Colorado

When you think of the west, it’s hard not to think of Colorado! Between the incredible national parks and epic mountain scenery, you don’t have to be an outdoors lover to have an appreciation for what Colorado has to offer. I still feel the cool air when I think back to hiking to Emerald Lake and taste the delicious craft brews from our bar hop in Boulder.

Daniel and I tried our best to see the highlights of the state, but we’re making the trip back as soon as we can to explore more. There are so many incredible hikes and small towns to explore, and choosing which ones you want to make part of your adventure can be a challenge–especially if you have a limited amount of time to visit like we did.

Luckily, I have a few friends in Colorado so I have reason to return again and again–I can’t wait to see more of this stunning state this summer! As someone who has traveled to 56 countries, I have few places that I would like to return to, and the Centennial State is one of them.

This guide will cover the basics of visiting Colorado including the things you should not miss, as well as some tips I found essential when Daniel and I made our trip there.

Quick tip: You’ll need to drink more water when you are here–the altitude is no joke, and drinking water can help you feel better faster!

Map of Colorado

Colorado basics

Date founded: August 1, 1876

Nickname: The Centennial State

Fun fact: Colorado is home to the tallest sand dune in North America. It is named the Star Dune.

Can’t-miss: Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Denver, Boulder, Aspen, Vail, Ouray.

Top 5 things to do in Colorado

Here are some things to do in Colorado you shouldn’t miss when you’ve made the trip out west.

1. Exploring Colorado’s National Parks

From the amazing trails in Rocky Mountain National Park to the rugged landscapes of Great Sand Dunes and Mesa Verde’s historic cliff dwellings, Colorado’s national parks are diverse and stunning. I believe you can find a certain type of adventure for everyone in Colorado–and the best ones are in the national parks.

2. Boulder

A perfect mix of nature and urban charm, Boulder is ideal for a day of exploration and relaxation. In a state of charming small towns, it was hard for me to pick a favorite, but Boulder managed to steal my heart when we were there.

Quick tip: I recommend staying in Boulder over Denver–not only does it have more charm, but it’s only an hour away from the city and from Rocky Mountain.

3. Colorado Springs

Home to the iconic Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. Colorado Springs is the perfect city for adventurers. I was amazed by the landscape and how it blended from 14ers to desert seamlessly.

4. Aspen or Vail

Experience Colorado’s ski culture or enjoy these towns‘ off-season beauty with mountain views and upscale charm. Whether you plan on skiing or exploring the many hikes around the posh towns, you’ve got options for all seasons.

5. Enjoy Colorado’s hot springs

Unwind in the natural hot springs scattered across Colorado. From Steamboat Springs to Glenwood Springs, they offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience amidst stunning landscapes.

Quick tip: Want the ultimate Colorado experience? You can hike to hot springs like Rainbow Hot Springs or Conundrum Hot Springs and relax after using those muscles!

Best time to visit Colorado

Summer, from June to August, is great for hiking and exploring national parks, as Daniel and I did in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Fall, around September to October, offers beautiful fall foliage and wildlife viewing, with cooler temperatures.

Winter, from December to March, is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in Colorado’s famous ski resorts.

Spring brings milder weather and blooming landscapes, though it can be a bit unpredictable.

I recommend 10 days in Colorado

Ten days in Colorado? Perfect to balance nature and town exploration. Start with the hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, immersing yourself in the great outdoors.

Then mix it up with visits to charming towns like Boulder or Ouray, blending urban experiences with natural beauty. Colorado’s full of hiking gems, and you’ll need these days to delve into its national parks and soak in the diverse landscapes.

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Denver

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Tips for visiting Colorado

Here are some of my recommendations to help you make the most of your time in Colorado.

Embrace the altitude: Colorado’s high elevation can affect you, so take it slow at first, especially in places like Rocky Mountain National Park. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to acclimatize before any strenuous activity.
Weather Preparedness: Pack for varied weather – it can change quickly, especially in the mountains. I always recommend bringing a rain jacket when you hike, no matter what the forecast says.
Camp to save money: Colorado can be pretty expensive, but fortunately, there are tons of options for camping either near the cities or in the backcountry. Daniel and I found that not only were sites in Colorado beautiful, but it made the trip a lot more affordable.
Road trip ready: With vast distances between attractions, having a reliable vehicle is key for exploring the state’s diverse landscapes. Four-wheel drive is a must–even in popular parks like Rocky Mountain.