National parks in Colorado are outdoor havens for relaxation, rejuvenation, and inspiration. Spanning every type of terrain, you’ll find a little bit of everything at these parks.
Whether you prefer the snow-covered mountains or the sun-baked desert terrain, with the Colorado National Parks there will be something for everyone.
This state is a natural wonder and is one of the most popular destinations for tourists. Whether you have your own RV, staying in a hotel, or renting an apartment, Colorado has accommodations to suit every budget.
Planning a family vacation can be difficult when working around everyone’s busy schedule. After all, you want it to be perfect.
Family vacations are essential and should not be overlooked. Our tips will help you plan the perfect Colorado vacation.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park was recognized as one of America’s first national parks and is home to some of the state’s most stunning natural wonders.
It is located in Colorado, with the Rocky Mountains on one side and the green plains on the other. This park is not only famous for its spectacular views but also for its wildlife, which includes elk, bears, and foxes.
Vacationers can experience many different adventurous activities in this region: hiking, rock climbing, and fishing are all popular activities at this park.
Snowboarding or skiing are enjoyed in the winter months from December through March when snowfall blankets the Rocky Mountains.
To see some of these breathtaking landscapes up close, visitors can explore a portion of Route 34 which aptly goes by the name of Trail Ridge Road.
2. Great Sand Dunes National Park
The spectacular scenery of Great Sand Dunes National Park is a delight to explore. You can hike and sandboard, marvel at the peaks in the distance, or simply gaze in awe at its dramatic dunes.
Along with a number of other highlights, such as lakes and ancient pine forest, it’s one of Colorado’s must-see tourist attractions.
The Park is located in the south-central part of the state, just outside Alamosa. It also contains a number of prominent peaks, alpine lakes, and ancient pine forests.
3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a spectacular place for hikers and campers.
The canyon plunges to a depth of 685 meters, with sheer cliffs and rocky spires towering over its raging waters. There are many amazing sights to see while visiting the canyon.
People who visit this national park should be prepared for a thrilling experience that will leave them speechless.
Being no stranger to adventure, one may enjoy rock climbing or kayaking in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The park provides many outdoor activities for visitors.
The Park is a spectacular place to stay. There are many inns and hotels set in the canyon that provide accommodation for those who enjoy staying at local motels and inns.
4. Mesa Verde National Park
This is a great park to visit if you are in the American southwest and are interested in seeing some great archaeological sites.
It protects over 5,000 sites for your viewing pleasure, with the Cliff Palace being their most impressive tourist attraction. The park also offers a beautiful scenery that is absolutely amenable to hiking.
For some of the best hiking in America, head to Mesa Verde, Colorado. This is a park a lot of people do not know about, and it is well worth expanding your knowledge on this great national park.
So if you are looking for a trip to the southwest that is both educational and thrilling, this is one of the best parks to visit.
5. Colorado National Monument
The grandiose and striking sandstone canyons, monoliths, and landscapes of Colorado National Monument will amaze visitors for miles around.
The diverse landscape offers a number of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and driving along Rim Rock Drive.
Rim Rock Drive is best viewed from driving along the scenic route which will take you over steep-sided red rock canyons while still providing spectacular views of its magnificent landscape.
6. Dinosaur National Monument
Dinosaur National Monument has a variety of attractions that you do not want to miss out on. One of the most popular attractions in the Monument is the Quarry Hall, which features dinosaur bones.
The park also offers visitors scenic drives around its canyons and hikes through its dinosaur-dotted landscapes.
The best way to explore Dinosaur National Monument is through the scenic drives around its canyons. Visitors can also enjoy hiking through its dinosaur-dotted landscapes.
While the park is primarily located along the Colorado-Utah state line, it is still possible to explore Dinosaur National Monument and make a road trip out of it.
7. Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Canyon State Park is a popular destination for visiting outdoors people. It’s located just a short drive from Denver and Boulder.
Here, visitors can enjoy many outdoor activities, including hiking and rock climbing. The park showcases the beautiful canyon that it is named after, as well as towering sandstone cliffs and amazing trails through the woods.
In addition to these activities, you can also try fishing on the banks of South Boulder Creek or explore cafes along Highway 119 in Nederland.
8. Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a nice spot to visit. It is situated in South-Central Colorado not far from the city of Colorado Springs.
The average person drives around an hour or so to get here but it is definitely worth it for anyone interested in geology, natural history, or simply a nice day trip out west.
At the visitors center at the national monument, visitors can explore the fossil beds that have been in existence since about 34 million years ago.
There are four main reasons why people visit this place: To view fossils and learn about them;
To hike through some surprisingly scenic landscapes; For a day trip with family and/or friends who are visiting from out of town and want to do something different; Or simply to get out from the city and see some of the spectacular scenery of Colorado.
9. Chimney Rock National Monument
If you are ever in the Rocky Mountains, Chimney Rock National Monument is a must-see. This Puebloan site boasts some of Colorado’s most arresting archaeology and is an awe-inspiring experience for visitors.
In its prime, this Ancestral Puebloan society was home to over 200 buildings, most of which were constructed around a thousand years ago.
The inhabitants abandoned the site in 1125 and set fire to it as they left for fear that others would come and steal their resources if they weren’t destroyed.
To gain a deeper understanding of their culture, tourists can explore many area excavations such as the Great Kiva and Great House Pueblo during tours given by park rangers.
10. Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in archaeology.
The national monument is home to more than 6,000 archaeological sites dating between 750 – 1300 AD. There are even numerous archeological sites like kivas and cliff dwellings that will worth exploring.
If you are looking for a monument with a fascinating history, then the National Monument should definitely be on your list. From ancient shrines and towers to sacred springs and ancient villages, there is plenty to see.
