Colorado is an outdoor enthusiast’s haven. With hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rock climbing and more, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you busy, no matter how long your trip is. Across the state, you’ll find four national parks, several national forests, and even more outdoor recreation areas. Plus, don’t overlook some of the other free parks.
You’ll do a lot of driving on your trip, but the views throughout Colorado are amazing so odds are good you won’t mind these long scenic drives.
Let’s start planning your trip!
Black Canyon of the Gunnison | Great Sand Dunes | Mesa Verde | Rocky Mountain | Colorado Springs | Scenic Drives | Top Experiences | Itineraries | When to Visit | Extend Your Trip
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Located in southwestern Colorado, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is full of great views. Extremely adventurous and fit travelers can hike down into the canyon, but for the average traveler, hike out to some of the stunning viewpoints.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest sand dune in the United States. Sure you could climb to the top, but one of the most fun things is to get a board and ride down the dunes.
Mesa Verde National Park
While many national parks focus on nature, Mesa Verde focuses on human history and helps to educate visitors on the Ancestral Pueblo people who once called this area home.
Rocky Mountain National Park
With its seemingly endless hiking trails and incredible mountain views, Rocky Mountain National Park has something for everyone.
Colorado Springs
Just an hour from Denver, Colorado Springs has a few gems that are a delight to explore.
Scenic Drives
From national parks to mountains and plenty of places in between, there’s no shortage of scenic drives in Colorado.
Top Experiences
Rocky Mountain National Park – With some of the best mountain views in the state, a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is a must. Plus, if you love hiking, you’ll be in paradise with its hundreds of miles of hiking trails crisscrossing the park.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park – The deepest canyon in the United States is Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Both rims of the canyon have fantastic views and some great hiking opportunities. No matter which rim you pick, you’ll be sure to have a good time.
Great Sand Dunes National Park – Great Sand Dunes National Park feels different. Yes you can hike and take in the views, but you can also have some fun. For the ultimate adventure, rent a sandboard and ride down the dunes.
Mesa Verde National Park – For the perfect balance between nature and history, add Mesa Verde National Park to your list. Hike to beautiful look out points and drive the scenic loops, but don’t for get to learn some history by touring a cliff dwelling.
Scenic Drives – No matter where you travel in Colorado, you’ll find yourself on some scenic drives. From Rocky Mountains’s Trail Ridge Road to Skyline Drive outside of Cañon City and everything in between, there’s no shortage of beautiful routes in Colorado.
Colorado Springs – From great hikes around stunning formations at Garden of the Gods to a spectacular mountain drive at Pike’s Peak, there’s plenty in Colorado Springs to keep travelers busy for days.
Boulder – For a small break from nature, consider visiting this fun city. It’s located near Rocky Mountain National Park and has plenty to offer travelers.
Itineraries
When to Visit Colorado
Colorado is a year round destination, but the seasons will dictate what you do. For those wanting to hike, backpack, bike, or camp, look to visit in summer. Temperatures can get high, but you’ll be clear of snow.
For skiers and snowboarders, visit Colorado in the winter for optimal snow conditions. Just note that several of the roads throughout the national parks close during this time. Make sure you do proper research before your trip.
Extend Your Trip
Want to keep traveling around the United States? Consider adding on nearby Utah or Arizona.