Itching for an adventure? Colorado is the perfect place to escape for a weekend and experience the great outdoors. With the Rocky Mountains and charming mountain towns, there are plenty of options for every type of traveler. Take a break from the bustling urban life and head to one of these amazing destinations for a weekend of relaxation and adventure.
Related posts:
- 12 Romantic Getaways in Colorado with Private Hot Tubs
- 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Colorado
- 14 Amazing Cabins With Private Hot Tubs In Colorado
Table of Contents
The Very Best Weekend Getaways in Colorado
Explore the Rocky Mountains
If you are a nature enthusiast or adventure seeker, there is no doubt that exploring the Rocky Mountains of Colorado is a must-do. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start.
One great option is to visit Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park is a charming mountain town with plenty of shops, restaurants, and lodging options. From there, you can easily access Rocky Mountain National Park, which offers over 350 miles of hiking trails and incredible wildlife spotting opportunities. Estes Park is also a great spot for Colorado honeymoon cabins. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, bighorn sheep, and even the occasional black bear!
If you’re looking for some winter fun, Breckenridge and Keystone are excellent options. These mountain towns are known for their world-class skiing and snowboarding slopes, but also offer plenty of opportunities for other winter activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding. And when the snow melts, the mountains become a playground for mountain bikers and hikers alike.
But if you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Aspen and Snowmass are the way to go. These towns are known for their beautiful Colorado resorts, luxury hotels, and high-end shopping and dining options. Of course, the skiing and snowboarding here is also top-notch, with over 5,000 acres of terrain to explore. And in the summertime, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, fly fishing, and even hot air balloon rides.
Whichever destination you choose, the Rocky Mountains of Colorado are sure to leave you in awe of their natural beauty and provide endless opportunities for adventure.
Discover Charming Mountain Towns
Colorado’s charming mountain towns are a true gem and a must-visit for those who prefer a quieter, more laid-back weekend. These towns offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and small-town charm that is hard to find anywhere else.
Steamboat Springs
One of the top mountain towns to visit in Colorado is Steamboat Springs. This town is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state. The resort boasts over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, including 165 named trails, and is known for its legendary champagne powder snow. But Steamboat Springs is not just a winter destination; it’s also a fantastic place to visit in the summer. You can enjoy hiking or biking on the scenic trails, or take a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs.
Telluride
If you’re looking for a small-town vibe with stunning natural beauty and charming historic downtown, Telluride is the place to be. Nestled in a box canyon, this town is surrounded by towering peaks and offers breathtaking views at every turn. You can take a scenic gondola ride to the top of the mountain, go on a guided hiking tour, or simply stroll through the streets of the historic district and admire the Victorian-era architecture.
Crested Butte
Another great option for a mountain getaway is Crested Butte. This town is known for its colorful wildflowers in the summer, which blanket the surrounding mountains in a riot of colors. You can take a leisurely hike to enjoy the scenery, or go on a more challenging mountain biking or rock climbing adventure. And when the snow starts falling, Crested Butte transforms into a winter wonderland with some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the state.
No matter which charming mountain town you choose to visit in Colorado, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. These towns offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and small-town charm that is hard to find anywhere else. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Relax in Hot Springs Destinations
If you’re looking for a way to unwind and rejuvenate, soaking in a natural hot spring is the perfect solution. Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful hot springs destinations in the world, offering a unique experience that combines the beauty of nature with the healing power of hot water.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs is a popular choice for those seeking a relaxing hot springs getaway, including those looking for hot springs near Denver. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this charming town is home to several hot springs pools, each with its unique character and charm. One of the most popular attractions is the Glenwood Hot Springs, which is the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world. Visitors can soak in the warm waters while taking in stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For a more intimate experience, head to the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves, where you can relax in underground steam baths and natural mineral pools.
Ouray
If you’re looking for a more secluded hot springs experience, head to Ouray. This picturesque town is nestled in a valley surrounded by majestic mountains, making it the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Ouray is home to several natural hot springs, including the famous Ouray Hot Springs, which offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. For a more secluded experience, check out the Box Canyon Lodge and Hot Springs, where you can soak in private hot springs tubs surrounded by the beauty of the Box Canyon.
Read next: 12 Best Ouray Hotels for Your Mountain Getaway
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs is another excellent option for those seeking a relaxing hot springs getaway. This charming town is home to The Springs Resort, which is known for its healing waters and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can soak in the hot springs while taking in stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. Pagosa Springs is also home to numerous hiking trails, making it the perfect destination for those who want to combine relaxation with outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a solo adventure, Colorado’s hot springs destinations offer the perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life. So why not pack your bags and head to one of these beautiful destinations for a relaxing and rejuvenating hot springs experience?
Outdoor Adventure Getaways in Colorado
For the adrenaline junkies out there, Colorado offers some of the best outdoor adventures in the country. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state.
White Water Rafting in Buena Vista
If you’re looking for an exhilarating experience, white water rafting in Buena Vista is a must-try. The Arkansas River offers some of the best rapids in the country, with options for all skill levels. You’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain scenery as you navigate the rapids, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
Hiking and Biking in Durango
Durango is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of hiking and biking trails to explore. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, you’ll find it here. The Animas River Trail is a popular option for bikers, with stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains. For hikers, the Colorado Trail offers a challenging but rewarding trek through the San Juan Mountains.
Sandboarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park
For a truly unique experience, head to Great Sand Dunes National Park and try sandboarding. This thrilling activity involves riding down the sand dunes on a board, similar to snowboarding. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the country. And if you’re not up for sandboarding, the park offers plenty of other activities, including hiking, camping, and stargazing.
Wine and Dine Getaways in Colorado
If you’re more interested in a culinary and wine-focused weekend getaway, Colorado’s wine country is not to be missed. Palisade offers numerous wineries and vineyards where you can enjoy tastings and tours. Grand Junction is another excellent option, known for its vineyards and orchards, as well as excellent dining options. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider the charming towns of Paonia and Hotchkiss.
Palisade
Palisade, a small town nestled in the heart of Colorado’s wine country, is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. The area is home to over 20 wineries, each with its own unique character and flavor profile. You can spend an entire day touring the vineyards and tasting rooms, sampling award-winning wines and learning about the winemaking process from the experts.
But the wine is just one part of the experience. Palisade is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with the towering cliffs of the Colorado National Monument providing a dramatic backdrop for the vineyards making it an idyllic weekend getaway in Colorado. Take a hike through the nearby Grand Mesa National Forest, or cycle along the winding roads that snake through the orchards and vineyards.
Grand Junction
For those looking for a more urban experience, Grand Junction is the place to be. This bustling city is home to a vibrant food and wine scene, with numerous restaurants and bars offering a wide range of cuisines and wine varietals. Be sure to check out the downtown area, with its charming shops and galleries, and take a stroll along the Colorado Riverfront Trail.
Paonia and Hotchkiss
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the charming towns of Paonia and Hotchkiss. These small towns are home to a number of boutique wineries and orchards, as well as quaint bed and breakfasts and farm-to-table restaurants. Take a leisurely drive through the countryside, stopping to sample fresh produce and artisanal cheeses along the way.
Tips for Planning Your Colorado Weekend Getaway
Before heading out on your weekend adventure, it’s important to plan accordingly. Consider the best time to visit depending on your interests and the activities you want to do. For example, if you’re hoping to ski or snowboard, the winter months are ideal. If you’re interested in hiking and exploring the mountains, the summer months are perfect.
When it comes to transportation, renting a car is a great option if you want to explore the state at your own pace. However, if you prefer not to drive, there are plenty of bus and shuttle services available as well.
And don’t forget to pack essentials such as layers, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen. The weather in Colorado can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared for any conditions.
With so much to see and do, there’s no shortage of spectacular weekend getaways in Colorado. Whether you prefer adventuring in the mountains, relaxing in hot springs, or wine tasting in charming towns, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend in one of America’s most beautiful states.