Mikaela Ruland

Enjoy 10 days in 2026 when national park entrance is free.

Calling on our desire for personality driven experiences, these “millennial motor lodges” mix nostalgia with incredible modern design—and prove Gen-Z isn’t the only one creating culture these days.

On August 18, the South Rim partially reopened to visitors amid burned landscape and facilities.

These less-visited national monuments are the key to seeing more of colorful Colorado, without the crowds.

Your ultimate packing list, with expert-tested picks from our editors.

This is your guide to visit the wonder-inducing, secret monument in southwestern Colorado.

These two Estes Park hotels bring thoughtful design to your national park adventure

Level up your adventures with an RV or camper van rental from Outdoorsy.

Skip the traffic and take advantage of Rocky Mountain National Park's free shuttle system to Bear Lake, Moraine Park and more.

From ponderosa forests, to river rafting and dramatic canyon walls, this massive recreation area on the Utah-Wyoming border is a hidden gem.

From roadside pull-offs to alpine lakes and backcountry hikes, these are the best spots to see the sun go down.

At Rocky Mountain National Park, RisingBuffalo Maybee is bridging gaps between the National Park Service and Tribal communities to edit history–and get it right this time.

On Colorado’s eastern plains, more than 500 rescued lions, tigers, bears and other wild animals call The Wild Animal Sanctuary home.

From craft brews to disc golf and a rattlesnake-wearing woman, this city on Colorado’s high plains is full of character.

This historic bed and breakfast offers a chance to escape amongst mountains, vineyards and orchards.

Paddle or motorboat around the lake, check out the arts scene and be perfectly poised for a day in the park in this great gateway town.

Experience Colorado’s gold mining past as you meet the donkeys who used to haul ore, attend festivals celebrating the town’s colorful characters and go 1,000 feet underground in a mine shaft.

The beautiful Wet Mountain Valley is the place to be to experience peaceful trails, a wonderful arts scene and dark night skies near Great Sand Dunes National Park.

A vibrant riverwalk, bike trails and Colorado’s favorite ingredient await in this city.

Plan a visit to see America’s wild horses at this incredible northern Colorado refuge.

Find an uncrowded outdoor paradise in northwestern Colorado.

From the dinosaurs that once roamed Colorado National Monument to ancient pottery and early orchards, don’t miss these three stops in Grand Junction.

Close to all Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer.

Skip the crowds and head to this undiscovered Colorado gem.

Discover the subtle beauty of the high desert on this road trip starting in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Fantastic towns, high peaks and national park sites dominate this tour through Colorado.

See some of the West’s most incredible national parks on this route through Colorado and Wyoming

Ride the train for unparalleled Colorado history and views.

A small town on the edge of Colorado National Monument with big fun.

See incredible archaeological sites beyond Mesa Verde, sip local wines and learn about Native American culture in southwestern Colorado

Discover southern Wyoming gems from hot springs to a gorgeous scenic drive.

Photographer Mike Kvackay is one of Denver’s most adventurous photographers, capturing stunning images of Rocky Mountain National Park from 14,000-foot peaks and frozen alpine lakes. Here’s how he does it, plus tips on getting the perfect sunrise shot from our friends at Tamron.

Whether you’re looking for exploration on the sand dunes, a laid-back afternoon on the town or an evening under the stars, Alamosa has something for everyone.

Manitou Springs is home to mineral springs, adventure and fantastic history.

Explore the uncrowded side of Colorado in small towns like Delta, Cedaredge, and Paonia.

Here are ways to experience the canyon from the top at the rims to the river at the bottom.

With incredible sheer black cliffs, a history-filled past and abundant plants and wildlife, this park is one of Colorado’s most underrated destinations.

Stay in a beautifully appointed vacation rental in Summit County towns like Breckenridge, Frisco and Keystone with Natural Retreats.

Our editor did the legwork so you can have the best lunch break ever on your next national park hike.

The high desert surrounding Farmington, New Mexico is full of wilderness to explore, Navajo culture to learn about and incredible outdoor recreation.