Ankita Naskar
Colorado, in the United States, is known for its incredibly diverse landscapes, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the desert plains, raging rivers, and ancient cliff dwellings. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, with four national parks as well as numerous state parks, forests, and wilderness areas to explore. With so many amazing places to visit, it can be hard to narrow it down, but here are four of the top vacation spots in Colorado.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado’s most popular destinations. Located northwest of Boulder, the 415-square-mile park encompasses lush alpine meadows, glacier-carved valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and towering granite peaks. It’s best known for its herds of elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife, as well as the spectacular views along Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in America, passing through mountains over 12,000 feet. The top things to do include:
- Hiking the many trails that wind through stunning alpine scenery and wildflower-filled meadows. Popular hikes include Emerald Lake Trail, Bear Lake Trail, and Deer Mountain Trail.
- Driving Trail Ridge Road for incredible vistas, scenic overlooks, and possible wildlife sightings
- Camping at one of the park’s five campgrounds, surrounded by pine forests and Rocky Mountain views
- Visiting the Alpine Visitor Centre at Fall River Pass, which features excellent interpretive exhibits and panoramic views
2. Aspen
For an upscale mountain town getaway, it’s hard to beat Aspen. Tucked among the iconic Maroon Bells and the Elk Mountains, Aspen offers high-end shopping, dining, arts, and culture, along with abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Things to do include:
- Exploring the pedestrian-friendly downtown filled with art galleries, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants
- Riding the Silver Queen Gondola up Aspen Mountain for stunning views and hiking, biking, or sightseeing at the top
- Experiencing the Aspen Music Festival, which features orchestral concerts, operas, and other classical events
- Playing golf on championship courses with dramatic mountain backdrops
- Joining outdoor activities from rafting to mountain biking and horseback riding
3. Great Sand Dunes National Park
For a truly unique landscape, Great Sand Dunes National Park showcases one of nature’s wonders: the tallest dunes in North America. These massive sand piles, with peaks up to 750 feet high, rest incongruously next to alpine peaks and forested foothills. Activities include:
- Climbing and sledding down the ever-changing dunes
- Wading or swimming in Medano Creek, which runs along the base of the dunes
- Hiking scenic trails to view the dunes from different angles as the light changes. Popular trails include the Dunes Overlook and Horse Ranch Loop.
- Camping under the stars with the glowing dunes reflecting moonlight
- Visiting in spring to see wildflowers blanketing the dunes and wetlands
4. Mesa Verde National Park
Step back in time at Mesa Verde National Park, home to over 4,000 ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings. Some of the best preserved archaeological sites in America, these dwellings built into canyon alcoves offer a fascinating look at native cultures from 600 to 1300 AD. Highlights are:
- Joining a ranger-led tour of Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America
- Hiking to Balcony House for an up-close view of dwellings crafted right into the cliffs
- Admiring Petroglyph Point, a panel with over 100 petroglyphs chiselled by ancient people
- Exploring the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum with artefacts and exhibits on the Ancestral Puebloans
- Viewing Sun Temple, thought to be an ancient solar calendar
Whether you love majestic mountains, unique natural wonders, Old West small towns, or ancient archaeological sites, Colorado delivers unbeatable vacation spots. With its diversity of landscapes and activities, stunning scenery, and wealth of parks and monuments, Colorado promises an unforgettable travel experience.
