Wondering where to begin your adventure? Pick your own persona and get ready to explore!
Thrills & Chills Seekers
Without question, one of our eeriest destinations is the Stanley Hotel, the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Local lore says ghosts roam the halls of this Estes Park icon on the fringes of Rocky Mountain National Park, and it’s certainly not the state’s only spot with a haunting past.
We can’t promise you won’t see spirits in Carson ghost town, so consider this a warning. The remote outpost near Lake City is a challenging trek; 4x4 vehicles, bikes, OHVs and motorcycles can reach it, or you can hike. Beyond the abandoned village is yet another ghost town, Old Carson, the view from which is spectacular.
In Central City, witness reenactments of gruesome tales during walking tours of historical sites at October’s Creepy Crawl. Or, join Gilpin Historical Society’s SRIP (Spirit Realm Investigation Project) for some supernatural sleuthing at their Paranormal Night with the Spirits. You’ll team up with ghost experts and search for messages from the dearly departed.
Hotel Colorado is billed as one of the state’s most haunted lodgings thanks to the strange, unexplained paranormal activity within the walls of this 1893 Glenwood Springs accommodation. A woman’s screams have been reported by guests and staff alike, while flickering lights have caused alarm (and yes, Hotel Colorado pays its utility bills on time). Oh, and to add to the eeriness of the hotel there’s a crematorium in the basement that was used for World War II military personnel.
Leaf Peepers
Come autumn, visitors and locals alike flock to foliage-viewing hot spots to ooh and ahh over endless swaths of yellows, oranges, reds and greens.
The historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in small-town Antonito offers dramatic prospects of Wolf Creek’s rushing waters and the Lobato Sheep Ranch. Keep an eye out for deer, elk and bear as you chugga-chug up the mountain. While the scenery is breathtaking year-round, it’s especially remarkable during this vibrant season.
Every September and October, Kebler Pass (elevation 10,007 feet) explodes in color. Aspens are plentiful along the drive, hike, bike or horseback ride between Gunnison and Crested Butte. Take in gold-tinged peaks and marvel at remnants of long-abandoned mining and lumber camps, pristine Lake Irwin and majestic Taylor Canyon. Soak up more fall hues at nearby landmarks like Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Blue Mesa (Colorado’s largest reservoir).
For 360-degree views of fascinating foliage, hop aboard the Telluride/Mountain Village gondola. You’ll glide high above the forest floor on an 8-mile journey to Mountain Village for photo ops you just can’t get from the ground. Best of all, the ride is free!
Experience fall's enchantment in Leadville, Colorado. Ride the historic Leadville Train through fiery forests, discover Camp Hale's golden history and find serenity by Twin Lakes' mirrored shores. Ascend Independence Pass for sweeping views, revel in ATV tours or hike 14ers amid nature's vivid autumn palette.
Wildlife Watchers
Colorado is truly an animal lover’s paradise. With 42 state parks, four national parks, eight national wildlife refuges and monuments, and 11 national forests, you’ll find no shortage of fabulous fauna.
A rafting hot spot, Bighorn Sheep Canyon lives up to its name with ample opportunities to see Colorado’s state mammal. From the canyon, upstream from the Royal Gorge near Cañon City, you’ll see trees flamboyantly brandishing fall colors along the Arkansas River. Various outfitters can set you up with whitewater excursions or riverfront camping trips. Look for red-tailed hawks, mule deer and sheep throughout your journey.
Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge near Walden was founded specifically as a nesting and rearing habitat for migratory birds. Many avian species call the refuge home, and it’s a haven for countless other wildlife as well. It’s located in a “park” — the name given to large mountain valleys — and is rimmed by remote peaks that beckon serious hikers.
On the state’s eastern plains, dramatic, windswept vistas welcome visitors to Pawnee National Grassland, an expanse of nearly 200,000 acres where you’ll spot many bird species unseen elsewhere. The conservation area is home to Colorado’s state bird (the lark bunting) and unique high-plains bird species. Other Colorado critters such as pronghorns and swift foxes are also found throughout.