Located in the western United States, Colorado stands out with its magnificent nature, historical riches, and outdoor activities. From the towering Rocky Mountains to impressive canyons, from ancient settlements to enchanting natural parks, it offers visitors unforgettable experiences across a wide range. In winter, skiing and snowboarding, and in summer, countless activities such as hiking, cycling, and camping make Colorado an attractive destination throughout the year.
In addition, the cities of Colorado are rich in culture and art. The vibrant metropolitan life of Denver, the bohemian atmosphere of Boulder, and the historical texture of Colorado Springs appeal to travelers with different interests. From nature lovers to history enthusiasts, from adventure seekers to those who want to relax, everyone can find their own route in Colorado.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado’s most famous and most visited national parks. With hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails, impressive mountain peaks, clear lakes, and rich wildlife, it fascinates its visitors. The park, with peaks exceeding 4,000 meters and breathtaking views, inspires both amateur nature lovers and professional adventurers. The road called Trail Ridge Road rises up to 3,700 meters, holding the title of one of the highest paved roads in the United States, and offers visitors an unforgettable driving experience.
The park is also home to elk, mountain goats, bears, and many bird species, making it a major attraction for wildlife photographers and observers. In summer, hiking in the cool mountain air is possible, while in winter, snowshoeing on snow-covered trails can be enjoyed. Easily accessible from the town of Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the natural wonders that should definitely be added to the itinerary of anyone coming to Colorado.
2. Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is a unique historic national park located in the southwest of Colorado and included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. This area is famous for the cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived between AD 600 and 1300. In particular, the famous Cliff Palace stands out as the largest cliff dwelling in North America with more than 150 rooms. Visitors have the opportunity to closely examine these impressive ancient structures and learn about their history through guided tours in the area.
The park stands out not only for its archaeological value but also for its natural beauty. Pine forests, wide prairies, and canyon views fascinate visitors, while various hiking trails offer opportunities for exploration. Mesa Verde, as an ideal stop for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers, provides a chance to experience Colorado’s cultural heritage and natural riches together.
3. Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs)
Garden of the Gods is a 1,341-acre (approximately 544 hectares) public park located west of Colorado Springs. It was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1971. The park draws attention with its 300-million-year geological history: carrying traces of ancient seas, deserts, and glaciers, its red, pink, and white sandstones were uplifted and transformed into sharp rock formations called “fins,” creating today’s dramatic landscape. The Visitor & Nature Center located at the main entrance introduces both the geographical and cultural richness through free exhibits, interactive maps, and short films. There is also a gift shop and café section that contributes to the preservation of the park.
The park offers a wide variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, and nature walks. There are about 21 miles (34 km) of trails at different difficulty levels, some of which, like the Perkins Central Garden Trail, are wheelchair and stroller friendly. A permit is required for rock climbing, and symbolic formations such as Balanced Rock, Kissing Camels, and Siamese Twins are very popular among photographers. In addition, the park is rich in biodiversity, hosting deer, mountain goats, and more than 130 bird species. With its free entrance and natural beauty, it attracts millions of tourists every year.
4. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a fascinating national park located in the south of Colorado, at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Here, it is possible to see the highest sand dunes in North America; some dunes exceed 230 meters in height, astonishing those who see them. These giant sand hills have been shaped over thousands of years by the effects of wind and water currents in the region, offering a unique landscape where desert and mountains meet. The park provides a wonderful setting for hiking, sandboarding, and landscape photography.
Not only the dunes but also the surrounding mountainous areas, streams, and grasslands make up the park’s rich ecosystem. Medano Creek is especially popular among families with children in the spring months; here, you can play on the water or cool off. Hikers can explore the lakes and forested areas located at the foot of the mountains. Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of Colorado’s most extraordinary natural treasures and is definitely a must-see for nature lovers.
5. Maroon Bells (near Aspen)
Maroon Bells, located about 16 km from Aspen in the Elk Mountains, is one of Colorado’s most photographed peaks. Two summits rising above 14,000 ft (Maroon Peak: 4,317 m, North Maroon Peak: 4,273 m) carry a distinctive reddish tone from their Mars-colored mudstone composition — this soft structure has even earned the area the nickname “Deadly Bells.” The summits offer a magnificent panorama across from Maroon Lake, which formed as a glacial basin during the ice ages, making it one of the favorite scenes for photographers, especially at sunrise and in autumn colors.
For nature and hiking enthusiasts, the area around Maroon Bells offers incredible exploration opportunities. Easy routes such as the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail, starting by the lakeside, are ideal for picnics and scenic breaks, while moderate routes like Crater Lake, Buckskin Pass, and West Maroon Pass take you through alpine forests, wildflower meadows, and dramatic valley landscapes. In summer, access to the trails is provided by a shuttle system, and reservations are required between May and October to keep vehicle and visitor traffic under control. During the off-season, there is an opportunity to enjoy nature and snowshoeing, but it is important to be prepared for harsh weather conditions and trail challenges.
Maroon Bells, with its impressive geological profile and multi-layered hiking experiences, is a powerful natural wonder that everyone visiting the Aspen area should definitely see.
6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located in western Colorado, just east of the town of Montrose. The area, designated as a national monument in 1933 and a national park in 1999, covers 30,750 acres and is notable for the tremendous depth of the 14-mile-long Gunnison River that cuts through it. In some parts, the inner canyon is only 40 ft (about 12 m) wide and receives just half an hour of sunlight per day; this helps preserve the dark color of the rocky walls, giving the park its name.
The park offers numerous activities for both those seeking scenery and adventure. Scenic viewpoints can be enjoyed along the south and north rim roads, and easy hiking routes such as Rim Rock Trail can be chosen. For more daring visitors, there are challenging routes descending to the steep bends, as well as rock climbing, advanced-level rafting, and fishing on the Gold Medal-designated Gunnison River. There are also camping opportunities in an alpine setting, stargazing, and visitor centers open year-round. The park is rich in wildlife, where species such as black bears, cougars, deer, otters, and birds of prey can be observed.
Black Canyon is described as “Colorado’s least known but most impressive park” (with only about 297,000 visitors in 2022), offering a unique alternative for nature lovers who want spectacular yet uncrowded experiences.
7. Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak is a legendary summit located west of Colorado Springs, famous as “America’s Mountain.” With an elevation of 14,115 ft (4,299 m), this mountain in the southern Rocky Mountains rises about 2,400 m directly from the city center, creating a striking natural landmark. There are four different ways to reach the summit: the 19-mile-long toll road called Pikes Peak Highway, the world’s highest cog railway known as the Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the challenging yet popular Barr Trail hiking route, and the option of descending by bicycle.
Those who reach Pikes Peak can rest at the new Summit Visitor Center with its 360° views, explore a gift shop, a restaurant, and local specialties such as the high-altitude treat “Peak Donut.” Alternatively, riding the cog railway, with over 100 years of history, offers a unique experience in terms of both history and comfort as you gradually reach the summit. Considering its elevation, it is still worth remembering to plan for altitude sickness, changing weather, and to carry plenty of water with you.
8. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre (Morrison)
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is a unique open-air concert venue carved into natural red sandstone formations, located about 20 km west of the town of Morrison. This amphitheater, with a tiered seating arrangement between two giant monoliths — “Ship Rock” and “Creation Rock” — is world-famous with a capacity of about 9,525 people. Geologically formed around 280 million years ago, these sandstone blocks provide a natural stage with perfect acoustics. Opened in 1941, its roots go back to the “Garden of the Titans” performances in 1906, and it was designated a “Denver Landmark” in 1973 and a “National Historic Landmark” in 2015.
The amphitheater is active year-round not only with concerts but also with activities such as hiking, cycling, yoga (especially “Yoga on the Rocks”), and movie screenings (the Film on the Rocks series). Trails such as Trading Post Trail and Mt. Vernon Creek Trail, which are favorites of families with children and sports enthusiasts, can be explored outside of performance days. Visitors can also discover the region’s geology, local history, and Colorado Music Hall of Fame exhibits at the Visitor Center. Hosting more than 200 events throughout the year, Red Rocks is one of Colorado’s most iconic stops as both a natural wonder and a cultural center.
9. Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is a 360-acre recreational area located in the Canon City region of Colorado, built around one of the highest suspension bridges in the United States. Spanning Gunnison Canyon at a height of 291 meters (955 ft) above the Arkansas River, this bridge was constructed in 1929 solely for pedestrian use and at that time held the title of the highest bridge in the world. Its construction took only seven months and cost $350,000. Today it is also known as “America’s Bridge” and remains the highest suspension bridge in the United States.
The park is not just about the bridge — it offers visitors thrilling activities such as a gondola, skycoaster, zipline, and Via Ferrata. There are also playgrounds for children, historical exhibits, and family-friendly entertainment like the Plaza Theater. After a forest fire devastated the area in 2013, many parts of the park were rebuilt, and in 2015 it reopened with renovated gondolas, a zipline, and a new visitor center. Throughout the year, this bridge and its surroundings, which offer panoramic views from high above, are a must-see stop full of nature and adventure during any visit to Colorado.
10. Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Mount Evans Scenic Byway, renamed in 2023 as Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, stands out as the highest paved road in North America. Starting in the town of Idaho Springs, about 60 miles west of Denver, this route climbs approximately 7,000 feet over 28 miles to reach the summit at 14,130 ft (4,314 m). Along the way, important stops include Echo Lake, Mount Goliath Natural Area, and Summit Lake, offering scenic views on both sides, hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and rest areas.
This road is a unique driving route for those who want to experience a high mountain environment by car. However, its sometimes narrow, unprotected curves, changing weather conditions, altitude effects, and the wildlife encountered at such extreme elevations (such as pikas, mountain goats, alpine flowers) are magnificent but require caution. The remains of the Crest House and observation points at the summit provide the opportunity to view the Front Range with a 360° panorama. The summer season (generally between Memorial Day and Labor Day) requires advance reservations and an entrance fee; the upper section will be temporarily closed to vehicle traffic for maintenance during 2024–2025. This route, promising an unforgettable summit experience for prepared drivers and nature lovers, offers one of Colorado’s most impressive day trips.
11. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic narrow-gauge railway stretching through La Plata and San Juan County in southwestern Colorado. Built in 1881–82 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad to explore silver and gold mines, it is now designated as a National Historic Landmark in the United States. This iconic railroad, running approximately 45 miles (72 km) from Durango to Silverton, offers a nostalgic “Wild West” experience with its original steam locomotives and period coaches. Along the route, unique scenery such as Animas River Gorge, Horseshoe Curve, and High Bridge accompanies passengers.
There are various tour options available for tourists: full-day Silverton trips, shorter winter trips to Cascade Canyon, and Skyway bus+train combinations are some of them. During the journey, passengers can choose between open-air observation gondolas, comfortable seats in period coaches, or more luxurious options such as “Presidential Class.” In addition, there is the opportunity to observe wildlife in the valley, including deer, bears, moose, or bighorn sheep. This unique railway offers everything from storytelling to picnic baskets, creating an authentic mountain journey and an unforgettable Colorado experience.
12. Hanging Lake (Glenwood Canyon)
Hanging Lake is an extraordinarily beautiful lake located in Colorado’s Glenwood Canyon region, just east of the town of Glenwood Springs. With its turquoise-colored water, clear appearance over travertine (limestone) deposits, and the waterfalls surrounding it, it resembles a postcard. It was designated a National Natural Landmark in 2011.
Visitors reach the lake by using a moderately difficult to difficult hiking trail that starts along I‑70 and is 1.2 miles (about 1.9 km) long. There is an elevation gain of approximately 366 m, supported by small resting spots. Once at the top, swimming is strictly prohibited in the lake, which remains partly frozen except in the warmest months, in order to protect its fragile travertine ecosystem. In addition, a seasonal permit system requires advance reservations from June to October, and winter hikes are recommended with precautions such as micro-spiked boots.
Hanging Lake offers an unforgettable and elegant outdoor experience in Colorado with its visually stunning nature and short but impressive trail. It is a beautiful example of sustainable tourism and a place that nature lovers should definitely add to their list.
13. Telluride (with its ski resort and summer festivals)
Telluride is a charming town located in southwestern Colorado, within the San Juan Mountains. Founded in 1878 with a rich mining history, Telluride became a world-renowned winter sports center thanks to the opening of Telluride Ski Resort in 1972. The resort, known for its advanced terrain profile, offers wide, high-elevation slopes (about 2,000 acres, 127 trails) for ski and snowboard enthusiasts. However, Telluride is full of lively and diverse activities not only in winter but also in summer — nature hikes with national park views, biking trails, ziplines, and gondola rides offer year-round enjoyment.
The summer season transforms Telluride into a true festival town. In June, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, one of the world’s most prestigious bluegrass events, takes place; in September, the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival appeals to blues and beer lovers; and in August, the Jazz Festival brings jazz and nature together, all reinforcing the town’s warm atmosphere. In addition, film festivals, mushroom festivals, art festivals, balloon shows, and gastronomy events provide cultural diversity. With its dynamic structure where nature and art intertwine, Telluride is an ideal year-round destination appealing to both adventure lovers and culture enthusiasts.
14. Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument is a natural monument covering an area of 20,500 acres (≈83 km²) near Grand Junction. Established in 1911, this area offers a striking landscape where high plateaus and deep canyons intertwine. The canyon walls contain red-brown sandstone monoliths shaped over centuries by wind and water erosion; iconic formations such as Independence Monument, Kissing Couple, and Coke Ovens attract photographers and nature enthusiasts. It is also rich in wildlife: desert bighorn sheep, red-tailed hawks, golden eagles, ravens, coyotes, and various bird species living in the pinyon-juniper forests can be seen.
The park’s most popular experience is the panoramic drive along the 23-mile (≈37 km) Rim Rock Drive. This historic road, built by CCC and WPA workers in the 1930s, includes three tunnels, numerous viewpoints, and rest areas. In addition to enjoying the scenery by car, visitors can engage in activities ranging from easy trails to challenging hikes, road cycling, and rock climbing. The Saddlehorn Visitor Center at the west entrance of the park offers a museum, bookstore, water refill station, and restaurant for rest.
Colorado National Monument appeals to those looking for a relaxing nature trip as well as those seeking more active experiences. The wind-eroded rocks, cliffside panoramas, and sparsely shaded desert environment are worth exploring from every angle. It is an ideal stop for those who want to spend time in nature, encounter wildlife, and breathe in the atmosphere of the West.
15. Boulder (Pearl Street Mall and Flatirons)
In downtown Boulder, the four-block-long Pearl Street Mall stretching between 11th and 15th streets is a pedestrian and lively open-air shopping area. Since this historic walkway opened in 1977, it has attracted both locals and university students with its mix of boutique shops, galleries, and cafés/restaurants. In the summer months, street musicians and performance artists take the stage, and the place, adorned with small flower gardens, sculptures, and fountains, has a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day.
Flatirons: The rock walls rising to the west as Boulder’s symbol
Located on the western edge of the city, the Flatirons are a natural landmark characterized over time by their elk-shaped, tilted red-brown sandstone formations. Hiking trails starting from Chautauqua Park and Gregory Canyon offer routes ranging from easy to moderate, such as the Mesa Trail, with the First & Second Flatirons route being a frequently preferred option. In this area, which is active year-round, nature and city are felt together; thanks to its proximity to campus and its symbolism, the Flatirons shape Boulder’s characteristic scenery.
16. Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens is a unique urban garden established in 1951, located near Cheesman Park and today covering an area of 9 hectares (23 acres). It features rich thematic gardens, particularly noted for its focus on cold-climate species; highlights include seven different planting zones, a Japanese garden (Shofu-en), and the first Xeriscape Demonstration Garden in the United States, dedicated to drought-tolerant plants. The iconic tropical greenhouse building called the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory opened in 1966, and with its dome of concrete and plexiglass panels, is an impressive example of modern architecture.
Events organized throughout the year are also highly popular. In the summer months, open-air concerts and programs such as “Evenings al Fresco” stand out, while in winter the “Blossoms of Light” illuminated exhibition attracts attention. In addition, with its satellite facilities like Chatfield Farms (a 700-acre rural farm managed solely with love for natural systems) and the Mount Goliath Alpine Garden, it expands botanical exploration into nature walks, educational experiences, and sustainable farming practices. Vogue naming it one of the top three gardens in the United States makes this an unmissable stop on any Denver visit.
17. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (Colorado Springs)
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the highest-elevation zoo in America (2,046 m), located on the western slopes of Cheyenne Mountain southwest of Colorado Springs. Founded in 1926 by Spencer Penrose, today about 40 hectares of its 57-hectare area are open to visitors with active exhibits. It is home to more than 750 animals and around 170 species, including over 30 endangered species. The zoo includes areas such as “Encounter Africa” and “African Rift Valley,” which recreate the African savanna, “Rocky Mountain Wild” showcasing North American fauna, sections for primates, reptiles, and birds, as well as “My Big Backyard,” designed for family interaction.
Visitors here don’t just observe; they can also touch and feed animals. It is possible to reach the summit with the Mountaineer Sky Ride, a ski-lift-style chair line, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the zoo. There are opportunities to feed giraffes, see the penguin area, get up close to large mammals like elephants and giraffes, interact with reptiles, and watch shows (penguin, otter, owl). An iconic 1932 model carousel and child-friendly playgrounds are also available. At the same time, it offers a model that combines entertainment with science, supporting nature education, conservation projects, and animal preservation efforts.
With recent innovations such as the renovated grizzly bear exhibit and the birth of a small two-toed sloth in 2025, visitors can enjoy pleasant surprises. The zoo promises an unforgettable interactive experience for children and adults and, with its approach to nature, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Colorado Springs.
18. Breckenridge (ski and mountain town)
Breckenridge, located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of 2,926 m, is one of Colorado’s most popular ski and mountain towns. Since the ski resort opened in 1961, Breckenridge Ski Resort has continuously developed, standing out with its snow quality across 2,908 acres on five separate peaks, 187 skier trails of various difficulty levels, and 35 lifts. In winter, the Town Square (Main Street), filled with boutique hotels and mountain lodges, creates a social and energetic atmosphere with its lively après-ski culture and venues like Breckenridge Brewery, which serves craft beer.
In summer, Breckenridge uses the mountain’s recreational potential all year round through programs like “Epic Discovery.” It offers entertainment activities filled with lift-accessed bike trails, ziplining, rock climbing, an alpine roller coaster (Gold Runner Coaster), and suspended obstacle courses. There are also versatile options such as art workshops and historical tours (Breckenridge Arts District), fishing and rafting on the river, lakeside trips, and cultural events (film festivals, Ullr Fest, music concerts). This dynamic structure makes Breckenridge an active and enjoyable destination both in winter and summer.
19. Glenwood Hot Springs
Glenwood Hot Springs is a legendary hot springs facility located in the town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, serving visitors since 1888. This facility is home to the world’s largest mineral outdoor pool; known as the Grand Pool, it is 405 ft long and 100 ft wide, holding about 1.07 million gallons of water maintained at 90–93 °F (32–34 °C). North America’s second-largest mineral pool is the adjacent 104 °F therapy pool. The source water comes from the Yampah hot spring, which flows at over 3.5 million gallons per day at 122 °F and is believed to provide medical benefits thanks to its mineral-rich composition.
This facility is not just a pool. Next to the large pool there is the modern Sopris Splash Zone for children’s entertainment, a therapy pool, diving boards, swimming lanes, and massage chairs with jet features. There is also a luxury hotel with 107 rooms, a fully equipped fitness center, a spa, a restaurant, and a gift shop. This comprehensive facility appeals to a wide range of visitors from families to couples, as well as wellness and mountain enthusiasts, offering an impressive experience for both health and entertainment.
Glenwood Hot Springs also stands out with its rich historical background. The Ute Native Americans called the area “Yampah” (Great Medicine) and had used its healing waters for centuries. White settlers began to build pools and bathhouses around the source in 1888. At the beginning of the century, there were Roman-style 42 sunken baths, steam rooms, and gambling halls, whereas today it has integrated luxury spa services, steam caves, and modern family entertainment elements into a completely new concept.
20. Estes Park (gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park)
Estes Park is an essential Colorado destination that offers a typical mountain town atmosphere and hosts the most popular eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. The town is situated at an elevation of 2,293 m (7,522 ft) along the Big Thompson River. The RMNP entrances, which gained national park status in 1915 — especially Beaver Meadows and Fall River — are only a few minutes’ drive from Estes Park. This proximity makes Estes Park a perfect starting point for visitors planning park trips with sunrise or sunset views. The town center is full of local craft shops like Neota Designs, boutique breweries such as Rock Cut Brewing Co., and historic movie theaters like The Park Theatre.
This small but vibrant town is filled with outdoor and cultural activities throughout all four seasons. In summer, paddleboarding on the lake, fishing, and riverside walks await visitors; in winter, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and cozy café environments can be enjoyed. Although regular shuttle services make it easier to reach the park entrances, during peak season a “timed entry permit” reservation may be required to access certain areas of the park during the day. Estes Park, offering nature, wildlife, and cultural richness together, is an ideal mountain town for those who want to start their Rocky Mountains experience in the best possible way.