It may be autumn, but there’s still time to enjoy the weather before we’re hit with our first snowfall. If you’re itching to get outside your Gunbarrel apartment to take a trip, now is the time to do so. You don’t have to buy a plane ticket to see some amazing places; Colorado is home to countless unique travel destinations.
To get your planning started, here are our 5 favorite Colorado vacation spots:
The Switzerland of America
Walking down the main street of Ouray and looking up at the cathedral-like mountains surrounding the tiny town, you’ll understand why it is named the Switzerland of America. The town of Ouray is host to small boutiques, a few breweries, and highly ranked off-roading trails for the adventurous. On the edge of town, visit Box Canyon Falls, where a narrow stairway will take you up to a footbridge crossing over the rushing water of the Canyon Creek below. If you want to explore more of the region, take advantage of Ouray’s proximity to Telluride or Silverton—both are only about an hour drive away.
Relax in Pagosa Springs
In the southwestern region of Colorado, you’ll find Pagosa Springs, a mountain town known for some of the best hot springs in the state. The naturally warm springs are relaxing, and due to the mineral content, may even have healing effects. Once you’ve soothed your soul, take advantage of the hiking trails, fishing, art galleries, and museums. Visiting Pagosa Springs before the end of fall is a fun getaway to unwind and enjoy the mountains before they’re covered in snow.
Breckenridge: Not Just For Skiing
When it isn’t blanketed in snow, Breckenridge is a quaint town with great shopping, restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities. For spectacular views of the foliage changing colors, drive along the Boreas Pass, which starts in Breckenridge and takes you into Como. With plenty of picturesque views, be sure to have your camera ready to snap some shots.
To explore more of the mountain and hiking trails, ride the gondola up the slope into the Breckenridge resort. From there, walk around the base of the mountain and even take the lift up further to see some spectacular scenery at 10,000 feet. It’s only a two-hour drive from your Boulder apartment, making this a great weekend trip in the fall.
Colorado Wine Country
You’ve probably heard of Palisade’s famous peaches, but did you know they also have several wineries? Just before hitting Grand Junction, you’ll find yourself in a valley where Palisade is settled. If you love wineries and distilleries, this is the trip to take. The Fruit & Wine byway takes cyclists and drivers through Palisade’s wineries and orchards with beautiful scenery along the way. Be sure to take a tour of the wineries, where you can sample and learn more about Colorado’s small batch wine industry.
Sand Sledding
Visiting the Great Sand Dunes National Park is a unique experience, as they are the tallest dunes in North America. The most popular activity at the dunes is grabbing a sled and riding down the sloping hills of sand—you could even grab a snowboard and cruise down the dunes! After a day in the sand, cool off in nearby Medano Creek, where you can swim or hang out at the beach. Truly unique to Colorado, a trip to the Great Sand Dunes is something everyone should plan for.
Autumn is the best time to take a short trip in Colorado—one last chance to enjoy the comfortable weather. Whether you’re gone for the weekend or decide to take a week off, you don’t have to travel far to take a truly unique trip. Where are you headed this season? Tell us in the comments below!