Colorado Bucket List
Colorado is no hidden gem— its beauty is spoken about far and wide, with many tourists visiting just for the views. Whether you’ve lived in the Centennial State long or have just visited briefly, chances are you’ve glimpsed a few of the sights and attended one of the many festivals. At Usaj Realty, we take pride in our state and all that it has to offer. Let’s dive into our Colorado bucket list:
Hike the Gorgeous Trails in Colorado:
Hiking is not only a great exercise, but also an encompassing hobby with never ending opportunity for exploration. Even if you’re new to hiking in the mile high state, these hikes shouldn’t be passed up on your bucket list.
- Wander through the Garden of the Gods:
- Massive red rock formations + easy walking trails = a quintessential Colorado experience for the whole family.
- Whether you are hoping to attend the Nature Center, take a guided tour (every day at 10:30am), or take a stroll, the Garden of the Gods is a perfect starting point.
- See the Leaves at Maroon Bells:
- Located in Aspen Colorado, the area has an easy 1.9 mile scenic loop, as well as a more challenging 3.5 miles hike to Crater Lake Trail.
- As this hike is often popular among locals and tourists alike, there may be limited access to the area during summer and fall. Walk-ups are always welcome, but reservations are recommended for this bucket list hiking destination.
- Hike to Hanging Lake:
- Glenwood Springs offers a steep 1.2 mile, rigorous and rocky hike that will take your breath away— so stay hydrated and watch out for altitude sickenss.
- This trail is protected, which means you’ll need a permit to get started.
- Challenge Yourself at the Manitou Incline:
- Originally a railway in Colorado Springs, the Manitou Incline now functions as a popular challenge for hikers. with 2,744 steps that gain nearly 2,000 vertical feet, this hike is not for the faint of heart.
- Reservations for the trail are free, but parking will cost you $15 for nearby lots and $1.27 – $2.50 an hour to park and take the shuttle at Hiawatha Gardens Parking Lot.
Sightsee the Best — For Horror and Nature Fans Alike:
Beyond the gorgeous leaf changes and rolling mountains, Colorado has so many fun sights to see. Between incredible sculptures, landmarks and important buildings, you don’t want to miss this sightseeing bucket list.
- Tour the St. Elmo Ghost Town:
- Ghost towns are settlements that have been abandoned but still have visible remaining buildings and infrastructure. St. Elmo Ghost Town was established in 1880 in the heart of the Sawatch Range. Nearly 2,000 people settled to mine for gold and silver. The gold and silver industry began its decline in the early 1920s, and the community was abandoned by its inhabitants.
- When visiting St. Elmo Ghost Town, enjoy the calm walk to view the standing buildings, the extemely friendly chimpunks, and a souvenir at the local gift shop.
- Discover Red Rocks Ampitheater:
- Coloradans enjoy many artists, both big and small, at the Red Rocks Ampitheater. Visitors enjoy concerts, yoga, celebratory events, and even hiking trails at this bucket list destination.
- Whatever you are looking for, Red Rocks Ampitheater likely has it. Pay close attention to event days vs. non-event days, as this will affect closing time, parking availability, and more.
- Stay at the Historic Stanley Hotel:
- Best known for its use as a set in Stephen King’s film The Shining, this hotel is a hotspot for horror fans and antiquarians alike.
- If you aren’t looking to stay the night in the “haunted” or historic rooms, you can take a tour throughout the year.
- Explore Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Visit Estes Park, drive Trail Ridge Road (highest continuous paved road in the U.S.), and watch for wildlife at dawn.
- From meadows to glistening alpine lakes and all the way up the towering mountain peaks, there is something for everyone to discover. Along the way, you’ll have access to over 300 miles of hiking trails.
Bucket List Experiences Not to Miss:
Even people born and raised in Colorado miss some of the coolest experiences the state has to offer. Don’t forget to include one-of-a-kind experiences when drafting your Colorado bucket list.
- Sand Sled in Great Sand Dunes National Park:
- You might be familiar with snow sledding, but have you tried sand sledding? Rent gear and take a drive out to Great Sand Dunes National Park for an unforgettable and unique experience.
- Sand sled anywhere on the dunefield away from vegetated areas. Remember to rent your sleds or sandboards before arriving at the park, as there are not rentals inside.
- Time Travel with the Coloado Renaissance Festival:
- Take a magical tour through time and legend as you wanter down the village streets and pathways of the Colorado Renaissance Festival. The festival typically takes place from June to August, but dates are subject to change.
- Enjoy watching artisans create original works of their ancient craft, actors in authentic costumes, and eating tantalizing turkey legs.
- Find Your Wild Side at Wild Animal Sancuary:
- If you love animals, look no further than the Colorado Wile Animal Sanctuary. Walk across an elevated bridge to see lions, tigers, bears, ostriches, camels, and more wild animals in their habitats.
- Less intrusive than traditional zoos, this sanctuary will bring wonder and joy to the whole family— so don’t miss this experience!
- Visit Telluride—Summer or Winter:
- Ride the free gondola, hike Bridal Veil Falls, or attend their legendary festivals:
Soak in Colorado’s Hot Springs:
- Strawberry Park Hot Springs:
- If driving around sightseeing and hiking has got your muscles in a twist, don’t pass up the incredible Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Not only are the hot springs themselves incredibly relaxing and enjoyable, the Strawberry Park offers massages, facials, lodging, and more.
- Keep in mind that this hot spring is located in the Mountains of Routt County, and trips in the winter require four-wheel drive as well as chains on your tires.
- Glenwood Hot Springs:
- A source of relaxation, exhilaration, and breathtaking vistas, Glenwood boasts one of the original attractions in Colorado.
- Nestled in between Vail and Aspen, this resort is a great and easy way to enjoy the springs without the trek.
- Ouray Hot Springs:
- Featuring a large, 750,000-gallon pool with multiple soaking hot springs (ranging from 96°— 106°F), a lap pool, and an activity pool, these springs will satisfy every type of vacationer.
- Sulfer-free, the Ouray Hot Springs has a safe and family-friendly way to enjoy Colorado’s waters.
- Pagosa Springs:
- Voted #1 Best Hot Spring and Best Spa Resport in the US by USA Today’s 10 Best, Pagosa Springs lives up to the hype.
- Not only do they have a full-fledged spa with plenty of included wellness treatements, but they also boast 45 mineral hot spring pools, river plunges, waterfalls and a starry grotto.
Ski or Snowboard in World Class Resorts – Choose Your Vibe:
Skiing or snowboarding down the immaculate resort hills across Colorado is a worldwide bucket list item. If you happen to be travelling through during our winter months, simply pick your vibe and glide.
- Aspen / Snowmass:
- Looking for luxury and glamour while shredding the powder? Try any of the four mountains to experience the confluence of nature, culture, and recreation.
- Breckenridge:
- Casual, charming, and filled with activities beyond skiing, Breck has it all.
- Ride the scenic gondala before hitting the slopes for the best aerial view or check out the Mountain Top Children’s Museum to include the littles.
- Vail:
- To experience the entirety of an iconic alpine village, Vail is the place to be.
- Take advantage of complimentary mountain tours, nordic skiing, a private mountain guide, shopping, on-mountain dining, the luxurious spa, and more during your visit!
- Steamboat:
- For a champagne powder experience look no further than skiing at the Steamboat Springs resort.
- What sets this resort apart is the addition of night skiing! Beyond the gorgeous mountains and amenities, go ice skating, horseback riding, or take a snowshoe tour to round out the resort experience.
Check Off More on Your Bucket List
We hope we’ve inspired you to not only write your Colorado bucket list, but to start checking items off. At Usaj Realty, we love helping people find the best part of Colorado for their bucket lists and needs. If you’re looking to get closer to the action, contact us today to discover the perfect neighborhood for you!
