Things to do in Colorado

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All about Colorado

When to visit

Between snowy winters and summer wildflowers, Colorado seasons transform the landscape and things to do. Ski season stretches all the way from early October through late April, with snow conditions reaching a powdery peak in February. High-altitude wildflowers like lupine and columbine bloom in July, kicking off a hiking and mountain-biking season that lasts until fall. By September and early October, fall foliage turns aspen forests golden, providing a spectacular backdrop for road trips and cool-weather outdoor adventures.

Getting around

Most visitors to Colorado get around by car, which is the easiest way to reach the state’s far-flung resort towns, trailheads, and national parks. Rental cars are available at Denver International Airport, Colorado Springs Airport, and Grand Junction Regional Airport. If you’re traveling within the greater Denver area, however, it’s easy to get around via a bus and light rail system. An airport train links Denver International Airport with Denver Union Station.

Traveler tips

Colorado’s four national parks are justifiably famous, drawing visitors from around the world. They also can be crowded, so many locals seek out quieter conditions in Colorado’s 43 state parks. Activities at Colorado state parks range from fishing at Rifle Gap State Park to viewing the red rock formations of Roxborough State Park. Hikers, cyclists, and rock climbers flock to Eldorado Canyon State Park, while Golden Gate Canyon State Park is the place to find moose, eagles, and black bears.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Colorado known for?

Incredibly, 78 of the 100 highest peaks in the Rocky Mountains can be found in Colorado. Though the state also comprises endless rolling plains and red rock desert, the Centennial State is best known for its wild mountain views and high-elevation adventures.

What can you do in Colorado?

In spring, summer, and fall, hit up the five-star hiking trails, zipline across canyons, SUP on alpine lakes, and spend evenings dining al fresco. In winter, snowshoe or ski at top winter resorts, catch live music and theater, and cozy up by the fire with a Colorado craft spirit.

What is the prettiest part of Colorado?

Many say the scenery around Rocky Mountain National Park—and Grand County—offer the state’s best views. Some prefer the lush canyons and waterfalls around Ouray and Durango, and still others love the red-rock vistas at Colorado National Monument and around Grand Junction. Find your favorite.

What are the main attractions in Colorado?

The state boasts vibrant cities, but Colorado’s national parks—Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison—draw in millions of visitors every year. You’ll also find some of the country’s best skiing and hiking trails, all of which pair well with the state’s fiery craft-beer scene.

What is there to do in Colorado during the summer?

Many Colorado visitors come in summer to experience the state’s great outdoors. Hiking the Continental Divide Scenic Trail, stargazing in Westcliffe, river kayaking and whitewater rafting the Arkansas River, searching for ghost towns—there are many activities to try in the Centennial State for summer.

How can I spend a week in Colorado?

From Denver Airport, rent a car and road trip across the state’s national parks, monuments, and landscapes—the state goes from rolling golden plains to high peaks to red rock desert. Alternatively, scout out pioneer history, go dark-sky hunting, hit top ski slopes, or hop between artsy enclaves and cowboy-clad towns.

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