Spring in Colorado is a majestic time. As Mother Nature’s on her best behavior (minus the occasional temper tantrum blizzard), flowers bloom, trees come to life, and newborn animals leave us all scrambling for our cameras. While it’s hard to go wrong in most Colorado locations, some put on a more spectacular show than others. To get the most out of what our state has to offer, be sure to add these following locations to your bucket list:
Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak is made up of 14,000 feet of astounding aesthetics (because, when it comes to mountains, size matters!). Located near Colorado Springs, this elevated elegance was rumored to be the inspiration behind the song “America the Beautiful.” There are a few ways this peak can pique your interest. You can drive your own vehicle up a scenic route with plenty of viewing areas and panoramic sites. You can take the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which is the highest cog railway in the world. You can also climb the peak on foot, something that should only be reserved for those who are physically and mentally up to the challenge.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a bit of a drive from the Front Range, which is why this park never gets the mention it deserves. But those who venture into it never leave disappointed. At a depth of 8,043 feet, the canyon is among the deepest in North America. You can access the river from the South Rim, but the North Rim offers more seclusion.
The park is full of short and easy hiking trails, climbing rocks, and kayaking opportunities. Of course, it’s full of wildlife, too, particularly bears. Consider wearing a noisemaker, bringing bear spray, and traveling in a group to protect yourself.
Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells, located in Aspen, are claimed to be the most photographed mountains in North America. They’re made up of jagged stone that is over 300 million years old and distinguished by bell-shaped, wine-hued peaks (hence the name).
In essence, the Maroon Bells are what happens when the Earth just wants to show off. Aside from their extraordinary beauty, they also offer a wonderful place to camp, hike, bike, and explore diverse habitats. The bells wrap up nearly everything special about our state in one perfect, poignant package.
Colorado National Monument
The Colorado National Monument (located in Fruita) is known for conserving one of the most powerful landscapes in the American West. Composed of intimidating monoliths, wide plateaus, and playful canyons, it’s an area packed full of twists and turns.
It offers a myriad of activities, including horseback riding, hiking, biking, scenic drives, and general exploring. It’s also an excellent place to take photographs, especially of wildlife. Coyotes, eagles, and bighorn sheep (Colorado’s state animal) are commonly spotted.
Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway is a must-drive for road-trip lovers everywhere (even those who hate car rides might convert). Regularly named among the most beautiful drives in America, this highway is a 25-mile stretch nestled in the San Juan Mountains.
The ride can be a challenge (maybe pass on letting your sixteen-year-old take the wheel) and is known for tight turns on a narrow, twisty road. It’s a good option for those who love to sightsee or want a bit of an adrenaline rush. It’s also attractive to history buffs; the highway was originally built in 1880 to give miners and prospectors a way to travel between gold and silver mines.
If you see the great outdoors as just subpar, many indoor places are perfect for a springtime getaway (Casa Bonita is back open, after all). But for anyone who wants to see Colorado in all of its beauty, these locations are an apt place to start. If you don’t understand why everyone is moving here, you will.
Fox Ridge Apartments in Longmont, Colorado offers a quiet residential location, mountain views, and modern amenities. We’re the perfect place to call home. Contact us to learn more.