#1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Enthusiastically celebrated as “The Crown Jewel of the Continental Divide,” Rocky Mountain National Park boasts postcard-perfect valleys, commanding mountain ranges, and diverse wildlife. Throughout its 415 square miles of unspoiled natural beauty, this destination captures the heart of every explorer that sets foot on its pristine trails.
As part of your exploration, venture to the highest paved road in the U.S., the Trail Ridge Road. At over 12,000 feet, the road navigates intermittent stretches of tundra and forest, offering staggering views of the encompassing area. Longs Peak is another treasure not to be missed. This towering landmark, standing at 14,255 feet, serves as a challenging climbing venture for the intrepid outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can delve into the captivating beauty of Ouzel Falls at the Wild Basin Area or marvel at the breathtaking spectacle of Alberta Falls, located just a short, accessible hike from the Glacier Gorge Junction trailhead.
#2. The Garden of the Gods
The strikingly dramatic sandstone formations within Colorado Springs’s Garden of the Gods are among Colorado’s most photographed landscapes. Available to the public free of charge, this UNESCO-certified National Natural Landmark offers 21 miles of trails winding through its awe-inspiring formations.
Pikes Peak, one of the most visited mountains globally, towers over the park’s horizon. Hiking, biking, and rock climbing are popular activities that offer different perspectives of the awe-inspiring landscape.
#3. The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
This natural wonder, nestled in the San Luis Valley’s heart, is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. The ever-changing sand patterns provide a surreal, almost otherworldly landscape. With seemingly infinite ridges and valleys, these dunes reach soaring heights of 750 feet.
Beyond the sandhill, visitors will find diverse landscapes such as alpine lakes, ancient spruce forests, and the sparkling Medano Creek. Activities within the park range from sandboarding, hiking to off-roading on the towering dunes.
#4. Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical reverence. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is renowned for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings that date back to 600 A.D. Cliff Palace, the most iconic of these, has over 150 individual rooms.
The top of the mesa presents stunning panoramic views of the Four Corners region and the countless canyons that pattern the timeless landscape. Base yourself in the nearby charming town of Cortez, from where you can explore this alluring blend of culture and breathtaking scenery.
#5. Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells, two of the most photographed peaks in North America, are a pristine showcase of Colorado’s dramatic landscapes. Situated just outside Aspen in the Elk Mountains, this pair of peaks is mirrored in the crystal-clear Maroon Lake, offering picturesque outdoor scenery.
The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is a gentle, family-friendly hike that offers unobstructed views of the peaks and the surrounding wildflower fields. For a more challenging trek, the Crater Lake Trail ascends through aspen groves to a glistening alpine lake with a striking view of the spiky Maroon Bells towering above.
#6. Hanging Lake
This National Natural Landmark located near Glenwood Springs is well worth the strenuous, steep 1.2-mile trail. Hanging Lake is a rare example of a travertine geological formation, with dissolved limestone that deposits on the lake’s edge, maintaining a fragile shoreline.
The ethereal turquoise-colored lake is rimmed by lush vegetation, trickling waterfalls, and towering cliffs. Given its delicate ecosystem, utmost respect and care are required while visiting. Keep off the log across the lake, leave furry friends at home, and absolutely no swimming is allowed.
#7. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison
For sheer drama, it’s hard to beat this steep, narrow, and highly visible opening into the earth’s crust. Its name ‘Black Canyon’ is derived as parts of the gorge only receive a few minutes of sunlight each day due to its profound depth and steepness. This shadowy depth offers striking contrast to the brilliant skies and expansive scenery that hallmark Colorado’s landscape.
Cap your round-up of these fantastic natural wonders with a star-studded night. Far from city lights, the Black Canyon has been designated an International Dark Sky Park, where on a clear night, you might catch a showcase of thousands of stars, planets, and the Milky Way coursing across the heavens. The Black Canyon is a testament to both daylight splendor and nighttime wonders, making this feature a grand finale to your voyage across Colorado’s natural spectacles.
