Colorado Winter Activities

So, you want to explore Colorado winter activities. You have come to the right place. Colorado is a premier destination for winter sports and experiencing the idyllic winter wonderland; the Centennial State—especially the more mountainous regions—comes alive when the temperature drops and the snow falls. Regarding skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, Colorado has covered you with 25 world-class resorts attracting athletes and vacationers worldwide. Still, if the slopes don’t appeal to you, or you’re looking to try something new, plenty of other winter activities and events are just waiting to be discovered. Check out all our activity recommendations for the non-skier. Couples, solo adventurers, groups of friends, and families will all find a winter wonderland at their fingertips. Whether you are a local or a visitor, you’ll fall in love with Colorado during the winter.

Colorado’s World-Class Ski Resorts

If you’re looking for action or an adrenaline rush, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you missed out on Colorado’s ski resorts. With over 40,000 acres of skiable terrain throughout the state, Colorado’s world-renowned resorts draw skiers and snowboarders from all over the world, and it won’t take long for you to see just why. There’s the big-name resorts like Aspen and Vail, of course, but other, smaller resorts in Colorado also have a lot to offer, like Powderhorn, Silverton Mountain, and Wolf Creek. Many of these resorts have access to other great activities and resources, like terrain parks, tubing hills, Nordic trails, and other activities and events throughout the season. And if the main slopes don’t appeal to you, or you’re looking for a greater challenge, check out the snowcat skiing opportunities offered at some resorts, which give you the chance to get out into the backcountry from some truly epic terrain.

Colorado Winter Exhilarating Fun

Both on and off the resorts, there’s plenty of opportunity in Colorado for some heart-pumping and exhilarating fun. Snowmobile tours offer a great look at the Continental Divide or other scenic parts of the mountains that are difficult to access on foot. For a slower ride, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing—you can bring your own or rent a pair from one of the many outdoors supply companies in Colorado—to see the sights and get your workout along the more scenic route. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and want to tour the backcountry, there are many huts available for rent where you stay a night or a week to recharge and get some of the best tracks in the state. Climbing enthusiasts don’t need to wait for the snow to melt to try out some of Colorado’s amazing technical climbing areas; they can try their hand at ice climbing instead for a whole new facet of the sport. Popular destinations for ice climbing include Ouray (and the internationally famous Ouray Ice Park), Vail, Lake City, and Silverton, but options can be found all over the state.

Colorado Winter Family Friendly Activites

For a more family-friendly Colorado winter itinerary, there are plenty of hills for sledding and tubing, varying from gentle slopes to more exhilarating runs because, if you haven’t noticed, we’ve got some great terrain for downhill sports out here in the Rockies. You can find designated hills just for sledding and tubing at most major ski resorts, but there are many other great hills all over Colorado.

Families and groups looking for a less physically demanding experience, or couples looking for romance, might enjoy seeing the sights from beneath a soft blanket on a horse-drawn sleigh ride, many of which are accompanied by a delicious dinner and hot drinks. Another really fun and unique way to explore Colorado is on a dog sled, pulled by a dozen huskies through the mountainous paths of the Rockies.

Colorado Resort Towns

During the winter, towns, cities, and ski resorts around Colorado set up ice skating rinks, often in the center of town, so you can lace up and enjoy a few laps around the rink, hold hands with a loved one as you teach them how to move on the ice, or show off your wannabe Olympian skills. Many rinks are open late, especially at ski resorts, so you can enjoy them as an aprés ski activity. There are also many natural ice skating rinks around Colorado, like at Evergreen Lake, where you can skate surrounded by nature. Many other lakes in Colorado serve as excellent destinations for ice fishing during the winter, where you can sit back and tempt some fish out of the water. At the same time, you enjoy a beer or a hot beverage with friends or in the solitary tranquility of your own company. Note that fishing in Colorado does require a license.

And speaking of that tranquility, winter is the perfect time of year to take advantage of some of Colorado’s amazing stargazing opportunities. Some of the best locations for this will be in the southern or eastern regions of the state, far from the big cities and their light pollution. Winter is traditionally best for stargazing, and at places like the UFO Watchtower in Hooper, CO, or Last Chance, CO, out in the northeastern region of the state, you’ll see a mindblowing number of stars. Just remember to bundle up and bring a thermos of hot cocoa.

Colorado Winter Activities to Keep You Warm

But perhaps the cold doesn’t appeal to you, and you’re looking to warm up, relax, or have fun without needing to bundle up in a million layers. If that’s the case, you’re still in luck because one of the benefits of Colorado’s diverse geological terrain is the abundance of natural hot springs. From the intimate rock pools of Strawberry Hot Springs near Steamboat to the Olympic-sized swimming pool of hot, mineral spring-fed water in Glenwood Springs, you’ve got many choices regarding where you want to soak. Many of these springs are accompanied by an on-site spa, where you can indulge in a relaxing massage or other treatment to help rejuvenate you and make you feel your best. Other popular destinations for hot springs include Pagosa Hot Springs, Hot Sulphur Springs, Idaho Springs, Dunton Hot Springs, and Cottonwood Hot Springs.

You may also find a fun (and warmer!) experience waiting for you at some of the museums and art galleries across Colorado, which can be found virtually anywhere in the state. From the US Mint and the Denver Art Museum in the state’s capital to the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame in Vail, you’ll have no trouble finding indoor fun to keep you busy. Or suppose museum culture’s not your thing. In that case, you’ll still get a good taste of Colorado by visiting its many breweries, distilleries, and restaurants, which offer a fun and casual way to spend blustery winter days that are too cold to be spent outside.

Colorado Winter Events

No matter where you end up this winter, there are bound to be some great local events happening in the area. December brings the lead-up to the holiday season: Christmas markets, tree lightings, meet and greets with the big man in red himself, and tons of fun festivals featuring food, drinks, and live music. At several big ski resorts in Colorado, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve mean torchlight parades, in which hundreds of skiers and snowboarders race down the mountain with blazing torches in hand for a fun and beautiful show.

Cultural events also abound during the winter, like Breckenridge’s annual Ullr Fest to celebrate the Norse god of snow or Nederland’s charming Frozen Dead Guy Days, which celebrates a unique story in their local history with events like coffin racing and frozen turkey bowling.

There are also plenty of events that celebrate winter itself, like the International Snow Sculpture Championship, held each year in Breckenridge, and features competitors worldwide who build massive and beautiful sculptures out of 25-ton blocks of snow. On a similar scale of beauty, Dillon Ice Castles is an incredible yearly art installation that lets you explore icy tunnels and corridors and climb through rooms bordered by the frozen towers of a man-made castle built entirely out of ice. At night, the castle is lit up in bright colors.

If you’re staying at a ski resort or nearby, watch for their annual calendar of events. There’s always something fun happening in Colorado ski resort towns, especially on weekends, from beer festivals to live music. Goofy competitions, like fat tire bike racing in the snow or pond skimming toward the end of the season, offer a fun and exciting activity for curious spectators and the daredevils who want to participate.

Colorado Winter Sporting Events

As one of the premier winter sports destinations in the country, Colorado is naturally home to some of the most significant events and competitions in winter sports, and if you’re around during the colder months, chances are you might run into a few.

First, there’s the X Games, one of the most significant events in the world, which happens right in Aspen every January. Some of the top athletes in the world flock to Colorado for the X Games, and every event is free and open to the public, so if you’re in the area, you can bundle up and watch some genuinely legendary skiers, snowboarders, and winter athletes show off their skills. Similarly, the Dew Tour happens every year in Breckenridge in December and is also free to attend. Both events also feature live music performances from some A-list acts.

On a more niche level is the Ouray Ice Festival, which occurs every year in January. The Ouray Ice Festival draws thousands of ice climbers from near and far, who test their mettle as they climb the Uncompahgre Gorge, a one-mile-long frozen winter ice park. Spectators can watch from the top of the gorge as climbers attempt this feat and spend their evenings eating, drinking, and dancing at the following party.

If you’re looking for a different type of winter fun, try the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo, a huge annual event in Denver featuring over 15,000 animals. You can watch horse and cattle shows, shop for a new pair of cowboy boots at the markets, or watch brave rodeo riders try to stay seated on a bucking bronco or in bull riding events. The National Western Stock Show and Rodeo is the world’s largest stock show. It takes place every year in January, and it has events tailored for everyone.

Colorado National Parks in the Winter

The Rocky Mountains mean that Colorado has a front-row seat to some of the most incredible nature in the country, and it is home to four beautiful National Parks: Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison. While some of these parks are more trafficked than others (Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, while Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of the least-visited), visiting them during the winter brings with it a few benefits, namely much smaller crowds.

A winter visit to Great Sand Dunes means climbing immense dunes topped with snow and great sledding. While many popular attractions like Trail Ridge Road are closed during the winter in Rocky Mountain National Park, you won’t have to deal with the tour buses and caravans of cars that pull up to popular trailheads. Your chances of spotting wildlife like moose, elk, or bighorn sheep are high. This time of year provides many photo opportunities, and your hikes will be serene. Just remember to research before you visit to check trail conditions; bring your snowshoes or cross-country skis, depending on where you go.

Colorado Winter

Whether you’re spending your winter in the mountains, along the Front Range, or on the Western Slope, you’ll have your pick of accommodations, from luxury resorts in world-class ski towns to a rugged cabin in the backwoods of the mountains, with a roaring fire. Still, wherever you end up, you’ll find no shortage of fun activities to keep you busy during your stay.

Winter in Summit County

Winter in Summit County, Colorado

Winter in Summit County is a magical time for mountain adventures, seasonal festivities, and honored traditions. Summit County is draped in powdery, sparkling snowflakes and locals and visitors from all walks of life share a winter enthusiasm. Blessed with a central location in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Summit County encompasses the inviting towns of Keystone, Dillon, Silverthorne, Frisco, Copper Mountain and Breckenridge.

Winter in Summit County – Activities

Summit County has grown from a mining boom base camp to a favorite Rocky Mountain vacation destination. Boasting the most extended ski season in the Western United States, the landscape evokes exploration. It is the perfect playground for nature lovers and those looking for a relaxing winter getaway. Breathtaking, snowcapped peaks are a natural backdrop for excursions ranging from:

Downhill and Nordic Skiing
Ice skating
Ice fishing
Snowcat tours
Family-friendly parks
Find more Summit County Winter Activities.

Celebrate Winter in Summit County, participate in tradition at one of our many winter events, rejuvenate at a bed and breakfast, browse locally owned shops, and indulge in our creative restaurants and breweries. Take advantage of the county-wide free transportation system while shopping to check out the friendly lakeside towns of Dillon and Frisco, stroll charming Main Street and Breckenridge, or do a little shopping in Silverthorne. Save time for a day trip to one of our neighboring communities, such as Leadville or Fairplay.

It’s time to get acquainted with Winter in Summit County and make lasting memories in this fantastic winter wonderland.

Winter in Colorado

When you think of winter in Colorado, you probably imagine grand ski slopes, big halfpipes, and fabulous ski towns. Well, that’s all true and something any real connoisseur should experience; however, Colorado has much more going on than just skiing and riding.

For those in your group who don’t ski or ride, check out this extended list of things to do for the non-skier. 
For the group on a budget. Check out these budget-friendly options; these resorts provide the same Colorado experience but at a more affordable price.

Winter in Colorado’s Resort Towns

Colorado’s resort towns are winter wonderlands and add to the winter vacation experience. Join in on the slopeside apres ski scene; it’s a fun social opportunity with your friends and a chance to meet new ones. Base areas also access ski lodges, shopping, dining, transportation, and more. If you’re with a group, event centers are available to host whatever you have in mind. A big day on the slopes will make you tired and sore. Plenty of spas are just around the corner and offer various services.

Vacationing in a Colorado resort town is a fun experience for everyone. Resort towns have become experts at facilitating the tourist crowd. Downtown areas are full of boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, pubs, cafes, event venues, and more. Wandering around a Colorado resort town is a must-do for any visitor.

Some of the Best

Skiing and riding in Colorado is some of the best in the world. In fact, there are 25 world-class ski resorts and many smaller ones. Colorado's ski areas span the state, covering more than 40,000 acres of terrain beginning at the sky-scraping Continental Divide and unfolding north, south, east, and west deep into the Centennial State's majestic mountain ranges. Colorado's ski slopes and terrain parks have been expertly designed to cater to beginners through expert-level skiers and riders. Resorts will have ski and ride schools to help bring along any level of athlete. Clinics and special programs are also available. You will find that handicapped people are catered to, as well as the new and growing uphill crowd. If you have a young family, childcare services and ski/ride programs for kids are available to help make the family experience most enjoyable.

Ski and Ride Gear

Don't worry about the gear if you’re new to the sport. There are so many sports shops that you might even accidentally walk into one. If you’re unsure which shop will best accommodate your group, start by asking the concierge or the booking agent who helped set up your trip. In addition to getting set up with the best gear, you’re looking for services such as convenient ski storage or slopeside access to your gear, transportation to the slopes, and help with your gear if necessary. If you have brought your own gear, find a ski shop or a slopeside locker service so you don’t have to carry all that cumbersome gear around. Shops are great to partner with as they can get your gear tuned and ready to go.

Guest Ranches - Destination Resorts

Tucked away in more remote locations are Colorado resorts that are commonly referred to as Guest Ranches. Winter in Colorado transitions activities at these ranches, and they take on new reasons to visit. Below are a few standouts.

Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort and Spa is a perfect example of this type of destination. Located in northern Colorado. This destination ranch has 120km of groomed trails, with a complete pro-shop, lessons, gear, snowshoes, and dogs are welcome. The lodge is exquisite, complete with dining facilities and a spa.

Grand Lake Nordic Center is also located in northern Colorado. This destination resort has 35km of groomed Nordic trails, a tubing hill, an on-site restaurant, and a summer golf course, and it is dog-friendly. They don’t provide lodging, but there’s plenty of that nearby.

Vista Verde Guest Ranch, just north of Steamboat Springs in Clark, Colorado, is a luxury destination resort and spa with year-round attractions. During winter in Colorado they offer:

15km of groomed cross-country trails for both classic and skate skiing.
Guided snowshoeing.
A snowtubing hill.
Backcountry ski tours with guides and equipment available.
Fat biking or winter mountain biking.
Horseback riding goes year-round as they have an incredible indoor facility.
Hop on board a sleigh ride before an exquisite dinner.
Explore the National Forest via snowmobile tours.

These are just a few examples of resort destinations that truly remove you from the hustle of daily life. There are more throughout Colorado, you will just have to poke around to find the destination resort that meets your needs.

Natural Hot Spring Resorts Open Year-round

Most of Colorado’s natural hot spring resorts are open year-round. The natural spring water is always hot, and experiencing its benefits is often more soothing in the winter than summer. These resorts vary in their accommodations, but many offer onsite lodging, dining, and spa services.

The popular Glenwood Springs Hot Springs and Spa between Aspen and Vail is an icon of relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort is home to the world's largest hot springs pool, a full-service athletic club, a gift shop, a grill, and a 107-room lodge. They offer specials such as the wellness package, ski swim stay, the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park package, and more. The Shoshone Chutes adventure river ride keeps kids of all ages engaged. This is a perfect destination resort for the whole family.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs, also located in Glenwood Springs, overlooks the Colorado River. This resort emphasizes smaller (total of 16) geothermal pools, ranging in temperature, and a single freshwater pool to cool off in. The resort includes a bathhouse and two Cafés. There is no lodging onsite, but there are plenty of choices nearby. The emphasis is on the adult experience at this resort.

Indian Hot Springs, located in Idaho Springs just off of I-70, is the closest natural hot spring to Denver. Consider making an overnight stay at this resort and spa. They have rooms and cabins with kitchens. There is no onsite dining, but there are lots to choose from nearby. They do offer spa services to complement your relaxing stay.

Explore Colorado's natural hot springs via our Hot Springs Guide. There are many to choose from, and each one is unique in what they offer.

Snowmobile and winter buggy tours. These tours are a popular way to really “get out there” and explore the winterscape.
A winter scenic train ride. This is another spectacular way to experience Colorado’s more remote mountain vistas and learn about days gone by.
Sleigh rides. Authentic horse-drawn sleigh rides are found throughout Colorado. A dinner experience accompanies most.
Ice fishing. Lakes are all over Colorado, and ice fishing is a great way to enjoy them in the winter. Local shops will set you up with all the gear and guides can be hired too.
Tubing and sledding hills. Colorado has some exceptional sledding/tubing hills worth a visit for some big fun.
Winter Events. Events are ongoing in Colorado, and winter has a whole set of highlights.

With convenient non-stop flights to Denver and some of the regional airports in Colorado, getting to your favorite resort is easy. Once landed, ground transportation will take you to your destination doorstep. Going to Winter Park? Take the “Winter Train” via DIA’s A-Line Train that connects in Union Station, and go straight to Winter Park!

Summit County Transportation

If you’re basing your winter in Colorado vacation from the Summit County area which means you could be staying in any of the following resort towns:

Silverthorne
Frisco
Dillon
Breckenridge
Copper Mnt

The FREE Summit Stage bus can get you around the entire Summit County area. That means you can easily access four world-class ski and ride resorts (Breck, Keystone, A-Basin, Copper Mnt). Download the app and stay up to date with the time and place of this bus line.

Alpenglo Adventure Tours is another fantastic transportation service in the Summit County area. This company specializes in door-to-door tour service for scenic trains, brews booze and bud tours, and the Zephyr train.

Tasting Rooms, Wineries and Vineyards

Colorado Tasting Rooms and Wineries

Grapes grow abundantly in Colorado, and so are wineries and tasting rooms. The Western Slope and mountain regions have a sweet reputation for lovely wines and exceptional tasting room experiences.

The local and regional grapes offer unique profiles for winemaking. You’ll find vineyards nearby as you travel around the state to your favorite Colorado destinations. Check the events calendar for wine-tasting events.

Tasting Rooms on the Western Slope

Paonia
Palisade
Glenwood Springs
Grand Junction
Aspen
Durang

The Front Range has dozens

Greeley
Fort Collins
Severance
Boulder
Denver
Longmont
Berthoud
Lyons
Niwot
Estes Park
LaPorte
Nederland

And more, such as Alamosa, Salida, Colorado Springs, Moffat, Cañon City, Divide, San Luis, Trinidad, Rocky Ford, Pueblo, Paonia, Hotchkiss, Crested Butte, Cortez.

Expand Your Horizons with Wine Tasting Rooms

Wineries and wine are prevalent in Colorado; they must go along with the eclectic personalities who flock to this state. If you have never tried attending a tasting room or event, you have many chances to do so. It’s a fun, lively experience and an opportunity to explore wine and meet new wine connoisseurs.

Booze, Brews, and Bud Tours

Take a Booze, Brews, and Bud Tours

Consider Bud Tours on your next visit to Colorado. That’s right join a well organized local tour of marijuana dispensaries and learn, participate, and purchase locally cultivated CBD and other products in a safe, friendly environment. Visitors and locals alike can explore the dispensaries of Colorado on their own or with the help of several well-established tour companies like Loopr, which takes guests to dispensaries, restaurants, bars, and more, all from the comfort of a luxury tour bus where you can feel free to sit back and smoke on their way to the next location. Or, if that still makes you feel uncomfortable, you can buy CBD oil online and have it delivered to your home.

Bud Tours & Colorado Dispensaries History

Since the legalization of recreational marijuana went into effect in 2014, Colorado’s cannabis industry has grown exponentially and is now bigger than the entire GDP of some small countries. Every year, weed is legalized in more and more places around the US and the world, but since Colorado, along with Washington, was the first state to legalize recreational cannabis consumption, it will always hold a special place in the history of the marijuana industry and in the hearts of weed-enthusiasts everywhere. Visitors to Colorado will find the iconic green cross that symbolizes dispensaries at nearly every turn in resort towns and major cities, marijuana-themed gifts and novelties at lots of local souvenir shops, and the tell-tale scent of happy smokers that wafts from windows and into the streets. Dispensaries are staffed by knowledgeable budtenders who are happy to teach customers about their wide variety of products and help people choose which one is perfectly suited for them.

Bud Tours & Colorado Distilleries

There are more than 90 craft distilleries in Colorado; many of whom focus on locally sourced ingredients to create a unique taste and style you won’t find anywhere else. The most well-known of Colorado’s distilleries is Stranahan’s, a whiskey distillery in Denver that produces fantastic craft whiskey and offers great tours of its facilities. Still, it’s far from alone when it comes to great liquor. Some other recognizable Colorado distilleries include Breckenridge, which at 9,600 feet elevation is the world’s highest distillery and is best known for its amazing blended Breckenridge Bourbon whiskey, and Deerhammer Distillery in Buena Vista, which has won awards for some of its whiskey, gin, and brandy varieties. With so many distilleries in or near resort towns tours have become popular. Distilleries have teamed up to offer distilleries and bud tours.

Bud Tours & Colorado Wineries

While the Rockies aren’t quite as well known as other regions like Napa Valley in California, the abundance of sunshine and the sheer variance of climates within the state means that vineyards and wineries are thriving in creating some really unique and delicious high-altitude wines. There are some really fantastic wineries on the Western Slope as well as in the Front Range, and many of them offer wine tours and have beautiful tasting rooms where you can enjoy a taste of their fine products. In Colorado these establishments have teamed up and combined these popular tours to become wine, beer, and bud tours.

Craft Beer, Wine, and Bud Tours in Colorado

We saved the best for last because if there’s anything that Colorado is known for regarding alcohol, it’s beer. The biggest and most well-known of Colorado’s many breweries is undoubtedly Coors. This massive beer giant also brews recognizable names like Keystone and Blue Moon from its facility in Golden, Colorado. The Coors facility offers great tours (and free samples!), but it’s far from the only beer to be found in the Centennial State.

Colorado the 3rd State with the Most Breweries

When it comes to having the most breweries in the state, Colorado comes in at number three, with an estimated 7 breweries per 100,000 people. With well known breweries like New Belgium in (maker of Fat Tire), and Longmont’s Left Hand Brewing Company, as well as small microbreweries, brewpubs, and experimental craft beer projects at every turn, Colorado is a beer lover’s paradise.

Beer Themed Events in Colorado

If you’re looking to plan your visit around beer, keep in mind that there is no shortage of beer-themed events happening within the state throughout the year.

The city of Fort Collins holds the Colorado Brewers’ Festival every summer during June to award excellence in Colorado state brewing.
Even more of a grand spectacle is the Great American Beer Festival, a national competition and celebration of the craft beer industry, which is held every September in Denver and features over 800 breweries from all over the country.

Tickets to these events tend to sell pretty fast. Still, even if you don’t get your hands on one for the official event, it’s pretty easy to create your own Beer-Fest in Colorado whenever and wherever you want by visiting one of the many craft beer bars or local liquor stores to take the local goods home with you.

Florence

Things to Do in Florence, Colorado

About Florence

Named after the daughter of pioneer and settler James McCandless, Florence is a little town with a big heart. The friendly community is conveniently situated in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and next to the Arkansas River. Many of the town’s original historic buildings and homes still remain. Numerous downtown merchants are located in Florence’s historic district.

This town is located south of Cañon City and on your way if you’re heading west to the Royal Gorge Region.

Antiques & Art Abound

Today, the town still maintains a small-town, down-to-earth family feel. Head to the historic downtown for an afternoon of browsing, shopping, and dining. Modern-day treasure hunters will love this oasis of antiques and art, boasting numerous antique stores, art galleries, restaurants, and specialty shops. Almost every nook and cranny of these antique stores is filled with treasures. Each store has its unique personality, from vintage postcards and toys to collectible dishes and books. Shoppers can view and purchase artwork in various media, including oil paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, and more. Stop into one of the downtown galleries to view displays and works by local artists and, if you’re lucky, catch an artist in action creating their next

The Antique Capital of Colorado

An antique lover’s paradise, the town features more than a dozen antique shops and co-ops. It has become a favorite weekend destination for many Coloradans and out-of-state visitors looking to go treasure hunting.

masterpiece.

Bell Tower

Operated by the Florence Arts Council, this spectacular 1989 building hosts various events: concerts, weddings, art classes, conferences, children’s summer art camps, art shows and competitions, music lessons, and more. The garden area features benches for resting on your travels through Florence. The Arts Council has installed numerous sculptures and murals throughout the town. Pick up a map and consider a walking tour!

Hometown Dining in Florence

You’ll find plenty of dining here as well. From hearty down-home breakfasts, bakeries, and hand-tossed pizzas to fine dining, authentic Mexican restaurants, and unique, inviting venues perfect for that special occasion.

Ridgway

Explore Ridgway, Colorado

Snuggled into the Uncompahgre Valley in western Colorado, the postcard-perfect little town of Ridgway is home to around 1,000 residents and is one of the sweetest getaways in the entire state.

The scenery begs for superlatives, with the San Juan mountain range to the south jutting into the bluest of skies and the Cimarron peaks commanding a Standing O. Hill and vale, are covered with pine and aspen, and cottonwoods dot the stream banks in the lower regions. And it’s all illuminated by an average of 300 sunshiny days each year.

Ridgway Culture

Ridgway is downright beautiful. It’s more than what meets the eye, with a community that supports ranchers, farmers, and other land stewards and artists of all stripes. Studios and galleries provide outlets for painters, sculptors, artisans, potters, woodworkers, jewelry makers, photographers, and weavers—if it’s beautiful, you’ll find it in here.

There’s also an energetic musical force in town, with a popular concert series. Sherbino Theater also offers music, film showings, and other cultural fare. Shopping is just as varied, with one-of-a-kind treasures and souvenirs ready to go home with you.

Historical Significance

For history buffs, Ridgway has a colorful past. It was founded in the last decade of the 19th century as headquarters for the Rio Grand Southern Narrow Gauge Railroad, which services the area’s gold and silver mines and farmers and ranchers. A museum holds relics of those bygone glory days. The area’s incredibly idyllic setting made it the perfect backdrop for 1969’s True Grit, for which John Wayne won the Best Actor Academy Award for his portrayal of Rooster Cogburn.

Ridgway Food & Lodging

While you’re soaking up the atmosphere, consider sampling some of Ridgway’s food and drink. Numerous renowned restaurants, as well as a local brewery and distillery, are located in the town.

Accommodations to fit every budget and need are available in Ridgway and nearby Ouray, and the area is a great place to pitch a tent and get to know Mother Nature on a first-name basis.

Recreation

The four seasons present endless possibilities for outdoor recreation.

A favorite recreation area is Ridgway State Park, which has a 1,000-acre reservoir just a couple of miles from town. The Uncompahgre River offers great fishing, and the reservoir park is also ideal for camping, boating, waterskiing, windsurfing, picnicking, hiking, and biking.
If a good soaking sounds good, Orvis Hot Springs offers several pools outside and one indoors.
Mountain biking, gravel riding, and road biking are popular in and around Ridgway. There are plenty of trails, backroads, and challenging pavement to satisfy all cycling enthusiasts. Check out the San Juan Hut Systems, which has fully stocked huts strategically located on dirt roads and single-track trails from high alpine areas to Canyon Country; learn more.
You can go off-road via Jeep, Buggy, or RAZR, or you can pick the type of off-road vehicle.
For horse lovers, saddle up and sign up for a horseback riding adventure.
Mountaineering guided services are offered via Skyward Mountaineering.

There’s also rodeo, golf, motorcycle and off-road tours, rafting, kayaking, hunting, birding, skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, scenic drives… Oh, the things you’ll do in Ridgway!

Camping

Plan your Colorado Camping Trip

With spectacular scenery and mild summer temperatures, there could be no better way to experience the outdoors than camping at one of the many Colorado campsites. Read about some of our campground recommendations.

Colorado’s outdoors has something for every camper’s taste, from the desert of the Colorado National Monument to serene Mountaintop lakes, rushing rivers, and grassy plains. Colorado’s many destinations offer idyllic, untouched wilderness, cool summer weather, and boundless outdoor opportunities. You only need to choose your style.

Explore Campsites

Camping in Colorado doesn’t mean roughing it. There are many ways to enjoy the serene outdoors and pamper yourself with life’s little extras. Whatever your style, there are plenty of opportunities throughout the state.

Places to Camp in Colorado

Colorado’s State Parks: There are 42 parks throughout the state. Most center around a spectacular mountain lake, while others feature land, trails, and nature. Many feature both. State parks have various amenities such as RV hookups, rental cabins, tent campsites, access to water sports, and more. Each park is unique, so you need to check out the State Parks Guide for more information.
National Forests and Grasslands: there are 11 National Forests (13,234,380 acres) and 2 National Grasslands in Colorado, The Pawnee (193,060 acres), east of Fort Collins, and the Comanche National Grassland in the SE corner of the state. Dispersed camping is allowed (not to exceed 14 days) in the National Forests and Grasslands; however, some exceptions exist (no dispersed camping) in high-traffic areas such as trailheads, campgrounds, and picnic sites. Campgrounds on National lands do require reservations. Please beware of dispersed camping regulations before you head out.
BLM Lands: Dispersed camping is allowed on Colorado’s BLM Lands (8.3 million acres); the same rules apply. BLM campgrounds require a fee, and reservations can be made at recreation.gov.
Wilderness: Colorado has 44 federally protected wilderness areas with over 3.5 million acres. Camping in wilderness areas usually requires a permit or signing in at the trailhead. Visitors must follow wilderness regulations and any signage along the route. Wilderness areas are generally surrounded by the National Forest.
Private Campgrounds: private campgrounds are found throughout the state and often offer the best-case scenario for RV hookups and other amenities.

Choose Your Camping Style

Now that you understand Colorado’s different places to camp, you can choose how you will camp. Recreational Vehicle (RV) and Cabin camping will be the most comfortable. You can bring whatever you want, and you will have access to bathrooms, kitchens, beds, and other amenities. Car camping or backpacking on public lands outside a designated campground is a rougher experience; however, this is the way to go for those who want to experience nature’s solitude and beauty.

Recreational Vehicle (RV) Camping

A very popular way of experiencing Colorado is by RV. The freedom of traveling by RV gives you access to any destination the road will take you. Experience high mountain vistas and travel through quaint mountain towns. Stop at local farmer’s markets and musical events. Find out-of-the-way campsites. Learn more about RV camping in Colorado. Most campsites that facilitate RV campers do require reservations. However, BLM is always open to RVs, and some National Forest locations are available too.

Rent a Rustic Cabin

Finding a tucked-away cabin in Colorado is a very popular way to experience the effervescence of Colorado. Cabins in Colorado are usually surrounded by majestic mountains next to a lake or a hot springs, in a state park, or on a private guest ranch. Renting a cabin is a great way to experience the wonders of that particular place. That said, there are often several Colorado activities to choose from within your location, plus the cabin’s roominess to keep all your stuff safe and ready.

Pitching a Tent

Camping by way of a tent. If you are serious about getting remote, pitching a tent is the way to go. Even if you choose to car camp with a tent, your options of finding campsites without a reservation go way up. If you find your favorite campground full, look for a nearby National Forest. Although there are National Forest campgrounds, you don’t have to camp in a designated area. The National Forest is open to the public, but please be mindful of packing out whatever you bring in and read through these rules for forest visitors.

Backpacking

Going backpacking is the best way to experience Colorado’s wilderness. Backpacking allows trekkers to get close to all the beauty and wonders of Colorado’s remote areas. Colorado has some of the most scenic and challenging trails in North America. However, backpacking in Colorado is really for the seasoned enthusiast. To begin with, you need to be hiking-fit and able to carry a heavy backpack. If you are a total newbie, find someone experienced to accompany you. Backpacking is the opposite of RV camping, as all your essentials need to be scaled down to a minuscule size or completely left behind. It’s best to do a couple of overnight trips before heading out for several days. This will help you understand your equipment and how to organize for a longer trip. You need to be comfortable with maps and a compass as well. Spend time hiking with a map so you get a feel for navigation. That being said, backpacking is the most exhilarating and refreshing way to experience the wilderness.

Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping refers to finding campsites outside of designated campgrounds; however, there are rules to follow. Tent camping or Backpacking through public lands such as the National Forest, BLM, or wilderness is considered dispersed camping. However, the wilderness has additional regulations.

Bring Along the Essentials

Colorado temperatures fluctuate dramatically from day to night, and wildlife is plentiful. Always remember to be smart about food storage and be prepared with essentials like sunscreen, maps, first aid kits, proper clothing, drinking water, or a water filtration system.

For information on forest service campgrounds, including location, availability, reservations, and services, visit the National Forest website at www.fs.usda.gov or www.recreation.gov. Consider a Colorado State Park for your next trip.

Cripple Creek

Discover Cripple Creek, Colorado

On the back side of Pikes Peak, snugged onto the hillsides of a once-rollicking and wildly rich gold camp, sits today’s Cripple Creek, a limited-stakes gaming town that draws visitors from around the world.

Like many of Colorado’s mountain towns, it was first home to the Ute tribe, which moved through the high country with the seasons, living off the abundance of game and fish.

When settlers discovered gold, the landscape changed dramatically. It was Bob Womack, who had searched in vain along the southwest slope of Pikes Peak for more than a decade before hitting paydirt in 1890. Ironically, his riches were found in a place known as Poverty Gulch, which eventually became Cripple Creek.

Thousands of prospectors and the ancillary businesses of merchants and ladies of the night came to the region. Between the time of Womack’s discovery and 1910, the region was hailed as the “World’s Greatest Gold Camp.” If you were to assign a 21st-century value to the 22.4 million ounces of gold extracted from more than 500 mines during Cripple Creek’s heyday, you’d have yourselves more than $11 billion.

Gambling Strike in 1991

Although gold production declined dramatically in a relatively short period, Cripple Creek hit it big again in 1991 with legalized gambling. Many historic buildings became refurbished casinos and hotels, and new edifices were erected where others once stood. Learn more about casinos in Colorado.

In 1995, an open-pit gold mine was opened at the site of the old Cresson Mine, and it continues to produce today.

For many, the draw is the glitter of the casino, the sounds of the electric slots, and the murmur of gamers at the tables. But for history buffs, the Cripple Creek Historic District, a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service, offers an extraordinary glimpse into times gone by.

Many shops maintain the rustic ambiance of old-time mining days, and the Cripple Creek Heritage Center offers hands-on displays that bring the past alive. Today, visitors to the area can experience the rich Cripple Creek, Colorado history through its shops, attractions, and museums.

You can also tour 1,000 feet underground in the historic Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, and the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad provides another perspective on the area’s past.

Idaho Springs

Things to Do in Idaho Springs, Colorado

Long considered the birthplace of the Rocky Mountain Gold Rush, Idaho Springs has attained considerable popularity has an outdoor enthusiasts’ mecca in its own right and a good lodging choice with easy access to six nearby ski resorts.

Its history is well preserved, with numerous restored 19th-century mines providing tours and a Main Street that has retained much of its authentic Gold Rush architecture and charm.

In addition to treasures held dear by miners and settlers of a bygone era, Idaho Springs also continues to showcase a resource that brought the area’s early Native American inhabitants to the region: natural hot springs valued for their restorative powers, and Indian Hot Springs is a locals’ and visitors’ favorite.

Scenery is also a huge draw: The highest paved road on the continent goes south out of town and reaches the top of Mountain Evans, one of the state’s 53 Fourteeners – peaks that reach more than 14,000 feet above sea level. Nearby Golden Gate State Park provides views of the Continental Divide, and the drive to Central City and Black Hawk is also scenic.

For outdoor recreation, Idaho Springs provides either direct access or is a great staging area for biking, with the Oh My God Road to Central City challenging and exhilarating. There’s also fishing, golfing, hiking of course, horseback riding, ATVing, climbing and canyoneering, skiing and boarding, whitewater river rafting and ziplining. Woo hoo!

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