Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Colorado is one of the most spectacular travel destinations in the United States, known for its snow-capped mountains, national parks, scenic drives, ski towns, hot springs, red rock formations, craft breweries, historic mining towns and outdoor adventures. From Denver and Boulder to Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen, Telluride, Mesa Verde and Great Sand Dunes, Colorado offers a remarkable mix of city culture and wild natural beauty.

Whether you are planning a mountain road trip, a ski holiday, a summer hiking escape, a family adventure or a relaxing hot springs getaway, Colorado has something for almost every traveller. This guide covers the best places to visit in Colorado, including national parks, mountain towns, scenic drives, cities, hot springs and practical travel tips.

Why Visit Colorado?

Colorado is a dream destination for travellers who love mountains, fresh air and outdoor adventure. The state is home to the Rocky Mountains, alpine lakes, forests, canyons, rivers, desert landscapes, historic railways, ski resorts and some of the most beautiful scenic drives in the country.

One of Colorado’s biggest strengths is its year-round appeal. In winter, visitors come for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and cosy mountain towns. In summer, the state is ideal for hiking, cycling, rafting, camping, scenic drives and national park visits. Spring and autumn are quieter seasons, with wildflowers, mild days, golden aspens and fewer crowds in many areas.

Colorado also has excellent cities and towns. Denver offers museums, restaurants, live music and easy transport connections. Boulder has a relaxed outdoor lifestyle. Colorado Springs has dramatic red rock scenery and family attractions. Mountain towns such as Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge, Telluride, Steamboat Springs and Durango offer postcard-worthy streets, adventure activities and alpine charm.

Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Denver

Denver is the capital of Colorado and one of the best places to start a trip through the state. Known as the Mile High City, Denver combines urban attractions with easy access to the Rocky Mountains.

Top things to do in Denver include visiting the Denver Art Museum, Union Station, Larimer Square, the Museum of Nature & Science, Denver Botanic Gardens and the RiNo Art District. Sports fans can catch a game, food lovers can explore local restaurants and breweries, and music fans can visit the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre nearby.

Denver is also a practical base for day trips to Boulder, Golden, Red Rocks, Mount Blue Sky, Colorado Springs and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Best for: first-time visitors, food lovers, museums, breweries, music, city breaks and road-trip starting points.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado’s most famous destinations and a must-see for nature lovers. The park is known for alpine lakes, mountain peaks, wildlife, forests, meadows, scenic drives and more than 350 miles of hiking trails.

Popular places to visit include Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, Trail Ridge Road, Moraine Park, Alberta Falls and Emerald Lake. Trail Ridge Road is one of the most scenic high-altitude drives in the United States, although it is seasonal and usually closed during winter due to snow.

Wildlife viewing is a major highlight. Visitors may see elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, marmots and, with luck, moose. Because the park is extremely popular, especially in summer and early autumn, check current entry requirements and timed-entry reservation information before travelling.

Best for: hiking, wildlife, alpine lakes, scenic drives, photographers, families and national park lovers.

Estes Park

Estes Park is the main gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park. Surrounded by mountain scenery, it offers accommodation, restaurants, shops, galleries, river walks and easy access to park entrances.

The town is a good place to stay if you want to explore Rocky Mountain National Park over several days. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, local breweries, the Estes Park Aerial Tramway and walks along the riverfront. The historic Stanley Hotel is also a well-known landmark.

Best for: Rocky Mountain National Park access, families, couples, mountain views, wildlife and relaxed alpine stays.

Boulder

Boulder is a beautiful and energetic city at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It is known for outdoor recreation, university culture, healthy dining, independent shops and the dramatic Flatirons rock formations.

Top things to do in Boulder include hiking at Chautauqua Park, walking along Pearl Street Mall, exploring Boulder Creek Path and enjoying the city’s cafes, breweries and restaurants. Boulder is also a great base for cycling, rock climbing and scenic drives into the foothills.

Its combination of mountain access and urban comfort makes Boulder one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Colorado.

Best for: hiking, food, university-town atmosphere, outdoor travellers, couples and day trips from Denver.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is one of the best family-friendly destinations in Colorado. Located south of Denver, it is famous for dramatic red rock formations, mountain views and accessible attractions.

Garden of the Gods is the city’s standout attraction, with towering red sandstone formations, walking trails and views of Pikes Peak. Other popular places include Pikes Peak, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Manitou Springs and the Broadmoor Seven Falls area.

Colorado Springs is a strong choice for travellers who want scenic beauty without committing to remote mountain travel.

Best for: families, red rock scenery, scenic drives, easy walks, museums and first-time Colorado visitors.

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is one of the most striking natural attractions in Colorado. The park is famous for its enormous red sandstone formations rising against a backdrop of mountains and blue sky.

Visitors can walk paved and unpaved trails, take photos, join guided tours or simply enjoy the views from scenic pullouts. The park is especially beautiful early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light brings out the colour of the rocks.

Best for: photography, families, easy walks, red rock scenery and free outdoor sightseeing.

Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak is one of Colorado’s most famous mountains and a major attraction near Colorado Springs. Visitors can reach the summit by driving the Pikes Peak Highway, taking the cog railway or joining a guided tour, depending on conditions and availability.

At the top, you can enjoy sweeping views over the surrounding region. Because the summit is high in elevation, weather can change quickly and temperatures can be much cooler than in Colorado Springs. Take warm layers and move slowly if you are sensitive to altitude.

Best for: scenic views, mountain experiences, families, photographers and classic Colorado sightseeing.

Aspen

Aspen is one of Colorado’s most famous mountain towns, known for skiing, luxury hotels, restaurants, boutiques, arts events and beautiful alpine scenery. While it has a glamorous reputation, it is also an excellent destination for hiking, cycling and scenic drives.

In winter, Aspen is a major ski destination. In summer and autumn, visitors come for mountain trails, wildflowers, golden aspens and views of the Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed mountain scenes in Colorado.

Aspen is ideal for travellers who want a polished mountain experience with excellent dining, accommodation and outdoor activities.

Best for: luxury stays, skiing, hiking, couples, food lovers, autumn colour and alpine scenery.

Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells near Aspen are among the most iconic mountain views in Colorado. The twin peaks reflected in Maroon Lake create a classic alpine scene, especially at sunrise and during autumn when the surrounding aspen trees turn gold.

Access can be controlled during busy seasons, and shuttle reservations may be required at certain times, so plan ahead before visiting. Short walks around the lake are popular, while longer hikes are available for experienced walkers.

Best for: photography, mountain scenery, autumn colour, couples and nature lovers.

Vail

Vail is one of Colorado’s best-known ski resort towns. Inspired by European alpine villages, it offers ski slopes, luxury hotels, restaurants, shopping, spas and a polished mountain atmosphere.

In winter, Vail is all about skiing, snowboarding and après-ski. In summer, the town becomes a base for hiking, cycling, fly fishing, festivals and scenic gondola rides. The pedestrian-friendly village makes it easy to explore on foot.

Best for: skiing, luxury stays, couples, families, shopping, spas and mountain resort holidays.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a historic mining town turned popular mountain resort. It has a lively main street, colourful buildings, restaurants, shops, ski slopes and year-round outdoor activities.

Winter visitors come for skiing and snowboarding, while summer travellers enjoy hiking, biking, alpine slides, scenic chairlifts and festivals. Breckenridge also has a more relaxed and historic feel than some of Colorado’s glossier resort towns.

Best for: skiing, families, historic charm, hiking, festivals, road trips and lively mountain-town atmosphere.

Telluride

Telluride is one of the most beautiful mountain towns in Colorado. Set in a dramatic box canyon surrounded by high peaks, it offers historic streets, waterfalls, skiing, hiking, festivals and unforgettable scenery.

The free gondola connecting Telluride with Mountain Village is one of the best ways to enjoy the views. In summer, visitors can hike to Bridal Veil Falls, explore the historic downtown or attend one of the town’s well-known festivals. In winter, Telluride becomes a world-class ski destination.

Telluride is more remote than some Colorado mountain towns, but the scenery makes the journey worthwhile.

Best for: couples, photographers, skiing, hiking, festivals, scenic stays and romantic mountain escapes.

Durango

Durango is a historic town in southwest Colorado, known for its Old West feel, mountain scenery and access to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The town has a walkable downtown with restaurants, shops, hotels and historic buildings.

The scenic railway to Silverton is one of the classic experiences in Colorado, travelling through dramatic mountain landscapes. Durango is also a great base for visiting Mesa Verde National Park, the San Juan Mountains and nearby outdoor adventure areas.

Best for: historic railways, families, road trippers, mountain scenery, Old West atmosphere and southwest Colorado itineraries.

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most important cultural destinations in Colorado. The park protects the heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people, including remarkable cliff dwellings and mesa-top archaeological sites.

Visitors can explore viewpoints, museums, scenic drives and guided tours to selected cliff dwellings when available. Cliff Palace is one of the park’s most famous sites. Mesa Verde offers a very different experience from Colorado’s mountain parks, focusing on history, architecture, archaeology and Indigenous heritage.

Because some tours are seasonal or require tickets, check current park information before visiting.

Best for: history lovers, cultural travellers, families, archaeology, road trippers and southwest Colorado adventures.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of the most unusual places in Colorado. The park is home to the tallest dunes in North America, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Visitors can hike on the dunes, try sandboarding or sand sledding, splash in seasonal Medano Creek when flowing, enjoy stargazing and explore nearby trails and scenic areas. The contrast between sand dunes, wetlands, grasslands, forests and mountains makes this park especially memorable.

The sand can become very hot in summer, so early morning and evening are often better times to explore the dunes.

Best for: families, photographers, sandboarding, unusual landscapes, stargazing and road trips.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of Colorado’s most dramatic and underrated national parks. The canyon is deep, narrow and steep, with dark rock walls carved by the Gunnison River.

Most visitors explore the South Rim, where scenic overlooks provide impressive views into the canyon. Short walks and viewpoints make the park accessible for many travellers, while more challenging routes are available for experienced hikers.

This park is a strong choice for travellers who want dramatic scenery without the same crowds as some better-known national parks.

Best for: canyon scenery, photographers, road trippers, quiet national park visits and geology lovers.

Ouray

Ouray is often called the “Switzerland of America” because of its dramatic mountain setting. Surrounded by steep peaks, waterfalls and historic buildings, it is one of the most scenic small towns in Colorado.

Visitors can soak in hot springs, drive the Million Dollar Highway, hike nearby trails, explore waterfalls or use Ouray as a base for jeep roads and mountain adventures. In winter, the town is known for ice climbing.

Best for: hot springs, mountain views, couples, scenic drives, hiking and adventure travellers.

Silverton

Silverton is a small historic mining town in the San Juan Mountains. It is often visited as part of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad journey or on a drive along the Million Dollar Highway.

The town has an old mining atmosphere, mountain views and access to rugged outdoor adventure. It is a good stop for travellers who enjoy history, photography and scenic mountain routes.

Best for: historic towns, rail journeys, photographers, mountain scenery and road trips.

Million Dollar Highway

The Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton is one of the most spectacular scenic drives in Colorado. The route passes through the San Juan Mountains with steep drop-offs, alpine views, mining history and dramatic road scenery.

This drive is beautiful but requires careful attention, especially in poor weather, winter conditions or if you are uncomfortable with mountain roads. In good conditions, it is one of Colorado’s most memorable road-trip experiences.

Best for: scenic drives, photographers, mountain road trips and travellers exploring southwest Colorado.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs is a welcoming mountain town known for skiing, hot springs, ranching heritage and outdoor recreation. It has a more relaxed Western feel than some of Colorado’s larger ski resorts.

Winter visitors come for skiing and snowboarding, while summer travellers enjoy hiking, biking, tubing, fishing and hot springs. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the area’s best-known attractions.

Best for: skiing, hot springs, families, outdoor activities, Western atmosphere and relaxed mountain holidays.

Crested Butte

Crested Butte is a colourful mountain town loved for wildflowers, skiing, mountain biking and its friendly, laid-back atmosphere. It is especially beautiful in summer when alpine meadows bloom with wildflowers.

Visitors can explore the historic downtown, hike scenic trails, ride mountain bikes or ski in winter. Crested Butte is a great alternative to busier resort towns for travellers who want charm and mountain scenery.

Best for: wildflowers, mountain biking, skiing, hiking, couples and relaxed alpine stays.

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is a fun and relaxing mountain town known for hot springs, river scenery and outdoor activities. It is located between Vail and Aspen, making it a convenient stop on a Colorado road trip.

Visitors can soak in hot springs pools, explore Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, walk or cycle along the river and hike to Hanging Lake when access is available by permit. The town is family-friendly and works well as a break between higher-intensity mountain destinations.

Best for: hot springs, families, road trips, caves, river walks and relaxing mountain breaks.

Fort Collins

Fort Collins is a lively northern Colorado city known for craft breweries, bike paths, a historic downtown and access to foothills and reservoirs. It has a relaxed university-town feel and is often included as a stop between Denver and northern Colorado’s outdoor areas.

Visitors can explore Old Town, visit local breweries, cycle along trails or take a day trip to Horsetooth Reservoir. Fort Collins is a good choice for travellers who enjoy food, beer, easy outdoor access and a less crowded city experience.

Best for: breweries, cycling, food, university-town energy, families and relaxed city breaks.

Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction offers red rock canyons, desert scenery, cliffs, wildlife and one of the state’s most scenic drives. Rim Rock Drive provides outstanding views across the canyon landscape.

This area feels very different from Colorado’s alpine destinations, making it a great addition to a western Colorado itinerary. It also pairs well with Grand Junction, Fruita and the wine country of the Grand Valley.

Best for: red rock scenery, scenic drives, photographers, road trippers and western Colorado travel.

Best National Parks in Colorado

Colorado has four national parks, each offering a different type of landscape and travel experience.

• Rocky Mountain National Park: Alpine lakes, high peaks, wildlife, meadows, scenic drives and hiking trails.
• Mesa Verde National Park: Ancestral Pueblo cliff dwellings, archaeological sites and cultural history.
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: Towering sand dunes, mountain views, stargazing and sandboarding.
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: Deep canyon views, dramatic cliffs and quieter national park scenery.

Best Mountain Towns in Colorado

Colorado’s mountain towns are some of the state’s biggest highlights. Many began as mining towns and later became ski resorts, hiking bases or scenic retreats.

• Aspen: Luxury stays, skiing, fine dining and Maroon Bells scenery.
• Vail: Ski resort atmosphere, spas, shopping and alpine-style villages.
• Breckenridge: Historic charm, skiing, festivals and family-friendly activities.
• Telluride: Dramatic mountain scenery, festivals, skiing and romantic escapes.
• Ouray: Hot springs, waterfalls and access to the Million Dollar Highway.
• Silverton: Mining history, rail journeys and rugged San Juan Mountain scenery.
• Steamboat Springs: Skiing, hot springs and Western character.
• Crested Butte: Wildflowers, mountain biking, skiing and a relaxed alpine feel.

Best Scenic Drives in Colorado

Colorado is one of the best states in America for scenic drives. Mountain passes, canyon roads, historic byways and high-altitude routes make driving part of the experience.

• Trail Ridge Road: A spectacular high-elevation drive through Rocky Mountain National Park, usually open seasonally.
• Million Dollar Highway: A dramatic mountain road between Ouray and Silverton.
• San Juan Skyway: A scenic loop through Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Ridgway and Telluride.
• Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: A beautiful route between the Front Range mountains and towns near Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Independence Pass: A high mountain pass near Aspen, generally seasonal and weather-dependent.
• Rim Rock Drive: A red rock canyon drive through Colorado National Monument.
• Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway: A high-altitude route near Denver, with seasonal access and mountain views.

Best Hot Springs in Colorado

Colorado is excellent for hot springs, especially if you want to relax after hiking, skiing or a long road trip.

• Glenwood Springs: One of the most famous hot springs destinations in the state.
• Ouray Hot Springs: Mountain views and a classic hot springs experience.
• Pagosa Springs: Known for geothermal pools and a relaxed southwest Colorado setting.
• Steamboat Springs: Home to popular hot springs experiences, including natural-style soaking options.
• Mount Princeton Hot Springs: A scenic hot springs resort area near Buena Vista.
• Salida and Buena Vista area: A good region for combining rafting, mountain views and hot springs.

Best Places in Colorado for Families

Colorado is a strong family destination because it offers wildlife, easy hikes, scenic drives, railways, museums, ski schools, hot springs and outdoor adventures.

• Denver: Museums, parks, sports, food and easy day trips.
• Colorado Springs: Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and family attractions.
• Rocky Mountain National Park: Wildlife viewing, short trails, scenic drives and ranger programs.
• Durango: Historic railway rides and access to Mesa Verde.
• Glenwood Springs: Hot springs, caves and family-friendly mountain activities.
• Breckenridge: Skiing, summer activities, shops and walkable streets.
• Great Sand Dunes: Sandboarding, dune exploring and unique landscapes.

Best Time to Visit Colorado

The best time to visit Colorado depends on what you want to do. Because the state has high mountains, cities, deserts and alpine regions, conditions can vary widely.

• Winter: Best for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, hot springs and cosy mountain stays.
• Spring: A quieter season with mixed weather. Lower-elevation cities and red rock areas can be pleasant, while high mountain areas may still have snow.
• Summer: Best for hiking, national parks, scenic drives, wildflowers, rafting and mountain towns.
• Autumn: Excellent for golden aspens, scenic drives, cooler hiking weather and photography.

For most first-time visitors planning a road trip, June to September is the easiest period for mountain access. For skiing, December to March is the main season, though exact conditions vary by resort and year. For autumn colours, late September into early October is often popular in the mountains, depending on elevation and weather.

Suggested 10-Day Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

This itinerary gives a strong first-time overview of Colorado, combining cities, national parks, mountain towns, scenic drives and hot springs.

Day 1: Denver

Arrive in Denver and explore Union Station, the Denver Art Museum, Larimer Square or the RiNo Art District. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or brewery.

Day 2: Boulder and Estes Park

Drive to Boulder for a walk around Pearl Street Mall and a short hike near the Flatirons. Continue to Estes Park for mountain views and an overnight stay near Rocky Mountain National Park.

Day 3: Rocky Mountain National Park

Spend the day exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. Visit Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, Moraine Park and scenic viewpoints. Check current timed-entry rules before you go.

Day 4: Colorado Springs

Travel south to Colorado Springs. Visit Garden of the Gods and, if conditions allow, explore Pikes Peak or Manitou Springs.

Day 5: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Drive to Great Sand Dunes National Park and spend the afternoon exploring the dunes. Stay overnight nearby for stargazing if skies are clear.

Day 6: Durango

Continue to Durango in southwest Colorado. Explore the historic downtown and prepare for either a scenic railway trip or a visit to Mesa Verde.

Day 7: Mesa Verde National Park

Visit Mesa Verde National Park to see cliff dwellings, mesa-top sites and cultural history. Book guided tours in advance if required.

Day 8: Million Dollar Highway, Silverton and Ouray

Drive through the San Juan Mountains, stopping in Silverton and continuing along the Million Dollar Highway to Ouray. Allow plenty of time for photo stops and cautious driving.

Day 9: Telluride

Visit Telluride for mountain views, historic streets, the free gondola and scenic walks. Stay overnight if you want a slower mountain-town experience.

Day 10: Return Towards Denver or Continue West

Return towards Denver via scenic mountain routes, or extend your trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado National Monument, Aspen, Glenwood Springs or Vail.

Shorter 5-Day Colorado Itinerary

If you have less time, focus on Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park and Colorado Springs.

• Day 1: Arrive in Denver and explore the city.
• Day 2: Visit Boulder and continue to Estes Park.
• Day 3: Explore Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Day 4: Drive to Colorado Springs and visit Garden of the Gods.
• Day 5: Visit Pikes Peak or Manitou Springs, then return to Denver.

Travel Tips for Visiting Colorado

• Prepare for altitude: Many Colorado destinations are high in elevation. Drink water, take it slow and allow time to adjust.
• Check road conditions: Mountain passes can close due to snow, storms or seasonal conditions.
• Book popular areas early: Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen, Vail, Telluride and Breckenridge can be busy during peak seasons.
• Pack layers: Weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
• Start hikes early: Afternoon storms are common in the mountains during summer.
• Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance from elk, moose, bighorn sheep and other animals.
• Check timed-entry and permit rules: Some parks, trailheads and popular attractions may require reservations or permits.
• Do not underestimate distances: Mountain roads can be slow, winding and affected by weather.
• Use sunscreen: High elevation increases sun exposure, even on cool days.
• Balance adventure with rest: Colorado is active and outdoorsy, but hot springs, scenic drives and relaxed towns are worth building into your itinerary.

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Colorado is a destination that delivers unforgettable scenery in every season. Its mix of mountains, national parks, ski towns, hot springs, historic railways, red rock landscapes and lively cities makes it one of the best states in America for road trips and outdoor travel.

For a first visit, Denver, Boulder, Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park and Colorado Springs are a strong combination. Travellers with more time should add Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge, Telluride, Durango, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes, Ouray and Black Canyon of the Gunnison.

Whether you want to hike alpine trails, soak in hot springs, ski world-class slopes, explore ancient cliff dwellings or simply drive through spectacular mountain scenery, Colorado is a place that rewards travellers who love fresh air, adventure and big landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Colorado

What is the most beautiful place in Colorado?

Rocky Mountain National Park is often considered one of the most beautiful places in Colorado because of its alpine lakes, mountain peaks, wildlife and scenic drives. Other beautiful places include Telluride, Maroon Bells, Garden of the Gods, Great Sand Dunes, Ouray and the San Juan Mountains.

What is Colorado best known for?

Colorado is best known for the Rocky Mountains, skiing, hiking, national parks, scenic drives, craft breweries, hot springs, mountain towns, red rock formations and outdoor adventure.

How many days do you need to visit Colorado?

You can enjoy a short Colorado trip in 4 to 5 days if you focus on Denver, Boulder, Rocky Mountain National Park and Colorado Springs. For a broader road trip including mountain towns, national parks and southwest Colorado, 10 to 14 days is better.

What is the best month to visit Colorado?

July, August and September are excellent for hiking, scenic drives and mountain access. December to March is best for skiing. Late September and early October are popular for autumn colours, especially in aspen-filled mountain areas.

Is Colorado good for a family holiday?

Yes, Colorado is excellent for families. Family-friendly destinations include Denver, Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park, Glenwood Springs, Durango, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Breckenridge.

Is Colorado good for a road trip?

Yes, Colorado is one of the best road-trip states in the United States. Scenic drives, mountain towns, national parks, historic railways and hot springs make it ideal for travellers with a car.

Where should first-time visitors go in Colorado?

First-time visitors should consider Denver, Boulder, Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Springs and Garden of the Gods. With more time, add Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge, Durango, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes and Telluride.

Do you need a car in Colorado?

A car is very helpful for exploring Colorado, especially if you want to visit national parks, mountain towns, scenic drives and hot springs. Denver can be explored without a car, but the wider state is much easier with your own transport.

Can you visit Colorado if you do not ski?

Yes, Colorado is wonderful even if you do not ski. Visitors can enjoy hiking, hot springs, scenic drives, national parks, museums, mountain towns, rail journeys, wildlife viewing, food, breweries and historic sites.

What should I pack for Colorado?

Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, a warm jacket for mountain evenings and weather-appropriate gear for hiking or skiing. Because weather changes quickly at altitude, it is best to be prepared for both sun and cool conditions.