Sightseeing in Spectacular Colorado
If you have come to Colorado to enjoy sightseeing, there is nothing more spectacular than Colorado’s mountain vistas, canyonlands, and natural beauty. Around every bend lies yet another amazing view, scenes of wildlife or flora unfolding.
For those who are truly on a sightseeing mission, plan your trip to explore some part of the many National and State Parks, National Forests, and BLM land that are abundant throughout this state. Most National and state parks offer guided tours. The more remote you can venture, the more spectacular the views and your experience with nature become. However, it’s tempting to want to visit many locations. Realistically, you are better off selecting an area to explore. This way, you can really get to know the geology, flora, and fauna, visit notable attractions or go on a wildflower hike.
Traveling the state by RV is very popular
Mountain passes and byways are spectacular. Reaching heights of over 10,000 feet, winding through Aspen groves, or crossing bridges over deep canyons is an ever-transforming and exciting experience. Check out our scenic summer drive recommendations. However, traveling by RV can be a bit nerve-racking, given the challenges mountain driving presents. Please be aware that mountain driving is not well suited for those inexperienced with it. Your vehicle needs to be in top shape as well. Consider a sightseeing tour and leave the driving to a seasoned expert.
Sightsee By Rail - a great way to see the sights
We suggest the best way to travel into remote, spectacular mountainous regions is by narrow-gauge rail, also known as a scenic train ride. This is a wonderful way to see the sights with your entire family or group of friends while leaving the tough mountainous navigation to the train engineer. You can completely immerse yourself in the Rocky Mountain scenery and listen to historical tales along the way. Allow yourself to become distracted by each new view, hold your camera with both hands, and talk at the same time.
Sightseeing Wildflower Hikes
There's nothing more spectacular than seeing and smelling the bloom of Colorado's wildflowers. With so many various elevations and geographies in this state, you need only seek the right locations to find glorious foliage. Crested Butte celebrates wildflowers during its annual festival, or check out these wildflower hikes.
Sightseeing by Gondola or Chairlift
Telluride's Mountain-to-Town Gondola
- The Route: The ride stops at San Sophia Station (elevation 10,540 ft) before descending into Mountain Village.
- Convenience: It offers easy access to the Market grocery store, the Town Hall, hiking trails, and the ski slopes.
- The View: Passengers enjoy a stunning 13-minute "commute" with bird’s-eye views of the box canyon and surrounding peaks.
Top Colorado Resorts with Summer Gondola Access
| Resort | Notable Lift(s) | Highlights |
| Vail | Gondola One & Eagle Bahn | Access to Epic Discovery (mountain coaster, tubing) and wildflower hiking. |
| Aspen Snowmass | Silver Queen & Elk Camp | Panoramic views of the Maroon Bells area and mountaintop yoga/music. |
| Steamboat | Steamboat Gondola | Dramatic views of the Yampa Valley and the "Ride & Dine" sunset dinners. |
| Winter Park | The Gondola | Ascends to 10,700 feet with incredible views of the Continental Divide. |
| Breckenridge | BreckConnect Gondola | FREE ride from town to the base of Peaks 7 and 8 (Epic Discovery park). |
| Keystone | River Run Gondola | Leads to the Summit House on Dercum Mountain for high-altitude dining. |
Other Scenic Lift Experiences
Crested Butte: The Silver Queen Express offers access to famous wildflower meadows.
Glenwood Springs: The Glenwood Gondola takes you to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
Royal Gorge: Not a ski resort, but the Aerial Gondola whisks you 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River.
Pro Tip: If you have an Ikon or Epic season pass from the previous winter, check your benefits! Many passes include complimentary scenic gondola access during the summer months.
Off-Road Tours
Colorado is full of rugged mining roads left over from the gold and silver boom days. These roads offer amazing views and access to vistas and remote areas. Ouray and the Royal Gorge Region are both excellent choices. You can find tour companies to handle the driving while you sit back and take in the sights. However, there are many other places throughout the state where you can find similar experiences.
Winter Snowcat Tour Sightseeing
A popular way to get close to the winter landscape is on a snowcat tour. These modern transportation machines are impressive to ride in as they easily navigate through the forest and up and down steep hills. For those with a bit more adventurous edge, try a snowmobile tour.
Mountain Horseback Riding Tours
A great way to get close to nature and see beautiful sites is on a mountain horseback ride. Enjoy a casual day with your friends and a horse along a scenic mountain trail.
Sightseeing Colorado's Beautiful Lakes
Colorado has more than 4,000 lakes and reservoirs to enjoy. Many have marinas that offer boat rentals or have a beach nearby. Colorado's State Parks usually feature a wonderful mountain lake with hiking trails and other amenities. State parks often promote wildlife and birdwatching so bring the binoculars along. Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon is a popular and spectacular lake to visit.
Sightseeing in Colorado means being prepared
- If you’re traveling by vehicle, ensure your auto is in perfect condition, especially the brakes.
- If you’re going to be hiking, make sure your shoes are comfortable and broken in before heading out.
In any case, you must bring all-weather clothing: a jacket that will protect you from wind, rain, or snow, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and daypacks for all your extra gear, food, and water. Don’t forget your camera or phone so you can bring home all those spectacular sights. Be advised that cell service is limited at best in the mountains, and outlets for charging are not always available. Most of all, enjoy your Colorado experience.
