Fall-ing For Colorado: Autumn Is The Golden Time to Explore The Centennial State

Plan an awe-inspiring trip through Colorado this fall, and experience the Centennial State in all its golden glory. Soak in the scenery as the aspen leaves show off their brilliant yellow, red and orange hues, and take advantage of Colorado’s mild-temperatures, sunny days and bluebird skies. 

Enjoy hiking, biking or horseback riding on colorful trails or experience signature fall events like Pueblo’s Chile and Frijoles Festival and Breckenridge’s Oktoberfest. Fall photos and memories can be captured during a fall drive along scenic roads including Colorado’s 26 Scenic and Historic Byways. For more information on places to experience Colorado’s fall splendor, visit www.COLORADO.com.  

Golden Adventures:

• Go Birding at Pawnee National Grassland (Ault): On the state’s eastern plains, dramatic windswept vistas welcome visitors to Pawnee National Grassland, an expanse of nearly 200,000 acres where they’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.
• Raft Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Canon City): 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, visitors see trees flamboyantly brandishing fall colors along the Arkansas River. Various outfitters can set visitors up with whitewater excursions or riverfront camping trips. Wildlife viewing of red-tailed hawks, mule deer and sheep are part of the journey.
• Ride the Rails to the Top of Pikes Peak (Colorado Springs): What’s better than a view from the top? The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, America’s highest railway, takes guests up Pikes Peak topping out at a height of 14,115 feet and offering stunning Colorado mountain views and some of the country's best fall foliage landscapes.
• Hike the World’s Largest Flat-Top Mountain (Grand Junction): Among Grand Junction’s spectacular red cliffs and winding canyons, visitors can marvel at the 11,000-foot Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain, which boasts more than 300 lakes. At 350,000 acres, the Mesa is graced with deep forests of aspens set against Colorado pine, spruce and fir and offers breathtaking ranges of fall colors. Crag Crest Trail offers a high alpine hike atop the spine of the Mesa, perfect for fall color viewing.
• Fish at Lake San Cristobal (Lake City): Enjoy the state’s second largest natural lake against the backdrop of vibrant aspen trees. This deep blue jewel is rich with trout, and the area’s best kept secret is that fall is the best time of year to go fishing, as fewer anglers are out and fish begin to bulk up for the winter. After a long day out on the water, visitors can head to the south end of the lake, in the Red Gulch Day Use Area, for dynamic views.
• Saddle Up at Sundance Trail Guest Ranch (Red Feather Lakes): A short two-hour drive from Denver, Sundance Trail Guest Ranch is a cowboy heaven nestled in the Rocky Mountains. One of the smaller and boutique ranches, visitors can create an autumnal adventure with add-on activities such as horseback riding, fishing and disc golf. A hot tub, western-style meals and limitless cookies await. An added bonus? The ranch is pet-friendly—so Fido is welcome to tag along for free.
• Bike Gold Level Trails Amongst the Golden Leaves (Snowmass Village, CO): Tucked into one of the most beautiful and accessible parts of the Rocky Mountains, Snowmass is the launching pad for accessing over 75 miles of ultra-scenic mountain biking and road cycling surrounded by brilliant gold aspen leaves. The destination and surrounding Roaring Fork Valley is a International Mountain Bicycling Association designated IMBA Gold-Level Ride Center.
• Soar Above The Leaves in A Hot Air Balloon (Steamboat Springs): Offering stunning views of the Steamboat Springs area, the Flat Top Mountains and Hahn's Peak, an inactive volcano, Wild West Adventures in Steamboat offers incredible fall hot air balloon rides. Early morning flights include a champagne ceremony after the flight and a personalized flight certificate.

Epic Fall Road Trips:

• Highway of Legends (Trinidad and Walsenberg): The majestic mountain ranges in southern Colorado are full of outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, fishing and boating, and the Scenic Highway of Legends can lead visitors there. Start in Trinidad or Walsenburg for an 82-mile scenic drive through quaint small towns in picturesque valleys of Spanish Peaks Country. Travelers will find trails filled with color and the most unforgettable mountain scenery, with glimmering lakes and little eateries along the way. Trinidad and the surrounding area offer many fun fall events including parades and music festivals, or just enjoy a stroll through town and peek in the many unique shops in the historic downtown area.
• Kebler Pass (Crested Butte): One of the most famous drives for leaf peeping is the drive over Kebler Pass to Marble and the Crystal River Valley as the drive is home to the largest aspen grove in the United States. Head north on Whiterock Avenue out of Crested Butte and continue on this road as it turns into County Road 12. One of the best places to stop and take in the views is across from Horse Ranch Park. This stop offers breathtaking views of the scenic landscapes of the Anthracite Mountain Range. The pocket of reds, yellows and golds in this area is one view not to miss.
• Kenosha Pass (Conifer and South Park): TV fans recognize the name South Park from the eponymous animated series, but only the most dedicated fans know that the show is actually based on the writers' experiences growing up in Conifer, not South Park. This drive connects both of these areas via high-altitude Kenosha Pass, which is wide and well maintained, with easily navigated turns. It is one of the best drives in Colorado to view autumn's leaves — vibrant reds and glowing yellows of the aspen woodlands are a striking contrast to the ponderosa pines and Douglas firs around Conifer. The pass eventually spills out into the high grassland basin of South Park, where unobstructed views of the Mosquito Range peaks appear in the west.
• Top of the Rockies Scenic & Historic Byway: At elevations around 10,000 feet, leaves change first in Leadville and Twin Lakes, usually peaking mid- to late September. The Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway offers spectacular views of golden aspen groves and large glacial lakes, especially from Twin Lakes to the summit of Independence Pass. The Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad rides up into the San Isabel National Forest, where the mountains are ablaze with yellow, orange and red. Halfmoon Packing & Outfitting offers horseback, wagon and stagecoach rides as well as overnight trips featuring some of the most spectacular mountain views in the area. Visitors can soar high above the valley on the Top of the Rockies Zipline to experience fall foliage at an elevation of 11,200 feet with views of Colorado’s highest peaks. Leadville’s Cemetery, Ghost, and Safari Tours offers a new view on Leadville’s history and its past residents. 

Haunted Hot Spots:

• Ashcroft Ghost Town (Aspen): Once home to two newspapers (even Denver only has one!), 20 saloons, a school and many private homes, Ashcroft faded before the turn of the century. Only 10 miles from Aspen, take a guided tour of a dozen or so buildings preserved by the Aspen Historical Society, including the jail, livery stable and a couple saloons.
• Black Monarch Hotel (Victor): In the late 1800s during the town of Victor's heyday, what was then called the Monarch Hotel served miners and international travelers as the Gold Rush fueled their indiscretions. Today, visitors enjoy this renovated boutique hotel and its paranormal activity. Those working the hotel bar have reported strange sights that they cannot explain, including a woman's silhouette in the window when no one was there and the sounds of women laughing and men yelling in the middle of the night. Victor is the site of the Colorado Labor Wars, innumerable Gold Rush era murders and industrial accidents, so it’s said ot be one of the most haunted cities in Colorado.
• Hotel Colorado (Glenwood Springs): This 1893 Glenwood Springs accommodation is known as one of the state’s most haunted thanks to the paranormal activity that takes place under its roof. Both guests and staff have reported getting goosebumps at the sound of a woman wailing, and the lights are known to flicker unexpectedly. Hotel Colorado's eeriness is ramped up by the fact that the basement was once used as a crematorium for World War II military personnel.  The hotel is currently undergoing a multi-million-dollar restoration including all guest rooms.
• The Oxford Hotel (Denver): Denver's oldest boutique hotel, The Oxford, is located in the trendy Union Station neighborhood. This 123-year-old hotel is also known for its haunted past, from tales of locked bathroom stalls to sinks that turn on and off during the night, and a real mystery lies behind the door of Room 320. The hotel's Cruise Room bar is known for its martinis, its iconic Art Deco style — and a mysterious postal worker. Bartenders routinely report a man walking into the bar wearing an old post office uniform. He always orders a beer before muttering "the children, I have to get the gifts to the children." Then he appears to drink the beer and leave.
• Phantom Canyon Road (Cripple Creek): Not for the faint of heart, Phantom Canyon Road is a detour off the Gold Belt Tour byway and the former route of the Florence and Cripple Creek Railroad. The drive itself is thrilling as the narrow, unpaved road climbs 4,000 feet in elevation, twisting and turning through eerie mountain tunnels and the centuries-old ghost towns of Wilbur, Adelaide and Glenbrook. As travelers near Cripple Creek, they may spot the specters who give the road its name — particularly the ghost of a uniformed 1890s prison inmate who was spotted walking the railway days after he was executed.

Favorite Fall Flavor Festivals:

• Olathe Sweet Corn Festival, Aug. 6 (Olathe): This year’s 30th annual Olathe Sweet Corn Festival offers a full day of fun with lots of sweet corn to devour. A beer and wine garden will be present at the event in addition to booths from local vendors. There are also numerous activities for kids and adults to enjoy including corn eating competitions, games, facepainting and live musical performances.
• Palisade Peach Festival, Aug. 11-13 (Palisade): The renowned Palisade peaches are at their finest during Peach Festival weekend. The 54th Annual Peach Festival includes orchard tours, peach cuisine demos, peach eating contests, an ice cream social, BBQ throw down, a street dance with live music and much more.
• Rocky Ford Melons, Aug. and Sept. (Rocky Ford): Big melons are big business in the tiny agricultural town of Rocky Ford. Farmers ship juicy cantaloupe and watermelons nationwide. In August and September, roadside stands along Hwy. 50 are open for business. Each August the town hosts the annual Arkansas Valley Fair, during which time locals celebrate the diverse cultures of the area and outstanding agricultural community with horse races, stock shows, a carnival and rodeo, fiesta and Watermelon Days are also special parts of the celebration.
• Pueblo’s Chile & Frijoles Festival, Sept. 23-25 (Pueblo): To celebrate the city’s harvest of its best-loved crop, the Pueblo green chile, the Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival includes cooking demonstrations, musical performances, frijole-spitting and jalapeño-eating contests and more. Visitors can stop by the  farmers’ market to find green chile creations that they can take home.

Fantastic Fall Events:

• Telluride Film Festival, Sept. 2-5 (Telluride): Each Labor Day weekend, the tiny mountain village of Telluride triples in size. Swells of passionate film enthusiasts flood the town for four days of total cinematic immersion, embarking on a viewing odyssey, blissfully spending entire days in flickering dark rooms. The Telluride Film Festival takes great pains to remain not a competition, but a celebration of the best in film—past, present and future—from all around the world.
• Breckenridge Oktoberfest, Sept. 23-25 (Breckenridge): Visitors break out their lederhosen and best Bavarian attire for Breckenridge Oktoberfest’s triumphant return to historic Main Street. After being canceled in 2020 and offering a modified, scaled-down event on the Riverwalk Center lawn in 2021, the 26th annual Breckenridge Oktoberfest will once again be held on Main Street, returning to a full-blown street party with live music, food vendors and plenty of ‘Prost!’.
• Elk Fest,  Oct. 1-2 (Estes Park): The beautifully haunting bugle of a bull elk is unmistakable, and every October spectators head to Estes Park to experience the phenomenon. The elk gather there, at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, to show off for their ladies during the start of the rutting (breeding) season. At Elk Fest, visitors can learn about these beasts’ behavior, observe them in their natural habitat, participate in a bugling contest and see performances by American Indians. This year, The YMCA of The Rockies is also offering an Elk Ecology Class in which participants enjoy hands-on activities to learn about elk biology, herding dynamics, habitat requirements for survival and seasonal behavior changes.
• First Annual Tarantula Fest, Oct. 8 (La Junta): Each fall, large numbers of tarantulas skitter across the landscape in La Junta and southeast Colorado. While this phenomenon has traditionally been called a migration, it’s actually an annual mating ritual performed by male tarantulas who roam across the 443,000-plus acres on the Comanche National Grassland. The mating season starts once the temperatures cool at night, which is typically around the start of September. The first annual Tarantula Fest will be held in La Junta Saturday, October 8, and will include guided tarantula tours, an educational pavilion and much more. 

Colorado For All: The Centennial State Elevates Its Inclusive Travel Experiences

Colorado is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates the state’s diverse origins and embraces travelers and residents from all walks of life. This month, Colorado’s Governor Jared Polis signed a bill into law passing historic legislation officially recognizing Juneteenth, African American Emancipation Day, as Colorado’s 11th state holiday. June also marks National Pride Month and Pride celebrations are happening across the state. Below is a sampling of experiences that showcase Colorado’s rich cultural heritage, diverse and minority-owned businesses, as well as adaptive adventures for all abilities, LGBTQ+ offerings and events and more. For more information, visit www.COLORADO.com.  

Explore Colorado’s Rich Cultural Heritage:

Amache Named as America’s Newest National Historic Site, Granada: President Biden signed the Amache National Historic Site Act in spring 2022, designating the Amache site in Granada, Colorado as part of the National Park System. This designation, the first in the National Park System during this Administration, will permanently protect the site for future generations and will help tell the history of Japanese American incarceration during World War II.

Journey Across Colorado’s Black History Via a New Interactive Mobile App: Later this summer, History Colorado will launch the “Black Heritage Trail,” an interactive mobile app that maps sites and places of Black historical significance to explore throughout Colorado. This mobile guide will highlight virtual and in-person experiences that present historical narratives that trace Black history from pioneer days to modern times. It will feature important locations, landmarks and photographs alongside oral histories from History Colorado’s collections.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation Named the Historic Chicano/a/x Community Murals of Colorado to Its 2022 List of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places: The Chicano/a/x Community Murals of Colorado represent the Hispano history and culture of the Chicano/a/x people of Colorado. They were inspired by the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and 70s, which used art as a means to educate young people and citizens-at-large about the significant contributions of Hispanos, Chicanos, Mexican Americans and Latinos to American society.

2022 Marks the 100th Anniversary of Lincoln Hills, the Historic Mountain Resort for African American Families, Black Hawk: Lincoln Hills was developed in 1922 in Gilpin County as a recreation area by and for African-American families who were not welcomed in more popular vacation spots due to segregation. It was only one of four such areas in the United States, and the only resort of its kind in the West. In honor of the 100th Anniversary of the establishment of Lincoln Hills, History Colorado is producing a series of programs to highlight the unique history of Lincoln Hills, and the Black experience in Colorado.

Our Lady of Guadalupe, Colorado’s Oldest Church Commissions Labyrinth, Conejos: Colorado’s oldest church, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, in Conejos on the New Mexico border, is receiving a new piece of architecture. El Santuario de los Pobladores will be completed in the fall of 2022 and is a giant labyrinth that is meant to be walked through slowly and contemplatively by designer Ronald Rael.

Ute Mountain Tribal Park Offers Guided Tours, Towaoc: The Ute Mountain Tribal Park on the southern border of Mesa Verde offers tours with a Native American Ute guide. To preserve the Ancestral Puebloan architecture, the area was set aside by the Ute Mountain Utes and is accessible to the public only through guided tours. Ute guides interpret the history, dwellings and centuries old rock art decorating the canyon walls.

Support Colorado’s Diversity and Minority-Owned Businesses:

The Culture Museum Opens in Denver: The Culture Museum, a selfie experience, is a new immersive, multi-room art installation dedicated to celebrating iconic moments in Black pop culture. The museum, which recently opened in the RiNo Art District in Five Points, explores an array of Black culture expressions with themed rooms ranging from ‘90s sitcoms and iconic films, to hip hop music, to the barbershop and family reunions.

Inclusive Guide Launches in Colorado: Inclusive Journeys was founded by two Black women with a mission to create data-driven, economic incentives for businesses to be more inclusive and welcoming, resulting in safer spaces for people who regularly experience discrimination. The Beta version of their Inclusive Guide, a digital Green Book and website like Yelp for inclusivity, launched in the Denver community on Juneteenth with a plan to launch in other cities across the country in the future.

Juneteenth Music Festival, Denver (June 17-19, 2022): This historic street festival returns to Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, the historic “Harlem of the West,” with live performances, art, vendors and fun for the entire family. Don’t miss the interactive and educational programming at acclaimed African American cultural institutions and landmarks across Five Points.

Latino Outdoors, Statewide: Latino Outdoors is a unique Latinx-led organization working to provide members of the Hispanic and other underrepresented communities with transformative outdoor experiences. As part of this work, the organization serves as a platform for sharing cultural connections and narratives that are often overlooked by the traditional outdoor movement. It is a space for the community to be present, share their voices and showcase how conservation roots have been ingrained in la cultura Latina for generations.

Mango House, Aurora: Mango House is a refugee resource center with several non-profits operating inside, along with a food hall with international offerings including Burmese, Sudanese, Syrian and Somali cuisine.

“Pioneering the Field: Women in Mining” Exhibit, Leadville: The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum is proud to announce the women featured in the upcoming temporary exhibit, “Pioneering the Field: Women in Mining”. After thorough examination of the more than 50 women nominated, 15 have been chosen to be included in the exhibit. Women were nominated from across the country who have a wide variety of experience in the mining industry. Opened May 22, 2022.

Tocabe, Denver and Greenwood Village: This restaurant is the only American Indian owned and operated restaurant in Metro Denver specializing in Native and Indigenous cuisine. It offers guests a warm, open space to dine with connections to American Indian cultural elements, infused with a contemporary atmosphere.

Celebrate LGBTQ+ Events:

Beers for Queers, Leadville (June 23, 2022): FREIGHT celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with beers, music and games. This all-age friendly event is welcoming of anyone and everyone. Special cocktail and mocktail menu will be available. No cover, just love.

15th Annual Big Gay Raft Trip, Glenwood Springs: The Big Gay Raft Trip is held twice each summer: the second week of June and the third week in August. Each weekend trip offers a full day of rafting, including lunch, welcome parties, happy hours, friendship dinners at various Glenwood Springs restaurants and a Sunday brunch. There have even been a few weddings during Big Gay Raft Trips. Summer 2022 marks the 15th annual Big Gay Raft Trip bringing together men and women for two weekends of rafting and camaraderie on the Colorado River.

Blockwide Pride at the Dairy Block, Denver (June): Denver Milk Market is hosting events from June 23-27, including a Family Day, a Drag Revue, Drag Bingo Brunch and the Musical Monday Broadway sing-along. The Maven Hotel is offering a YAS Queen Getaway that includes two rainbow cocktails, a box of colorful sweets from Colorado’s Temper Chocolates and an in-room disco experience featuring a curated Prideful Playlist and a disco ball! Several other Dairy Block partners are also offering month-long specials like the Pride Flight at Blanchard Family Wines.

Boulder Pride Festival (June 6-12, 2022): To celebrate the goal of equality and respect for all, the Boulder Pride Festival takes place June 6-12 with the main celebration happening Sunday, June 12 with a motorcade, 150 vendors, food and drinks in Boulder’s Central Park and more. Fun Fact: America’s first same sex marriage license was issued in 1975 in Boulder at the Boulder County Court House.  And because of its significance in LGBTQ+ history, the Court House is now on the National Register of Historic Places.   

Denver PrideFest (June 25-26, 2022): Denver PrideFest features a two-day festival that draws visitors from throughout the state of Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. The weekend kicks off with the Pride 5K on Saturday, June 25, followed by the two-day Denver PrideFest at Civic Center Park. The Fest includes over 250 exhibitors, 30 food and beverage vendors, and live performances all weekend long. Sunday begins at 9:30 a.m. with colorful floats, marchers, music, and much more at the annual Coors Light PrideFest Parade.

Meow Wolf Celebrates Pride Month, Denver: On June 1, Denver Meow Wolf is hosting the official kick-off to Denver Pride month hosted by Indie 102.3's LGBTQ+ show, Serve It. The event will feature music and performances from all LGBTQ+ artists, including DJ Kori Hazel, drag queen Mikki Miraj and friends, and musical headliners Wheelchair Sports Camp and Destino. The Denver Meow Wolf location is hosting two official pride events, and will be out in the community participating in myriad ways in Denver PrideFest.

Experience Adventures for People of All Abilities:

Accessible Colorado State Parks: Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) strives to ensure everyone can access the state’s special places and activities. CPW offers the Columbine Pass, which provides reduced park entrance fees to Colorado residents with different abilities. It also offers accessible fishing locations in every corner of the state and offers people with disabilities hunting accommodations and services. Requests can also be made for sign language interpretation and assistive listening equipment in the parks. Visitors searching for wheelchair-accessible trails across the state can access the Colorado Trail Explorer app.

Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) Offers Adaptive Sports and Recreation Programs, Breckenridge: BOEC’s Summer Wilderness Program features camps and retreats for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities who want to enjoy the experience of rafting, rock climbing, hiking, cycling, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, stand up paddle boarding (SUP), camping, an accessible high ropes course and much more. As a national leader in adaptive outdoor adventure, BOEC’s programs take place on their 39-acre campus in Breckenridge as well as provide an opportunity to explore the amazing sights and sounds of the western United States.

The Creede Repertory Theatre is a Place of Belonging, Creede: The Creede Repertory Theatre (CRT) is an artistic haven with an EDI committee informed by work done in society and the larger theatre world. CRT commissions new, diverse playwrights annually and employs reduced bias hiring practices. This August, CRT will present five American Sign Language (ASL) interpreted productions, and high-quality assisted listening devices and trigger warnings are provided for every performance. Each year, the Education Department reaches over 35,000 underserved young people through camps, workshops and touring productions, and free childcare is provided for all company members.

Meow Wolf Offers Audio Tours for Blind and Low Vision Travelers, Denver: Meow Wolf Denver has created a groundbreaking two-hour Audio Description Tour, Highlights of the Convergence. Travelers who want or need a guided experience can explore the Convergence through the descriptive narration of expert guides, detailing key visual elements and action that might not be observed by someone with limited vision. This complimentary Audio Description Tour is designed specifically for audience members who are Blind or have low vision, allowing for a more inclusive experience of the exhibition by means of description, storytelling, touch exploration and play.

National Sports Center for the Disabled, Winter Park: The National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD) has provided adaptive sports lessons in Colorado for more than 40 years. NSCD offers a variety of adaptive lesson opportunities--including skiing, rafting, horseback riding and more--for both groups and individuals.

The Sensory Trail, Boulder: The Sensory Trail is designed specifically for people with vision impairment and for sighted visitors to imagine what it might be like to be blind.  The 1.2 mile dirt trail, near Artist’s Point, has signs in English and in Braille that encourage hikers to use their other senses – touch the trees, smell the native flowers, listen to the birds and the wind blowing through the trees. Thirty trails and sites in Boulder are accessible for people experiencing disabilities. 

Wilderness On Wheels, Grant: The mission of Wilderness on Wheels, or WOW, is to stimulate the development of access for disabled persons to natural outdoor environments. WOW accomplished this through the construction of a 1-mile, 8-foot wide boardwalk starting at 9,100 feet to the top of a 12,300-foot mountain 60 miles west of Denver near Grant. It is free to hike the boardwalk at Wilderness on Wheels.

Colorado Encourages Visitors To Make Earth Day An Everyday Mindset By Taking Steps To ‘Do Colorado Right’

As the US continues to emerge from the pandemic and travelers look to return to travel in a big way, environmental considerations are also top of mind for travelers now more than ever. The Colorado Tourism Office, along with destinations across the state, has already laid the groundwork for authentic and low impact travel experiences. The state continues to activate thoughtful new offerings and initiatives to stay ahead of the curve and protect its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich and diverse history and culture.

Colorado already is home to two U.S. cities powered 100 percent by renewable energy, meaning travelers to both Aspen and Glenwood Springs can enjoy a vacation with little carbon impact. Denver is consistently ranked among the most sustainable cities in the country, Breckenridge has joined Vail as two of only three certified sustainable mountain resort destinations in the world and five Roaring Fork Valley tourism organizations have come together to launch a valley-wide tourism alliance (the first of its kind in Colorado) that will focus on activities and programs that promote responsponsible travel.

As travelers explore The Centennial State this summer, the Colorado Tourism Office is making it easy for travelers to visit responsibly and to Do Colorado Right. The state’s award-winning and educational campaign offers travelers insights on how to enjoy the state by traveling at off-peak times, exploring lesser-known treasures and traveling like a local. As an added bonus, many of these insider's tips will help visitors take a responsible approach to travel by embracing the state’s Care for Colorado Leave No Trace Principles including Trash the Trash, Keep Wildlife Wild and Be Careful with Fire. This year, the CTO is especially pleased to partner with Cortez, Colo. resident Phil Henderson, a leader in outdoor adventure education. Henderson led an all African American ascent of Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2018 and will serve as a spokesperson for Colorado encouraging backcountry safety in the state.

After the jump is a sampling of low emissions travel options, ways to support local food and drink systems, low-impact outdoor recreation experiences, places to sleep sustainably and voluntourism opportunities to give back from across Colorado. Find more information about all of these responsible travel offerings and more on www.Colorado.com.

Choose Your Own Adventure for Spring Break Fun in the Snow or Sun in Colorado

From snowy mountain adventures and wildlife viewing on the plains to high desert sun and exciting events in every region of the state, Colorado is the place to “Shine a Little Brighter” for spring break fun in the snow or sun. March and April are some of the snowiest months in Colorado’s high country and some of the most beautiful and mild months for warm weather experiences at lower elevations.

Visitors to the state are encouraged to “Do Colorado Right” and embrace the state’s interpretation of responsible tourism — showing care not only for destinations but for others, including the people who call Colorado home. For more information and travel ideas, visit www.COLORADO.com.

For more spring break 2022 travel inspiration, visit www.COLORADO.com.

Choose Your Own Spring Adventure:

• Fishing in Fort Collins: Early spring in Fort Collins is the perfect time to cast a line in area rivers before they wash out later in the season. Warm March days kick-off the seasonal snowmelt cycle, meaning fresh water feeds rivers and streams and the fish are eager to feed on spring hatches. Check Northern Colorado Fishing Outfitters for boat trips, river trips, ice fishing, fly fishing (all weather dependent).
• Wine Tours in Palisade: Grand Valley Grapes and Grains Adventures is offering two new winery tours available through April 14, 2022. The Governor's Cup Tour is perfect for the local wine lover who wants to expand their knowledge or the visitor who wants to try Colorado’s finest wines. The New Vintage Tour explores new wineries in the Palisade area.
• Jeep Tours in Cañon City: Colorado Jeep Tours is located in Colorado’s climate capital, which means its weather is milder when compared to the rest of the state. Take advantage of this and take an open-air Jeep tour through some of Cañon City’s most beautiful scenery while also gaining knowledge of local history and geology. Tours take guests to the Royal Gorge, Red Canyon Park and Garden Parks Fossil area.
• Zoo Camp at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs: Parents need not stress about finding childcare this spring break – they can sign their kiddos up for camp at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. How does an elephant know when to migrate? Or how does an animal know to “play possum” for safety? Children are invited to discover the amazing innate behaviors animals use throughout the wild world.
• Snow Beach in Aspen: Snow Beach ASPENX Gray Malin - Chaise Lounge is a one-of-a-kind “club” on top of Aspen Mountain. This is the first time this area will be brought to life in winter/spring with a pop-up experience available for a limited six-weekend run starting on Friday, February 18, and ending on Sunday, March 27. The experience offers a new take on après-ski during Aspen Snowmass’ 75th Anniversary ski season. The outdoor setting features beach-themed décor in an alpine environment with bottle service and multi-course food pairings.
• Avalanche Safety Training in Buena Vista: AIARE (American Institute for Avalanche Rescue and Education) is the leader in avalanche training, and the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center (RMOC) teaches AIARE certified courses all spring to help backcountry enthusiasts protect themselves from avalanche dangers. Courses include Avalanche Prep, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and AIARE Avalanche Rescue. Group courses are available through early April and private instruction can also be arranged.
• Spring Skiing at Resorts Across Colorado:
  • The longest ski season in Colorado usually belongs to Arapahoe Basin (often open into mid-June!), and their epic terrain and family-friendly spring concert series make it a sure bet for smiles.
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort celebrates its 60th anniversary this winter season with special events and the debut of the new Freedom Superchair. The resort also stays open until Memorial Day for plenty of sunny spring skiing.
  • A short drive-time from Denver and a famously friendly staff make Loveland Ski Area another good choice for families, typically open into early May.
  • Monarch Mountain, near Salida, is a super-approachable locals’ favorite mountain. Lessons are available for everyone and a laid-back vibe will welcome guests along with the occasional spring cookout in the parking lot.
  • Logging the most snowfall in Colorado nearly every year, Wolf Creek Ski Area outside Pagosa Springs is a reliable springtime spot for some great powder, paired with a super-friendly, down-to-earth personality and terrain for every level.
• Sand Fun at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: Climb up and tumble, sled or sandboard down North America’s largest sand dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in the San Luis Valley. A big spring bonus: The mystical Medano Creek returns this time of year, flowing by the base of the dunes and creating a beachy environment with pulsing, small waves.
• A Two Helmet Day in the Grand Junction Area: Outside of Grand Junction, Powderhorn Mountain Resort sits on the edge of the Grand Mesa, the world's largest flat-top mountain. The area enjoys a reputation for outstanding tree skiing and diverse terrain. Vitiros can spend the morning on the slopes, then head into town where they can mountain bike on the area’s famed singletrack pretty much any day of the year. One of the most famous riding areas is the Tabeguache trailhead, better known as the Lunch Loops.
• Bird Watching in Eastern Colorado: The Colorado Birding Trail is a network of 54 trails renowned for their magnificent landscapes and unique bird species. On Colorado’s eastern plains, find the exotic-looking Greater Prairie-Chicken in April and May (viewing tours recommended) or the springtime migrating beauties on the Playa Trail.

Spring Break Lodging and Packages:

• Family Fun at Beaver Run Resort in Breckenridge: The Sprawling Beaver Run Resort is kid heaven, with a huge game room, an indoor-outdoor pool, several hot tubs and large suites and family rooms available — all in the heart of one of Colorado’s mountain playgrounds, Breckenridge.
• Family Spring Break Vacation Special at C Lazy U Ranch in Granby: The ultimate Spring Break retreat, C Lazy U invites guests with a Family Spring Break Vacation special (on select dates between March 1 and April 3) to settle into rustic, upscale cabins with cozy wood-burning fireplaces. Committed to family-focused programming that allows for a healthy mix of time together and time apart, C Lazy U provides robust kids and teens programs (ages three to 17) and offers various winter activities, such as horseback riding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing, ice skating and hockey, snow tubing and wagon sleigh rides.
• Glamping at Kinship Landing in Colorado Springs: Whether Colorado Springs is the end goal of a spring break road trip or if the goal is a relaxing staycation, Kinship Landing is the perfect home base. Visitors can book a bunk room for the whole crew or a camping deck and pitch a tent (with indoor plumbing a few steps away). 
• New Uphilling Experience with Park Hyatt Beaver Creek’s General Manager: Beginning in February, Park Hyatt Beaver Creek General Manager Herb Rackliff will guide private groups on an uphill ski adventure that gives advance access to one of Colorado’s premier mountains. The luxurious ski-in/ski-out property in the heart of Beaver Creek village is partnering with Paragon Guides to provide guests with appropriate equipment for their uphill journey.
• Spring Adventures at YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park: Popular for family reunions, YMCA of the Rockies enjoys a breathtaking location in Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, plus a full menu of activities. Choose to hide away in the fully stocked craft room or try archery, ziplining, yoga, astronomy, hiking or horseback riding — and end every day with s’mores around the campfire.

Choose Your Spring Event:

• Women in Their Infinite Forms, Denver, March: Dairy Block, Denver Milk Market & the Athena Project are partnering to present Women In Their Infinite Forms, an art installation celebrating Women’s History Month. Local artists are invited to use mannequin heads to create their vision of Women In Their Infinite Forms. The pieces will be auctioned off to support the Athena Project, a Colorado nonprofit focusing on empowering women through the arts. Dairy Block will also be hosting Spring First Friday Art Walks in the Alley on May 6 and June 3 in partnership with Inside Her Studio.
• Telluride Gay Ski Week, March 3-6, 2022: Telluride Gay Ski Week was founded in 2002. Since then, it has been a week to look forward to for participants and locals alike. The schedule of entertainment includes an opening-day party, daily après ski, pool parties, late-night lounge happenings, with events extending well into the morning hours, including the signature White Party and much more.
• Ski Joring & Crystal Carnival, Leadville, March 4-6, 2022: A fearless skier navigates an obstacle course connected by tow rope to a horse and rider galloping at top speed, and it all takes place in the middle of town, in addition to a winter carnival with other snowy activities.
• Snowmass Live Comedy Series, March 9, 16 and 23, 2022: The Collective is bringing the laughs to Snowmass this winter with the Snowmass Live Comedy Series. Featured comedians include the creator of Los Angeles live show, “The Goddamn Comedy Jam”, writer, producer, actor and musician, Josh Adam Meyers as well as The Collective’s own Sarah Sanders and Sarah Tiana, an LA based stand-up comedian and writer on “Lights Out” with David Spade.
• Monte Vista Crane Festival, March 11-13, 2022: Every March, sandhill cranes migrate through southern Colorado, stopping in the potato fields, prairies and wetlands near Monte Vista. The tall, elegant birds are best spotted in the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge — and during the annual Monte Vista Crane Festival, visitors can join in a viewing tour and an arts-and-crafts fair.
• BrewSki, Frisco, March 12, 2022: The 5th Annual Frisco BrewSki is a non-competitive, happy hour Nordic/cross country ski tour with stops for snacks, non-alcoholic drinks and beer tastings from eight local breweries. Skiing will take place on groomed, scenic, and non-challenging terrain at the Frisco Nordic Center. All ages and skiing abilities are welcome.
• Frozen Dead Guy Days, Nederland, March 18-20, 2022: Frozen Dead Guy Days is a world-renowned spectacle. This homegrown festival pays homage to Bredo Morstol (aka Grandpa), who is frozen in a state of suspended animation and housed in a Tuff Shed on dry ice high above Nederland. Highlights include coffin racing, costumed polar plunging, frozen t-shirt contests, icy turkey bowling, human foosball and more.
• Fly Fishing Film Tour, Ridgway, March 19, 2022: Enjoy fun and inspiring films about outdoor adventure and conservation through the love of fly fishing, and support projects that protect and restore the Uncompahgre River. The Fly Fishing Film Tour is an outdoor-lovers institution, curating a diverse selection of quality entertainment, matched with a party with prizes and great refreshments.
• Cañon City’s 150th Jubilee and Fireworks, April 2, 2022: Celebrate Canon City’s sesquicentennial at its great Jubilee event. Enjoy old-time games, crafts, educational booths, a petting zoo, pony rides, garden tours, food trucks, live music and more. Cañon City’s sesquicentennial will consist of a yearlong celebration of Cañon City’s 150th anniversary of incorporation in 1872.
• 5Point Film Festival, Carbondale, April 21-24, 2022: Intimate yet inclusive, the laid back vibe of this festival is a direct reflection of its birthplace, the Carbondale community. Founded in 2007, the 5Point Adventure Film Festival showcases curated, soulful outdoor films, art, and performances—all shown in one common space.
• Sunsation, Copper Mountain, Copper Mountain, April 22-23, 2022: The annual spring bash will feature two days of free live music in the resort’s Center Village, artists to be announced. As part of closing weekend festivities, skiers and riders are invited to participate in an annual pond skim tradition like none other on April 23. Participants will race one another down the hill, navigating a specialized course before sending it into the icy water at the base of the mountain.
• Great American Horsedrive, Northwestern Colorado, May 3-9, 2022: Guests can join riders from around the world in this unique experience pushing one of the largest saddle horse herds in the nation. Covering approximately sixty miles of open range, highways and back-roads, this six-day adventure is an authentic Western experience that includes cowboy entertainment, a guest-favorite cookout, many hours in the saddle and memories to last a lifetime.
• 25th Annual Fruita Fat Tire Festival, Fruita - May 6-8, 2022: Celebrate hundreds of miles of world-class trails, test out the latest mountain bikes at the demo at the 18 Road trailhead and Bookcliffs trail system, try out new equipment at the product expo in downtown Fruita and more.
• 2nd Annual Dark-Sky Celebration, Crestone, May 19-20, 2022: This two-day event celebrating Crestone’s International Dark-Sky Community Designation will include outstanding astronomy presentations, Taiko drumming, and more. May 20th will be an all-day community-filled street festival with vendors, food, stargazing  promotion, dancing in the street and other sorts of fun.