Explore Colorado United States

Explore Colorado United States

What is the best time to travel to Colorado

The best time to travel to Colorado depends on your interests and activities, as the weather and scenery can vary greatly throughout the year. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect in each season:

Summer (June-August): This is the most popular time to visit Colorado, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the mountains are full of activities like hiking, biking, rafting, and camping. However, this is also the busiest season, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Fall (September-November): The fall foliage in Colorado is breathtaking, with golden aspen trees covering the mountains. This is a great time for hiking and enjoying the outdoors, and the crowds tend to thin out after Labor Day.

Winter (December-February): Colorado is known for its ski resorts, so if you’re looking to hit the slopes, this is the best time to go. However, winter can also bring heavy snowstorms and frigid temperatures, so be prepared for cold weather.

Spring (March-May): Spring is a shoulder season in Colorado, with unpredictable weather and fewer crowds. However, it’s a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and you might catch the tail end of ski season in some areas.

Ultimately, the best time to travel to Colorado depends on what you want to do and see. If you’re looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is a great time to visit. If you want to see the fall foliage or hit the ski slopes, plan your trip for fall or winter. And if you’re looking for a quieter, more affordable trip, consider visiting in the spring or fall.

How to get to Colorado

There are several ways to get to Colorado, depending on where you are coming from and your preferred mode of transportation. Here are some of the most common ways to get to Colorado:

By Air: Colorado is served by several major airports, including Denver International Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in the United States. Other major airports in Colorado include Colorado Springs Airport, Eagle County Regional Airport, and Grand Junction Regional Airport. These airports offer a variety of domestic and international flights, making air travel a convenient option for getting to Colorado.

By Car: Colorado is easily accessible by car, with several major highways that connect the state to neighboring states and the rest of the country. Interstate 25 runs north-south through the state, connecting Colorado to Wyoming and New Mexico, while Interstate 70 runs east-west through the state, connecting Colorado to Kansas and Utah.

By Bus: Several bus companies operate in Colorado, including Greyhound and Bustang, which provide transportation to cities across the state and beyond.

By Train: Amtrak operates two long-distance trains that serve Colorado, the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief. The California Zephyr runs from Chicago to San Francisco, stopping in Denver, while the Southwest Chief runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, stopping in Trinidad and La Junta.

By Bike or Foot: Colorado is home to several long-distance hiking and biking trails, including the Colorado Trail and the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, which offer scenic and challenging routes through the state’s beautiful landscapes.

These are just some of the ways to get to Colorado, and the best option will depend on your specific travel needs and preferences.

How to get around Colorado

There are several ways to get around Colorado, depending on your budget and preferences:

Car: Renting a car is the most popular way to get around Colorado, as it gives you the flexibility to explore the state on your own schedule. You can rent a car at the airport or in major cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, or Boulder. Keep in mind that if you’re planning to drive in the mountains, you’ll need a car with good traction and possibly snow tires in the winter.

Public transportation: Colorado has a network of buses and trains that can get you around the state, including the Bustang, which connects major cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins. There are also regional transit systems like the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority in Aspen and the Summit Stage in Summit County. However, public transportation may not be as frequent or convenient as in larger cities.

Ride-sharing services: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in Colorado, particularly in urban areas like Denver and Colorado Springs. This can be a convenient way to get around if you don’t want to rent a car or use public transportation.

Bike: Colorado has a growing network of bike trails and lanes, particularly in urban areas like Denver and Boulder. You can rent bikes from local shops or use bike-share programs like B-cycle in Denver or Boulder.

Walking: If you’re staying in a city or town, walking can be a great way to explore the area and get some exercise. Many cities have pedestrian-friendly downtown areas with shops, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance.

Ultimately, the best way to get around Colorado depends on where you’re going and what you want to do. If you’re planning to explore multiple areas or do a lot of outdoor activities, renting a car may be your best bet. If you’re staying in a city and don’t plan to venture too far, public transportation or ride-sharing may be more convenient.

National Airports

Colorado is served by several airports, including four major commercial airports:

Denver International Airport (DEN): Located in Denver, this is the largest airport in Colorado and the fifth-busiest airport in the United States.

Colorado Springs Airport (COS): Located in Colorado Springs, this airport serves the southern part of the state and offers flights to several major cities.

Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE): Located near Vail and Beaver Creek ski resorts, this airport serves as a gateway for winter sports enthusiasts.

Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT): Located in Grand Junction, this airport serves the western part of Colorado and offers flights to several major cities.

In addition to these major airports, there are several regional airports in Colorado that serve smaller communities, including:

Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE)

Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO)

Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)

Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC)

Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN)

Telluride Regional Airport (TEX)

These regional airports provide access to popular tourist destinations in Colorado, including ski resorts and national parks.

Trains in Colorado

There are several train services available in Colorado, ranging from scenic tourist trains to Amtrak long-distance trains. Here are some of the most popular train services in Colorado:

Amtrak: Amtrak operates two long-distance trains that serve Colorado, the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief. The California Zephyr runs from Chicago to San Francisco, stopping in Denver, while the Southwest Chief runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, stopping in Trinidad and La Junta.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: This historic train runs from Durango to Silverton in southwestern Colorado, offering stunning views of the San Juan Mountains.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad: This narrow-gauge steam train runs between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

Georgetown Loop Railroad: This scenic railroad runs through the rugged Clear Creek Canyon near Georgetown, offering views of the Colorado Rockies.

Pikes Peak Cog Railway: This cogwheel train takes passengers to the summit of Pikes Peak, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Royal Gorge Route Railroad: This scenic train runs through the Royal Gorge near Cañon City, offering views of the Arkansas River and the Royal Gorge Bridge.

Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad: This train runs through the Arkansas River Valley and the San Isabel National Forest, offering views of the Colorado Rockies and historic mining towns.

These train services offer a unique way to explore the beautiful landscapes of Colorado and learn about its rich history.

Buses in Colorado

Colorado has a comprehensive network of buses that provide transportation services to residents and visitors. Here are some of the main bus services in Colorado:

Regional Transportation District (RTD): The RTD operates buses and light rail trains in the Denver metropolitan area, providing transportation to the city’s suburbs and nearby towns.

Bustang: This interregional bus service connects Denver to major cities in Colorado, including Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, and Grand Junction.

Greyhound: Greyhound provides long-distance bus services to cities across the United States, with several stops in Colorado, including Denver, Colorado Springs, and Grand Junction.

Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach: Amtrak offers bus services that connect with its long-distance trains, providing transportation to cities that are not directly served by rail, including Glenwood Springs and Durango.

Colorado Mountain Express: This bus service provides transportation to ski resorts in the Colorado Rockies, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain.

Gunnison Valley RTA: This local bus service operates in the Gunnison Valley region, providing transportation to the towns of Gunnison, Crested Butte, and Mt. Crested Butte.

These bus services provide convenient and affordable transportation options for traveling within Colorado, whether it’s commuting to work or exploring the state’s beautiful landscapes and attractions.

Accommodations in Colorado

Colorado has a wide variety of accommodations to suit every budget and preference, from luxury hotels and resorts to rustic cabins and campgrounds. Here are some options:

Hotels and resorts: There are many hotels and resorts throughout Colorado, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge. These range from budget-friendly options to luxury properties with amenities like spas, pools, and fine dining.

Vacation rentals: Vacation rentals like Airbnb and VRBO are popular in Colorado, particularly for families or larger groups who want more space and privacy. You can find everything from cozy cabins and cottages to spacious condos and villas.

Hostels: Hostels are a budget-friendly option for travelers, particularly in cities like Denver and Boulder. These typically offer dorm-style rooms with shared bathrooms and common areas for socializing.

Campgrounds: Colorado has many campgrounds in national and state parks, as well as private campgrounds. These range from primitive sites for tent camping to RV parks with full hookups and amenities like showers and laundry facilities.

Bed and breakfasts: Bed and breakfasts are a charming option for travelers who want a more personalized experience. These often offer cozy rooms with breakfast included, and may have amenities like gardens, hot tubs, or fireplaces.

When choosing accommodations in Colorado, consider the location and proximity to the activities and attractions you’re interested in. Many hotels and resorts are located near ski slopes or hiking trails, while vacation rentals and campgrounds may be more remote. It’s also important to book in advance, particularly during peak seasons like summer and winter.