The Ultimate Colorado Bucket List

Needing some tips on planning your Colorado Bucket List? The places and scenery listed below are ones that you can’t miss!

Whether you’re planning a trip to the Centennial state or actually live here and want to start exploring everything that is waiting in your backyard, it’s time to create a Colorado bucket list! There are literally hundreds of activities in Colorado to get you out and about and exploring!

While you might be tempted to stay inside your comfort zone, step outside of it and create a list of fun must-dos to enjoy in the state! If you’re ready for adventure, this is the place to be! The state of Colorado has some of the best and move stunning sights in the world!

The Ultimate Colorado Bucket List

Find Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon

Hanging Lake is one place that you’re going to love. Tucked in Glenwood Canyon, this lake is magical to see. It has a unique formation full of mineral-rich waters that can be viewed as they cascade down the cliffs. The lake is full of various colors such as teal.

You’ll literally feel as though you stepped into the magic of a movie scene straight out of the movie Avatar.

View three of the most stunning alpine lakes in the world

If you’re looking for a hike that is classic to the state of Colorado, the Emerald Lake Trail is excellent. Located in the Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll not want to miss this trail.

It’s a short hike but it gives you access to three amazing lakes that are literally picture-perfect. The backdrop is made up of three lakes: Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake.

As an extra bonus, you can also keep hiking to Lake Hayiaha, which is a stunning lake that is worth the extra steps. You aren’t going to be able to get enough of those mountain views!

Go in search of fall views on the Trail Ridge Road

The Trail Ridge Road stretches from Estes Park into the Grand Lake is literally one of the most gorgeous drives that you can take in the US. Taking a drive here during the fall months will be a vision that you’ll never forget.

With stunning leaves to view every mile that you drive, you’ll also find yourself high above the tree line! All the way to 12,183 feet which gives you a birds-eye view of all the mountains below.

Plan to spend a Christmas in Vail – a Great Colorado Bucket List Idea

With amazing ski resorts that are world-class and towns full of Christmas cheer, Vail is one destination that you’re going to want to have on your radar. This town is the perfect setting to spend the holiday season.

With tons of lovely architecture and alpine goodness, you’ll love that it’ll feel as though you’ve been put into the German Alps without having to travel quite that far.

Vail does an amazing job at bringing out the Christmas joy with tons of holiday lots, amazing Christmas markets, and lots of festivals that are perfect for families and travelers.

Experience the beauty of the Ice Lake Trail

Ice Lake Trail is one of the most lovely hikes that you’ll take in the state of Colorado as it’s set in the San Juan National Forest. You’ll find amazing mountain views that will literally take your breath away.

Pack your hiking shoes and get ready to hit the trail. This specific trail will show you two of the best alpine lakes in the US!

It’s not an easy trail to hike, so be prepared. However, even during difficult times, your mind will be at ease being able to concentrate on the beauty of Mother Nature. Stop and enjoy the views and catch your breath because you’ll not only see lakes, but you’ll also see waterfalls, meadows, snow-capped peaks, and more!

Summit one of Colorado’s ‘14ers

Wondering what kind of name that is? The fourteener is given to 14,000 feet tall mountains. There are actually 58 of them in the state, too! If you’re able to hike safely up to one of them, do so!

Just know that the hikes aren’t easy to do but there are some that are easier than others. My Bierstadt is probably your best bet if you’re not an experienced hiker. Other easier options include Mt. Sherman, Huron Peak, and Handiest Peak.

If you’re skilled at hiking, Capitol Peak or Maroon Peak are truly bound to test your mountaineering skills.

See the tallest dune in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park

Just outside of Alamosa, the Sand Dunes National Park offers dunes that are backdropped by glorious mountains. Not only that but it’s also home to the tallest sand dunes that are located in North America, too!

The Star Dune is the tallest and it stands over 14 feet tall!

This area is great to visit because it’s also known to be Dark Sky Territory. This means that you won’t have light pollution anywhere here which makes gazing at the stars, unlike anything that you’ve ever seen.  People can see the Milky Way from here on a clear night!

Tips For Planning Your Colorado Bucket List

• Have fun and be safe!
• Let others know where you’ll be if you’re adventuring alone.
• Pack enough water and food for your hikes.
• Don’t forget to charge your phone and extra battery, if possible!

Have you gone to Colorado before? What else would you add to this list of “must-do” experiences and attractions? Let us know what you’d add to this Colorado Bucket List!