Best Colorado Summer Vacation Spots

Vibrant wildflowers herald the arrival of summer in Colorado's hills. (Photo: MRaust/iStock/Getty Photos )

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Colorado's mean level of 6, 800 foot above sea-level suggests vacation paradise for many trying to escape oppressive summer heat. Scenic hills imposing above 14, 000 foot enfold sparkling streams, bubbling hot springs, campgrounds and luxurious accommodations. Venture off the outdone road to enjoy travel destinations with a unique attraction.

Among the Wildflowers

Early to mid-summer brings unlimited fields of wildflowers towards Rocky Mountains, and you will discover lots of backroads throughout the condition where you are able to ingest the scene. Just take a four-day drive from Denver to Aspen. The route at first heads north through Boulder to Rocky hill nationwide Park. Go to the alpine town of Estes Park and stay when you look at the Stanley Hotel, showcased inside movie, "The Shining." You'll see long-forgotten ghost cities, the tallest hill into the condition and much more than 200 species of flowers from mid-June through early August. You will get a hold of scenic backroads when you look at the south the main state winding through San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

On liquid

The landlocked state carries about four dozen significant ponds for which you'll get a hold of waterside relaxation which range from houseboating to fishing to waterskiing. Into the southwest spot associated with the condition, Navajo State Park boasts a 15, 000-acre reservoir that runs into the condition of New Mexico. Camp in another of 150 campsites, book every night within Navajo Lodge, or explore the pond for several days on a houseboat. Dillon Reservoir near Breckenridge tucks into pine-laden hills near a number of the condition's most known ski places. Fish the lake for cutthroat trout, brookies or salmon, and take a sailing tutorial at the Dillon Marina.

Roll Down the River

Snow-fed streams tumble over granite boulders inside Rocky Mountains, creating a great environment for fly-fishing and whitewater rafting. Hawaii's most famous river - the Colorado - flows from headwaters in Rocky hill nationwide Park, with alternating extends of heart-pounding hydraulics and peaceful places where you can easily wade on and throw your fly. Stay at a Bureau of Land control campground over the shore, or at exclusive riverside cabins such as those found at Colorado Cabin Adventures 3 miles from Grand Lake. For an even more remote knowledge, stay at Cottonwood Cove, tucked over the financial institutions regarding the Rio Grande only downstream through the picturesque mining town of Creede.