Have you ever wanted to travel to Colorado? After visiting my family in Colorado for the first time about six years ago, I discovered that it was such a beautiful state with so much to see and do. Here are 5 places (in no particular order) that I think everyone should check out at least once in their lifetime:

 

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect place to go in Colorado if you’re looking to see amazing scenic views of the Rocky Mountains from snow capped mountains to the rolling tundra. You might even be able to catch some views of the wildlife. According to 72.6% of visitors the scenery is the main attraction of the park.

2. Pikes Peak

Located near Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak. Pikes Peak is a Colorado 14er, measuring at 14,115 feet, that is accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Visitors can drive to the summit or ride a free shuttle to enjoy the incredible views. You’re so high at the summit it will feel like you are as high as the clouds. On a clear day, you can even see Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Kansas and possibly the curvature of the earth fading into the distance.

3. Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is a National Natural Landmark located in Colorado Springs. Drive through or walk the hiking trails to see the 300’ sandstone rock formations that tower over you. The park is free and be sure to pick up your map at the visitor center to learn the names of the rock formations and history of the park.

4. Royal Gorge Bridge

Be sure to check out Colorado’s Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Cañon City. The bridge is America’s highest suspension bridge standing 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Enjoy the views of the gorge and the beautiful horizon as you’re walking across the bridge, and be sure to take a selfie at the location of your state flag along the bridge. Everyone who visits is encouraged to do this and post the selfie to social media.

5. Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain is a foothill in Denver measuring 7,377 feet where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Denver skyline. It is a must to see at night when the city is all lit up.

Colorado has become one of my favorite places to visit not only because I get to see my family but because of the beautiful scenery. A few places, like Durango, Silverton, Telluride, Gunnison, and more are still on my Colorado “bucket list.” 

Where are your must-see views in Colorado? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

 

References

Garden of the Gods. (n.d.). Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center. Retrieved September 7, 2020 from https://www.gardenofgods.com/.

National Parks Foundation. (n.d.) On top of the world: Rocky Mountain National Park. Retrieved September 7, 2020 from https://www.nationalparks.org/explore-parks/rocky-mountain-national-park.

Pikes Peak Region Attractions. (n.d.). Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. Retrieved September 7, 2020 from https://www.pikes-peak.com/attractions/pikes-peak-americas-mountain/.

Rocky Mountain National Park. (n.d.). Mountain Scenery. Retrieved September 7, 2020 from https://rockymountainnationalpark.com/things-do/scenery.

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. (n.d.). Royal Gorge Bridge. Retrieved September 7, 2020 from https://royalgorgebridge.com/rides-attractions/royal-gorge-bridge/.

U/d-rav. (2015). The view from Lookout Mountain last night! Reddit. https://www.reddit.com/r/Denver/comments/3ksqq6/the_view_from_lookout_mountain_last_night/.

Visit Golden. (n.d.). Golden’s famous lookout mountain. Retrieved September 7, 2020 from https://www.visitgolden.com/places-to-go/lookout-mountain/.