While some come for the winters, everyone loves those Colorado summer days and nights. Being at higher elevations means that most cities in Colorado escape the intense heat waves that plague the Southwest, and you can always go higher until you find snow if that’s what you’re after in the summertime.
If you think of the Rockies as solely a winter destination, you’re missing out on three other gorgeous seasons. In the warmer months, those famed skiing and snowboarding trails get converted into spectacular mountain biking and hiking routes.
The snow might be gone, but the fun and excitement remain in Colorado. If you’re planning a summer escape, it’s the ultimate destination for outdoor lovers, foodies, and adventure seekers.
The Great Outdoors
One-third of the land in Colorado is federally owned, consisting of national forests, parks, monuments, and other designated areas. Whether you’re a hiker, mountain biker, picnicker, or horseback rider, Colorado has plenty of trails and parks to explore. In the warmer months, you’ll be treated to stunning displays of flowers and have better views of sweeping landscapes compared to colder months.
Rocky Mountain National Park includes over 400 square miles of protected mountains with an impressive array of wildlife and hiking trails. Find a trail to suit all abilities and ambitions. Explore the Continental Divide and step into the alpine tundra and vibrant forests. Famed for the Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road, you can also drive much of the park. From Longs Peak to Bear Lake, there’s something for everyone.
Mesa Verde National Park is another gorgeous pick, located in the southwest. It’s known for the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, and especially Cliff Palace. Both outdoor lovers and history buffs adore this destination, and you can also slip into the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum for exhibits on local history and culture. Take Mesa Top Loop Road for the best overlooks, such as Sun Point where you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas.
Head up past clouds on the Pikes Peak Highway. Get a view from the highest summit around Colorado Springs, 12 miles from town. It peaks at 14,115 feet. In Colorado, you don’t have to travel far to take in world-famous destinations. Also nearby is Garden of the Gods, a public park that includes 1,300 acres of sandstone formations and plenty of hiking trails.
Craft Food and Drinks
The health-conscious people of Colorado craft a variety of locally-made food and beverages, which you can pick up at various spots like a supermarket. Everything from cold-pressed juices to sodas and potato chips.
It ranks among the top five states for most microbreweries at over 400, and you’ll be able to check out these craft gems in every region. New Belgium Brewing outta Fort Collins is a recurring favorite, and the company regularly makes more beer than the other 10 top-ranked Colorado craft breweries combined. If you’re looking for variety, it’s a must. In the past year, the brewery business in Colorado grew by over a4 million barrels, and new breweries open regularly.
Another favorite is Oskar Blues Brewing in Longmont with over 200,000 barrels per year. It holds the title of the best-selling craft beer that comes in a six-pack and enjoys a regular boost in sales each year. Recently, the brewery has committed to growing its barrel-aged options and taking full advantage of the three-brewery network it belongs to. There are several fun ways to brewery-hop in the summer months, from pedaling as a group to being taken around by horseback.
You can also visit an exciting winery scene in Western Colorado, among other locations in the state. This location is also popular for its fruits, like the Palisade Peach. The peach season typically starts in late July, when you’ll see the peaches start popping up at stores and roadside stands throughout Colorado.
Road Trippin’ It
Not all vehicles are capable of maneuvering Colorado snow in the winter—and not all drivers are comfortable in such conditions. However, summer in Colorado nearly demands a road trip! Seasonal high-mountain switchback roads and passes open up for exploration. Here are some of our favorites:
- Weekend Road Trips in Colorado
- Road Trips from Denver
- Zen Nature Trips in Colorado
- Four Corner Road Trips
Keep in mind the importance of vehicle service as you plan this epic road trip adventure. Make sure you’re ready to navigate all those scenic byways. You’ll also want to plan for plenty of time to relax and it’s easier when you don’t have to worry about a breakdown.
Colorado has plenty of spas and hot springs where you can soak up some rejuvenation. It’s also well-known for its recreational offerings for those who choose to imbibe. Map out all necessary stops, and pen in time to simply kick back and relax. For those traveling with children, there are plenty of opportunities to have a blast as a family. Colorado has some of the best ziplining in the country, and nothing compares to soaring above those famed landscapes as a family.
Travel as a group and challenge everyone to come up with a list of stops. Whether it’s checking out the legendary Colorado-style pizza or heading to one of the many rock-climbing destinations in the state, Colorado isn’t just for the winter birds. It’s an incredible state with everything you need for a memorable vacation. Where will your first Colorado stop be, and what kind of brew are you going to pair with it?
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