Colorado Travel Regions

Copyright: Zander Higbie - Interactive Outdoors, Inc. Mt. Sopris and the Crystal River Valley from Highway 133, the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway.

Attractions - There are 54 mountains in Colorado over 14,000 feet high and more than a thousand peaks over 10,000 feet high. Mt. Elbert is the 14th highest peak in the United States, including peaks in the state of Alaska. The world class resorts of Aspen, Vail and Telluride are among the state's better known ski areas. Colorado's mountainous regions are the headwaters for six major rivers. Waters west of the Continental Divide flow toward the Pacific ocean and those east of the divide flow toward the Atlantic ocean. West of the divide, the Colorado River, for which the state was named, flows southwest from high in the Rocky Mountains in north central Colorado toward the Gulf of California. East of the Continental Divide, the North Platte, the South Platte, the Arkansas, the Republican and the Rio Grande rivers all originate in Colorado's mountains, or plains, and flow east toward the Missouri River, southeast to the Mississippi River and then south to the Gulf of Mexico.

Recreation - There are numerous and varied recreation opportunities throughout Colorado. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers enjoy the solitude of snow shrouded pine forests and can make use of several huts systems for backcountry adventuring. Snowmobilers ply what are four-wheel drive roads in the summer, often with a skier or two in tow. Crisp white snow contrasts with deep blue skies to create the perfect winter playground.

With the warming of Spring comes the annual run-off. Rivers and streams swell as the melting snow begins its journey to the oceans. White water rafters and kayakers brave tumultuous rapids while the less adventurous enjoy more placid river sections.

Along the river bottoms maturing nymphs emerge from between the rocks and begin their perilous journey to adulthood. As they float to the surface to shed there shells and release their wings, they are targeted by ravenous trout. Fly fisherman take advantage of this annual ritual to try to outsmart the wary trout with their artificial flies. Colorado rivers possess gold medal waters sporting large trout that really give a good fight.

As the mountain peaks reluctantly give up their covering of snow, an alpine wonderland emerges. Hikers, horseback riders, campers, mountain bikers and mountaineers head to remote sections of the state to enjoy stunning vistas as they practice their sport. Families pile into cars and campers to experience Colorado's scenic byways which cross 12,000 foot mountain passes and even reach the tops of 14,000 foot peaks. Abundant wildflowers and wildlife provides hours of entertainment for all.

With the coming of fall, the Aspen trees turn to pure gold. Hunters take to the countryside in search of elk, deer and other game. It is time for one last hike or bike ride before the coming snows.

Climate - The climate in Colorado varies tremendously from hot dusty summer days to frigidly cold winter nights. Colorado is known for its thunderstorms which form over the Rocky Mountains and then head across the eastern plains, often reaching 10,000 feet or more in height. Lightening is a serious threat, particularly on mountain peaks, lakes and open fields. Summertime temperatures routinely reach 90 to 100 degrees on the plains and the 70 - 80 degrees in the mountains. Cool weather is always possible at night throughout Colorado, particularly at higher elevations. It is not uncommon to need both shorts and a jacket on the same day.

The winter routinely brings severe winter driving conditions with icy roads and limited visibility. Temperatures range from the 40s and 50s on the plains to well below zero in the mountains. Proper winter clothing and food is necessary to avoid hypothermia and one should be prepared to spend an unexpected night out if traveling in the backcountry or on the highways.

Location - Colorado is located in the western United States where the great plains meet the Rocky Mountains. It is about 1500 miles from the Atlantic seaboard and 1000 miles from the Pacific Ocean. It is about 500 miles from the Mexican border and 700 miles from the Canadian border. Denver International Airport is the main port of entry into Colorado for air travelers. Interstates 70 and 76 bring visitors from the east and west while Interstate 25 runs north and south.