Planning a summer trip to Colorado? Explore the 7 best places to visit in Colorado in summer, from scenic national parks to charming mountain towns.
Best Places in Colorado in Summer
Colorado is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, especially in summer when the mountains, lakes, and valleys come alive with stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, wildlife encounters, or scenic drives, Colorado has something for everyone. Here are the 7 best places to visit in Colorado in summer.
1. Rocky Mountain National Park
- Home to breathtaking mountain scenery and diverse wildlife.
- Offers scenic hiking trails, alpine lakes, and the famous Trail Ridge Road.
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado’s most iconic destinations, offering over 350 miles of hiking trails, alpine meadows, and dramatic mountain peaks. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears, making it a haven for nature lovers. One of the highlights of visiting in summer is driving along Trail Ridge Road, which offers sweeping panoramic views and access to some of the most scenic spots in the park. Whether you love hiking, photography, or enjoy nature, this park is a must-visit.
2. Aspen
- A beautiful mountain town known for its summer festivals and outdoor activities.
- Perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides.
While Aspen is famous for its world-class skiing, summer brings a new side to this mountain town. Visitors can explore picturesque hiking trails, such as the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop, which offers breathtaking views of Colorado’s most photographed peaks. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy mountain biking, fly fishing, and rafting along the Roaring Fork River. The town also hosts vibrant summer festivals, including the Aspen Music Festival, which attracts artists and musicians from around the world. With its mix of adventure and culture, Aspen is a perfect summer getaway.
3. Garden of the Gods
- A stunning natural landmark with unique red rock formations.
- Ideal for rock climbing, hiking, and photography.
Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a striking natural wonder featuring towering red rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. The park is free to visit and offers numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for rock climbing. The iconic Balanced Rock and Kissing Camels are must-see attractions within the park. Whether you want to take a scenic drive, enjoy a guided nature walk, or simply relax in the visitor center with panoramic views, Garden of the Gods is a breathtaking spot to explore in summer.
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4. Telluride
- A charming town surrounded by the San Juan Mountains.
- Known for its summer festivals, historic charm, and stunning waterfalls.
Telluride is a hidden gem nestled in a stunning box canyon, offering visitors a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. The town is famous for its summer festivals, including the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and Telluride Film Festival, which attract visitors from across the country. Nature lovers can take a scenic gondola ride, hike to Bridal Veil Falls—the tallest waterfall in Colorado—or explore the rugged mountain trails. With its historic mining town vibe, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant arts scene, Telluride is an unforgettable summer destination.
5. Great Sand Dunes National Park
- Features the tallest sand dunes in North America with breathtaking views.
- Ideal for sandboarding, scenic hikes, and mesmerizing stargazing.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is one of Colorado’s most unique landscapes, featuring massive sand dunes set against a backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Visitors can climb the towering dunes, some reaching up to 750 feet high, or try sandboarding and sand sledding for a thrilling experience. The nearby Medano Creek provides a refreshing spot to cool off during the summer months. At night, the park becomes an incredible stargazing destination, with minimal light pollution and offering clear views of the Milky Way. It’s an essential destination for thrill-seekers.
6. Breckenridge
- A vibrant mountain town with plenty of summer activities.
- Offers hiking, zip-lining, and scenic drives along Boreas Pass.
Breckenridge is not just a winter ski town—it transforms into a summer playground with countless outdoor activities. The town offers excellent hiking and biking trails, including the scenic McCullough Gulch Trail, which leads to stunning waterfalls and alpine lakes. For thrill-seekers, Breckenridge’s Epic Discovery adventure park features zip-lining, an alpine slide, and treetop courses. The historic downtown area is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and breweries, making it a great place to relax after a day of exploring. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Breckenridge is a perfect summer escape.
7. Estes Park
- A gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park with stunning landscapes.
- Great for wildlife viewing, outdoor adventures, and charming local shops.
Estes Park is a charming mountain town that serves as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. In summer, visitors can enjoy wildlife spotting, as the area is home to elk, deer, and black bears. The town itself offers plenty of attractions, including scenic riverwalks, unique shops, and local breweries. A must-do activity is riding the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With its mix of adventure, history, and small-town charm, Estes Park is an ideal summer destination.
Final Thoughts
Colorado’s summer landscapes offer an incredible mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, exploring the sand dunes, or enjoying a lively festival in a mountain town, there’s no shortage of things to do. These 7 destinations provide the perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Which one will you visit first?