Canon City

Travel to Canon City, Colorado

Tucked into the folds and bluffs of the Arkansas Valley in south central Colorado, Canon City boasts the nickname of “The Climate Capital of Colorado” due to the mild climate. The relaxed pace of the region’s quaint small towns, spectacular scenery, year-round outdoor activities, The Royal Gorge Park & Bridge, and The Arkansas River, which flows through the region, make this the perfect vacation destination. Request a FREE Vacation Guide.

Favorite Things to Do in the Royal Gorge Region

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – a must-see and do experience. Cross America’s highest suspension bridge and participate in the other features offered at the park.
Whitewater rafting through the Royal Gorge Canyon – a very popular way to see and experience all the wonders of the Royal Gorge Canyon and the Arkansas River.
Jeep Tours – The Royal Gorge Region is an amazing place to travel through. Featuring a high alpine desert landscape and a plethora of off-road routes.
Royal Gorge Scenic Train – climb onboard the original transcontinental passenger train from the early 1900s.
The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey – voted “Best Front Range Tasting Room” by Colorado Vine. The wine-tasting room is open daily.
Mountain Biking & Hiking – are understated activities but many exceptional miles of trails await.

About Canon City and Regional Attractions

Family fun starts with a memorable ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The historic tracks follow the Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge Canyon, with views of the bridge from below. The whole family will enjoy exploring the unique rock formations and historic dinosaur sites. Leisure seekers will delight in the one-of-a-kind galleries, renowned antiquing, wine tasting, golfing, and fishing.

Canon City is home to The Royal Gorge, which has a width of 50 feet at the base of the gorge and a few hundred feet at its top, with a depth of 1,200 feet; the 10-mile-long canyon is a stunning natural wonder. 1929, one of the world’s highest suspension bridges was built over the Grand Gorge. The Royal Gorge Bridge has a quarter-mile long span and hangs 1,053 feet above the gorge. The bridge is one of Colorado’s most popular attractions.

Colorado Summer Activities

Summer Activities

There is a long list of summer activities in Colorado. Many now-local Coloradans will tell you that “they came for the winter but stayed for the summer.” In other words, if you think winter in Colorado is super fun, you can’t get enough of it. Well, wait until you discover all the summer in Colorado activities. If finding kids’ activities is a big part of your travel planning, here’s a robust list of things to do with kids in Colorado. Check the events calendar to find a concert or other exciting events to attend between activities.

Your Passions Are Here

Colorado is definitely more than snowy mountains, long ski runs, powder snow, and dream-come-true terrain parks, but that works for many. Actually, Colorado is a fantastic place year-round. Here are some interesting Colorado summer activities and attractions:

Colorado has more than 4,000 lakes – Some of these lakes are rather large reservoirs, while others are entirely natural. Most lakes allow paddle sports, sailing, and fishing. While others include power craft, water skiing, and jet skiing. Learn more about popular lakes in Colorado.
Colorado has 42 state parks, most of which feature a lake or large area of land—combining water sports, land recreation, and camping. Many state parks have marinas, swim beaches, access to hiking and horseback riding trails, and more. Each park is unique so check out our Colorado State Parks Guide to find a location and amenities to match your needs.
Gold medal fishing – Home to 322 miles of it.
Hiking – One of the most popular summer activities, Colorado has over 39,000 miles of trails to explore; travelers come from around the world to hike the centennial state’s beautiful trails.
Off-road and Jeep tours. Another great way to explore some of Colorado’s 24,906 miles of unpaved roads and see the mountainscapes.
Scenic Train Rides – a fun way to share memories, see spectacular sights, and learn about history.
Mountain Biking—Colorado has 6,821 miles of mountain bike trails and counting. Plus, all popular winter resorts offer lift service access to designed trails. You can rent a bike, sign up for a lesson, or explore the trails on your own.

Colorado Summer Activities List Keeps Going

The list of summer activities in Colorado is super long. Colorado is a place that attracts eclectic, outdoorsy type folks. If you can think of something you want to do, it’s probably happening in Colorado.

Popular Summertime Destinations

The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – check out America’s highest suspension bridge and the onsight adventure park.
Estes Park and Trail Ridge Road – stop by Colorado’s favorite National Park and travel over the highest pass in Colorado along the way.
State and National Parks – learn more about Colorado’s parks and offerings.
Colorado Hot Springs – explore Colorado’s many natural hot springs.

More Summer Activities in Colorado Ideas

Suppose you need more summer activities. Here are some more suggestions.

Adventure Parks—Colorado is ubiquitous with outdoor adventure. However, adventure parks continue gaining popularity and are popping up all over Colorado. Most resort towns and similar locations have some variation of an adventure park, which combines man-made features with Colorado’s natural setting.
Aerial Parks – ziplining in Colorado is a thrill and a fantastic way to get a birds-eye view of the mountainous terrain.
Golfing – with over 200 courses throughout the state and within resort towns.
Horseback Riding is a favorite way to experience the outback. Guided trail rides are available in popular vacation destinations.
Kayaking, Canoeing & SUP – a favorite summertime activity. Rental shops are near any popular lake location.
Marinas & Boating – boating is big in the landlocked state of Colorado.
Whitewater Rafting – all those mountains full of snow turn into some of the best whitewater rafting you can find.
Rock Climbing – find a rock climbing location.
Skydiving & Hang Gliding – not for the light-hearted but more of what Colorado has in store for you.

Nearby any of these major attractions are pro shops which will provide equipment rentals and lessons.

Snowmass Village

What Makes Snowmass Village Special

Snowmass Village is renowned for its welcoming, family-friendly, yet adventurous atmosphere. A village surrounded by a world-class ski resort that welcomes like-minded mountain adventurers is here to make mountain ambitions come true. Year-round opportunities are available for the young and old; find groups, guides, lessons, and more while visiting Snowmass Village

Snowmass Village Attractions

Snowmass Village festivals, activities, and on-mountain fun are the hallmarks of this scenic destination resort. Snowmass Village and the town of Aspen has an on-going roster of races, concerts, parties, cultural events, and more. Check the events calendar and make your visit even more full of reasons to have a great time.

Snowmass Village Winter :: Snowmass Village Summer

Winter at Snowmass

Wintertime at the Village

Winter at Snowmass will keep the whole family happy with epic ski terrain parks, pipes, wide-open groomers, bumps, and big mountain skiing. Enjoy 95% ski-in/ski-out lodging convenience to more than 3,332 ski-able acres, accompanied by several stylish and trendy options for dining, entertainment, and shopping. Take a closer look; what you don’t know may surprise you. Snowmass offers a variety of fun for your entire family!

Winter Activities at Snowmass Village

In addition to the huge ski/snowboarding resort and terrain parks. Here are some popular winter activities:

Cross-country skiing – North America’s largest, FREE groomed Nordic trail system, connecting Aspen and Snowmass via the Owl Creek Trail, includes varied, entertaining ski trails. More about Nordic Resorts.
Snowshoeing – follow a marked trail on Snowmass Mountain or sign up for a guided tour with a local naturalist.
The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster – is a fun, safe, year-round adventure activity for the whole gang. Wind your way down on the coaster track through a scenic alpine forest.
Snow Tubing – a multi-lane tubing facility with lift access and lights for evening fun.
Ullr Nights – on select nights during peak season, join in on the wonderland party celebrating Ullr, the Norse God of Snow.
Snowcat Dinner Rides – jump on board a modern snowcat with your party and have a fantastic dinner in a mountaintop cabin.
Naturalist Snowshoe Tours – join a guided snowshoe tour with a knowledgeable naturalist.
Nastar – check out your alpine skiing skills on a designed course by Nastar.
Aspen Powder Tours – explore the backcountry with an experienced guide and find some of the best powder stashes.
Gondola Sightseeing Tickets – explore the mountains via a scenic gondola or chairlift ride.

Summertime – The Lost Forest

Summer at Aspen Snowmass

Visiting Aspen Snowmass in the summer invites you to explore even more ways to enjoy mountain activities and lifestyles.

Hiking – of course, there’s plenty of hiking.
Explore the Lost Forest – a mountain version of an adventure park that includes an extensive zipline canopy tour, a ropes challenge course, the Alpine Coaster, a climbing wall, hiking trails, a trout pond, and a disc golf course.
Snowmass Bike Park – for mountain bike enthusiasts, this park facilitates beginners through advanced rides on designed downhill trails. Trails cover 2,897 vertical feet.
Sightseeing Gondola & Chairlift Rides – quickly climb the mountain, take in views, and access free outdoor activities, miles of trails, and delicious on-mountain dining.
Camp Aspen Snowmass – a summer camp for ages 5 – 15. Fostering a love for the outdoors and crafts.
Paintball – it can get crazy, but have fun with an outdoor paintball campaign. Participants each have 300 washable and biodegradable paintballs to take out the opposition with.
Climbing Wall – check out the Rugged Ascent Climbing Wall, which has 14 lanes with various routes and difficulties.
Mountain-top Yoga – rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit with an all-level mountain-top yoga class.
Visit the Maroon Bells – this is a popular must-see. Learn more about how to visit this pristine area.

Colorado Rodeos

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Colorado rodeos are a mainstay of summer excitement, the size, and scope ranging from small town to nationally prominent. More than two dozen events are held throughout the state during the summer. Of course, there’s the National Western Stock Show each January at the National Western Complex in Denver, with all its pageantry and rodeo thrills.

Colorado Rodeo Schedule

Highlighted Colorado Rodeos and Fairs

Various Colorado Rodeos and fairs are going on throughout the West. Here are some of our favorites:

Cowboy Up in Kiowa – SE Denver

Celebrate the American rodeo in Kiowa, Colorado. This rodeo takes place on the 28th and 29th of June. Learn more.

LOCATION: Elbert County Fairgrounds, which is located southeast of Denver.

Arapahoe County Fair & Rodeo – Aurora, west of Denver

A heritage fair that includes 4-H events, a livestock auction, entertainment, a craft brew fest, a kick-off dinner, and more. The fair runs from July 25th – 28th for 2024.

LOCATION: Arapahoe County Fairgrounds in Aurora, CO.

The Greeley Stampede Rodeo Series

The Greeley Stampede takes place June 26th – July 7th and draws upwards of a quarter-million attendees. Attractions include the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Rodeo, a carnival, the Big Buckle Ball, art exhibits, and a Fourth of July parade. Cattlemen’s Days in Gunnison started in the 1800s when ranchers got together between spring calving and summer haying to take a much-needed break. They competed with each other in riding and roping, and today, the event includes a PRCA rodeo, livestock exhibits, a parade, a dog show, a carnival, and a dance.

LOCATION: These events are held at the Greeley Stampede Grandstand in Greeley, CO. Greeley is east of Loveland and southeast of Fort Collins.

Royal Gorge Rodeo

One of the oldest rodeos in Colorado is the Royal Gorge Rodeo. This rodeo features all the traditional rodeo events and more. This gets underway May 5th – 6th.

LOCATION: The rodeo is held at the Jack Merris Arena just south of Cañon City, CO.

True Western Roundup Series – Durango

This series has 10 scheduled rodeos and 3 Special events lined up for this summer and fall. The first rodeo is scheduled to start May 29th and continues through August 7th. Find all the details here. Their mission is to promote the sport of rodeo and preserve the Western heritage in a positive family atmosphere.

LOCATION: La Plata County Fairgrounds, Durango, CO. Durango is located in southwest Colorado.

Top of the World Rodeo – Cripple Creek

Known as the highest-elevation rodeo in Colorado. This rodeo has established itself as a premier event in the CPRA Association with the highest added-money purses. You can anticipate watching some of the West’s best participants. This rodeo takes place the second weekend of June – 12th – 14th; more info.

LOCATION: Cripple Creek Fairgrounds just west of the Town of Cripple Creek. Cripple Creek is located west of Colorado Springs and north of Cañon City.

North Park Never Summer Rodeo Series – Walden, North Central CO

Join in on the fun at the “biggest little rodeo in Colorado.” The town comes alive with a parade, BBQ, Street Dance, Rocky Mnt Oyster fry, and more. This rodeo takes place the last weekend of June 23rd – 26th.

LOCATION: Jackson County Fair Grounds just outside of Walden, CO. Walden is in northcentral Colorado.

The High Country Stampede Rodeo Series – Fraser

This rodeo series begins in July 6th and continues through August 17th. Learn more about the High Country Stampede Rodeo series. Gates open at 4 pm, kicking off with the western BBQ.

LOCATION: John Work Arena, Fraser, CO. Fraser is north of Winter Park.

Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series

The Steamboat rodeo series is every Friday and Saturday, June 23rd – Aug 26th, including July 3rd and 4th. Gates open at 5:30, starting with a BBQ. The rodeo is a heritage event for Steamboat dating back to somewhere around 1898.

LOCATION: Brent Romick Rodeo Arena, right in the heart of Steamboat Springs, CO.

Plateau Valley Heritage Days Celebration – Collbran

Celebrate the American spirit over the 4th of July at the Plateau Valley Heritage Days Celebration. This long 4th of July weekend begins July 2nd and goes through the 4th. With a Fireman’s breakfast kicking off the 4th of July, followed by a full day of events, a parade, kids carnival, BBQ & Fish Fry, entertainment, and the evening rodeo.

LOCATION: Collbran Fairgrounds in Collbran, CO. Collbran is on the western slope, north of the Grand Mesa.

Mesa County Fair & Carnival – Grand Junction

The Mesa County Fair & Carnival is a Western slope heritage fair and carnival event held over the 4th of July weekend—beginning July 7th and running through July 15th. You can expect a full lineup of 4-H events, carnival rides, art shows, kid zone, entertainment, monster trucks, rodeo, and more. This event prides itself on being a clean and healthy source of family entertainment.

LOCATION: Held at the Mesa County Fairgrounds in Grand Junction, CO.

Park County Fair & Rodeo – Fairplay

Visit South Park Colorado, and celebrate in true American spirit at the Park County Fair & Rodeo. This event is ongoing from July 12th through the 21st. You can expect a full line-up of 4-H events, a parade, an open shoot, art, photography, culinary specialties, entertainment, rodeo events, and more.

LOCATION: Park County Fairgrounds, in Fairplay, CO.

Caffee County Fair – Poncha Springs

Check out the Caffe County Fair this September. The fair is ongoing from July 26th through August 3rd. Expect 4-H events, local garden harvest, photography, arts & crafts, Christmas corner, livestock, and a rodeo. Plus a carnival and a demolition derby with several categories of vehicles.

LOCATION: Caffee County Fairgrounds just east of Poncha Springs

San Miguel Basin Rodeo – Norwood, CO. west of Ridgeway in SW CO.

Come check out some real western rodeo’n. The San Miguel Basin Rodeo is the last weekend in July. Traditional rodeo events will be exhibited, followed by an afterparty on the 29th.

LOCATION: San Miguel County Fairgrounds in Norwood, CO.

Phillips County Fair – Fairplay

This County Fair and rodeo takes place every year on the first weekend of August. Events include horse races, car races, a concert, food vendors, 4-H, rodeo, and carnival.

LOCATION: Phillips County Fairgrounds in Fairplay, CO.

Flying Heels Rodeo Series – Granby

This rodeo series starts June 1st and is a weekly event through July 27th. All the traditional rodeo events are held, plus a special 4th of July event and festivities (July 4th – 6th).

LOCATION: Flying Heels Arena in Granby, CO.

Montrose County Fair & Rodeo – Montrose

Come check out a traditional fair & rodeo at the Montrose County Fair & Rodeo events are ongoing and begin July 19th – July 29th. This event will host all the traditional 4-H events, a junior livestock auction, horse show events for both English and Western riders, a tractor pull, a parade, a rodeo, and more.

LOCATION: Montrose County Fairgrounds in Montrose, CO.

Fremont County Fair – Florence, east of Canon City

The Fremont County Fair is a series of events, carnivals, and rodeos starting July 27th and going through August 23rd. The official Fremont County Fair begins July 29th. The fair and ongoing events include rodeos, carnivals, a junior livestock sale, car races, arts & crafts shows, and more.

LOCATION: Fremont County Fairgrounds in Florence, CO.

Middle Park Fair and Rodeo – Kremmling

The Middle Park Fair and Rodeo features 4-H events, arts & crafts, several horse shows, and a junior rodeo. This late-season fair begins August 3rd and runs through the 11th.

LOCATION: Kremmling Area Chamber of Commerce, Kremmling, CO.

More Colorado Rodeo Information

View the entire Colorado Pro Rodeo series schedule. Make plans to attend one of these exciting events.

Summer in Summit County

Summer in Summit County, Colorado

Welcome to Summer in Summit County and one of ‘Colorado’s Favorite Playgrounds!’ Blessed with a central location in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Summit County encompasses the inviting towns of Keystone, Dillon, Frisco, Silverthorne, Copper Mountain, Heeney, and Breckenridge.

Summit County Summertime

Our historic towns have much to offer for all ages during the summer months. Celebrate the history of these National Historic Districts and stroll down our Main Streets while enjoying the one-of-a-kind architecture, unique shopping, and dining options.

Summer in Summit County Standouts

Dillon Reservoir and Marina – A 3,300-acre lake with 25 miles of shoreline.
Rafting
Fishing
Alpenglow Adventure Tours – Transportation and discounts on scenic train tours.
Peninsula Recreation Area – access to camping, hiking, biking, and recreation center.
Music festivals and other cultural events. Check the calendar.
Free things to do in Summit County

Find many unique lodging opportunities for romantic getaways, family vacations, and weekend adventures with friends. Summit County has many options to suit any family, group, couple, or individual.

Colorado Rafting Guide

Colorado rafting or whitewater rafting is an adrenaline rush for some people and total intimidation for others. Thankfully, rivers in Colorado cater to everyone, offering adventures from mild to wild. Rivers are rated from Class I–V. Families and beginners usually choose Class I-II, which offers leisurely float trips with spectacular scenic views at every bend of the wide-open rivers. Class V gives you an exciting ride for your money. Your guide will thread your raft through narrow canyons for hold-tight, mind-clearing plunges for whitewater junkies. Classes II-IV are in between.

Featured Colorado Rafting Companies

Echo Canyon Rafting Adventures

Echo Canyon, based out of Cañon City, is one of the largest rafting outfits in Colorado. Their primary focus is on families looking for a gentle introduction to rafting and challenging whitewater excitement for thrill seekers. They offer half and full-day adventures, plus multi-day wilderness trips. They have seven start locations spread across Colorado. Whitewater trips are offered:

Royal Gorge Canyon
Bighorn Sheep Canyon
Browns Canyon
The Numbers
Dolores River
San Miguel River
Colorado River

Raft Masters Adventures

Raft Masters, based out of Cañon City, takes pride in providing their guests with the highest quality rafting experience. Their whitewater Colorado rafting adventures are dedicated to your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. All river gear is included. They provide full and half-day trips in:

Clear Creek Canyon
Bighorn Sheep Canyon
Royal Gorge Canyon

Your Colorado rafting trip includes wet suits, river boots, paddle jackets, and helmets. They also offer combination adventure packages.

Royal Gorge Rafting & Zipline Tours

Royal Gorge Rafting and Zipline Tours, based out of Cañon City, are focused on just what their name is all about. Rafting the Royal Gorge and or ziplining across the Royal Gorge either before or after. They offer half and full-day raft trips and include river gear free of charge. Their rafting trips are in:

Royal Gorge Canyon
Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Signing up for a combination raft and zipline is a seamless experience. Both activities are at the same location, the adventure hub.

Performance Rafting Tours

Performance Rafting Tours has been offering whitewater tours since 1986. They are dedicated to safety, pride in their crew, love for the river, and providing memorable experiences for their guests. They operate out of six destinations spread across Colorado. Trips are Available in the following locations:

Royal Gorge
Beuna Vista
Breckenridge
Colorado Springs
Frisco
Browns Park

In addition to their standard rafting trips, they have various options, including multi-day group trips. These trips include lodging options, team-building options, and planning tools. Check out their adventure packages. These packages combine rafting and another adventure, such as ziplining or a scenic train ride.

Arkansas River Tours

Experience the thrill of rafting the Arkansas River in Colorado! They have three locations: Cañon City, Cotopaxi, and Dumont, Colorado. The Arkansas River offers a range of exciting rafting opportunities in a beautiful, scenic mountain setting. Whether you’re looking for a scenic float or an extreme class V whitewater adventure, there’s a rafting trip for everyone. There are full—and half-day options.

Check out their package deals, which combine one of the following: the Royal Gorge Scenic Train, ATV Tours, and Aerial Park adventure with a half-day rafting trip.

Bighorn Sheep Canyon
Royal Gorge Canyon
Cottonwood Canyon – perfect for families

Clear Creek Rafting

Rafting Clear Creek Canyon with this rafting outfit is just 30 minutes from Denver, right off I-70. If you’re in Denver, experiencing real Colorado rafting is just around the corner. They provide full and half-day trips in:

Clear Creek Canyon (near Denver)
Arkansas River (Cañon City)

All guests can access complimentary wet suits, digital photos of their trip, and lunch (lunch full-day trips only).

Colorado River Runners

River Runners is located near Buena Vista and Cañon City. Its two rafting outposts provide convenient access to the state’s most scenic and exciting river stretches. They can accommodate beginners through experienced whitewater rafting groups looking for the ultimate challenge. They even have specially designed rafting trips to accommodate your dog(s).

Royal Gorge (Cañon City – Buena Vista)
Browns Canyon National Monument (NW Colorado)

Defiance Rafting

Defiance Rafting is based in Glenwood Springs, central to Vail, Aspen, and Grand Junction. They specialize in group trips for families, corporate retreats, schools, faith-based groups, and the military.

The Colorado River
Roaring Fork River

Colorado Rafting – Be Prepared

Be prepared to get soaking wet! Splashing comes with the territory, even if you’re on a gentle float trip. So, try to wear quick-drying fabrics and bring a change of clothing for the return bus trip. Your driver will shepherd your belongings. (Many outfitters provide wet suits and shoes—a good idea if your trip is in late spring’s icy waters.) Because of whitewater rafting’s popularity, reservations are highly recommended.

Choosing an established rafting company is important. The Colorado River Outfitters Association can provide you with a list of companies staffed by certified, experienced professionals. Choose from half-, full– or multi-day trips that generally include bus transportation to the put-in and take-out point on your river journey. Get ready to have fun!

Colorado Rafting Questions to ask:

Are you planning a half-day, full-day, or multi-day trip?
Minimum age or height requirements?
Can the outfitter accommodate special needs or large groups?
What is included in the price of the trip?
What do I need to bring?

Theaters

Colorado Theaters

From metro multiplex cinemas to hometown, old-school theaters with balconies, and Art Deco décor, Colorado has you covered for first-run movie releases, film festival venues, cartoon marathons, Friday night popcorn fights, and romantic drive-in movie theaters.

Some of our biggest and most famous theaters are:

The Regal South Glenn Stadium 14 in Centennial (Denver area) boasts recliners for your viewing comfort.
Among our oldest are the Mayan on South Broadway in Denver and the Park Theater in Estes Park.

Colorado has numerous 3-D IMAX facilities in the state, with a half-dozen up and down the Front Range I-25 corridor.

Drive-in theaters are alive and well in the Centennial State. A few to consider are:

The 88 Drive-In Theatre in Commerce City, an eastern Denver area
The Comanche Drive-In in Buena Vista, south of Leadville, in the beautiful Collegiate Peaks area
Holiday Twin Drive-In in Fort Collins, north of Denver
Tru Vu Drive-In Theatre in Delta southeast of Grand Junction.

If you can’t make it to one of these outstanding theaters, there are undoubtedly many more to choose from.

Click here to find a theater near you.

Highway 285 Corridor – Historical Route

Colorado U.S. Route – Highway 285

Highway 285 is a north-south route, running 846 miles through Texas, New Mexico and Colorado. The endpoint in Colorado has always been Denver.

Railroad Route – Highway 285

Between Bailey and Nathrop, south of Buena Vista, Colorado, this highway follows the old Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad (D&SPRR) route. Back in the day, this route passed through the historic community of Como, which was the hub for the D&SPRR, and the junction point of three main lines: from Denver to Como across Kenosha Pass; from Como to Leadville via Boreas and Fremont Passes; and from Como to Gunnison and beyond via Trout Creek Pass. This junction was invaluable for transferring ore and people during the Colorado mining era.

All these passes are high mountain pass routes with most elevations above 10,000 feet.

Kenosha Pass – 10,001’
Boreas Pass – 11,481’
Fremont Pass – 11,318’
Trout Creek Pass – 9,346’

Pioneer Route – Highway 285

Previous to the railroad era, the 285 route out of Denver to South Park, was a stagecoach route. It was popular with early pioneers looking to stake their claim in the gold and silver mines of that region.

Today, 285 out of Denver is still the major thoroughfare into South Park and continues on to Salida and south into New Mexico. It’s also a very scenic drive with several byways along the way.

Fishing

Fishing in Colorado

Colorado is synonymous with fly-fishing for many people. Our many mountain streams, rivers, and lakes teem with Rainbow, Brown, Cutthroat, and Brook trout. In some of the large mountain lakes Kokanee (landlocked) you’ll find Salmon! We also have many warm-water fisheries too with Bass, Catfish, Pike, and others.

Get Ready, Fishing in Colorado

The best way to really get to the big fish is to book a fishing trip or take lessons with one of the many experienced fly fishing adventure companies. A guided trip can include access to private water, backcountry overnight horse trips, float trips, Gold Medal Waters, and so much more.

A Fishermans Paradise

Colorado is famous for its’ Gold Medal Fishing Waters and pristine mountain lakes. From the “Dream Stream” and the “Miracle Mile” to the word-class Frying Pan, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre Rivers to the massive Dillon Reservoir and Blue Mesa Reservoir full of Kokanee Salmon and large Lake Trout, Colorado has it all. Hundreds of Lakes, and abundant rivers and streams, make Colorado nothing short of a fisherman’s paradise.

Ice Fishing

The fun doesn’t stop in the winter! Bundle up for amazing fly-fishing or ice fishing on the Dillon Reservoir, Grand Lake, or various other mountain lakes. Many of Colorado’s State Parks are open to ice fishing. Learn more about ice-fishing in Colorado.

For those DIY fishermen, a stop in a local shop to stock up on gear and get hot tips from those who know the local water can make or break your expedition. It’s important to note that you need a valid Colorado Fishing License to fish in the state of Colorado, even if you are practicing catch and release. For more information, check out the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife’s website.

Get a line in the water! There is a big one calling your name.

Dog Friendly

Welcome to Dog Friendly Colorado

Colorado is widely regarded as one of the most dog friendly states in the US. Our many State and National Parks and BLM open spaces make it an ideal destination for dog activities. It’s no wonder that Colorado is considered a haven for our furry friends.

Dog Friendly Things To Do

Colorado Dog Parks – Urban dog parks

Get outside and spend some time participating in dog activities. The state is full of gorgeous town and city parks with paths for walking dogs. Colorado’s collection of dog parks varies from small, urban off-leash enclosures to massive areas full of hills, rocky terrain, rivers, lakes, and other water features.

The popularity of Colorado continues to grow. These new urban spaces have not forgotten our furry friends. Colorado has some of the country’s best dog parks and off-leash areas. Dogs function as more than just our best friend for many. They provide vital emotional support for those in need, and it’s best to carry an ESA letter to ensure your dog’s admittance in all other non-common places.

Cherry Creek Dog Park, Denver

Cherry Creek State Park’s Off-Leash Dog Area, adjacent to downtown Denver, has over one hundred acres of flat fields and a fun, shady creek for splashing, jumping, and paddling.

Durango Dog Park

Another very popular dog park is in Durango, with over six square miles of enclosed off-leash terrain, including a creek, Smelter Mountain slope, and trails for both humans and dogs.

Step up your walk with your dog and consider taking your dog with you on a hike or visiting one of many Colorado State Parks. Please check the rules regarding dogs at your destination park, National Forest, BLM, or wilderness before heading out.

Dog Activities

Hiking with Your Dog

The Rocky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to any vacation, weekend trip, or daily commute through most of Colorado. Exploring these mountains is a massive draw for locals and visitors alike. If you and your dog are looking for a new setting for your daily walk, or you want to get out and discover some of the beauty of the Rockies, you’re in luck. In Colorado, many trails are dog-friendly. (Note that National Parks in Colorado do not allow dogs in the backcountry or on any of the trails) The beauty of these mountains is something we all must take responsibility for; dog owners should keep in mind that leash laws are in effect on most trails. These laws are for the safety of other people and dogs and to protect the area’s natural flora and fauna, which are often delicate and easily destroyed by dogs and owners going off-trail. It’s important to clean up after your dog, which means bringing poop bags and packing them out with you. As tempting as it may be to leave the smelly bags on the side of the trail so you can “come back for it later,” it’s important to take it with you so you don’t forget. Plenty of adorable doggy backpacks are on the market, so you can even make your dog carry his own waste–and snacks and water–if you don’t want to!

Camping with Your Dog

What better way to enjoy Colorado and the outdoors than to bring your favorite friend along?

After an exhilarating day spent hiking, many dog owners like to pitch a tent or relax under the stars with their furry friends. Dogs are great camping companions that can help owners feel safe and keep them company on solo camping trips or serve as a warm cuddle buddy on chilly mountain nights. Check regulations before you leave for a camping trip to see if you need to register your dog in any way at the campsite, and bring supplies like blankets, food, water, and poop bags to care for your dog while you’re out in the wild. Keep in mind that your dog should stay on leash to limit interactions with wildlife (which could be dangerous for your dog as well as for wild animals), and to be respectful of other campers who may be nearby. If your dog is new to camping, monitor their behavior because not all dogs are well-suited for the rugged life, and a camping trip might be very stressful for them.

Dog Activities and Pet Friendly Events

A lot is happening in Colorado, and many of Colorado’s events focus on pets or welcome you to bring your dog.

Breweries

In Colorado, plenty of breweries and even restaurants with gorgeous outdoor patios welcome dogs. Enjoying a pint with your pup is a fun way to spend a meal or an afternoon with your human friends and dog. Your furry friend will enjoy some attention and collect lots of belly rubs from staff and other patrons. Check out this list of dog friendly breweries, with specifications on whether dogs are welcome inside the brewery or just on the patio.

Colorado, Home to Dog Friendly Places and Responsible Pet Owners

We all love enjoying Colorado with our loved ones and pets. There are rules to help keep our parks and pet friendly places special for years. Before you head out, knowing what’s expected of you is best. If you’re a dog enthusiast and here for a winter visit, check out dog sledding.

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