Are you searching for Colorado adventures for your next family reunion, guys trip, girls weekend, or couples getaway? No matter the season, Colorado delivers something worth adding to your adventure bucket list. Each season brings something unique—magnificent waterfalls in spring, camping under wide open skies in summer, intense fall foliage, and fresh powder at some of the most popular ski resorts in the world.
Colorado offers tours and excursions for all ages and skill levels, and the variety is genuinely hard to beat. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a serious hiker like Chris and me, or somewhere in between, there is a Colorado adventure with your name on it.
Colorado Adventures: 37 Epic Tours & Excursions from A to Z
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Colorado—also known as Colorful Colorado—offers far more than epic skiing and Rocky Mountain scenery. From whitewater rafting and zip lining to sand sledding and hot air balloon rides, these Colorado adventures cover the best tours and excursions from around the state for every skill level and every season. Planning your Colorado road trip? My complete Colorado Road Trip guide has all the best stops covered.
Aspen
Aspen belongs on every Colorado adventure bucket list—and not just for the skiing. The drive from Denver takes under four hours in good weather, making it a very doable road trip stop. World-class mountain scenery, cultural events, and a surprisingly rich history make Aspen (and Snowmass) worth every mile.
1. Aspen Dark Side Ghost Tour
Aspen’s history has a dark side—and this ghost tour brings it to life after dark. A guided walking tour through Aspen’s historic downtown uncovers the eerie stories and haunted locations that most visitors never hear about.
2. Aspen Past to Present Historic Tour
Aspen’s transformation from a silver mining boomtown to a world-class resort destination is a fascinating story. This historic tour covers the people, places, and events that shaped the Aspen you see today.
Boulder
Boulder is one of those Colorado adventure destinations that consistently surprises first-time visitors—there is far more to do here than most people expect. Nestled against the iconic Flatirons, Boulder is a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a vibrant college town with world-class dining and culture. It’s an easy day trip from Denver or a worthy overnight stop on any Colorado adventure bucket list.
3. Boulder Flatiron Hike
The Flatirons are Boulder’s most iconic landmark—and hiking among them is one of the best free Colorado adventures you can have. Trails range from easy walks with jaw-dropping views to more challenging climbs that reward with panoramic vistas of the Front Range.
4. Fat Tire Bike Tour—Best of Boulder
A fat tire bike tour is one of the best ways to cover Boulder’s highlights without spending the whole day on foot. Cruise past the Pearl Street Mall, Boulder Creek, and the University of Colorado campus with a knowledgeable local guide leading the way.
5. Rock Climbing with a Pro
Boulder is one of the premier rock climbing destinations in the country—and going with a pro makes the experience accessible even for first-timers. Learn the basics against the backdrop of the Flatirons with an experienced guide keeping you safe and challenged.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is more than just a ski town—it’s a legitimate Colorado adventure destination year round. US News & Travel ranks it in the top 5 best mountain towns in the United States, and once you arrive it’s easy to see why. From underground gold mine tours and monster truck rides to world-class skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, Breck delivers in every season. The drive from Denver International Airport takes under two hours in good conditions—plan to stay at least a couple of days to do it justice.
Breckenridge, Colorado is a popular winter wonderland for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and skiing. According to US News and Travel, Breckenridge is in the top 5 of the best mountain towns in the United States for vacations. Getting to Breckenridge from DIA will take under 2 hours in good driving conditions.
Plan to spend a couple of days in Breckenridge during the summer or winter.
6. Monster Truck Sleigh Ride in Country Boy Mine
The Country Boy Mine is one of Breckenridge’s most unique Colorado adventures—and the monster truck sledge ride through a real historic gold mine is unlike anything else in the state. A fun and fascinating experience for all ages.
7. More Popular Breckenridge Tours
Breckenridge has no shortage of guided tours and excursions beyond the mine. From ghost tours and gondola rides to fly fishing and ATV adventures, there is something for every kind of traveler on your Colorado adventure bucket list.
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Buena Vista
Buena Vista is a Colorado adventure bucket list destination that delivers on every front—hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River make it a legitimate outdoor hub. The drive from Denver takes about 2.5 hours and is worth every mile.
And here’s a fun bonus: with only about 350 drive-in theaters still operating in the entire United States, Buena Vista is home to one of them—the Comanche Drive-In makes for a perfect Colorado evening under the stars.
8. Hike
Buena Vista sits at the base of the Collegiate Peaks—fourteen of Colorado’s famous 14ers within striking distance—making it one of the best hiking destinations in the state. Trails range from accessible valley walks to challenging summit attempts with jaw-dropping views.
9. Whitewater Rafting in Colorado: Browns Canyon
Browns Canyon National Monument is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in Colorado—and Buena Vista is your base camp. The Arkansas River runs through the canyon offering rapids for every skill level from first-timers to seasoned paddlers. Chris and I rafted the “Numbers” a couple of years ago and had a blast. That’s me in the red life jacket on the right.
Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs is one of Colorado’s most underrated adventure destinations—and a great family friendly city that offers something for every age. Once you land at DIA, you can pick up a rental car and be in “the Springs” in about an hour and a half. From the iconic red rocks of Garden of the Gods to ghost tours and hot air balloon rides, Colorado Springs earns its spot on any Colorado adventure bucket list.
10. Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs has a surprisingly vibrant food scene—and a guided food tour is one of the best ways to discover it. A classic three-hour tour takes you through the city’s best local restaurants and eateries with plenty of tastings along the way.
11. Colorado Springs — Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak
Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak are two of the most iconic adventures for your colorado bucket list. The red rock formations at Garden of the Gods are free to explore, and the drive or cog railway up Pikes Peak delivers some of the most dramatic views in the state.
Denver
Denver International Airport sits just 30 minutes from downtown—which makes the city an easy and worthwhile stop whether you have a long layover, are looking for festive holiday activities, or are using Denver as a launching pad before heading into the Colorado Rockies. Don’t overlook the city itself—Denver has a thriving food scene, world-class museums, and enough bucket list travel adventures to keep you busy for days.
12. Downtown Denver Food Tour
A downtown Denver food tour is one of the best ways to get acquainted with the city’s culinary scene in a few hours. Local guides take you through Denver’s most vibrant neighborhoods with stops at some of the city’s best restaurants and eateries along the way.
Estes Park
One of the drawbacks to moving to Colorado Springs is that Chris and I are now further away from one of our favorite small mountain towns in Colorado. As the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, Estes Park has a quaint old town feel and plenty of Colorado adventures for the whole family. The drive from Denver takes about an hour and a half—making it an easy and rewarding road trip stop.
13. 4WD Panoramic Peak Photo Tour in Estes
A 4WD panoramic peak photo tour is one of the most unique Colorado adventures you can add to your Estes Park itinerary. Head off the beaten path with a guide and access viewpoints and photo spots that most visitors never find on their own.
14. Estes Park — EBike tour
An eBike tour is one of the best ways to explore Estes Park and the surrounding scenery without spending the whole day on foot. Cover more ground, discover hidden gems, and take in the mountain views at your own pace.
15. Stanley Hotel Ghost Tour
The Stanley Hotel is one of the most famous haunted hotels in the country—and the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. A ghost tour of the Stanley is a Colorado adventure unlike any other and a must for anyone with a taste for the eerie and unexpected.
🔗 Stanley Hotel Ghost Tour in Estes Park
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Glenwood Springs
Here’s a Colorado adventure worth adding to your bucket list—skip the drive and book an Amtrak train from Union Station in Denver to Glenwood Springs. The six-hour ride through Glenwood Canyon is spectacular and an adventure in itself. Prefer to drive? The trip takes about three hours. Either way, charming Glenwood Springs delivers breathtaking hikes, world-class hot springs, and enough activities to fill a long weekend any time of year.
16. Glenwood Springs — River Rafting
The Colorado River runs right through Glenwood Canyon making it one of the best spots for whitewater rafting in the state. Guided trips are available for all skill levels—from mellow floats to heart-pounding rapids that deliver a serious Colorado adventure.
17. Iron Mountain Hot Springs
Iron Mountain Hot Springs sits right along the Colorado River with 16 soaking pools and stunning canyon views. It’s one of the most scenic hot springs experiences in Colorado and a perfect way to end a day of hiking or rafting.
18. Snowmobiling at Sunlight Mountain
Sunlight Mountain Resort offers some of the best snowmobiling in Colorado with groomed trails and breathtaking winter scenery. A guided snowmobile tour through the mountains above Glenwood Springs is a Colorado adventure bucket list experience worth planning around.
🔗 Sunlight Mountain Snowmobiling Tours
Mesa Verde National Park
Chris and I had lived in Colorado for 20 years before we finally made the trip to Mesa Verde National Park—and I’ll admit, it took my breath away. We visited during Covid when the cliff dwelling tours were closed, and I would go back in a heartbeat just to experience those ruins up close. The drive from Denver is about eight hours so plan to book a hotel or vacation rental and make it a proper Colorado adventure.
19. Mesa Verde Express & Cliff Palace
The Cliff Palace is the largest cliff dwelling in North America and an absolute must on any Colorado adventure bucket list. The Mesa Verde Express tour gets you up close to these ancient Ancestral Puebloan structures with an expert guide bringing the history to life.
Additional Tours in Mesa Verde National Park
🔗 Tours in Mesa Verde National Park
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20. Discover Mesa Verde with a GuideAlong Audio Tour
The GuideAlong driving tour of Mesa Verde National Park is a location-based audio tour that triggers automatically as you drive through the park—stories, history, and context delivered right when you need it. A perfect addition to your Mesa Verde experience whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor.
Pagosa Springs
21. Pagosa Springs Hot Air Balloons at Sunrise
A sunrise hot air balloon ride over Pagosa Springs is the kind of Colorado adventure that stays with you long after you land. Drift over the valley and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the San Juan Mountain Range that stretch for miles in every direction.
Book your adventure with Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures.
Peak to Peak Highway
If you have the chance to drive any of Colorado’s scenic routes in the fall, the Peak to Peak Highway belongs at the top of your list. The fall colors along this route are nothing short of spectacular, and wildlife sightings—elk, deer, and more—are common along the way. It’s one of those Colorado adventures that costs nothing but time and delivers everything.
22. Peak to Peak Fall Foliage Tour
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway stretches 55 miles through the Front Range connecting Estes Park to Black Hawk—and in fall it transforms into one of the most stunning drives in the state. A guided fall foliage tour takes the guesswork out of timing and stops so you catch the colors at their peak.
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Red Rocks Amphitheater is one of the most iconic Colorado adventures you can have—and it’s just 45 minutes from DIA. This stunning natural sandstone venue outside of Golden hosts world-class concerts, an Easter Sunrise Service that draws thousands, and Yoga on the Rocks sessions that offer a meditative experience unlike anything else. Whether you’re there for the music or the views, Red Rocks delivers every single time.
🔗 Red Rocks Amphitheater Events Online
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23. Foothills Explorer Tour
The Foothills Explorer Tour takes you beyond Red Rocks and into the stunning landscape surrounding the amphitheater. A guided excursion through the foothills gives you a deeper appreciation for the geology and natural beauty that makes this corner of Colorado so unique.
24. Red Rocks Amphitheater Walking Tour
A walking tour of Red Rocks Amphitheater is one of the best free Colorado adventures near Denver. Explore the iconic stage, the trading post, and the geological formations that make this venue one of the most photographed spots in the state—no concert ticket required.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of my absolute favorite Colorado adventure destinations—and after 25 years of living in Colorado, it still delivers something new every visit. Chris and I have spent countless hours hiking, picnicking, and driving through the park soaking in the waterfalls, wildlife, and scenery that make RMNP spectacular in every season.
25. GuideAlong Audio Tour
The GuideAlong Audio Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park is a location-based audio tour that triggers automatically as you drive—stories, history, and hidden gems delivered right when you need them. It’s one of the best ways to experience the park whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.
Click Below to Discover Additional GuideAlong Tours Around the World
26. Hiking in RMNP
Rocky Mountain National Park has trails for every skill level—from easy lakeside strolls to challenging summit hikes with jaw-dropping views. Some of the best Colorado adventures happen right here on these trails.
27. RMNP & Estes Park
Pair your Rocky Mountain National Park visit with a stop in Estes Park—the charming gateway town just outside the park entrance. Browse the shops, grab a bite, and don’t leave without stopping at the famous Estes Park Taffy Shop.
28. RMNP: Hidden Valley Sledding Tour
Hidden Valley is the only designated sledding area in Rocky Mountain National Park and a beloved winter Colorado adventure for families. Pack your sled and head to the east side of the park for a fun-filled day in the snow.
29. RMNP in Summer
Summer in Rocky Mountain National Park means wildflowers, wildlife, and trails at their most accessible. From Bear Lake to Trail Ridge Road, the park is at its most vibrant—just remember to book your timed-entry reservation well in advance.
Royal Gorge
Royal Gorge belongs on every Colorado adventure bucket list—and at just over two hours from Denver it’s an easy and rewarding road trip stop. The dramatic 1,000-foot canyon carved by the Arkansas River sets the stage for some of the most thrilling Colorado adventures in the state.
30. Ride, Dine, & Unwind Aboard the Royal Gorge Railroad
The Royal Gorge Railroad offers a scenic train ride through the bottom of the gorge with stunning canyon views from every window. Chris and I are actually riding it this summer—and I cannot wait to report back. Whether you choose a standard excursion or a dinner train experience, this is one Colorado adventure worth slowing down for.
31. River Rafting
The Arkansas River through Royal Gorge is one of the most exhilarating whitewater rafting runs in Colorado. Guided trips are available for a range of skill levels—from heart-pounding Class IV and V rapids to more manageable floats for first-timers.
32. Zipline
Royal Gorge is home to one of the most dramatic ziplines in the country—soaring over a 1,000-foot canyon with nothing but the Arkansas River below. If you’re looking to add an adrenaline rush to your Colorado adventure bucket list, this one delivers.
Salida
Salida is one of those Colorado adventure destinations that consistently surprises first-time visitors. Tucked into a valley surrounded by three mountain ranges—the Sangre de Cristos to the south, the Mosquito Range to the north, and the Sawatch to the northwest—it’s a small city with a vibrant art scene, rich history, and outdoor adventures around every corner. The drive from DIA is about three hours and worth every mile.
33. Salida History Audio Tour
Salida’s downtown historic district is one of the best preserved in Colorado—and a history audio tour is a great way to explore it at your own pace. Learn about the city’s railroad and mining heritage as you wander the charming streets and Victorian architecture.
34. Salida River Rafting
Browns Canyon National Monument just outside Salida offers some of the best whitewater rafting in Colorado on the Arkansas River. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced paddler, a guided rafting trip through Browns Canyon is a Colorado adventure bucket list experience.
Sand Dunes National Park
Did you know that Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve features the highest sand dunes in North America? Tucked at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in southern Colorado, this park is one of the most unique Colorado adventures you can add to your bucket list. The drive from DIA is just under four hours—or only 1 hour and 45 minutes if you’re coming from Buena Vista.
35. Sand Sledding
Sand sledding down the highest dunes in North America is exactly as epic as it sounds. Rent a sand sled or board near the park entrance and spend the day climbing and sliding the massive dunes under wide open Colorado skies. You will need an America the Beautiful Pass to access the park—and the National Park Service has tips and rental information to help you plan your visit. You will need an America the Beautiful National Park Pass to access the park. The National Park Service has tips and rental information to help you plan your visit.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is an popular Colorado destination for winter sports enthusiasts, but did you know that summertime is also the perfect time to visit if you love to hike, have river rafting adventures, soak in the Steamboat Springs hot springs, peruse local goods at the farmer’s market, or enjoy a multitude of outdoor adventures? Steamboat is 3 hrs and 15 minutes from DIA.
36. Bumper Cars on Ice
Bumper cars on ice is one of the most unexpected and fun Colorado adventures you’ll find in Steamboat Springs. A perfect activity for families and groups looking to add something unique to their Colorado adventure bucket list.
37. Steamboat Springs e-Bike Tour
An e-bike tour is one of the best ways to explore Steamboat Springs and the stunning Yampa Valley scenery surrounding it. Cover more ground, discover local favorites, and take in the mountain views at a pace that lets you actually enjoy them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the #1 attraction in Colorado?
Rocky Mountain National Park tops the list as Colorado’s most visited attraction. This world-famous national park draws millions of visitors each year with stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and outdoor adventures for every skill level.
What foods are Colorado famous for?
Colorado has a surprisingly diverse food scene. Rocky Mountain oysters are a local delicacy—not for everyone—but you can also enjoy world-class craft beer, sweet Palisade peaches, and green chile that shows up on everything from breakfast burritos to burgers.
What are “14ers” and how many does Colorado have?
Colorado is home to 58 “14ers”—mountains that exceed 14,000 feet in elevation—more than any other state in the country. Summiting a 14er is a bucket list Colorado adventure for serious hikers and mountaineers.
How many days do you need for a Colorado road trip?
A solid Colorado road trip takes 7-10 days to cover the highlights—mountain towns, national parks, scenic drives, and hot springs. A long weekend works if you’re focusing on one region, but Colorado rewards those who take their time.
Do you need a car to get around Colorado?
Yes—for most Colorado adventures a car is essential. Public transportation is limited outside of Denver and a few major cities. Renting a car at DIA gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and is strongly recommended for any Colorado road trip.
What national parks are in Colorado?
olorado is home to four national parks—Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Each one is dramatically different and worth adding to your Colorado adventure bucket list. An America the Beautiful Pass covers entry to all four.
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Your Colorado Adventure Bucket List Starts Here
Have I convinced you yet that Colorado is THE place to get your adventure on? From sand sledding the highest dunes in North America to riding a historic train through a 1,000-foot canyon, this state never runs out of ways to surprise you. Build your own Colorado adventure bucket list and start checking off your favorites one by one—and when you finish, don’t worry. Colorado will have plenty more waiting for you.
Before you hit the road, grab my free Colorado Road Trip Packing List so you show up prepared for every stop along the way.
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Salida and Sand Sledding sound so fun!
I love everything about Colorado! The kids def love the Sand Dunes, but I just need to suck it up and pay for a full rafting adventure. This a great list 😉
Colorado has so many beautiful areas to explore! I’d love to see more of Aspen and Breckenridge in particular. Gorgeous!
I have family in Denver but haven’t ventured off very far from there. This is a great list of ideas! thanks
So many amazing tips! Aspen has alway been on my list, I definitely need to head that way asap
I absolutely love this list! Saving for future trips to explore Colorado!
Oh my goodness! Colorado is one of my FAVORITE states and I absolutely love Aspen – I HAVE TO, HAVE TO take the Aspen Dark Side Tour – I had no idea this existed until now – thank you!
LOVE this post!! CO is my 2027 dream trip..and now you’re convincing me I need to spend a whole month going through the state! Sand Dune and Mesa Verde are my top spots!
So many great choices! I think I need to move to Colorado!
This looks incredible – Dying to visit Colorado and the Flatirons!!
Hello! Absolutely breathtaking! Colorado never disappoints—those views, the adventure, the fresh mountain air. It looks like the perfect escape.
Mesa Verde is one of my favorite national parks. It’s so underrated! I got to spend a semester in Pagosa Springs, so I’ve done quite a bit in the southwestern part of the state but there’s much you’ve listed here that I want to do!
We loved Colorado so much! I hope to return in the future for even more adventures.