11. Estes ParkEstes Park is a great basecamp for visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Often referred to as “high-country playground,” the 265,769 acre-park is known for its awe-inspiring landscape.Photo Credit: benedek (iStock).
There is truly no place like Colorado in the summer, where countless outdoor adventures await. For a truly unforgettable summer, here are a few must-visit mountain towns scattered all over the colorful state.
11. Estes ParkEstes Park is a great basecamp for visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Often referred to as “high-country playground,” the 265,769 acre-park is known for its awe-inspiring landscape.Photo Credit: benedek (iStock).11. Estes ParkLarge elk herds roam the town freely. If you happen to see a herd, just remember to keep your distance. Wildlife is wild, and can often act unpredictably.Photo Credit: Dougal Brownlie, The Gazette10. BreckenridgeFind your next adventure in the summer mountain town of Breckenridge.Photo Credit: SWKrullImaging (iStock).10. BreckenridgeThe Blue River runs through downtown Breckenridge and travels all the way to Silverthorne before meeting up with the Colorado River near Kremmling.Photo Credit: skibreck (iStock).10. BreckenridgeBe sure to pay a visit to the Breckenridge troll. The giant troll, who goes by the name of Isak Heartstone, is truly a sight to see. Here’show you can hike to it.Photo Credit: Chancey Bush.9. Buena VistaMake a splash this summer in the mountain town of Buena Vista.Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado9. Buena VistaIncredible mountain views can be seen from the town, which features a number of cobbled streets in a newly developed area and a colorful collection of summer vacation stays and year-round homes.Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado9. Buena VistaThe Arkansas River flows alongside the town, offering plenty of scenic adventures to be enjoyed out on the water.Photo Credit: Jesse Stephens (iStock; file photo).9. Buena VistaStand-Up paddleboarding is one of the most exciting ways to explore the Arkansas River.Photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center8. Steamboat SpringsAdd to Steamboat Springs to your summer bucket list.Photo Credit: Don Miller (iStock).8. Steamboat SpringsThe downtown area of Steamboat Springs is just as exciting and vibrant as the outdoor adventure scene.Photo Credit: bauhaus1000 (iStock).8. Steamboat SpringsAny local will tell you there’s no better spot for tubing in the summer than the Yampa River.Photo Credit: Wild Frog Photography (Flickr).7. OurayOuray is a great summer destination. Nicknamed “the Switzerland of America,” you’ll find this old mining town nestled in a beautiful box canyon. Framed by the San Juan Mountains, you can explore plenty of nearby hiking trails.Photo Credit: Craig Zerbe (iStock).6. VailAs one of the most well-known mountain towns in the state, Vail is the perfect summer escape. The nearby mountains offer plenty of options for biking, hiking, and camping.Photo Credit: bauhaus1000 (iStock).5. SilvertonVisitors are easily charmed by the town’s natural beauty.Photo Credit: Missing35mm (iStock).5. SilvertonVisiting Silverton in the summer means there’s plenty of natural wonders to explore.Ices Lakes Pictured. Photo Credit: kojihirano (iStock).4. TellurideLocated in the southwest corner of the state, the box canyon village of Telluride offers up countless opportunities for adventure.Photo Credit: stevegeer (iStock).4. TellurideThe San Juan Mountains surrounding Telluride are some of the most incredible peaks to explore in the state.Photo Credit: danicachang (iStock).3. AspenAnother mountain town in Colorado that’s worth exploring this summer is Aspen.Photo Credit: Daniel Case (Wikimedia Commons)3. AspenOne of the biggest draws of Aspen is Maroon Bells, and arguably the most photographed peaks in the state.Photo Credit: Focqus, LLC (iStock).2. DurangoAdventure awaits aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic steam engine takes passengers on a scenic journey from the wild western town of Durango to the historic mining town of Silverton.Photo Credit: narawon (iStock).2. DurangoHead southwest to Durango for unforgettable treks found within the San Juan National Forest.Photo Credit: Branson Reynolds (iStock).2. DurangoAnother reason to visit the mountain town is the Animas River. For the thrill-seeking traveler, white water rafting may be just what you need this summer.Photo Credit: KaraGrubis (iStock)2. DurangoWestern vibes still thrive in the small town backdropped by the La Plata Mountains.Photo Credit: KaraGrubis (iStock).1. Crested ButteOne of the most beautiful towns in Colorado is Crested Butte, which sets itself apart from other summer destinations with its spectacular wildflower season.Photo Credit: AmberMae (iStock).1. Crested ButteStroll your way downtown where you’ll find everything from trendy mountain boutiques to outdoor gear stores, and a colorful collection of restaurants and breweries. Here’s a peek at what it looks like in the winter.Photo Credit: Bona_Trent_Town.1. Crested ButteAs the wildflower capital of Colorado, there are many beautiful trails to explore. Top picks for spring blooms include Trail 401, Dyke Trail, Doctor Park, Lupine, and Teocalli Trail. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, make the trek from Crested Butte to Aspen. The colorful meadows will not disappoint!Photo Credit: arinahabich (iStock).1. Crested ButteCrested Butte is also a top spot for leaf-peepers. Changing aspens can be explored along Kebler Pass, the scenic road connects the mountain towns of Crested Butte and Paonia.Photo Credit: John B. Kalla (Flickr).5. SilvertonFound in the southwest corner of the state in one of the most remote spots, the historic mining town of Silverton is one spot for an epic trip. It’s tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, offering plenty of options for outdoor recreation.Photo Credit: ArtyAlison (iStock)Photo Credit: welcomia (iStock).
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