Your Guide to Outdoor Activities in Colorado
Known for its geographic diversity, Colorado is one of the most sought-after locations in the western US for outdoor activities. Here, one can visit snow-covered mountains, arid deserts, and river canyons throughout its over 100,000 square miles of land. The state itself encompasses most of the Southern Rocky Mountains as well as the northeastern portion of the Colorado Plateau and the western edge of the Great Plains. With so much to explore, it’s no wonder that Colorado is a key destination for outdoor adventurers.
The swiftest running whitewater occurs in May and June while August is the best month for a more laid-back kayaking experience.
Kayaking and Whitewater Rafting
Unprecedented whitewater rivers make Colorado a top destination for kayakers and whitewater rafters. Beginners and veterans can enjoy the scenery and gorgeous surroundings that makes the waterways of Colorado such a desired water sport destination. Nearly 20 rivers boast headwaters in Colorado, and kayaking season typically runs from May to September. The swiftest running whitewater occurs in May and June while August is the best month for a more laid-back kayaking experience.
Check out a few of these locations for your kayaking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting trip:
Chatfield Reservoir: Located 19 miles NE of Denver, the reservoir is probably the largest and most scenic lake within very close proximity to the city of Denver. Keep in mind that while there are many areas open to casual canoeing, you may need to hike a bit with your canoe as well.
Colorado River: Flowing 1,450 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado to the Gulf of Mexico by California, the Colorado River is the seventh longest river in the U.S, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Kayaking on the Colorado runs the gamut from gentle Class I and Class II stretches to difficult and extreme Class V sections, so pick an area that suits your abilities.
Platte River: Kayak, canoe, or tube on the Platte river, as the river is rated from Class I to V in various sections, and most tributary streams are rated Class IV to V+, or even VI. You can get to this waterway by traveling southwest to central Douglas County in central Colorado (southwest of Denver by about 45 miles).
Hiking and Backpacking
With 500 miles of hiking trail, the Colorado Trail is a top destination for those with a love for the mountains. The trail itself is broken into 28 accessible segments, allowing visitors to plan a quick day trip or a multi-day vacation in the wilderness. Thru hikers should allow at least 4 to 6 weeks between late June and early September to cover the entire 486 miles. Most of the Trail is very high, above 10,000'. Many areas are above 12,000' with the highest point 13,271'.
Skiing and Snowboarding
When people think of Colorado, many images that come to mind are snow-capped mountains, ski resorts, and scenic frozen lakes. With numerous resorts, adventurers can participate in alpine activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. Many of these resorts also focus on fashion and nightlife as well, making them a premier travel destination for those with a taste for adventure and a love for travel.
Consider a few of these top resorts in Colorado for your next trip:
Aspen: A quaint Victorian town melds seamlessly with Aspen Mountain, giving visitors the ability to explore Aspen Snowmass' "Power of Four" ski resorts—Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass—and downtown Aspen. Fine cuisine, busy nightlife, and relaxing spas can all be found on this one-of-a-kind resort.
Vail: Located in Eagle County, Vail is the 3rd largest single mountain ski resort in the United States, spanning 5,289 acres. Shopping, spas, and nightlife are the perfect wrap up for your skiing or snowboarding vacation at Vail Mountain.
Breckenridge: Located at the base of Tenmile Range, Breckenridge hosts many unique winter activities. From the International Snow Sculpture Championships in January to the annual winter Ullr Fest parade which pays homage to the Norse god of snow, there’s something for everyone.
