Welcome to Colorado

Much of the Colorado skyline is dominated by mountain peaks, forming a dreamy backdrop for scenery lovers as well as a playground for outdoor recreation. Colorful, historic mining towns dot the hillsides, while bigger cities lie in the plains. Colorado is where the West begins.

State Bird: Lark Bunting. Getty Images

Great Outdoors

No matter where you go in Colorado, you’ll find unparalleled scenery. In Rocky Mountain National Park, northwest of Denver, colorful flowers dot the alpine meadows and mountain peaks reflect in turquoise ponds. In Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, an astonishing sea of sand serves up epic adventures. Wilderness areas offer scenic spots for ATVing, horseback riding, rock climbing and mountain biking. Across the state, hot springs bubble and steam, furnishing comforting spots for relaxation after a day of adventuring.

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Fun on Water

Colorado is a trout-fishing haven. Eleven rivers and three lakes have earned the distinction of being named Gold Medal Waters. Not only do these offer the best chance to snag a fat trout, most are incredibly scenic spots. With over 150 miles of rapids, the Arkansas River is one of the top picks in the nation for whitewater rafting. With calmer waters for paddling or boating, glacial Grand Lake offers scenery in spades just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Cities

Where can you spend your days hiking in the mountains and spend your evenings dining in sophisticated downtown eateries? Denver, of course. Whether you want to spend a day in a cutting-edge museum or take a daytrip into Rocky Mountain National Park, the Mile High City near the heart of the state is sure to delight. About 70 miles to the south on Interstate 25, Colorado Springs beckons with the stunning red rocks of Garden of the Gods, along with the boundless beauty of Pikes Peak, whose summit is accessible by car.