10 Outstanding Landmarks of Colorado
Colorado has so many awe-inspiring parks and places worth paying a visit, with opportunities to explore the state’s great outdoors, as well as historic and cultural sites. We’ve compiled 10 of our favorite landmarks to add to your next Colorado trip or vacation!
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Durango
- Steamboat Hot Springs
- Great Sand Dunes National Park
- Rifle Falls State Park
- Colorado National Monument
- Garden of the Gods
- Pikes Peak
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park in southern Colorado is not only a natural wilderness area but primarily dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Ancestral Pueblo people. For over seven centuries the park housed the Pueblos on over five thousand different sites, all now protected, and among some of the most historically and culturally important of all Colorado’s landmarks. While all the structures found throughout the park are impressive, what really tends to draw a crowd are the over 600 cliff dwellings throughout the park.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Found in the northwestern reaches of the state, Rocky Mountain National Park remains one of the most treasured of all Colorado landmarks. Highlights such as Bear Lake and Beaver Meadows are favorite hikes; however the entire park boasts towering mountains, wooded areas and wildlife that are sure to bring out the nature lover in anyone.
Perhaps one of the most unique things about the park is that it’s large enough and covers a wide enough range for visitors to experience different climates depending on where they’re situated at in the park. Check out the official National Park website for hiking trails, maps, reservations, and camping opportunities.
Durango
A highlight of Durango might be its Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad with the opportunity to ride on the area’s original and historical railroad through the stunning San Juan Mountains. Visitors can also explore Durango’s Agro-tourism industry with trips to local farms and markets, and sample fresh produce and enjoy samples from local microbreweries. Durango’s historic downtown also boasts a vibrant arts scene with many galleries and events to check out. These unique activities coupled with a lush and inspiring landscape attract tourists to the tiny town.
Steamboat Hot Springs
A perfect blend of natural wonder and high energy recreation awaits guests to Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs. Eight separate pools are fed by the hot springs and include a pair of waterslides. Aside from the springs, one of the most celebrated Colorado landmarks, there is a fitness center on site, cardio facility, lap pool, exercise classes, sports programs and much more. Many events are held at the pools during the year including festivals and athletic competitions.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Found in the south central part of the state the dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park stand out amongst the conifer trees, mountain peaks, and tundra they are surrounded by. The sandy Colorado landmarks are the tallest dunes on the continent, a sizable feat for a desert area that couldn’t seem more out of place.
This incredible divergence of landscapes coupled with the opportunity to sand surf down the dunes make the park an exciting place worth a visit. The park is additionally a proud International Dark Sky Park, meaning that it meets expectations to limit light pollution in order to preserve the darkness of the starry sky. This makes the landmark a perfect place for star gazing and camping!
Rifle Falls State Park
One of the lesser known beauties in Colorado, Rifle Falls State Park near Glenwood Springs offers lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls. With plenty of underground caves and rocky cliffs, photographers and film makers, flock to the park for its amazing scenery. The area is popular for activities like camping, hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.
Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument is a captivating natural wonder located near Grand Junction, Colorado. This geological masterpiece features stunning red sandstone canyons, towering monoliths, and breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hike along rugged trails, and marvel at the unique rock formations that have been shaped by millions of years of erosion.
The monument offers a serene escape into the beauty of Colorado’s western landscapes and is a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Garden of the Gods
There is a reason why Garden of the Gods, found just west of Colorado Springs was given its heavenly name. If anyone with Godlike abilities chose to plant a garden, it might very closely resemble the Visitor and Nature Center found at this park. The three hundred foot high red sandstone cliffs are one of the most photographed of all Colorado landmarks.
Not only does the park offer spectacular views but they have an array of activities to do such as horseback ride tours, high definition movies, rock climbing, picnicking, bicycling and more!
Pikes Peak
Affectionately referred to as “America’s Mountain,” this over 14,000 foot high mammoth mountain is considered not only one of the most famous in the United States, but also one of the most well-known of all Colorado landmarks.
Found south of Denver, the peak is one of the most popular Colorado Springs’ attractions, and affords guests some of the most spectacular views in the nation from several points, including a midway point along its scenic highway. There is a recreation area available to tourists journeying up the mountain as well as gift shops, lakes, picnic areas and more.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, found to the west of Colorado Springs, is considered one of the most dramatic and visually impressive canyons in the country. At twelve miles in length, the Black Canyon may not be the biggest of Colorado landmarks, but the deep colored rocks arranged steeply alongside the Gunnison River offer a prehistoric glimpse into the power of geologic processes. There is also tremendous human history here, as the Ute indigenous people and subsequent visitors used the canyon as a natural path to Utah.
