Visiting Colorado for the first time? This Guide Has Everything You Need to Know

Visiting Colorado for the first time? Then you are here for a treat.

Our fellow blogger Justin from Shades of Summr Travel Blog, is sharing his experience and knowldege of the colorful and diverse State in the US.

Colorado is one of my favorite travel destinations in the US, and since we live right across the border in New Mexico, it is no surprise that we go there every chance we can get.

Especially fall holidays in Southern Colorado have become a staple in our yearly planning, and we keep going back to our favorite places, Telluride and Durango, each year.

But after seeing so much of Colorado, I also know that it has a lot to offer and it can be hard to plan your holiday without some guidance.

Luckily for you, I kept all my notes and insider tips based on our recent trips – and created this post for you.

However, before diving into our favorite spots in Colorado, I would like to share some facts and general basic information.

Where Is Colorado?

Colorado sits in the southwestern part of the U.S., kind of smack in the middle of everything. It’s surrounded by six states—Nebraska and Kansas to the east, Utah to the west, Wyoming up north, and both New Mexico and Oklahoma down south.

Fun little fact: Colorado is one of those rare states that’s basically a rectangle. Its borders are all straight lines—no rivers or mountains defining the edges, which is pretty unusual in the U.S.

Main Cities and Counties You Should Know

Colorado isn’t just all mountains and national parks—it’s got some really cool cities worth checking out too.

Here are the main ones:

• Denver – This is the capital and the biggest city. It’s where you’ll probably fly in if you’re coming by air. Think craft beer, art museums, and amazing day trips into the mountains.
• Colorado Springs – Nestled at the base of the Rockies, it’s known for Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. Great views, and a little more laid-back than Denver.
• Aurora – Just east of Denver, it’s a diverse city with lots of parks and access to outdoor recreation.
• Fort Collins – A super chill college town (home to Colorado State University), it’s also the jumping-off point for Rocky Mountain National Park.

Now, Colorado has 64 counties in total, but unless you’re studying for a geography quiz, here are the ones that matter most for travelers:

• Denver County – Covers the city of Denver. Urban vibes, great food, and access to mountain adventures.
• El Paso County – Includes Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak. Great for hiking and beautiful scenery.
• Boulder County – Home to Boulder, which is heaven for outdoorsy folks. Don’t miss the Flatirons (those big slanted rock formations you’ve probably seen on Instagram).
• Larimer County – This is where Fort Collins is. It’s also your gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, which is stunning.

Colorado’s National Parks and Monuments

If you’re into nature (or even if you’re not), Colorado’s national parks are next-level. There are four of them, and each one has something totally different to offer:

Black Canyon of the Gunnison – A dramatic, deep canyon that kind of feels like a smaller, darker Grand Canyon. Less crowded, too.

Rocky Mountain National Park – Classic Colorado. Towering peaks, alpine lakes, and wildlife galore. Super popular in summer and fall.

Great Sand Dunes National Park – Yes, Colorado has sand dunes! Massive ones. You can sandboard down them or splash in Medano Creek in the spring.

Mesa Verde National Park – For history lovers. This place has incredibly well-preserved cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans.

We’ll talk more about some of them later on. Keep reading for more hot tips 🙂

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Colorado: What to Expect Each Season (With Regional Climate Breakdown)

Colorado has four real seasons, and they all come with their own vibe. The state’s landscape ranges from flat plains to towering mountains, so the weather can change a lot depending on where you are. Here’s what to expect in each season, broken down by region so you’re not caught off guard by surprise snow in June (yes, it happens).

🌷 Spring (March–May)

Spring in Colorado is a little unpredictable—one day you’re in a T-shirt, the next you’re shoveling snow. But it’s a great time to catch wildlife, flowers, and early-season deals.

• Great Plains (Eastern CO): Temps range from 40s to 70s°F. Afternoon storms are common, and snow is still possible early in the season.
• Southern Rocky Mountains: Still pretty cold at higher altitudes. Snow lingers into April or May. Lower elevations see temps in the 50s–70s°F.
• Central Rocky Mountains: Similar to southern Rockies—snowy up high, milder in the valleys. Spring hikes can still be muddy or icy.
• Colorado Plateau (Western CO): One of the driest regions—mild, dry days with highs in the 60s–70s°F. Nights are chilly.
• Wyoming Basin: Dry and windy, with daytime temps rising into the 50s–60s°F. Snow can still happen, especially early in spring.

☀️ Summer (June–August)

Summer is prime time for outdoor activities. It’s warm, sunny, and perfect for exploring Colorado’s national parks and small towns.

• Great Plains: Hot and dry. Highs often hit the 90s°F. Expect afternoon thunderstorms to roll through and cool things down.
• Southern Rocky Mountains: Perfect hiking weather—70s°F at lower elevations and cooler in the alpine zones. Summer storms happen often in the afternoons.
• Central Rocky Mountains: Highs in the 60s–80s°F. July and August are prime months for wildflowers and alpine lake hikes.
• Colorado Plateau: Can get very hot—over 100°F in some areas. Bring water and plan hikes early in the day.
• Wyoming Basin: Warm, dry, and breezy. Highs in the 80s°F with cooler nights.

🍂 Fall (September–November)

Colorado in the fall is all about golden aspens, crisp air, and fewer crowds. It’s a short season, but gorgeous.

• Great Plains: Still warm in September (70s–80s°F), then cooler in October and November. Rainfall is low.
• Southern Rocky Mountains: Aspens turn golden by mid-to-late September. Temps drop fast—days in the 50s–70s°F and frosty nights.
• Central Rocky Mountains: Great hiking weather in early fall. Higher elevations may see the first snow by October.
• Colorado Plateau: Warm and dry through October, then chilly by November. Highs in the 60s–70s°F earlier on.
• Wyoming Basin: Temps cool to the 50s–60s°F during the day. Nights can be cold. Early snow is possible by November.

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❄️ Winter (December–February)

Winter in Colorado is snow season, especially in the mountains. If you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing, this is the time.

• Great Plains: Cold and windy, with temps often below freezing. Snow is possible, but not super frequent.
• Southern Rocky Mountains: Heavy snowfall in the high country. Expect freezing temps and deep powder—perfect for snow sports.
• Central Rocky Mountains: Same deal—cold, snowy, and home to Colorado’s famous ski resorts like Vail, Breck, and Aspen.
• Colorado Plateau: Dry and cold. Highs in the 30s–40s°F, nights often below freezing. Not much snow, but great for off-season desert trips.
• Wyoming Basin: Cold and dry with occasional snow. Highs in the 20s–30s°F, and nights are freezing or below.

Colorado Landmarks: Top places to visit in Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re visiting Colorado and can only choose one national park, Rocky Mountain National Park should be high on your list. It’s not just big (over 265,000 acres!)—it’s also incredibly diverse, with everything from dramatic mountain peaks and alpine tundra to deep forests and mirror-like lakes. It feels like stepping into a postcard.

The park stretches between the towns of Estes Park on the east and Grand Lake on the west, offering totally different vibes depending on which side you enter. Estes Park is busier and more touristy, while Grand Lake is quieter and more laid-back—but both are great gateways to explore the park.

One of the best ways to experience it is by driving Trail Ridge Road, which winds its way up to over 12,000 feet. It’s actually one of the highest paved roads in the U.S., and the views are nothing short of jaw-dropping. You’ll go from pine forests into alpine tundra in a matter of minutes, with panoramic mountain views that stretch for miles. Just know it’s only open seasonally—usually from late May to mid-October—depending on snow conditions.

If you’re into hiking, the park has more than 300 miles of trails to choose from. Some are easy, family-friendly walks around lakes like Bear Lake or Sprague Lake, while others take you deep into the backcountry or up to dramatic alpine lakes like Sky Pond or Emerald Lake. There’s something for every fitness level and interest.

And then there’s the wildlife. In the fall, the park comes alive with the sound of bugling elk—it’s mating season, and you’ll see massive herds gathered in the meadows, especially in the Moraine Park area. Moose, mule deer, and even bighorn sheep are also common sights if you’re paying attention, especially around dawn or dusk.

Rocky Mountain National Park changes with the seasons, so the experience is different every time. Summer is the most popular—perfect for hiking and camping—but fall brings those golden aspen trees and all the wildlife activity. Winter has its own charm too, especially if you enjoy snowshoeing or just want to experience the mountains in total silence. Just be ready for some serious snow and road closures.

If you’re going in the busy months (late spring through early fall), make sure to check if you need a timed-entry reservation—they’ve gotten pretty strict with crowd control, especially around Bear Lake. And honestly, try to go early in the day, both to avoid traffic and to catch the best light. You won’t regret it. 

Mesa Verde National Park

Size: 52,000 acres

Highlights: Step back in time at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in the U.S.

You can explore ancient structures like Cliff Palace and Balcony House, which were built into sandstone cliffs over 800 years ago. The park is quite impressive; it is one of my favorites in Colorado.

Mesa Verde is my absolute favorite National Park in Colorado.

It is not only the cliff dwellings that I found fantastic, but the entire drive through the park was pretty impressive.

The park is quite large, and to make the most of your day, I suggest driving the loop and stopping at each of the cliff dwelling viewing sites first thing in the morning.

If you are up for an adventure, I loved hiking the Prater Ridge Trail, but it is pretty strenuous and takes half a day to complete.

The Point Lookout Trail is an easier alternative if you don’t want to overwork yourself too much.

Lastly, if you have the time, I suggest staying until nightfall in the park. I had a great time stargazing there, and it’s something unique to experience, for sure.  

Telluride

While Telluride is absolutely overpriced during the main skiing season, it makes for a great destination throughout the rest of the year.

Especially in fall, Telluride is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. You can take the free gondola up the ski slopes and enjoy beautiful fall foliage everywhere.

We stayed at the Auberge Madeline Resort in the Mountain Village. This place is pure luxury, and I recommend it for a fantastic stay. The rooms are so cozy, and from the spa area you’ll have a fantastic view over the mountains.

If staying there is slightly out of your budget, make sure to at least eat at their fantastic restaurant, Black Iron Kitchen.

Aspen

Aspen can be a bit pretentious; I will not lie. It is famous for being the vacation destination to lots of celebrities.

 In my experience, the town is definitely more oriented to serve its luxury customers instead of the average traveler, which can feel a little stand-offish at times.

Ultimately, we visit Aspen for the nature, and it definitely does not disappoint. Make sure to plan ample time to not only hike the Maroon Bells, but also check out less famous trails, like the Hunter Creek Trail or the Lost Man Trail.

One great thing about Aspen is that their restaurants are absolutely top-notch. As a big foodie, this was a welcome surprise to me.

 Bosq is a great spot for a date, and I try to take my wife there at least once, even though it is expensive. Make sure to swing by Hickory House, that is where I get my favorite ribs in Aspen.

Durango

Durango is one of the most underrated places to visit in Colorado in my opinion. It is one of my favorite spots to go to, and for good reason.

It is a lot more down-to-earth than Telluride or Aspen, and you can spend a great vacation there without breaking the bank.

We visit Durango in the fall every year, and it is the best time to visit for sure. The forest around the Animas River is beautiful and full of colorful foliage.

We opted to stay a bit outside of town, in the Purgatory Resort. Their houses have a fantastic view of the landscape, and I loved hiking there.

One of my best insider tips to Durango is Jean Pierre Bakery. It reminded me of my vacations to France, and their food is totally authentic.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Reserve

Size: 150,000 acres

Highlights: Known for its vast, towering sand dunes—the tallest in North America! This park is a unique desert landscape set against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Visitors can try sandboarding, sledding down the dunes, or exploring Medano Creek during spring and summer. It’s also a designated Dark Sky Park, perfect for stargazing on clear nights.  It does remind me a little of the White Sands National Park, but it has its own charm too! 

The Great Sand Dunes National Park reminds me a lot of one of the parks in our backyard, the White Sands National Park.

It is a pretty cool place to visit, and I especially appreciate it for photography.

I thought that the color of the sand was a little disappointing, especially compared to the magnificent White Sands.

But what makes the Great Sand Dunes really special are the mountains in the background. They provide such a great contrast to the dunes, which makes it truly unique in my opinion.

Safety: Is Colorado Safe?

Let’s talk about safety—because honestly, it’s something I always pay attention to when I travel, especially around the U.S.

Personally, I found Colorado to be one of the safest and most peaceful states we’ve visited. People felt genuinely friendly and helpful, and both cities and small towns had this calm, well-kept vibe that immediately made us feel at ease.

After spending time living in places like New Mexico and Arizona, I’ve learned not to take that sense of security for granted. In Colorado, we never had that uneasy feeling that one wrong turn would land us in a sketchy area. Of course, no place is perfect—cities like Aurora and Pueblo do have higher crime rates compared to other parts of the state. But overall, the atmosphere feels safe, welcoming, and relaxed.

That said, when it comes to safety in Colorado, it’s nature that you need to be more aware of than anything else. Altitude can really sneak up on you, especially if you’re coming from sea level. It’s super important to take it easy your first couple of days, drink tons of water, go slow with physical activity, and give your body time to adjust.

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The weather is another thing that likes to keep you on your toes. One minute it’s sunny, the next you’re in the middle of a mountain hailstorm. Always check the forecast and pack layers—even in summer. And if you’re hiking, be mindful of wildlife.

Moose, bears, and mountain lions live here, and while encounters are rare, it’s good to stay alert and know what to do just in case. Hiking in groups, sticking to marked trails, and making a bit of noise can go a long way in avoiding unwanted surprises.

Also, don’t underestimate the sun—at higher elevations, it hits stronger and faster. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses aren’t just a suggestion—they’re essentials.

A note on Human Trafficking

One thing I do feel is worth mentioning—although it’s not something most travelers encounter directly—is that Colorado has seen an uptick in reported human trafficking cases, particularly in recent years. It’s not about creating fear, just staying aware. Like anywhere, trust your gut. If something feels off, say something.

The National Human Trafficking Hotline is always available at 1-888-373-7888.

At the end of the day, Colorado feels like a place where you can relax, explore, and enjoy the outdoors without constantly watching your back. Being prepared for nature and staying aware in cities will go a long way—and really, that’s just good travel sense anywhere.

History & Culture in Colorado

Colorado is where the culture meets nature in the most beautiful setting.

The state’s cities were specifically built to exploit its mineral wealth. Over time, tourism contributed to Colorado’s outdoor recreation culture. This culture is mainly centered around boating, skiing, biking, and snowboarding.

Colorado is definitely a land of outdoorsy people. It has something to offer for everyone. You can find skibums, fourth-generation ranchers, environmentalists, or cowboys.

Indigenous Peoples of Colorado

Long before Colorado became part of the United States, it was home to several Native American tribes who lived on and cared for this land for centuries. The most prominent tribes in the region included the Arapaho, Cheyenne, Ute, and Shoshone peoples.

Each of these nations had their own distinct culture, language, and way of life, shaped by the landscapes they lived in.

Most of these tribes lived on the plains at the base of the Rocky Mountains, where they hunted bison, gathered native plants, and followed seasonal migration patterns. The Ute people, in particular, have deep roots in Colorado and are considered the state’s longest continuous residents.

They traditionally lived in the mountainous areas and high plateaus of western Colorado, adapting to the rugged terrain and snowy winters.

The Cheyenne and Arapaho were more commonly found in the eastern plains. They were semi-nomadic, known for their skilled horsemanship and strong warrior culture. The Shoshone were more spread across the western U.S., but their influence reached into parts of northern Colorado as well.

Like in many parts of the country, the arrival of European settlers and the westward expansion of the U.S. government brought conflict, displacement, and broken treaties. By the mid-to-late 1800s, many tribes were forcibly removed from their ancestral lands through a series of violent campaigns and relocations.

One of the darkest moments in Colorado’s history was the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864, when a peaceful camp of Cheyenne and Arapaho people was attacked by the Colorado militia, resulting in the deaths of over 200 Native Americans, most of them women and children.

Today, while many Native communities no longer reside in Colorado full-time, their history and legacy are still very much present. The Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute Tribes are federally recognized and maintain sovereign reservations in the southern part of the state. You’ll also find Indigenous art, cultural centers, and educational efforts that help preserve and honor their heritage.

If you’re visiting Colorado, it’s worth taking time to learn about the original stewards of this land. Many museums and historical sites across the state include Indigenous perspectives, and some tribal lands host cultural events that are open to the public.

It’s a meaningful way to deepen your understanding of the place and show respect for its true history.

A Brief History of Early Colorado: From Explorers to the Wild West

European interest in Colorado began in the 1600s, when Spanish explorers ventured northward from what’s now New Mexico. They passed through the region in search of riches and new territory, but they didn’t build any permanent settlements—largely because the rugged terrain and harsh winters made it a tough place to colonize.

It wasn’t until the late 1700s and early 1800s that non-Indigenous people began to establish more of a presence. Fur trappers and traders, many of them French and American, started setting up trading posts along the Rocky Mountains, drawn by the booming demand for beaver pelts and other animal furs. These early outposts laid the groundwork for more sustained interest in the region.

Things changed dramatically in the late 1850s with the discovery of gold near present-day Denver, kicking off the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. The phrase “Pike’s Peak or Bust” became a rallying cry for thousands of fortune-seekers.

By the early 1860s, nearly 100,000 prospectors had poured into the area, leading to the rapid growth of Denver and other mining towns. Some boomed, some busted—but the gold rush firmly put Colorado on the map.

This boom period ushered in the Wild West era that Colorado is still famous for today. Mining towns popped up overnight, often lawless and rowdy, full of saloons, shootouts, and characters chasing fortune or running from their past.

It was gritty, dramatic, and often short-lived—but it shaped the state’s identity for decades.

By the 1960s, Colorado had started to reinvent itself again—this time as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. European skiers discovered the potential of the state’s snowy peaks, and soon the mountains that once drew miners began attracting snow lovers. Towns like Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge transformed from rough mining hubs into world-class ski destinations.

So, from ancient tribal lands to gold-fueled boomtowns to ski resorts and national parks, Colorado has gone through quite the evolution—and you can still see traces of each chapter all across the state.

For more Colorado history here is an official site.

Is Colorado Worth Visiting?

If you ask my personal opinion, you will hear me shouting YES.

Denver itself is another world inside the bounds of Colorado. But if that’s not your vibe, you still have loads more to enjoy. Colorado is so full of beautiful towns in stunning mountain settings – it almost reminds me of my home (Austria).

The National Parks are stunning, and I am obsessed with all the scenic drives. Of course, it is picture-perfect in every single season.

Sadly, Colorado is pretty expensive. But it is money well spent for sure! 

Final Thoughts

Long story short, Colorado is a mix of beautiful scenery and fun outdoor activities. Everything from its friendly locals to the delish food adds to the destination’s charm.

So, enjoy the scenery of Telluride, have fun at the Steamboat Springs, or just wander around the beautiful and calm streets of Aspen. You won’t be able to get enough of the Instagrammable places in every corner!

Also, don’t forget to try out the local cuisine. Palisade peaches, Colorado-style green chili, and Rocky Mountain Oysters are some of the unique specialties that you must try.

Hope you found this info helpful and will have a beautiful time in Colorado!