Colorado Holiday Guide - UK English 2025
Postcard-Perfect Places to Visit
2025-05-08 07:05:03
From towering mountain peaks to serene lakes and expansive forests, each scene offers a perfect blend of natural beauty that’s sure to capture the essence of the outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just looking to snap a few memories, these stunning vistas provide the ideal backdrop for unforgettable shots.
The Continental Divide
This ridge splits the country along the crests of the Rocky Mountains north to south. Rivers and streams west of the divide flow to the Pacific Ocean; those east of the divide end up in the Gulf of Mexico. One of the best places to experience it is found along Independence Pass, a winding, rollercoaster route filled with hairpin turns, expansive forest views and sky-scraping peaks. At the pass’ summit, pull off to take a photo with the Continental Divide sign, noting you’re at a lofty 12,095 feet (3,687 metres) above sea level.
Nearby towns: Estes Park, Leadville
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
Massive, slanting red-rock outcroppings rise from the earth to create an acoustically ideal natural amphitheatre. Hikers explore every crevice and concertgoers savour the crystal-clear sounds that rise from its famous sandstone-surrounded stage.
Nearby towns: Morrison, Lakewood, Golden, Denver
Royal Gorge
From the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, which traverses a 120-year-old route along the rushing whitewater of the Arkansas River, passengers are treated to stunning views of North America’s highest suspension bridge, stretching 1,200 feet (366 metres) above the sheer-walled canyon and spanning the breathtaking gorge.
Nearby towns: Cañon City, Colorado Springs
Maroon Bells
An alpine lake is perfectly positioned to reflect the image of the Maroon Bells, two purple-and-white-striped peaks. The idyllic display lures photographers with tripods trying to find new angles, fly fishermen arcing their lines upon its placid waters and hikers humbled by the panorama.
Nearby towns: Aspen, Snowmass
Hot Springs
All across the western half of the state, you’ll find our many natural hot springs set amid stunning natural scenery, ranging from undeveloped, hike-in swimming holes to full resorts with spas, kid-friendly perks and on-site lodging.
Garden of the Gods
Those who walk the trails that run around and between Garden of the Gods’ otherworldly red-rock figures search for geologic formations in the shapes of kissing camels, cathedral spires, praying hands and sleeping giants — and a few that seem to teeter in gravity’s grip.
Nearby towns: Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs
Bridal Veil Falls
The well-preserved Victorian-era town of Telluride — nestled at the foot of a box canyon — is a beguiling sight all on its own. But 365 feet (111 metres) above, the white spray of the state’s tallest waterfall plummets to the canyon’s depths, adding the final touch to a charming scene.
Nearby town: Telluride
Bent’s Old Fort
Along the Santa Fe Trail National Scenic and Historic Byway, stroll among the network of rooms and corridors to visualize what life was like in a frontier trading post. The original 1833 fort was a conduit of commerce — a center for interaction between American settlers, Mexicans and Native Americans.
Nearby town: La Junta
San Juan Skyway
Travelling through the dazzling San Juan Mountains and making stops at historic towns of great significance, this route is often considered an essential journey for road trippers. It’s beloved in spring for a riot of wildflowers and in fall for shimmering leaves changing colours.
Nearby towns: Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride
Horsetooth Reservoir
Oak-lined shores offer scenic hiking vistas, where trails wind through trees and hogbacks, eventually revealing the bright-blue waters as they snake into view. Canoeists, kayakers and paddleboarders glide in and out of hidden coves, while bass, trout and walleye attract anglers.
Nearby town: Fort Collins
Pawnee Buttes
Vibrant green shortgrass sways in the wind as far as the eye can see. The only interruption in the endless flat horizon is two 300-foot-high mesas, visible from miles around. Their only companions are the remote area’s pronghorn, coyotes, kit foxes, hawks and falcons.
Nearby town: Sterling
Hiking Essentials
Plan ahead, stick to the trail, pack out your trash, stay hydrated and more when you’re exploring along the state’s many scenic paths. Colorado.com/HikingEssentials
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