These attractions and places to visit in Colorado are much more than scenic: they represent the complex and fascinating history of this state that embraces the Rocky Mountains. Continental plate collisions brought the mountains into being and volcanic flows deposited rich veins of minerals which, when discovered by prospectors, attracted a large population from the east. Tropical seas, reptiles, dinosaurs, even glaciers and dunes, all made their mark on today's Colorado. Visitors can see evidence of all this and let their imaginations take them back millions of years to the formation of this diverse state.
01 Mount Evans
Home to the highest paved road in North America at 14,130 feet, Mount Evans provides a panoramic view of Denver and the Front Range, along with an alpine environment of lakes, wind-twisted pine trees, and delicate plants and flowers. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep draw photographers and nature watchers. As with all destinations in the Colorado mountains, don't forget to acclimate to the high altitude.
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02 Pike National Forest
Conveniently proximate to Denver and Colorado Springs, this urban national forest boasts over one million acres of land. There are numerous campgrounds and plentiful options for hiking, fishing, boating, and cross-country skiing. Scenic drives provide stunning views of mountainous views. Hike, drive, or shuttle your way up 14,115 feet to the top of Pikes Peak. From the extreme outdoor enthusiast to the casual road-tripper, there is plenty to do and see.
03 Vail and the surrounding area
A world-class ski destination in its own right, Vail is nestled among mountain towns, fields of local wildflowers and breathtaking views of the Sawatch Range. The shops and restaurants in the area and the locals who live here have a unique mountain vibe. Vail offers an upscale Alpine-style atmosphere, while towns such as Frisco are more typical of local destinations. Vail is worth a visit in all four seasons.
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04 San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway
Experience breathtaking scenery while traveling through the beautiful San Juan Mountains and exploring the history of the Old West. This 235-mile stretch of highway runs through the mountain towns such as Durango, Silverton, Telluride, and Ouray. Stop along the way and board the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a train ride through the mountains. Driving the loop takes approximately seven hours but allow time for tours of old saloons, railroad depots, and historic homes along the way.
05 Rocky Mountain National Park
Just down the road from the lively town of Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park offers visitors many options. It's one of the most popular national parks in the United States, with 100 peaks over 10,000 feet. The scenic trail ridge road, open seasonally, showcases alpine environments, rare wildlife and a variety of hikes at high altitude. The visitor's center is home to a cafe and gift shop en route. Other opportunities include camping, fishing, horseback riding, and bouldering. In the winter, much of the park is still accessible and worth a visit to ski and snowshoe.
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06 Aspen
A silver-mining town in the late 1800s, Aspen later experienced a cultural renaissance leading to "The Aspen Idea," centering on the community vision of mind, body, and spirit. Aspen is known for being a ski destination, with four huge mountains offering skiing for all skill levels. But the town has much more to offer with a rich history and attractions. The beautiful landscape provides other forms of outdoor recreation, from fly fishing to snowshoeing and hot-air ballooning. Take advantage of world-class dining, cultural events, and a live music venue featuring popular artists.
07 Maroon Bells
The view of Maroon Bells may look familiar: it's said to be one of the most photographed scenes in America. In-person, the breathtaking view in autumn accompanies a wealth of hiking trails, fishing spots, and places to explore from summer through winter. Scenic drives will only whet your appetite for the lakes, meadows, and mountains.
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08 Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park
Take about a drive from Grand Junction on Colorado's Western Slope to see this amazing natural formation. Offering strong evidence of the forces at work during Colorado's geological history, Black Canyon plunges around 2,000 feet to the bed of the Gunnison River below. Camping and hiking are available nearby, but rangers discourage hiking into the canyon itself.
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09 Dinosaur National Monument
Travel back in time to a place where dinosaurs once roamed and where their remains are embedded in the Yampa River Canyon rocks. Today, visitors can view 1,500 fossils in the Dinosaur Quarry Exhibit Hall, some of which are 149 million years old. Petroglyphs and pictographs preserve cultural histories dating back over 10,000 years, including those of the Freemont, Ute, and Shoshone Indians. Other attractions include the Tour of the Tilted Rocks, river rafting, camping, and hiking.
10 Great Dunes National Park and Preserve
The dunes of Great Dunes National Park are evidence of the steady forces of water over millennia depositing sand from lakes, rivers, and streams. A hike to the top of provides a wide-angle view, plus hiking and camping facilities. Adventurous visitors can go four-wheeling through the sand or boarding down the dunes.
11 Durango and Silverton Railway
Everyone can get out of the car and enjoy a ride on this historic train from the Old West ski town of Durango up into the mountains to the mining town of Silverton. This narrow gauge railroad has been in continuous operation since 1882, hauling at first gold and silver, then passengers who enjoy the spectacular views.
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12 Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater
Not far from Denver, in the town of Morrison, this multipurpose park sits atop giant red rock formations at the edge of the mountains. The view of Denver is spectacular, and the amphitheater built into the rock has provided an open-air venue for well-known acts since its completion in 1941.
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13 Garden of the Gods
The jagged stone towers of this natural landmark dwarf visitors who use the 15 miles of fairly easy trails to get up close and experience the gardens firsthand. There is a visitor center with exhibits, videoes on the geological history of the formations, and a cafe with a great view. In addition to hiking, bikes, horses, and even Segways can be used to tour the gardens.
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14 Mesa Verde National Park
The well-preserved dwellings and extensive visitor access to Mesa Verde provide a rare connection to ancient southwest history. Ranger-led tours are available in summer when trails lead to lookout points, petroglyphs, sites on top of the mesa, and the dwellings themselves. The drive to the mesa provides a unique perspective of the land on which these cliff dwellers lived.
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