Reacclimate with nature, fun, and freedom at these awe-inspiring stops
With summer finally here, the only thing on our minds is getting out on the open road and breathing some fresh air. For this, it doesn’t get any better than Colorado, boasting access to an incredible variety of natural terrain, from secluded alpine lakes and dune-filled deserts to sprawling red rock canyons, all in the course of one unforgettable road trip.
Now that we’re all returning to our favorite activities, it’s time to drop the following summer destinations into your itinerary and chart a course for the Centennial State. Here you’ll find epic landscapes and insta-worthy backdrops. In other words, it’s win win!
San Juan National Forest, between Ouray and Silverton
What is it? A stunning glacier-carved bowl surrounded by 13,000-ft ridges and peaks.
Why go? You’ll find a rare slice of solitude here that you can’t get at similar spots. While the 3.5-ish mile approach is no doubt a workout, it’s still doable with an inflatable SUP in tow, which will definitely be worth it.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, south of Crawford
What is it? A rugged 2,000-ft canyon above the Gunnison River.
Why go? The far-flung Black Canyon of the Gunnison is the state’s least-visited national park, but its dramatic, jaw-dropping beauty is no secret, especially on the canyon’s South Rim. Drive a bit farther to the North Rim, where the views are even more spectacular—without a crowd in sight. Then head over to the new Gunnison County Shady Island River Park, set to open this summer, with tent camping sites, picnic shelters with restrooms, a trail loop system, recreation path, fishing access, boat staging area, and access for non-boaters, too.
Last Chance, east of Denver
What is it? A contemporary land art installation by M12 Studio, an award-winning collective of artists.
Why go? Eight wooden squares stand upright along a nearly empty rural town, identifiable by the dilapidated Last Chance Motel. During the summer solstice, the sun sets in perfect alignment with the timber frames.
What is it? A desert landscape with miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, camping, and more.
Why go? The terrain here is home to red rock formations, canyons, and the second highest concentration of natural arches in the world. There’s no visitor center here, so be sure to bring along plenty of food and water and look out for special areas designated for different kinds of activities.
St. Elmo and Tin Cup, west of Buena Vista
What is it? Two of the most storied and well-preserved mining towns from the late 1800s.
Why go? You’ll be spooked walking through the eerily vacant ghost towns of St. Elmo and the nearby Tin Cup—where you can rent an ATV to explore around the lakes, cemeteries, and other historic landmarks.
Farm stands along Hwy. 50 in Rocky Ford
What is it? The world-famous, locally-grown melons and cantaloupes of Rocky Ford.
Why go? Summer is the season for the sweetest, juiciest melons you’ll probably ever taste, thanks to the region’s rich clay soil and sunny altitude. While you’re in the area swing by Hanagan’s Farm in La Junta, where you can also pick your own chilies and tomatoes (get ‘em roasted while you’re there).
What is it? A family-owned sheep farm with a unique overnight stay.
Why go? Come to try your hand at sheep herding on horseback; stay for the chance to sleep in an old sheep wagon on site. You can even choose where the wagon is parked—that includes far into the fields for the most adventurous souls.
What is it? The 800-acre lake in this quiet Southern Colorado park is teeming with different types of fish, including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and more.
Why go? Beyond fishing, an archeological site close to the amphitheatre features the remains of Native American dwellings and a functional “horno” (pronounced OR-no), a beehive-shaped adobe oven used by Spanish and Native American cultures. It offers a chance for visitors to explore the region’s rich cultural history—interpretive signage is provided for both to further explain their history and uses. The park also has geocaching, archery, hiking, and camping on the menu.
What is it? The Colorado region is known for its thriving vineyards, and world class mountain biking.
Why go? Why not? With plenty of ground to cover (20 wineries-plus, to be exact), Colorado’s Grand Valley wineries are worth the stop for a tasting—and touring on two wheels makes it easy to ride on if and when spots get busy. Start your excursion at Rapid Creek Cycles to pick up your wheels. And for the mountain bikers among us, check out the Palisade Plunge, a new trail system offering 32 thrilling miles of downhill single track descending 6,000 feet in elevation through untravelled public lands and unrivalled scenery.
Hahn’s Peak
What is it? An ADA accessible state park with a scenic mountain setting.
Why go? Nestled in the mountains north of Steamboat Springs, this peaceful park feels like an escape to Colorado’s backcountry. Rent one of the yurts or pitch your tent right at the shoreline of Pearl Lake. Then head into town to explore a variety of celebrated dining options. Recently opened Primrose and MEATBAR offer classic Colorado favorites of the grass-fed variety, while Standard Gallery + Wine Bar delivers a more unconventional setting to enjoy a glass of wine, for starters.
What is it? Two striking 300-ft buttes above prairie grasslands.
Why go? The facilities here on this remote northeastern edge of Colorado are few, but the exploration is endless: Hike the bluffs, go birding, stargaze, and more along the out and back trail (just don’t forget your hat and sunscreen). You’ll truly feel like you’ve driven to the middle of nowhere—and that’s the point.
Before hitting the road this summer visit Colorado.com directly for special offers and the latest openings and public health guidelines in the Centennial State. Have fun!
