Colorado, a mountainous state renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, is not only famous for its world-class ski resorts but also hides countless wonders along its backroads. Are you ready to uncover these hidden gems? Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) as we plan an unforgettable journey, venturing beyond the typical tourist routes and immersing ourselves in the unspoiled beauty of Colorado.
The Majestic Beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park, a jewel of Colorado, spans over 400 square miles. It’s not just home to a plethora of wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep, but also a paradise for those who love exploration and adventure.
Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado
One unmissable experience is conquering Trail Ridge Road, a spectacular route cutting through the heart of the park. From here, you can admire panoramic views of majestic mountains, a magnificent natural tableau beyond words. Note that this road is usually only open from late May to early October, depending on weather conditions.
With over 300 miles of hiking trails, from easy paths to remote challenges, Rocky Mountain National Park caters to all levels of hikers. Don’t forget to visit stunning high-altitude lakes like Bear Lake and Dream Lake, ideal destinations for hikers and photographers alike.
In winter, the park transforms into a snowy playground with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing activities. Hidden Valley Ski Area offers downhill and cross-country skiing, providing exciting experiences for winter sports enthusiasts.
Garden of the Gods: A Red Sandstone Masterpiece in Colorado Springs
Garden of the Gods, located in Colorado Springs, is a renowned public park featuring impressive red sandstone rock formations and towering spires. Recognized as a National Natural Landmark, it attracts visitors with its unique beauty and diverse outdoor activities.
Garden of the Gods in Colorado
This 1,367-acre park is home to diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and sightseeing. With trails ranging from easy to difficult, Garden of the Gods is suitable for all ages and skill levels.
If you want to delve deeper into the geology and history of the park, join one of the guided tours. Additionally, the park features several historical and cultural sites, including the Manitou Cliff Dwellings and Helen Hunt Falls.
Garden of the Gods is an excellent choice for those seeking to explore a unique and beautiful natural area. With its magnificent red sandstone formations and breathtaking scenery, it’s sure to offer unforgettable experiences.
Mesa Verde: Journey to the Past at a National Park
Mesa Verde National Park, situated in southwestern Colorado, is a historical treasure trove with well-preserved cliff dwellings of the ancient Puebloan people. These structures date back to the 12th and 13th centuries, offering profound insights into the lives of the Native Americans who once inhabited this area.
Mesa Verde National Park during a Colorado tour
Encompassing 52,485 acres, the park was established in 1906 to protect and preserve the region’s archaeological heritage. One of Mesa Verde’s highlights is Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America.
Visitors can explore the park by hiking on trails or visiting the museum and visitor center to learn more about the history and culture of the ancient Puebloans. Beyond its cultural significance, Mesa Verde is also home to diverse plant and animal life.
The park lies within a semi-arid climate and is habitat to various trees like pinyon pine, juniper, and oak. Wildlife is also abundant, including mule deer, elk, and numerous bird species.
Explore Culture and Science in Denver
If you’re looking to take a break from nature and delve into culture and science, Denver is an ideal destination. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is one of the city’s most popular attractions, offering educational and engaging experiences for all ages.
The museum features a range of exhibits and programs on topics like geology, paleontology, anthropology, and space science. The Space Odyssey exhibit showcases a full-size model of the Mars Curiosity rover, while the Prehistoric Journey exhibit displays a variety of fossils and artifacts from the distant past.
Additionally, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is a compelling destination for those wanting to learn about the history and culture of the Colorado Springs region. The museum features a range of exhibits and programs related to the history of the city and surrounding area, including the Pikes Peak Gold Rush, the Ute and Cheyenne Native American tribes, and the early days of the Air Force Academy.
Music and Nature Harmonize at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre, located near Morrison, is a unique open-air amphitheater with a seating capacity of 9,525. Considered one of the best outdoor concert venues in the United States, Red Rocks has hosted numerous musical performances by renowned artists such as U2, The Beatles, and The Grateful Dead.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre for Colorado tourists
The amphitheater is set in a stunning natural setting, with towering red sandstone cliffs forming a backdrop for the stage. In addition to musical performances, Red Rocks is also a popular destination for various activities like hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking.
Denver Botanic Gardens: A Green Oasis in the City
Denver Botanic Gardens is a 23-acre green oasis where you can discover diverse plant collections and gardens. The formal gardens, rock gardens, Japanese garden, and wildflower garden are must-visit spots.
The gardens are home to a wide array of plants, including some rare and endangered species. Marnie’s Pavilion showcases various exotic plants, while the Boettcher Memorial Tropical Conservatory features a variety of tropical plants like palms, ferns, and orchids.
Denver Botanic Gardens also hosts numerous educational programs and events year-round, including gardening classes, lectures, and workshops. The gardens are also involved in research projects, including a program focused on the conservation of rare and endangered plant species.
Have Fun with Animals at Denver Zoo
Denver Zoo is an 80-acre animal park home to over 4,000 animals representing more than 700 species. The zoo is organized into different zones, each featuring a specific group of animals.
Toyota Elephant Passage is home to a herd of Asian elephants, while Primate Panorama houses various primate species like gorillas, orangutans, and monkeys. Denver Zoo also offers numerous educational programs and events, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and conservation talks.
Experience Top-Tier Skiing at Aspen Mountain
Aspen Mountain, located in Pitkin County, is part of the Elk Mountains range and is famous for its ski resort. The resort is situated in the city of Aspen and is one of four ski areas in the Aspen Snowmass complex.
Aspen Mountain has a summit elevation of 11,212 feet and a vertical drop of 3,267 feet. The mountain is known for its challenging terrain and is popular with expert and advanced skiers. In the summer, the mountain is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking.
Plan Your Colorado Trip
To have a fulfilling Colorado trip, plan carefully and prepare for the unexpected. Choose a destination that suits your interests, plan a detailed itinerary, and prepare for changing weather conditions.
Rent a car to freely explore the remote areas of Colorado, and don’t forget to bring a raincoat and layers of clothing to protect yourself from inclement weather. With thorough preparation, you’ll have an unforgettable Colorado trip.
Exploring the backroads of Colorado is a journey full of excitement and surprises. From majestic national parks to vibrant cities, Colorado has everything you need for a memorable vacation. Let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) accompany you on your journey to discover the hidden beauty of this mountainous state.