Discover Colorado: The Ultimate Adventure Bucketlist
Planning a trip to the Centennial State? Perhaps you live here and want to get to know your backyard a little better. Regardless of the reason, putting together a Colorado bucket list is a pretty difficult feat because, well, there’s just too much beauty around!
Some adventures tower high above the crowds, though, and while we advise anyone to create their own list based on their interests, these experiences are absolute non-negotiables when it comes to traveling Colorado, especially if you’re keen to start exploring the more popular sites.
The Ultimate Colorado Bucket List
1. Find Yourself in a Fairytale at Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon
Hidden deep inside the walls of Glenwood Canyon, Hanging Lake is a place where you’ll get to feel as though you’re inside a fairytale. Due to its unique geological formation, beautiful vegetation covering the walls, and teal-shaded water cascading from the cliffs, a visit to this stunning lake will have you wondering if fairies aren’t about to pop out from under the rocks.
2. See Three of the Most Gorgeous Alpine Lakes in the World (plus a secret fourth one)
Probably one of Colorado’s most famous hikes, the Emerald Lake trail in Rocky Mountain National Park is an absolute must on your Colorado bucket list. Even though the trail is relatively short and easy, what makes this hike so famous is the fact that it follows three picturesque alpine lakes backdropped by the most idyllic mountain scenery.
Tip: There’s a fourth lake further into Rocky Mountain in case you’re feeling keen to see even more alpine goodness in a more secluded setting. To get to Lake Hayaiha, you’ll need to hike an extra mile (plus another on the way back), but the views are worth every step of the way.
3. Go in Search of Fall Foliage on the Trail Ridge Road
Regarded as one of the most gorgeous drives in the United States, the Trail Ridge Road stretches from Estes Park to Rocky Mountain National Park and into Grand Lake.
The Trail Ridge Road is as scenic as it gets at any time of the year, but capturing the fall colours of Colorado at its best makes it one of the most epic US driving experiences. (The road closes by the end of October, though, and won’t reopen until May!)
The road will take you above tree line all the way to over 12,000 feet above sea level, providing some of the most striking views of the Rockies down below, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Colorado.
Although the road is only 48 miles long, it will take you at least two to three hours to complete as you appreciate the stunning raw beauty of the Rockies.
4. Spend Christmas in Vail
Vail is one of the country’s most sought-after Christmas destinations for all the right reasons.
For one, this cozy alpine town is world-renowned for its world-class skiing ops, and while you can enjoy the nature around it any time of the year, Christmas makes the town feel especially enchanting.
Aside from the charming buildings that will make you feel as though you’re exploring a village in the Austrian Alps, Vail is king when it comes to unwrapping the festive cheer. Think twinkling lights adorning every corner, Christmas Markets you can roam for hours on end, and a calendar filled with activities and festivals that will make you wish you could stay just a little longer.
5. Hike Ice Lake Trail
Think dreamy alpine lakes that look straight out of a painting and mountain scenery so good your jaw will drop right to the ground, all with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks keeping you company every step of the way. The Ice Lake Trail is touted as one of the most stunning hikes in Colorado, and once you’re there, you’ll see exactly why that is.
Hiking Ice Lake isn’t exactly considered a walk in the park, but with so many views to gawk at along the way, you’ll have reasons galore to stop and catch your breath for a while.
6. Conquer a Colorado Fourteener
In case you’re new to mountaineering language, a fourteener is a name given to mountains that are over 14,000 feet high!
Colorado, home to 58 fourteeners, offers a wide array of options for beautiful mountain views.
An even better way to see these peaks, though? From high up above! Summiting a fourteener in Colorado is definitely an experience that belongs on every outdoor lover’s bucket list.
No Colorado 14er is easy to conquer, but some are considered lighter than others. If you’re not a super experienced hiker, Mt. Bierstadt, Mt. Sherman, Huron Peak, and Handiest Peak are all wonderful options to test your skills.
If you want to try a harder challenge, Capitol Peak or Maroon Peak are both guaranteed a true trial.
7. See a Sea of Sand Dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park
Even though the first thing that comes to mind when we think of Colorado is the mountains, this gem of a state is home to a wide array of landscapes. In fact, it’s home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, with the highest one, Star Dune, towering at 755 feet.
Another magical fact about this park? It’s listed as a Sky Dark Territory, meaning there is no light pollution anywhere nearby and making it a prime spot for stargazing (you may even get to see the Milky Way on a clear night!)
8. Witness Nature’s Masterpiece at Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs
Step into a geological wonderland at Garden of the Gods, where vibrant red rock formations pierce the sky against the backdrop of majestic Pikes Peak. This free public park is a testament to the artistic power of nature, featuring towering sandstone spires, balancing rocks, and unique formations shaped over millions of years.
Explore the paved and unpaved trails, try your hand at rock climbing, or simply marvel at the contrast of red rocks against the Colorado blue sky. With its accessibility and jaw-dropping beauty, Garden of the Gods is a must-see that captures the essence of Colorado’s natural splendor.
9. Hike Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer vertical walls and dizzying depths of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This hidden gem boasts some of North America’s steepest cliffs and oldest rock formations. The Gunnison River has carved this dramatic landscape over millions of years, creating a paradise for rock climbers, hikers, and photographers.
Whether peering over the rim at Sunset View, descending into the canyon on the Gunnison Route, or fishing in Gold Medal Waters, the Black Canyon offers a raw, untamed beauty that will leave you speechless.
Only experienced hikers with wilderness permits can enter the canyon itself, but there are several trails along the north and south rim that would suit intermediates.
10. Step Back in Time at Mesa Verde National Park
Journey back in time to Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans. Explore the incredibly well-preserved cliff dwellings, including the famous Cliff Palace, which housed up to 100 people over 700 years ago.
As you wander through the intricate stone villages and peer into kivas, you’ll gain a profound appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of these ancient people. Mesa Verde isn’t just a park; it’s a portal to a long-lost world, making it an essential stop for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.
11. Ride the Rails Back in Time on the Historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Step back into the golden age of rail travel on the Historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a journey that’s as much about the destination as it is about the ride. This coal-fired, steam-operated railroad has been in continuous operation since 1882, winding through the breathtaking canyons and remote wilderness of the San Juan National Forest.
As you chug along in a vintage coach, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Animas River and towering peaks, inaccessible by any other means. The 45-mile route between Durango and Silverton uniquely blends Colorado’s rich mining history and stunning natural beauty.
Whether you’re a train enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, this iconic railroad adventure provides an unforgettable glimpse into Colorado’s past and present.
Have you ever done any of these bucket list activities in Colorado? Even though this list could be a whole lot longer, these 11 experiences are some of the best The Centennial State offers, so they’re a great way to get started exploring!
More Top Tips For Visiting Colorado
Before hitting the road in Colorado, you may also want to note:
- Conditions on Colorado’s mountainous roads can change quickly; check codot.gov for driving advice before you set out.
- You can reach some seriously high altitudes in Colorado. Those coming from sea level may experience some altitude sickness.
- Come prepared for sudden changes in weather! Sunny mornings can swiftly turn into downpours and strong winds, always be prepared when hitting the trails.
- Brush up on your winter driving skills before taking on the mountainous climbs in the colder months.
- The Colorado National Monument Annual Park Pass costs $45 for one year, or America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass is $80, covering all US National Parks and recreation sites. This is likely to be a cheaper alternative than paying a $15 entry fee each time if you’re planning an extended trip to the state.
- Never forget a road trip essential again with our complete family road trip packing list.
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