Exploring the centennial state with an ultimate bucket list of Colorado adventures.
Ever since our podcast episode from Season 05 Travel Around The World with Emmy Gains where she shared her love for Colorado and all the amazing things to see and do in this beautiful state, we have wanted to explore this place even more. From exploring alpine lakes, white water rafting, wandering small towns known for their mountain charm Colorado is a treasure chest of adventures just wanting to be had.
So whether you’re planning a trip to the Centennial state or actually live here and want to start exploring your backyard, it’s pretty much impossible to craft the perfect Colorado bucket list because there’s simply SO. MUCH. TO. DO here.
Of course, some experiences shine like bright stars, and while we definitely recommend you create your own list of must-dos in the state based on your interests, these adventures are must-sees in Colorado, especially if you’re keen to experience some of the most iconic sights in the state!
So here is the Ultimate Colorado Bucket list for all kinds of travelers and adventures alike.
#1 Find Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon
Glenwood Canyon is a rugged scenic 12.5 mi canyon in western Colorado. Its walls climb as high as 1,300 feet above the Colorado River. And tucked deep into Glenwood Canyon, Hanging Lake is a place that, put in simple words, looks straight out of a fairytale. Thanks to its unusual geological formation, unique flora, mineral-rich waters cascading down from the cliffs and into a lake tinted with shades of teal, being here will make you feel as though you’re in a movie setting. In fact, Hanging Lake was designated a National Natural Landmark in 2011.
#2 See three of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the world
In a state with over 58 mountain peaks exceeding 14,000 feet, there are bound to be many alpine lakes that are simply breathtaking. But among all of Colorado’s alpine lakes, there are a few that just stand apart from all the others. As a classic Colorado hike, the Emerald Lake trail in Rocky Mountain National Park is a must on everyone’s bucket list. Even though it is a relatively short hike, it provides access to three picture-perfect alpine lakes backdropped by the dreamiest mountain scenery – Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake.
Apart from the three main lakes you’ll see along the trail, you can also hike a mile onwards to Lake Hayiaha, another gorgeous lake that’s worth the extra effort if you’re still keen to relish on more mountain goodness.
#3 Go in search of fall foliage on the Trail Ridge Road
While nearly every season has something special to do in Colorado, fall is a particularly beautiful time of the year where fall colors just seem to explode thanks to the changing colors of Aspen trees. Stretching from Rocky Mountain from Estes Park and into Grand Lake, the Trail Ridge Road is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the United States. Even though the road is stunning any time of the year, fall brings in a gorgeous sway of autumn hues as the leaves begin to turn.
Aside from the gorgeous backdrop that lines the road every mile of the way, what makes this drive so striking beautiful is the fact that it’ll take you above tree line all the way to 12,183 feet high, providing some of the most incredible birds-eye views of the mountains below.
#4 Experience a Christmas in Vail
Known for its world-class ski resorts and enchanting Christmas allure, Vail is one of the best destinations in the world to unwrap the magic of the holiday season. Aside from its unbeatable alpine goodness and architecture that will make you feel as though you’ve been transported deep into the German Alps, Vail sure knows how to bring the Christmas spirit to life with twinkling lights all over, Christmas Markets to stroll for hours on end, and a ton of activities and festivals to spread the holiday cheer.
#5 Experience the beauty of the Ice Lake Trail
Touted as one of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado, this gem of a trail set deep in the San Juan National Forest features some of the most idyllic mountain scenery in the state. Tie your shoelaces and hit this trail in order two see two of the most incredible alpines lakes in the entire country. Hiking Ice Lake isn’t considered an easy feat, but with plenty of natural beauty all over to keep your mind entertained, you will get lots of reasons to stop on a regular basis to catch your breath.
Moreover, even though the two alpine lakes are the stars of the show, the hike also boasts delightful alpine meadows, waterfalls cascading down from cliff sides, and views of backdropping snow-capped peaks, making every step of the way a reason to jow drop jaw right to the ground.
#6 Summit one of Colorado’s ‘14ers
There is no shortage of mountains in Colorado. For those new to mountaineering parlance, fourteener is a nickname given to 14,000 feet mountains. With a whopping 58 of them in Colorado, we’re definitely not telling you to summit each and every one of them, but there’s no better way to see the Centennial state than from high up above, so definitely make it a part of your bucket list to hike up to at least one of them. Hiking a 14er does take some practice and training. So make sure to hike some shorter hills build up your endurance.
While no Colorado 14er is “light”, some are easier to conquer than others. If you’re not super experienced, Mt. Bierstadt is probably your best bet. Other relatively easy 14ers include Mt. Sherman, Huron Peak, and Handiest Peak. If you’re not a first-timer, options like Capitol Peak or Maroon Peak are truly bound to test your mountaineering skills.
#7 See the tallest dune in North America
Set just outside of Alamosa, Sand Dunes National Park is a sea of towering dunes backdropped by some of Colorado’s most beautiful mountains. As if this weren’t enough to get you to visit this wonder of a national park, get this: it’s home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, with the highest one being the Star Dune, standing high over 14 feet.
Another surefire reason to add Great Sand Dunes into your bucket list is the fact that the park is considered Dark Sky Territory. This means there is no light pollution anywhere around, which makes the star-gazing here a true delight (on a clear new moon night, you may even get to see the Milky Way).
Have you ever been to Colorado? What are some other bucket list-worthy experiences to have while traveling around the state? Let us know your picks in the comment section below.
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