Mountains in Colorado

A collection of towering Colorado mountains, known as Fourteeners are some of the tallest peaks in all of North America. The name comes the height of peaks, which soar past 14,000 feet. Mount Elbert is the highest mountain in the state and the pinnacle of the Colorado Rockies, while Pikes Peak is one of the best-known and most visited mountains in the world. Mount Bierstadt, Huron Peak, Ute Mountain, and others appear in many photos, provide the setting for high adventure, and stand proud in the horizon.

The light of things to do in the mountains of Colorado is filled with a variety of entries. High adventure offerings, such as rock climbing, white-water rafting along mountain rivers, skiing, and hiking are enjoyed by people who come to find excitement in the great outdoors. But a mountain vacation isn’t limited to outdoor adventure. Travelers also can ride scenic railways, explore mountain-side towns, and enjoy the cultural offerings in the communities nestled in the mountains.

More than 40 Colorado state parks are spread through the various landscapes in this scenic states, opening mountain lakes, white-water rapids, and urban playgrounds to vacationers. Providing a place for recreation without a premium price tag, the parks offer many ways to enjoy the great outdoors and explore the mountains in Colorado and the other interesting landscapes.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park in Colorado Springs is located in the same place that inspired the author of America the Beautiful. While enjoying the purple mountain’s majesty, visitors are welcomed year-round to enjoy such activities as geocaching, biking, picnics, and educational programs. Colorado Springs is located at the foot of Pikes Peak, one of the most visited mountains in the world. People can reach the summit by traveling Pikes Peak Highway, hiking the Barr Trail, or riding the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.

Another scenic state park is located in the shadow of Great Sand Dunes National Park. San Luis State Park is a peaceful place known for its quality wildlife-watching opportunities, boating, and camping, all in view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. At Lory State Park just outside of Fort Collins, hikers are treated to views of the Colorado Rockies, Horsetooth Reservoir, and Alpine meadows. The park also includes a visitor center, picnic pavilions, and campgrounds.

Those interested in spending time in the Colorado Rockies should make a point to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. With fun through all the seasons, this park preserves 416 square miles of Colorado mountains, valleys, canyons, and other lovely landscapes. A plethora of resorts, campgrounds, motels, and other lodging providers are found in and around the park, and several visitor centers provide a welcome and information about the natural wonderland.

The list of things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park is staggering—adventurous types come for the rock climbing, mountain biking, white-water rafting, back-country camping, and skiing. With picnicking, fishing, ranger-led programs, and horseback riding, people of all ages can enjoy the mountains in Colorado.

While the Colorado Rockies might be the best known of all the mountains in Colorado, they’re not the only place to explore. The San Juan Mountains, Sawatch Range, San Miguel Mountains, Elk Mountains, the Mosquito Range, the Sangre de Cristo Range, and other Colorado mountains all provide scenic backdrops to memorable vacations.