5 Astounding Places To Visit In Colorado

The Centennial State is known for the opportunities it presents for enjoying the splendor of nature. Whether travelers want to hit the slopes, walk a rocky trail, or simply find a good area to set up a laptop to do some work, this is a setting well-suited for appreciating the outdoors. In no particular order, here are some gorgeous locations to check out in Colorado.

First up at #1 is the city of Golden. Tourists to this town can enjoy a cold one at a craft brewery, walk the ancient paths of extinct beasts at Dinosaur Ridge, and take in a concert at Red Rocks. There are also historic districts to stroll and river rapids to brave by raft, paddle board, or kayak.

Those who long for adventure can appreciate hiking under Golden's cottonwood trees, biking along Clear Creek, and driving the connected roads of the Lariat Loop, which includes educational opportunities such as the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave. There are also lots of patios for al fresco dining and remote working.

Coming in at #2 is Glenwood Springs, where attractions include a Western-themed adventure park, spots for winter sports and off-roading, and the 2.3 million-acre White River National Forest. Meanwhile, those who enjoy learning about the region's past can see exhibits at the Glenwood Springs Historical Society and Frontier Museum.

One of the area's most distinctive destinations is the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves, which are caverns that have been used for their therapeutic steam for centuries, including by the native Ute tribe. The nearby Iron Mountain Hot Springs is another spot to find thermal mineral waters to relax in, along with a bathhouse and secluded family pools.

Next, at #3, is Silverton Mountain, which has almost 2,000 acres of trails with interesting geographic features, including a 45-degree chute dubbed El Tubo. The company running the ski area offers helicopters to help the adventurous get to hard-to-reach spots, as well as guides to assist those who don't want to go at it alone.

The location hosts an annual event called Brewski, which features local microbreweries such as the Elevation Beer Company. Meanwhile, in the town of Silverton, visitors can stay at the stately Grand Imperial Hotel, dine at a variety of restaurants, and enjoy an idyllic, Old West ambiance.

At #4 we have Grand County, an area where explorers and sightseers can find challenging terrain and rich natural beauty. The placid Arapaho and Routt National Forests, the vast and colorful Indian Peaks wilderness, and the Idlewild Trail System are just some of the county's notable outdoor destinations.

There are indoor attractions as well, including spots to take in a show. For educational sites focused on local heritage, visitors can check out the Cozens Ranch Museum, the Grand County Historical Society, a former log hotel that is now the Kauffman House Museum, and more.

Rounding out the list at #5 is Steamboat Springs, which offers numerous destinations for hikers. Examples include the 280-foot Fish Creek Falls, Rabbit Ears Peak, and the Emerald Mountain Quarry. For lodging, visitors can rest at one of a number of guest ranches with Old West-style architecture.

The area also boasts the Yampa River Botanic Park, home to a wealth of flora and fauna, and a Pro Rodeo Series, where one can see roping and bull and bronc riding. In addition, Steamboat Springs has myriad venues to see plays, movies, dance, opera, and orchestral music performances.