COME TO LIFE Whether you’re planning a weekend in the mountains or a road trip across the plains, the Do Colorado Right Leave No Trace Principles make it easier to travel smarter and maximize your time. Near Westcliffe Know Before You Go Colorado has pleasant conditions year-round. However, the weather can always change in an instant. Be prepared for anything by checking conditions before you depart, wearing appropriate footwear and bringing protective layers. Pack a reusable water bottle so you can save money, limit waste and stay hydrated by drinking twice the amount of water you normally would. Since access to cell service can be spotty, bringing a map or downloading offline routes using an app like COTREX can help you stay on track. Deepen your connection with the great outdoors by visiting a lesser-known trail. Stick to designated parking spaces to allow roadside plants to grow and maintain the flow of traffic. Have a secondary location in mind in case the lot is full so you can keep things moving without a hitch. 4 1-800-COLORADO Stick to Trails & Camp Overnight Right Walk or ride on designated trails to help preserve the path and protect the homes of local wildlife. While shortcuts and that perfect selfie can be tempting, staying on the path will decrease your risk of injury and protect fragile trailside plants. You can’t go wrong with setting up in one of the thousands of designated campsites across the state! Check with local land managers for the best places to pitch your tent. Stick to spots that are over 70 steps from water and show signs of having been previously camped on so it will be quicker and easier for you to settle in. Trash the Trash We know that you know to throw your trash in designated bins. Just keep an eye out for those tiny plastic wrappers that like to sneak away, and don’t forget the peels and cores — while it may be good for you, that doesn’t mean it’s good for wildlife. When nature calls and there’s no bathroom around, be equipped with a disposable WAG bag and conveniently carry out your waste. Alternatively, find privacy at least 70 steps from water, trails and camp, dig a 6–8 inch hole and bury your business. Keep the trail pristine by picking up after your pup and disposing their waste in the nearest trash can. Pro tip: Let your furry friend carry their own little pack so they can help haul their own poop! LUMENATI PRODUCTIONS
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2026: Page 4
