Colorado Holiday Guide - UK English 2025

Denver

Denver is a vibrant, energetic hub at the edge of the Rocky Mountains, offering a seamless mix of urban amenities and outdoor adventure. Known as The Mile High City, it’s home to a walkable downtown filled with world-class restaurants, professional sports, interactive museums, family attractions and fantastic shopping. Its proximity to the Rockies means quick access to hiking, skiing and rich Western history, making it an ideal base for exploring Colorado and beyond. Denver International Airport provides easy access, connecting travelers to destinations across the globe.

Colorado Springs

Located 70 miles (113 kilometres) south of Denver, Colorado Springs is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including Pikes Peak, America’s Mountain. Once a Victorian-era retreat, it’s now a modern city with a modern downtown filled with dining, shopping and craft drinks. Visitors can explore nearby attractions like Garden of the Gods, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum and Manitou Springs. Its natural beauty, historical charm and outdoor activities make it a must-visit in Colorado.

Fort Collins

Known as Colorado’s craft-beer capital, Fort Collins is a dynamic city 65 miles (105 kilometres) north of Denver. It also serves as the state’s northern entrance — the perfect welcoming spot for those arriving from Wyoming or other northern destinations. Its Old Town historic district is a lively area featuring locally owned shops, theaters, live music and excellent dining. Surrounded by open spaces and miles of trails, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Loveland

Just south of Fort Collins, Loveland is a hub for art lovers, known for its numerous galleries, bronze foundries and public-art programs. While its Valentine’s Day traditions earn it the title of Sweetheart City, its craft breweries, parks and proximity to the Rockies make it appealing year-round.

Estes Park

Estes Park, 70 miles (113 kilometres) from Denver, is the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Visitors can enjoy a scenic riverwalk, explore quaint shops and local eateries in the village, take a ride on the aerial tramway or spot wildlife along a hiking trail. Its stunning mountain backdrop sets the stage for an unforgettable experience in the Rockies.

Boulder

Just 35 miles (56 kilometres) from Denver, Boulder is renowned for its culinary scene, outdoor recreation and colorful cultural events. Whether hiking, biking, paddleboarding or rock climbing, visitors find adventure in its natural surroundings. Designated “America’s Foodiest Town” by Bon Appétit magazine, it teems with acclaimed restaurants and an actionpacked events calendar.

Durango

In the Four Corners Region where Colorado meets Utah, Arizona and New Mexico, Durango is surrounded by the rich history of the American West. The town offers a diverse range of experiences, from Old West heritage and ancient ruins to arts, culture, adventure sports and the famed Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. With nonstop flights from Denver and select U.S. cities, it’s an accessible hub for discovering Colorado’s southwestern landscapes.

Silverton

Nestled between two rugged mountain passes 48 miles (77 kilometres) north of Durango, Silverton has been a beloved destination since its mining days, especially for those pursuing new heights outdoors — from off-road trails and backcountry camping to hiking, fishing and more. The entire town is a National Historic Landmark District, preserving its mining-era ambiance, with landmarks like the iconic Christ of the Mines Shrine and the Silverton Museum, which is housed in a 1800s-era jail.

Pagosa Springs

Surrounded by more than 3 million acres of national forest and wilderness areas, Pagosa Springs is a playground for lovers of the outdoors and relaxation-seekers alike. Its worldfamous hot springs are among the deepest in the world, offering a rejuvenating escape after a day of adventure. Nearby Chimney Rock National Monument, a significant archaeological site, preserves the ruins of an ancient Puebloan civilization and provides views of the jagged San Juan Mountains.

Alamosa

Positioned in the heart of the San Luis Valley, Alamosa offers access to some of Colorado’s most unique landscapes and experiences. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, home to the tallest dunes in North America, provides outstanding views and activities like sandboarding and hiking. The Rio Grande River invites fishing and paddling, while nearby wildlife refuges showcase abundant birdlife. In town, explore Alamosa’s rich history with a walking tour of its walkable downtown.

Montrose

A hub for Colorado’s southwestern wonders, Montrose offers easy access to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, known for its dramatic cliffs and internationally recognized stargazing. The city blends outdoor adventure with a smalltown feel, featuring byways, traveler-friendly trails and breweries along its historical Main Street. Montrose Regional Airport provides convenient connections, making it an ideal base for exploring the region’s rugged landscapes year-round.

Ouray

With its stunning alpine scenery, Ouray is often called the “Switzerland of America.” The town’s vibrant ice-climbing culture draws winter visitors, while year-round visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails and natural hot springs. Ouray offers a full menu of adventure, relaxation and breathtaking mountain views.

Telluride

Tucked in a box canyon, Telluride offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Colorado, including the awe-inspiring Bridal Veil Falls. Known for its rich mining history, the town exudes Old West charm and modern luxury at the same time. A ski paradise in winter, it also draws visitors year-round for hiking, festivals and its inspired arts scene. Telluride’s blend of epic landscapes and historical allure makes it a one-of-a-kind destination. The town is served by the Telluride Regional Airport and Montrose Regional Airport. The drive distance from Montrose is 65 miles (104 kilometres).

Gunnison & Crested Butte

Steeped in ranching heritage, these destinations offer a friendly small-town atmosphere with easy access to Colorado’s expansive beauty. Gunnison, home to the state’s oldest rodeo, is a hub for fly-fishing, mountain biking and a historical downtown. Crested Butte, often called the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” is also renowned as one of the country’s top mountain-biking destinations, with best-in-class trails set against brilliant landscapes filled with summer blooms and fall foliage. Together, these towns provide a perfect combination of outdoor adventure, natural beauty and a laid-back mountain lifestyle. The Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport has daily flights from Denver and other U.S. hub cities.

Cortez

Cortez, located in the heart of the Four Corners Region, is a gateway to some of the richest archaeological treasures in the United States. As the doorstep to Mesa Verde National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and the Ute Mountain Tribal Park, the area offers a deep dive into ancient Ancestral Puebloan culture. With more than 600 acres of parks, trails and open spaces, Cortez is also ideal for outdoor recreation. Its dynamic local dining scene, cultural offerings and convenient access to history and nature make it a standout destination in southwestern Colorado. Cortez is easily accessible via Cortez Municipal Airport, which offers convenient regional flights.

Grand Junction

There is no other place in Colorado where so many ecosystems converge. Towering red-rock canyons at Colorado National Monument offer breathtaking views, while the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain, is home to more than 300 pristine lakes. Nearby, Rattlesnake Arches boasts the secondlargest concentration of natural arches in the world. Downtown is a lively mix of farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, theatres and one of the country’s largest outdoor-art collections. Whether exploring its geological wonders or lively cultural scene, Grand Junction offers something truly unique in Colorado’s western region. The Grand Junction Regional Airport is the third-largest in Colorado and provides flights to and from Denver and other U.S. cities; the destination can also be reached from Denver via Amtrak’s California Zephyr train.

Vail

Vail offers an abundance of alpine allure and world-class recreation, making it a sought-after destination year-round. Its legendary slopes attract skiers and snowboarders from around the globe, while warmer months bring hikers, golfers and mountain bikers to its picturesque trails. The town’s European-inspired architecture, luxury hotels and heralded dining scene create an atmosphere of refined relaxation. Easily accessible via Eagle County Regional Airport, Vail combines natural beauty with sophisticated amenities, inviting visitors to experience Colorado’s mountain lifestyle at its finest.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge’s energetic downtown blends rich history with modern comforts, making it a favorite mountain retreat. Once a booming mining town, its legacy lives on in the 250-plus preserved buildings that line Main Street, now home to boutique shops, local eateries and cultural attractions. Beyond town, Breckenridge offers year-round outdoor adventures, from world-renowned skiing to scenic hiking and biking trails that showcase Colorado’s signature landscapes. Just 80 miles (129 kilometres) west of Denver, Breckenridge captures a spirit of adventure and small-town warmth.

Leadville

At 10,154 feet (3,094 metres), Leadville is the highest-altitude city in the United States, offering historical attractions and mountain adventure. Once a bustling hub during Colorado’s gold and silver booms, its Victorian-era downtown and 70-block National Historic Landmark District preserve the spirit of its mining past. Visitors can explore nearby trails, visit museums or take in sweeping mountain views along the Leadville Railroad. This town offers a captivating glimpse into Colorado’s history and high-altitude beauty. It’s a 100-mile drive (161 kilometres) west of Denver and 43 miles (69 kilometres) south of Vail.

Buena Vista & Salida

These small towns are located on the banks of the Arkansas River and have incredible views of many of the state’s towering fourteeners (peaks that rise 14,000 feet or 4,267 metres above sea level). Whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River through Browns Canyon National Monument is one of the most popular activities here, along with ziplining, kayaking, skiing, rock climbing, biking and hot springs. Salida is a Colorado Creative District, and both towns collectively host 100 breweries, distilleries, wineries, galleries and local eateries. Salida is 140 miles (225 kilometres) south of Denver and 60 miles (97 kilometres) south of Leadville.

Winter Park

As the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the town of Winter Park offers magnificent views of towering mountain peaks and exciting camping, hiking, biking and boating experiences. It’s also a playground in the winter, with a world-class ski resort, ice skating, snow tubing, groomed cross-country trails and more. Top all of that off with a great downtown, where you can dine, shop and more. Winter Park is 66 miles (106 kilometres) from Denver.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs combines excellent skiing with a distinct cowboy heritage. Known for its legendary light and dry Champagne Powder®, the resort attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. The town’s history dates back to 1800s cattle ranchers — and its signature store, F.M. Light & Sons, still sells Western wear. Beyond the slopes, Steamboat boasts rejuvenating hot springs, including the historical Strawberry Park Hot Springs, nestled in a serene forest setting. Add mountain-biking trails, a thriving craft-beer scene and a creative district spotlighting local art and farm-to-table dining, and you’ve got a year-round destination. Nonstop flights from major cities, including Denver, land at Yampa Valley Regional Airport in Hayden, just 181 miles (291 kilometres) northwest of Denver.

Aspen & Snowmass

Aspen and Snowmass offer a quintessential mountain escape, with soaring peaks, lush forests and bustling town life. Ski four mountains on one lift ticket, enjoy festivals and live music, or hike and bike miles of scenic trails. In summer, gondola rides take you to alpine hikes, disc-golf courses and family-friendly activities. Dining here is exceptional, with farm-to-table restaurants and local flavors. Explore chic boutiques, art galleries and outdoor concerts. Aspen/Pitkin County Airport offers direct flights from Denver and major U.S. hubs, just 200 miles (322 kilometres) west of Denver.

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is known for its natural wonders, including the world’s largest mineral hot springs and vapor caves. Visitors have been soaking in the springs for more than a century, while the caverns provide a one-of-a-kind underground adventure. The town also offers affordable family skiing at Sunlight Mountain Resort and miles and miles of trails for hiking, biking and mountain biking. The Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers are popular for whitewater rafting and fishing. Glenwood Springs is a scenic stop on the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to Red Rocks route, traveling between Denver and Utah.

Your Perfect Adventure Is Here

Soak Up Our Water

Relax on a lake shore, book a whitewater-rafting trip, paddle through serene lakes or soak in mineral-rich hot springs surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Spend a Night Under the Stars

Experience the wonders of the night sky in one of our International Dark Sky Parks and Communities, where the stars shine brighter and mountains are bathed in moonlight.

Explore Our Parks & Monuments

Our parks invite you to discover hidden waterfalls, hike trails lined with golden aspens, gather around a cosy campfire and uncover the endless adventure inspired by nature.

Discover Your Favourite Mountain Town

Explore a new downtown with each visit (or many towns in one). Taste their unique local flavours, browse their artisan shops and enjoy quick access to each area’s most scenic escapes.

Live Our Western Heritage

Discover Colorado’s Wild West through its Indigenous history, frontier mining towns, and rugged collection of dude and guest ranches.

Find Your Sense of Adventure

Whether it’s scaling peaks, embarking on a culinary tour or finding peace in nature, your adventure in Colorado can be as thrilling, tasty or relaxing as you choose.

Eat & Drink Local

Savour award-winning cuisine and explore nearly 650 breweries, wineries, distilleries, cideries and meaderies that make Colorado a top dining destination.

Take a Scenic Ride

Journey along 26 scenic byways and 10 scenic railroads for unforgettable views that reveal the state’s true nature.

Experience Our Arts & Culture

With 30 Creative Districts, museums, galleries, local events and historical theatres, Colorado’s arts scene invites you to see creativity shaped by the land itself.

Enjoy Our Wildlife

Colorado is among North America’s top wildlife-watching destinations, home to 960 species across mountains, plains and rivers, as well as over 50 birding trails.