COLORADO 5 Live Our Western Heritage In order to honor Colorado’s true roots, we remember the land’s original inhabitants. Dozens of archaeological sites, museums, byways and roadside plaques dedicated to our Indigenous peoples will have your imagination floating back in time to the first and most fascinating human experiences in Colorado. Mining towns and tours tell the stories of early explorers, fur trappers and prospectors who came in search of treasure after hearing tales of rivers overflowing with gold rocks free for the taking. The Colorado Gold Rush was on, with covered wagons crossing the Great Plains to cries of “Pikes Peak or Bust!” Today, you can visit many of these historical towns and ride our rails to see remnants of this gold-and silver-dusted past. Nothing embodies the Wild West of our imagination like a dude ranch. There’s something special about their down-home hospitality — by the end of your stay, you’ll really feel like family. Whether you’re looking to live out your on-screen dreams of being a tough-skinned ranch hand or simply wanting a taste of life outside of the city, more than 30 dude ranches supply an incredible getaway. Plan your trip around one of our Western events or small-town rodeos to see cowpoke culture come alive in a spectacular performance. ANDREW MAGUIRE (ALL PHOTOS) Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch in Parshall Overland Trail Museum in Sterling COLORADO . COM 15
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2025: Page 15
