Have you ever considered exploring Colorado’s scenic mountain towns and sparkling lakes? In Colorado, you’ll discover landmarks that showcase a rich mining history alongside breathtaking Rocky Mountain vistas. Whether you’re soaking in natural hot springs to beat the winter chill or wandering through charming Victorian-style districts and historic railways, there’s an adventure waiting around every corner.
Breckenridge’s Historic Main Street
Breckenridge might be surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, but don’t think its historic main street is any less interesting! What was once a mining town has now transformed into a bustling arts and culture haven featuring original Victorian-style houses. Interestingly, many buildings lack the uniquely detailed Victorian craftsmanship, as they were initially built for miners.
Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park
Estes Park lies at the base of the Rocky Mountain National Park and is elevated to an astounding 7,522 feet. Fans of horror movies might want to visit the Stanley Hotel, while those in search of a more historical experience will prefer the Seven Keys Lodge. If the town doesn’t suit you, it’ll take you only a few minutes to arrive at the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park with its various trails.
Aspen’s Scenic Mountain Trails
Aspen is tucked away in a valley surrounded by mountains and vast wilderness, with the Roaring Fork River meeting its end close to it. The landscape hosts year-round trails, turning into a snowy wonderland in the winter and a budding forest in the summer. A few noteworthy routes to include in your hiking plan would be the American Lake Trail, Hunter Creek Trail Head, and Grottos Trail.
Durango’s Old West Charm
In south-western Colorado, near the New Mexico border, sits Durango, a town that was established for the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad. It features the breathtaking Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad, which is now classified as a heritage railroad and once traveled between Durango and Silverton. The railroad’s classic steam locomotives still travel on the railway, which you can climb on for a historic trip.
Telluride’s Festival Vibe
If you want to visit some of the world’s most exciting back-to-back festivals, you’ll enjoy traveling to Telluride! Each year Telluride receives thousands of visitors from all around the world for their year-long festivals. Many history-enthusiasts also travel to the Telluride Historic District, which covers a fair bit of the town and is seen as one of the top historic landmarks in Colorado.
Crested Butte’s Wildflower Meadows
Crested Butte, also known as “The Wildflower Capital of Colorado,” sits in the Slate River Valley, with its mountain peak rising above all else in the area. Although you may want to visit Crested Butte for its skiing facilities or festivals, the landscape is at its most beautiful in the spring as thousands of wildflowers bloom after the long winter. You can use various trails to explore the vast fields of flowers that cover the mountainside.
Glenwood Springs’ Soothing Hot Springs
Have you ever wanted to just relax and soak in the beauty of nature? Glenwood Springs is encircled by White River National Forest and its geothermal activity has turned the town into one of Colorado’s most prized hot springs destinations. Whether you want to swim in the massive pool in town or be met with serenity in the Canyon Springs, Glenwood has everything you need if you just want a relaxing trip.
Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs)
For those who aren’t interested in hot springs, outside of Colorado Springs lies Garden of the Gods Park and its various geological formations. These formations are said to show the vertical forces which shaped the Rocky Mountains. The Garden also functions as a fantastic animal-spotting destination, containing rare ants and being especially attractive to native bird species.
Ouray’s “Switzerland of America” Scenery
Ouray is a town steeped in history, with hot springs and restaurants, but what sets it apart from other towns is the towering section of the Rocky Mountain Range surrounding it. During winter, Ouray’s old buildings and neighboring mountains are covered in snow, which makes it look identical to a location found in the Swiss Alps.
Salida’s Arts District
Salida is the one-stop shop to everything historic and art related in Colorado! Downtown Salida features the biggest historic district in Colorado, with 136 buildings that signify its past in the Wild West. Guides can take you through the whole district, and most are dressed in historically accurate Victorian attire as they tell you all the secrets of Salida.
Grand Lake’s Lakeside Retreats
Grand Lake was formed thousands of years ago, making it Colorado’s best freshwater getaway for boating and sightseeing. It’s the largest natural lake in Colorado, with large retreats built all around it. The most desirable houses are built on the shore of the lake, with immediate access to the waters and the Rocky Mountains in the background.
Leadville’s Historic Mining District
When referring to mining towns, it’s impossible not to include Leadville’s Historic Mining District, which was once the most productive silver mine in Colorado. You can have guides lead you to the abandoned mining structures and see what remains of the old wooden structures. There is also a gallery showcasing all the different minerals found within Leadville Mine, as the Colorado Mining Belt also contains many other minerals.
Pagosa Springs’ Healing Waters
Taking a deep dive won’t be an issue if you’re going to Pagosa Springs! The system of hot springs in Pagosa also features the world’s deepest hot spring, which is often referred to as the “Mother Spring.” There are also various other hot springs in the Pagosa area, some of which are less public and have a more natural feel to them.
Vail’s Iconic Ski Resorts
Vail might be your next favorite ski resort in Colorado! There are many ski mountains in Colorado, but none are as big as Vail Mountain. The ski resorts also have many other amenities available, like restaurants and grand hotels. Resorts even hold festivals or special days, like Resort Snow Days or the Vail Film Festival.
Manitou Springs’ Quirky Sidewalks
Manitou Springs was once used only for its mineral water springs, but has transformed into an idyllic resort city. The downtown area showcases the Manitou Springs Historic District, with its sidewalks filled with art and restaurants for any taste you might crave. You can even visit the creekside city park or walk Barr Trail, a route that will take you to the top of Pikes Peak.
