Denver

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Colorado

From stunning state parks to beautiful beaches, these are the natural wonders of Colorado.

Sean Xu/Shutterstock
Sean Xu/Shutterstock
Sean Xu/Shutterstock

Colorado as a whole is beautiful, it’s a fact. It’s perhaps the most beautiful state in the continental US, though we don’t want any of our bordering neighbors knowing we said that. Still, within this near-perfect square of a state are a few truly exceptional destinations that are worth the drive and loading up the playlist. Grab your hiking boots, dust off the camera, and prepare for insane mountain views, wildlife sightings, geological anomalies, and of course, the West’s best city skyline. Plus a whole slew of trips to take this year if adventure is at the top of your to-do list.

Adam Springer/Shutterstock
Adam Springer/Shutterstock
Adam Springer/Shutterstock

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Distance from Denver: 89 miles southeast, 1.5 hour-drive
Driving up the unpaved road to get to this destination may have you second-guessing your life choices, but upon arriving (via a short and easy hike post-parking), you’ll soon find the natural splendor and photo ops worth any previous hesitation. This bright and elegant clay formation (once used by American Indians to make paint, hence the name) is the result of various oxidized iron compounds that created its mesmerizing bands of color. Explore 750 acres of towering, striped geological formations as some of the most unique sights you’ll see in the state.

Major42/Shutterstock
Major42/Shutterstock
Major42/Shutterstock

Twin Lakes

Distance from Denver: 122 miles southwest, 2 hour, 15 minute-drive
While the autumn landscapes here are simply unparalleled, experiencing the beauty of Twin Lakes any time of year is no less than epic. Aside from taking in the breathtaking views, there are all kinds of activities awaiting here, including kayaking, boat tours, and SUP rentals, plus nearby camping and plenty of hiking trails up and around Mt. Elbert. And just 25 minutes up the road is Leadville, which boasts Colorado’s oldest tavern, the Silver Dollar Saloon, and a bunch more Old West sights to see.

Rosemary Woller/Shutterstock
Rosemary Woller/Shutterstock
Rosemary Woller/Shutterstock

Durango

Distance from Denver: 336 miles southwest, 6-hour drive
One of the most southern and western towns in Colorado, Durango also happens to be simultaneously picturesque, charming, and a vibrant college town (go Skyhawks). Stroll Main Ave for Gilded Age architecture and plenty of shops, or head outside of town for some of the most thrilling outdoor escapades available (whitewater rafting, Jeep tours, and mountain biking, to name a few). And with natural backdrops like these, summer hiking and snow sports are both total givens. Oh, and this town of about 18,000 residents has more award-winning and high-quality restaurants per capita than San Francisco, so don’t worry about visiting hungry.

Creative Family/Shutterstock
Creative Family/Shutterstock
Creative Family/Shutterstock

Denver

Distance from Denver: 0 miles
It’s no secret that Denver is one of America’s fastest-growing cities. “Cowtown” no longer, Denver has transformed into a thriving urban metropolis with all the tourist trappings one could possibly want for a ridiculously fun weekend. A by-no-means-exhaustive listing of must-visit spots in Colorado’s capital city includes people-watching on the 16th Street Mall, sprawling out on a blanket under the bright Colorado sunshine in City Park, checking out the drinks and eats at Union Station, and exploring the cool art murals and hipster vibes of Denver’s booming RiNo neighborhood.

Radomir Rezny/Shutterstock
Radomir Rezny/Shutterstock
Radomir Rezny/Shutterstock

Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Distance from Denver: 16 miles west, 30-minute drive
One of the most legendary music venues in the world, Red Rocks Amphitheatre was carved into its surroundings by ancient sandstone monoliths and typically hosts some of the biggest and best live concerts in Colorado. But whether you’re able to catch a show or not, Red Rocks is always worth a visit, as it’s also a public park owned by the City and County of Denver. So you can visit for free anytime on non-show days to explore the hiking trails and stand on the stage where legends have played.

Jennifer Yakey-Ault/Shutterstock
Jennifer Yakey-Ault/Shutterstock
Jennifer Yakey-Ault/Shutterstock

Boulder

Distance from Denver: 30 miles northwest, 45-minute drive
This laid-back college town (home to the University of Colorado) nestled in the Colorado foothills is known for its laid back vibes and penchant for outdoor activities of all kinds. One glimpse at the famous Flatirons mountains that serve as the natural backdrop for the city will have you itching to get out and about as well. The best place to take in the views is the popular Chautauqua Park, although less crowded (and easier) hiking options can be had south of town at spots like Doudy Draw. Boulder’s dining scene is also one of the finest in America for a mid-sized city, and downtown’s Pearl Street Mall is an absolute must-stroll location for some of that “only in Boulder” local flavor.

marekuliasz/Shutterstock
marekuliasz/Shutterstock
marekuliasz/Shutterstock

Fort Collins

Distance from Denver: 64 miles north, 90-minute drive
With nicknames ranging from Fort Fun to the Napa Valley of Beer, whatever you call Fort Collins, you can’t call it a bad place to be. The town once made famous by the bizarre 2009 “Balloon Boy” hoax is also famously the home of craft OG New Belgium Brewing Company as well as a vibrant Old Town downtown district packed with bars and restaurants more than worthy of your patronage. For live music at another unique outdoor Colorado venue, head 30 miles west of Fort Collins to catch a show at the Mishawaka Amphitheatre, known as “The Mish” by locals.

Nick Fox/Shutterstock
Nick Fox/Shutterstock
Nick Fox/Shutterstock

Telluride

Distance from Denver: 364 miles southwest, 6.5-hour drive
One of the most stunning mountain towns in not just Colorado but the entire world, Telluride’s awe-inspiring mountain backdrops greeting you upon arrival to historic downtown will leave your jaw on the floor. Pick it back up and board the free ski gondola (which runs most months of the year as the only public transportation service of its kind in America) to check out the sights as you bar and restaurant hop between downtown Telluride and Mountain Village, where the world-class Telluride Ski Resort is located.

Phillip Thomas/Shutterstock
Phillip Thomas/Shutterstock
Phillip Thomas/Shutterstock

Roxborough State Park

Distance from Denver: 27.5 miles southwest, 50-minute drive
Colorado has 42 state parks, many within an easy drive from Denver. Like the famous Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, Roxborough boasts its own set of breathtakingly beautiful 300-million-year-old sandstone formations jetting out of the earth. It’s also an under-the-radar gem making it the perfect social-distancing friendly outing near the Mile High City. The trails are ideal for beginning hikers, and you may even spot some wildlife along the way. The park is home to creatures like coyotes, red fox, deer, 145 species of birds, and even the occasional bobcat and black bear.

Brad McGinley Photography/Moment/Getty
Brad McGinley Photography/Moment/Getty
Brad McGinley Photography/Moment/Getty

Rocky Mountain National Park

Distance from Denver: 66 miles northwest, 90-minute drive
With postcard-like vistas and 355 miles of hiking trails, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in the country. Explore favorite hiking destinations like Bear Lake and Lily Lake. If you’re really up for a challenge, head to the trailhead for Longs Peak, one of Colorado’s 58 “14ers” (mountains with elevation over 14,000 feet). The assent is strenuous and the venture will take 10-16 hours round trip but it’s all worth it when you get a glimpse of the view from the summit of the highest point in the park. If you’d rather see the views without breaking a sweat, drive Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the state, which is generally open May through October. To get to the park’s entrance from Denver, you’ll go through the town of Estes Park where along with lots of local elk herds, you can also check out the shops and restaurants on main street and the historic Stanley Hotel (aka the real life place that inspired Stephen King’s The Shining).

By John Hoffman/Shutterstock
By John Hoffman/Shutterstock
By John Hoffman/Shutterstock

Garden of the Gods

Distance from Denver: 68 miles south, 90-minute drive
This National Registered Landmark in Colorado Springs is another favorite for natural red rock formations, backed by the snow capped Pikes Peak (aka the mountain that inspired “America the Beautiful”). It’s free to visit, with hiking trails and a scenic drive. Be sure to look out for the famous “kissing camels” formation along the way. Horseback riding and rock climbing are other popular activities, along with a drive up the 19 mile Pikes Peak Highway which will take you to the summit of the towering mountain.

StephanieFarrell/Shutterstock
StephanieFarrell/Shutterstock
StephanieFarrell/Shutterstock

Breckenridge

Distance from Denver: 80 miles southwest, 90-minute drive
First, just call it Breck. Everyone else does. And once you’re talking like a local, you can enjoy this ski town haven in the Rockies like a local. As Colorado’s closest major ski resort to Denver and one of the most popular in the nation (second only to nearby Vail), Breck has everything you need for a kick-ass ski vacation. In the summer, you can hit the slopes in a whole new way, with a scenic gondola ride or a spin on the alpine slide. And be sure to pay a visit to Isak Heartstone, a 15-foot-tall wooden sculpture that resides in the woods near town. He loves visitors, but hates trash, so pack out what you pack in.

f11photo/Shutterstock
f11photo/Shutterstock
f11photo/Shutterstock

Maroon Bells

Distance from Denver: 170 miles southwest, 3.5-hour drive
When you think of Colorado, do you envision a valley with large, snow-capped peaks towering in the distance, reflecting on pristine mountain water? Yeah, that’s the Maroon Bells. Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak in the Elk Mountains (both 14ers) are the most photographed peaks in North America. You’re here for the natural wonder, so don’t rush through. Better yet, if you can swing a few nights camping in the area, do it.

Adam Springer/Shutterstock
Adam Springer/Shutterstock
Adam Springer/Shutterstock

Crystal Mill 

Distance from Denver: 203 miles southwest, 4-hour drive
Another favorite for aspiring photographers, this popular hiking or four-wheeling destination is home to the ruins of an 1892 wooden powerhouse. It takes some planning and effort to get to it, but if exploring a ghost town in the middle of the wilderness is on your bucket list, there’s no better place to check that off.

f11photo/Shutterstock
f11photo/Shutterstock
f11photo/Shutterstock

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Distance from Denver: 238 miles southwest, 4-hour drive
Backed by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in Southern Colorado lies 30 square miles of sand dunes that reach 750 feet in height. The dunes were formed naturally thanks to thousands of years of wind sweeping dust across the San Luis Valley into this pocket of land. The result looks almost otherworldly. Medano Creek runs along the edge of the dune field, and in the summer, it’s the perfect place to cool off after a morning hiking (then sliding, or boarding back down) the dunes. A short drive outside of the park is The Zapata Falls Recreational Area where an easy 1 mile round trip hike will lead you to the base of the 30-foot-tall waterfall.

Zack Frank/Shutterstock
Zack Frank/Shutterstock
Zack Frank/Shutterstock

Colorado National Monument

Distance from Denver: 262 miles southwest, 4.5-hour drive
Far closer to Arches National Park in Utah than it is to Denver, this area of the state looks like the iconic Wild West. But while you might not spot any cowboys racing along the landscape these days, you can get up close and personal with the land. Hike the 5-mile Monument Canyon trail or observe the action along the iconic 23-mile Rim Rock Drive traversing the upper rim of the canyon. Watch out for eagles, bighorn sheep, and, most of all, rattlesnakes. The park also boasts some of the best camping in Colorado.

Alexey Kamenskiy/Shutterstock
Alexey Kamenskiy/Shutterstock
Alexey Kamenskiy/Shutterstock

Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Distance from Denver: 251 miles southwest, 5-hour drive
The steep granite walls of Colorado’s deepest canyon is a dramatic sight. But it’s also somehow the state’s least visited National Park. Carved over millions of years by the Gunnison River, the cliffs reach over 2,000 feet and are often bathed in shadow, hence the dark name. You can hike both the north and south rim, camp under the star-filled night sky, and find some of the best trout fishing in the state.

Connie Coleman/Photographer's Choice RF/Getty
Connie Coleman/Photographer’s Choice RF/Getty
Connie Coleman/Photographer’s Choice RF/Getty

Mesa Verde National Park 

Distance from Denver: 400 miles southwest, 7.5-hour drive
The Ancestral Pueblo people once called this area of the state home, and their remarkable cliff dwellings have been preserved in this protected area. This UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Colorado’s Four Corners region is home to more than 5,000 archeological sites of the Ancestral Puebloan people, including 600 fascinating cliff dwellings carved into the natural landscape. Explore ancient ruins such as Cliff Palace and Balcony House before taking in the rest of the park via the 6-mile Mesa Top Loop Road.

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Molly Martin is a freelance writer in Denver, Colorado who is always on the lookout for fun things to do. Follow her Mile High adventures @mollydbu on Twitter and Instagram.

Erica Buehler is a Denver-based freelance writer who likes sledding as much as hot chocolate by the fire. Follow her @e_buehler on Instagram and @e_buehler_ on Twitter for more updates on Denver food and other Mile High shenanigans.

Denver

How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Denver This Year

For a successful St. Patrick's Day, hit these parades, barcrawls, parties, and festivals.

VISIT DENVER
VISIT DENVER
VISIT DENVER

Grab your green and your Guinness-St. Patrick’s Day is around the corner, and there’s fun to be had. In addition to being the first big celebratory holiday after New Year’s, St. Paddy’s is also a signal of spring; more hours of sunshine, T-shirt temps, and filling Blake, Market, and Larimer with drunken revelry make up a particularly Denver type of equinox. However you plan to celebrate-with family friendly activities or for those over the legal drinking age only-there are parades to be watched, playful drinks to be sipped, and a whole lot of shamrock-ing to do.

Photo courtesy of Mile High Spirits
Photo courtesy of Mile High Spirits
Photo courtesy of Mile High Spirits

Dance a jig or two at Mile High Spirits’ Shamrock Shenanigans

March 17
If you’re ready to put your dancing shoes to good use, wiggle your way on over to Mile High Spirits-doors are opening at 12 pm and there’s no cover ‘til 10. Enjoy MHS’ drinks, big dance floor, and even bigger outdoor patio for all the Irish pride and shenanigans you can handle.

Cook Street School of Culinary Arts
Cook Street School of Culinary Arts
Cook Street School of Culinary Arts

Whip up steak for a St. Paddy’s Date Night

March 17
Cook Street’s special St. Paddy’s Day class involves making the perfect steak while sipping on Irish whiskey. On Friday only, learn about proteins, cooking methods, and choosing side dishes carefully while cooking up traditional Irish cuisine.

Crawl around town. You know, figuratively…

March 17 – 18
Is it a drinking holiday in Denver if there aren’t a handful of bar crawls happening? Probably not. St. Paddy’s Day is no different; you can start crawling from a number of bars, but a few in particular have everything plotted out for you (for a small fee). Start at the Ginn Mill and receive a map of over 10 pub locations you’ll be crawling to either Friday or Saturday, plus drink special vouchers. There’s also a crawl departing from Nola Jane (Friday only) with its own food and drink specials, plus a scavenger hunt and some St. Paddy’s merch, too.

The Fainting Goat
The Fainting Goat
The Fainting Goat

Visit one of Denver’s Irish Pubs

March 17 – 18
If you can’t think of a better place to spend St. Paddy’s Day then at a local Irish pub, we salute you-just be prepared to throw a few elbows making your way to the bar. Denver’s got several good ol’ pubs from Broadway to Larimer Square that’ll be in full swing this weekend, pouring fresh pints as far as the eye can see. Check out Scruffy Murphy’s, Nallen’s, The Irish Rover, Finley’s, The Celtic on Market, or the Fainting Goat for that SPD revelry you know, love, and trekked out for.

Photo courtesy of The OG/McGregor Square
Photo courtesy of The OG/McGregor Square
Photo courtesy of The OG/McGregor Square

Sip and savour St. Paddy’s themed bevvies

Through March 17
Everyone pulls out the green food dye and mint flavouring for St. Paddy’s, but there are some other creative drink specials to sample, too. The OG’s got a boozy milkshake for the occasion, aptly named “Who’s Your Paddy,” a mix of vanilla ice cream, Crème de Menthe, Tullamore Dew, Bailey’s, and whipped cream. BEZEL’s Irish Matcha Man is pretty unique, with Teeling Small Batch whiskey, lime, thyme-infused honey, and matcha powder. And then Slater’s 50/50 takes it to another level (unsurprisingly) with its Lucky Mint Green Shake: mint-flavored ice cream in a frosting-rimmed glass with Lucky Charm marshmallows, rainbow stripe sour strips, whipped cream and green sprinkles. Other notable specials can be found at Poka Lola Social Club, Dairy Block’s Moo Bar, and Seven Grand.

Sing along and cheers to live music

March 17
Denver’s The Monkey Barrel is known for its regular live performances, and this St. Patrick’s Day you can tune in to Elijah Petty & The Part-Times and other musical guests if you’re in search of a chiller spot to sip your Guinness. Or, have one of the best burgers in town while relishing the shenanigans and live music of Cherry Cricket Cherry Creek this St. Paddy’s Day. Food and drink specials will also be available through the holiday weekend, so leave extra room or wear your stretchy (green) pants.

HRCA Race Series
HRCA Race Series
HRCA Race Series

Show your St. Paddy’s spirit by… running?

March 18
Feeling restless? Or maybe you’re itching to get a few laps in before hammering down several pints this Saturday? Either way, Highlands Ranch is hosting its St. Patrick’s Day 5K where finishing the race gets you St. Patrick’s Day merch, an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast, and of course, a complimentary pint courtesy of Living the Dream Brewing.

Holidaily Brewing Company
Holidaily Brewing Company
Holidaily Brewing Company

Drink and do good at Holidaily Brewing Co.

March 17
This St. Paddy’s Day, Holidaily and the Gluten Intolerance Group are putting on their Raise a Pint, Lend a Hand fundraiser. A special glitter and green Firkin tapping is happening at 4 pm at both taprooms, with special (and gluten-free) treats available at the Golden location, thanks to Farmhouse 5280 and Waive the Grain bakery. 10% of all St. Patrick’s Day sales will be donated to the Gluten Intolerance Group.

Talnua Distillery
Talnua Distillery
Talnua Distillery

Party at a local distillery

March 17 – 18
Talnua Distillery is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day bash to remember this year, featuring food trucks, live music, special themed cocktails, and more. Limited bottles of Talnua’s exclusive Olde Saint’s Keep whiskey will be available for purchase, which you can hang onto while you dance along to pipe bands or eat a brat or two from El Jefe’s.

Watch some Irish step dancing

March 17
Head on over to Stanley Marketplace to witness the talent and skill of the students at the Wick School of Irish Dance at 12 pm, and follow it up with a green cerveza at Cheluna Brewing Co. Of course, plenty of tasty lunch and dinner options are available around the marketplace so you can soak up a bit of that beer.

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Erica Buehler is a Denver-based freelance writer and editor. Follow her @e_buehler on Instagram and @e_buehler_ on Twitter for more updates on Denver food and other Mile High shenanigans.

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