Scenic Splendors: 9 Outdoor Activities in Colorado

Colorado’s pristine natural landscape is breathtaking to behold. And no luxury Colorado vacation would be complete without ample time outdoors to enjoy it. Here are 9 of the best outdoor activities in Colorado – so you can plan a nature-inspired itinerary, or pick your favorites for some prime time in nature’s beauty.

Horseback Riding in Steamboat Springs: Experience the Colorado frontier just as the cowboys do. A leisurely ride is the perfect way to enjoy the clear blue skies, stunning mountain vistas, and wide open greenery along the way.

Routt National Forest: Extending from Colorado to central Wyoming, Routt National Forest offers options for biking, birding, fishing, hiking, and camping. The area is particularly striking in the fall, when the forest comes alive with vibrant autumnal colors.

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: The scenic San Juan Mountains can be traversed on a rail journey for a taste of both nature and history. You’ll pass breathtaking mountains and canyons, the Animas River, and the historic mining town of Silverton.

Colorado Hot Air Ballooning: Take to the Colorado skies in a hot air balloon, floating high above the Front Range’s peaks and valleys, as well as the beautiful landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park. There’s nothing quite like these bird’s-eye views, stretching as far as the eye can see.

Biking the Frontier Pathways: Pedal your way along the Frontier Pathways – the route climbs high into the Wet Mountains, before descending into Wet Mountain Valley. Mountain bikers can also take on Fruita’s dirt trails and challenging single tracks for panoramic views of the area’s valleys.

Independence Path: In early fall, Independence Pass is open to visitors – and it’s worth the trip. Stunning autumn foliage will greet travelers of the pass, which is ringed with five 13,000-foot peaks and reaches a summit of 12,095 feet.

Telluride Gondola: Take a one-of-a-kind journey from Telluride to Mountain Village on the gondola, the first and only free public transportation of its kind in the United States. The 13-minute ride will reward you with a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s handiwork, as well as access to hiking and biking trails in the summer, and ski slopes in the winter.

Ziplining: There are 14 options for ziplining in Colorado – the perfect way for thrill-seekers to experience the landscape. Feel the rush as you soar through the treetops and above deep valleys. Just remember to take in the sights around you as you zip along!

Fishing in Carbondale: For those who prefer to stay out of the air, get out on the water instead! Carbondale’s location in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley makes it home to some of the finest rivers for trout fishing. Enjoy peace and tranquility where sky, water, and land combine to create a scenic masterpiece.

Can’t wait to enjoy nature on a luxury trip to Colorado? Start planning a vacation here.