Colorado is a haven for thrill-seekers and outdoors enthusiasts. With dramatic scenery, exciting excursions and snowy peaks perfect for skiing, Colorado is the perfect for winter or summer vacations. The striking natural beauty of the mountains, canyons and meandering rivers is unmatched in North America.

Skiers can delight in the range of resort options found in Colorado. With 26 resor ...

Colorado is a haven for thrill-seekers and outdoors enthusiasts. With dramatic scenery, exciting excursions and snowy peaks perfect for skiing, Colorado is the perfect for winter or summer vacations. The striking natural beauty of the mountains, canyons and meandering rivers is unmatched in North America.

Skiers can delight in the range of resort options found in Colorado. With 26 resorts located throughout the state, vacationers can find the perfect place for their trip. Having the longest ski season in the U.S. means less crowds and more opportunities to hit the slopes. Whether you choose to glide down the Aspen Highlands, Cooper Mountain or Crested Butte, you’re in for some of the very best skiing in the world.

Need to recharge after a long day of skiing? Take a dip in a steamy hot spring such as Pagosa Springs or Penny Hot Springs in Carbondale. Several resorts in Colorado were built around naturally occurring hot springs. Aside from relaxation, visitors to the springs enjoy the benefits of bathing in mineral rich water.

If you want to maximize your vacation time and don’t mind the drive, there are several day trips within the state that are worth taking.

Denver Area Day Trips

There’s lots to see without driving more than an hour from the Mile High City. Boulder, Colorado and Mount Evans are a short 30-minute drive from Denver. Travelers visiting Boulder should make a stop to the famous Flatiron Mountains then explore downtown Boulder. Boulder is also home to the Celestial Seasonings tea factory where you can take a tour of the tea-making facilities.

Western Colorado Day Trips

About two hours west of Pagosa Springs, you'll find Mesa Verde National Park. Adventurous travelers will want to take the guided tour of the cliff dwellings built by the Pueblo Indians. The tour itself is considered a difficult hike and will have you climbing up steep ladders and twisting into narrow corridors. Visitors who are looking for a more relaxing outing can still learn about the cliff dwellings by taking the less strenuous Cliff Palace Twilight tour.