COME TO LIFE We’ve created the Care for Colorado Leave No Trace Principles to make it easy for you to do simple things that have big impacts on our rippling rivers and streams, evergreen-carpeted mountains and swaying grasslands. Keep these tips in mind as you travel through our natural places, and you’ll be a part of the special group helping future visitors experience our beautiful state to its fullest, all while you make the most of your Colorado adventures. Jumbo Ridge Loop near Paonia Know Before You Go • Almost half of Colorado is public land. Learn about the area you plan to visit before adventuring out so you can enjoy and help protect the spaces we all share. • Colorado’s weather and scenic terrain are stunning but can change drastically. Check conditions before you depart, pack layers, sun protection and rain gear, wear appropriate footwear ... and enjoy your trip. • Journey to places with minimal crowds to maximize your connection with the great outdoors. Have a backup plan in case the parking lot at your original destination is full. • Pack reusable water bottles to stay hydrated, limit waste and save money. Stick to Trails • Embrace the adventure as intended by only walking on designated trails — even if it’s wet, muddy, slushy or icy. This will help avoid erosion and protect the homes of local wildlife. • Shortcuts and that perfect selfie can be tempting, but staying on the path will decrease your risk of injury and protect trailside plants. • Camping? Set up in one of thousands of designated campsites in Colorado. They boast some of the most scenic views and protect the landscapes. And remember to camp at least 200 feet from waterways to leave space for wildlife. Leave It As You Find It • Enjoy discovering plants? Rocks? Historical and cultural items? Be sure to leave them as you found them so everyone can experience the joy of discovery. • Colorado has more than 2,000 different species of wildflowers, all with their own unique part to play in our ecosystem. Admire their beauty by taking a photo, not a flower. • Cleaning boots, bike tires and water crafts before and after every outing not only makes your gear last longer, it prevents the spread of harmful invasive species. • Colorado’s trees give us beautiful leaf-peeping photos, shade on summer days, unmatched ski runs and, of course, oxygen (which at this altitude, is a big help). But the smallest carving can kill or disfigure them. 4 1-800-COLORADO ANDREW MAGUIRE
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2025: Page 4
