Year after year, the Rocky Mountains beckon explorers from around the world to Colorado. Meanwhile, the lively cities of Denver and Colorado Springs mean the state is also a favorite for those looking for urban exploration.
City hop around Denver
The state’s capital is energetic and cosmopolitan, with futuristic architecture and a scenic backdrop. The weather is warm and days are long in summer - so it’s a pleasure to park up and meander through the hazy sunsets on foot.
Denver is dubbed the ‘Mile High City’ due to its high elevation. The wider area is actually made up of a number of smaller cities where you can hop from suburb to suburb, attraction to attraction.
Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens and downtown neighbourhoods, then cruise along to Aurora to find recreational reservoirs, sweet shopping districts and airy, open spaces to relax.
See a town carved into the cliff tops
Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most striking sights the Centennial State has to offer. Every forest and mountain range in this vast region is stunning, with scenic drives revealing all earth’s glory. This park is different to most, since the mountain sides are not only rugged and beautiful, but filled with buildings carved into the rock from an ancient civilisation - the Ancestral Pueblo people.
There are more than 5,000 archaeological sites spread across a road network stretching for more than 60km. You’ll see unbelievable sights and gain a priceless insight into ancient America. Tours run from spring to fall, and the remote location adds to the marvel of the labyrinthine cliff-side city.
Warm your soul at Colorado Hot Springs
The state’s western edge is speckled with naturally heated pools and spas at Colorado’s various hot springs. A visit to these warming spots is a fantastic way to relax after an action-packed winter ski vacation.
The historic Hot Springs Loop encircles more than 1,000km of the state’s natural wonders, creating woodland resort towns and cool cave retreats. Take a dip in the steamy waters and disconnect from the world.
Each spa town has its own unique character – like Pagosa, home to the deepest hot springs on earth. Learn about the ancient Pueblo Indians and witness a modern take on sacred rituals when sun and moon worshippers gather for events at the solstice.
Learn the ropes on the slopes
Whether you travel in winter or summer, the Colorado countryside is home to a lively adventure sport scene. From around November to April, the mountainous slopes open up to skiers and snowboarders who adore the gentle alpine gradients and adventurous kickers.
Aspen is a world-leading ski resort, filled with incredible slopes, awesome views and even an art museum. In summer, Aspen turns a striking shade of green. Yoga mats, canoes and paragliders replace the skis, while luxury boutiques dot along the streets of the small valley town.
Zip line tours are another popular way daring travellers love to soak up the scenes. The Colorado Adventure Centre offers this exhilarating way to whiz through the spectacular Maroon Bells scenery. There’s even an aerial adventure park for the adventurous family vacation.
Take a look at the Colorado car rental options and find out how you can unlock all the magnificence of the 38th state.