio of waterfalls, cascades over a travertine cliff from a height exceeding 70 feet.

This state park is located approximately 20 minutes from the town of Rifle, with the parking area conveniently situated a mere 50 yards from the base of the falls.

Trails enable visitors to approach the waterfall from both sides, and in certain areas, it is even possible to venture behind one of the cascades.

Several small caves are waiting to be explored within the cliffs, while the falls and East Rifle Creek contribute to the lush vegetation found in the valley, a vibrant oasis of greenery throughout the spring and fall seasons.

23. Breckenridge

This iconic mountain town is multifaceted in its appeal. Breckenridge is renowned in the skiing community, boasting nearly 2,900 skiable acres, the continent’s highest ski lift, and an exuberant apres-ski atmosphere rivaling the best worldwide.

At an altitude of 9,600 feet, the ski season in Breckenridge extends well into the spring months.

As snow begins to melt, Breckenridge transforms into an ideal base for climbing, high ropes adventures, mountain biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, fly-fishing, and golfing on one of the most scenic courses you will ever experience.

Moreover, the Old West charm of Breckenridge, once a Gold Rush town that yielded over a million troy ounces of gold, remains evident in its rustic clapboard and log storefronts.

24. Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic Byway

For a less frequented journey, venture along this stunning 133-mile drive that stretches from Whitewater in the north to Placerville in the south.

Set aside at least half a day to fully appreciate the Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic Byway, ideally during which you will traverse some of the Bureau of Land Management’s wildest and most secluded regions.

Along the route, you’ll encounter lofty buttes and the striking, banded sandstone cliffs of the Dolores River Canyon, with turbulent waters churning below.

If you share my enthusiasm for historical tidbits: near Uravan, roughly halfway along the byway, uranium mined in this region contributed to the early atomic bombs.

Keep an eye out for the Hanging Flume, a remnant of an 1891 cliffside aqueduct system that supplied water to the mines.

25. Twin Lakes

To conclude, I would like to present a lesser-known destination along the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway. Comparatively, Twin Lakes sees fewer visitors, making it a charming community near a pair of exquisite glacial lakes with campgrounds and hiking trails along their shores.

Reflected in these tranquil waters is the highest peak in the Rockies, Mount Elbert (14,400 ft), alongside the magnificent Collegiate Peaks to the south, featuring nine Fourteeners.

During the late 19th century, mining magnate James V. Dexter recognized Twin Lakes’ potential as a tourist attraction, establishing the Interlaken resort.

A small cluster of remaining historical structures from the resort, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has remained in stasis, evoking the charm of a ghost town. In summer, one can traverse the Continental Divide via the 36-mile Independence Pass connecting Twin Lakes to Aspen.