Colorado Explored

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Colorado, with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and plethora of outdoor activities, is a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. From the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the bustling streets of Denver, the Centennial State offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a culture buff, or simply seeking solace in nature, Colorado has something to offer everyone. Let's dive into some of the top activities, events, and adventures awaiting you in this beautiful state.

1. **Rocky Mountain National Park:** Embark on a journey through pristine wilderness, where towering peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife await. Hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in this iconic national park. Do not feed the bears or take selfies with the moose please.

2. **Skiing and Snowboarding:** With world-class resorts such as Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge, Colorado is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Hit the slopes and experience the thrill of carving through fresh powder against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery. Olympians train here, so you know it’s good. Watch out for the altitude and mid-mountain beer. Our favorites are Telluride and Steamboat!

3. **White-Water Rafting:** For those craving an adrenaline rush, Colorado's rivers offer exhilarating white-water rafting adventures. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rafter, there are plenty of options to suit every skill level.

4. **Mountain Biking:** Explore Colorado's vast network of mountain biking trails, ranging from gentle paths through meadows to challenging singletracks in the high alpine. With breathtaking scenery at every turn, it's a cyclist's paradise.

5. **Fly Fishing:** Over 6,000 miles of streams and rivers, providing ample opportunity for enthusiasts of all levels. The rainbow trout is the most famous catch of the day. You can fish year round in most places, if you don’t mind freezing your butt off!

Colorado Unveiled

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

**Cultural Experiences:**

1. **Denver Art Museum:** Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of Denver at the Denver Art Museum, home to a diverse collection of Native American, Western, and contemporary art.

2. **Red Rocks Amphitheatre:** Witness a concert like no other at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, an iconic open-air venue nestled amidst towering red rock formations. Catch a live performance against the backdrop of a breathtaking Colorado sunset.

3. **Historic Mining Towns:** Step back in time and explore Colorado's historic mining towns, such as Telluride, Aspen, and Leadville. Wander the charming streets lined with Victorian-era buildings and learn about the state's rich mining heritage.

4. **Brewery Tours:** With over 400 craft breweries scattered across the state, Colorado is a mecca for beer lovers. Embark on a brewery tour and sample a diverse array of locally brewed beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.

5. **Meow Wolf and Casa Bonita:** Both of these have funny names and don’t exactly indicate what is in store for the consumer. Casa Bonita is an old Denver staple with a facelift from the South Park creators. It’s part restaurant, part show, part confusion that you don’t want to miss. Meow Wolf is an immersive art gallery that defies description. We cannot do it justice, you just have to see it for yourself.

Colorado Thrives

ANNUAL EVENTS

1. **Colorado Shakespeare Festival:** Held annually in Boulder, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival showcases world-class performances of the Bard's timeless works against the backdrop of the stunning Rocky Mountains.

2. **Telluride Bluegrass Festival:** Join music enthusiasts from around the world at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, a four-day celebration of bluegrass and Americana music set amidst the picturesque San Juan Mountains.

3. **Great American Beer Festival:** Beer aficionados won't want to miss the Great American Beer Festival in Denver, where thousands of craft beers are showcased alongside live music, food trucks, and brewing seminars.

4. **Hot Air Balloons:** Experience the magic of hot air balloons at the Colorado Springs Balloon Fiesta, where hundreds of colorful balloons take to the skies in a dazzling display of color and sound. Or hop over to Steamboat Springs for their Balloon Festival every July!

4. **Rodeo and Stock Show:** Thrilling showcase of top-notch livestock exhibitions, rodeo events like the barrel racing or famous mutton-bustin’ and lively entertainment. The parade through the urban streets of Downtown Denver to kick off the show is unforgettable. Put on your chaps and boots and check it out every January.

Colorado’s Best Ski Towns

In our humble opinion.

Take it from a girl who was born and raised in Colorado, skiing since was old enough to walk and tested out every town in the CO Rocky Mountains! Even if you don’t actually participate in the sport of skiing, these towns offer charm, unique and often exquisite lodging and the best people watching around. Some towns you are spotting celebrities and others you are watching a dog, wearing goggles, accompany their owner on the slopes, who is skiing in a bikini.

1. **Aspen**: Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is synonymous with luxury skiing. Home to four renowned ski areas – Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass – this town caters to skiers of all levels. Beyond the slopes, Aspen's vibrant downtown exudes sophistication with its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. Don't miss the après-ski scene at The Little Nell or Ajax Tavern for a taste of Aspen's exclusive charm.

2. **Breckenridge**: Steeped in mining history, Breckenridge combines old-world charm with world-class skiing. The Breckenridge Ski Resort boasts over 2,900 acres of terrain spread across five peaks, offering something for everyone from beginners to expert skiers. Explore the picturesque Main Street lined with Victorian-era buildings, quaint shops, and lively pubs. Be sure to catch a ride on the BreckConnect Gondola for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

3. **Telluride**: Tucked away in a box canyon surrounded by towering peaks, Telluride is a hidden gem for ski aficionados. The Telluride Ski Resort features over 2,000 acres of terrain, including steep chutes, groomed cruisers, and expansive bowls. Off the slopes, immerse yourself in Telluride's vibrant arts scene, browse the eclectic shops along Colorado Avenue, and savor gourmet cuisine at local eateries. For a unique experience, take a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway to appreciate the region's natural beauty.

4. **Vail**: Renowned for its vast terrain and European-inspired village, Vail is a skier's paradise nestled in the White River National Forest. With over 5,200 acres of skiable terrain, Vail offers endless opportunities for exploration across its legendary Back Bowls and groomed slopes. After a day on the mountain, unwind in Vail Village or Lionshead with its charming cobblestone streets, upscale shops, and cozy cafés. Indulge in après-ski cocktails at The Red Lion or The George.

5. **Steamboat Springs**: Known for its laid-back vibe and legendary Champagne Powder®, Steamboat Springs is a quintessential ski town with a Western flair. The Steamboat Ski Resort boasts nearly 3,000 acres of terrain, including tree glades, mogul fields, and gentle cruisers. Explore downtown Steamboat's historic charm, where you'll find rustic storefronts, local breweries, and delicious eateries serving up hearty Western fare. Don't miss the nightly torchlight parade and fireworks display on the mountain, a beloved tradition in Steamboat.

Whether you're drawn to the glitz and glamour of Aspen or the down-to-earth charm of Steamboat Springs, Colorado's ski towns offer an unforgettable winter experience for all. From epic powder days on the slopes to cozy evenings by the fireplace, these five destinations capture the essence of Colorado's mountain culture and leave skiers longing to return year after year.