Since Colorado is full of sun, has mild summer temperatures, and has a lot of outdoor recreation opportunities, the state makes for a great summer destination. There are so many places to hike, camp, fish and simply explore here during the summer. Have a great summer with these 10 best summer activities in Colorado.
Hiking in Colorado is a classic summer activity. There are so many hiking trails in Colorado, however visit Rocky Mountain National Park for both easy, intermediate and advanced hiking trail options. Since this park gets a lot of visitors during the summer, use the shuttle buses to take you to and from trailheads and the visitor’s center. Easy trails to consider are Emerald Lake or Lily Lake. For an intermediate hike, hike up to Loch Vale through the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. For advanced hikers with experience hiking in high elevations, wake up early to tackle the park’s 14,000-foot mountain Longs Peak. There are far more hikes in the park than these, so you are sure to find the perfect one for you.
When the snow melts, Colorado rivers thaw and fill with water. Therefore summer is a great time to go whitewater rafting. There a few rivers to raft in Colorado but the Arkansas River is a popular whitewater rafting destination. Make sure to raft Browns Canyon, which is a 12-mile journey through rapids and scenic vistas. Now don’t worry if you have no experience whitewater rafting, there are a number of guided rafting tours that are sure to be fun, stress-free and full of adventure.
Camping is a great way to experience Colorado’s nature firsthand. Now the state has a number of campgrounds, national parks and state parks, so there definitely isn’t a shortage of camping spots. However, a popular and beautiful state park to consider camping in is Golden Gate Canyon State Park. There are two large campgrounds in this state park, Reverend’s Ridge and Aspen Meadows. Reverend’s Ridge accommodates trailers, campers and tents.
Mountain biking is a popular summertime activity for Coloradans. No matter if you’re a beginner or an advanced biker, you will find a great trail to bike at Trestle Bike Park. There are 42 miles of downhill trails at this park. Don’t worry about biking up that rough uphill because there is a lift that takes bikers up to the top. Beginners will find smooth terrain while more advanced riders will get the jumps and air they are yearning for. This park does provide both rentals and instructional classes.
Take in great terrain while on horseback. Many trails in Colorado do allow horseback riders, and there are a number of guided horseback riding tours in the state. Experience one of the most beautiful spots in Colorado, Garden of the Gods, by horseback this summer. This guided horseback experience in Garden of the Gods is led by experienced staff. You will see the best of the Garden of the Gods’ rock formations like the Kissing Camels, Siamese Twins and Sleeping Giant. This horseback riding tour is perfect for complete beginners.
Spin fishing and fly fishing are the perfect activities to do during Colorado’s summer since rivers and streams here are full of water and teeming with wildlife. Head to Gunnison to fish in the Gunnison or Taylor River, since these rivers are full of both brown and rainbow trout. Go on a guided spin fishing tour to learn more about fishing, Colorado’s wildlife and Colorado rivers.
Colorado has one of the most beautiful music venues in the entire country, Red Rocks Amphitheater. World-class musicians perform at Red Rocks every summer, so your favorite band may be playing at this wonderful outdoor venue. Red Rocks Amphitheatre is truly in nature since it was crafted between large rock outcroppings. This spot is sure to make for an unforgettable summer concert.
Colorado has a number of wonderful golf courses open to the public. The Breckenridge Golf Club offers scenic mountain views and great summer weather for golfing enthusiasts. There are a total of 27 holes to play at Breckenridge, so golfers will definitely have a day of fun. If you don’t have time for all the holes, try just the Elk course, which offers beautiful panoramic mountain views.
View Colorado like you’ve never seen it before by going on a hot air balloon ride. There are a number of hot air balloon companies in the state. But head to Pagosa Springs for not only great views but also a beloved hot air balloon service. Hot air balloon rides are only offered during the summer and in the early mornings, when the air is the calmest. You will get an aerial view of Colorado’s mountainous terrain. It will truly take your break away flying above canyons and mountains and alongside hawks and bald eagles.
Now Colorado is beautiful from the ground but head below Colorado’s mountainous terrain to experience another part of Colorado nature. There are quite a few opportunities in the state to get below the earth from cave tours to old mine tours. Cave of the Winds is a popular destination where you’ll explore Colorado’s caverns. Experienced guides will lead you through an adventure tour through Cave of the Winds.
