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Colorado Summer

Colorado Summer Vacation Plan

Colorado Summer Vacation Plan, the best season

This is the perfect starting point for planning your Colorado summer vacation. Visiting during the summer is arguably the best time to experience everything this glorious state has to offer.

As the most geographically diverse region in the United States, the Mountain West provides endless natural wonders to explore. Your road trip adventure begins with choosing destinations that match your expectations, mapping out scenic mountain routes, and finding family-friendly activities along the way.

Be sure to use our FREE itinerary tool to organize your entire vacation.

  • Sporting

    Engage in your favorite mountain sports. Such as Golf, Bicycling, Rock Climbing, Horseback Riding, Adventure Parks, Fishing.

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  • Get Out There

    Learn about Colorado's State and National Parks, RV Travel, Hiking, Backpacking, Wildlife & Birdwatching, Wildflowers.

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  • Family Fun

    Check out these family-fun activities: Things to do with Kids, Aerial & Adventure Parks, Rodeos, Hot Springs, Educational Tours.

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  • On the Water

    Check out how to get your toes wet. Whitewater Rafting, Lakes & Marinas, Sailing, Paddle Crafts, Fishing.

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  • Sightseeing & History

    Ways to get an eyeful and learn about the past. Historical Scenic Train Rides, Gondola Rides, Off-Road Tours, Ghost Towns, Dinosaurs, Museums.

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  • Culture

    Experience these native activities. Check the Events Calendar, Wine Tasting Rooms, Breweries, Find a Rodeo, stop at a Farmers Market.

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  • Shopping

    Colorado has everything from immersive Malls, Antique Shops, Art Galleries & Art Walks, Artsian Markets, many made-in-Colorado wares.

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  • Scenic Drives

    Colorado's vistas are a journey not to miss. Find exceptional scenic drives, byways, and leaf peeping.

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  • Top Spots

    Colorado has some very attractive destinations. State standouts: Estes Park, Royal Gorge Region, State & National Parks, Resort Towns.

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  • Big Kids
    Some things are just for adults. Wine Tasting Rooms, Casinos, Brews & Bud Tours, Romantic Getaways.

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Eagles Nest Wilderness

Nature & Public Lands: The Great Colorado Outdoors

Colorado’s landscape is a masterclass in diversity, featuring everything from 14,000-foot "Fourteeners" to rolling sand dunes and deep river canyons. With nearly half the state designated as public land, your options for exploration are practically infinite. Whether you are looking for the amenities of a state park or the rugged solitude of a national forest, the "Centennial State" is your playground.

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Adventure Parks

Family & Adventure Parks: High-Altitude Thrills

When the snow melts, Colorado’s ski resorts transform into summer "Discovery" centers. From alpine slides and mountain coasters to world-class aerial parks, these destinations offer a "Disney World of the Mountains" experience. It’s the perfect way to keep the kids engaged while enjoying the crisp mountain air.

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Water & Recreation: Rafting, Lakes, and Rivers

Water in Colorado is a precious summer resource. Between the adrenaline-pumping whitewater of the Arkansas River and the glass-like serenity of Grand Lake, there is a "liquid" adventure for every pace. Whether you’re piloting a motorboat, paddling a SUP, or bracing for a Class IV rapid, the high country water is calling.

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Colorado Summer Vacation plan Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience

Sightseeing & History: Echoes of the Old West

Touch the living history of the American West. Colorado’s past is etched into its landscape—from the dinosaur tracks of the Royal Gorge to the silver-mining ghost towns of the high country. Sightseeing here is an immersive journey through time, easily accessible via historic trains and guided jeep tours.

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Colorado Summer Vacation plan georgetown loop train

Events, Wine & Culture: The Spirit of Summer

Summer in Colorado is one long celebration. From the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater to the sun-soaked peach orchards of the Western Slope, the state's cultural calendar is packed. Experience the unique "high-altitude" profiles of our wineries or dive into the world-renowned craft brewery scene.

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Artisan shopping in Colorado

Shopping & Local Treasures: Malls to Mountains

Shopping in Colorado is an exercise in variety. You can spend your morning browsing luxury flagships in Denver and your afternoon hunting for 19th-century antiques in a small mountain town. Colorado is also a haven for artisan entrepreneurs, offering custom gear and boutique clothing you won't find anywhere else.

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San Juan Skyway

Scenic Drives & Byways: Views from the Top

In Colorado, the road to your destination is often a highlight of the trip. Our 26 Scenic and Historic Byways offer front-row seats to spectacular panoramas, lush forests, and glimpses of elk and bighorn sheep. From the towering heights of Trail Ridge Road to the winding beauty of the Million Dollar Highway, these drives are a "must" for any road trip.

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Horseback Riding in Colorado

Sporting & Recreation: Active Adventures

For those who prefer their vacation with a side of cardio, Colorado offers world-class facilities and natural terrain. Whether you're chasing a "birdie" at 8,000 feet, grinding gravel on a mountain bike, or exploring the backcountry on horseback, the high-altitude air provides a new element of challenge.

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Beaver-Creek-Resort

Top Destinations: Exploring Colorado's Regions

Every corner of Colorado has a unique heartbeat. To plan the perfect vacation, you first have to find your region. From the bustling energy of the Front Range to the secluded beauty of the Western Slope and the world-famous resort towns of the Central Mountains, your base camp awaits.

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Best for Big Kids

Discover sophisticated activities and leisure tailored for the mature traveler. Whether you're planning a full weekend getaway or just taking a little time off, these experiences offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

A Colorado Summer Vacation Plan and more

There are many more amazing places and things to do on your Colorado Summer Vacation, and hopefully, you will make discoveries along your journey.

Your summer vacation plan starts with finding destinations and activities that interest you, then crafting your summer road trip route to accommodate these visits.

If finding kids' activities is a primary focus, please check out this article about kids' activities in Colorado. Please use the free itinerary tool, as it is indispensable for organizing your trip. Have a nice summer vacation in Colorado!

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Cañon City royal gorge bridge

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.

Cañon City Downtown Canon City

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.

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snowmass village snowy mountain

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

Snowmass village winter

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

snowmass village 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.

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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. The high altitude of Summit County makes for an ideal place to cool of in the hot summer months.

While Summit County is known for its winter activities it is also the county in the United States with the longest average life expectancy according to the U.S. census. The healthy and active lifestyle that reigns in both summer and winter surely has something to do with that.

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

Summit County has a thriving arts and cultural scene for both locals and visitors. Check out the annual festivals as well as weekly and monthly events across a variety of disciplines from glassblowing to bluegrass.

Enjoy a guided tour of Summit County’s many breweries with transportation provided. The Summit County Brewery Tour is a six-hour party on wheels for people 21 years old and older. Consider the addition of a few marijuana dispensaries to your tours and go on a Brews, Booze and Bud Tour for a very good time.

Summit County also has a free bus service. The Summit Stage provides year round transportation in and around 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.

 

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All Aboard!

All Aboard!

All Aboard – it’s that time

Welcome to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! We’re glad you’ve chosen to visit. Whether you are new to experiencing this legendary railroad or have been a returning guest for years, we look forward to offering you the best in year-round historic train adventures presented today as they were in 1882! We invite you to hop aboard and relive the “Golden Age” on our railroad, which was voted “#1 Best Scenic Train in North America “ by USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice 2021 & 2022, “Best Historic Railroad of the West” 2021-23 by TrueWest Magazine Readers, and “Best Train Experience in the West” in 2016 by Sunset Magazine. Order a FREE All-Aboard Guide.

About D&SNGRR

Our family has dedicated decades to preserving the history surrounding this national treasure, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This railroad is designated a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service and an American Society of Civil Engineering Landmark.

When is the best time to visit the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad? Any time of the year!

During the winter, we offer exclusive round-trip train adventures deep into the heart of the San Juan National Forest to Cascade Canyon as well as the premier holiday family event train, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train ride.

If you’re visiting in the springtime, your train excursion may feature incredible waterfalls during the spring thaw season as you journey to Cascade Canyon.

All Aborad

All Aboard in the Summer

Summer is high season at the D&S with daily full day Durango to Silverton excursions May through October departing from Durango. We also offer daily 5-hour excursions on the Cascade Canyon Express seven days a week during the high season. These rail journeys also depart from the Durango Depot and travel to Cascade Canyon and are a perfect highlight reel of spectacular Rocky Mountain vistas for those with limited time.

Autumn offers you a unique way to experience peak leaf season from the comfort of the D&S train. Connect with family and friends as you explore the Rocky Mountains by historic railway. Sit back and allow yourself to be transported through a riot of blazing fall colors featuring the spectacular golden glow of aspens.

However you choose to relax and connect on the D&S train, and whatever adventure awaits you, we hope you have an inspiring journey where you create wonderful life-long memories!

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Heeney

Heeney

Visit Heeney, Colorado

The little community of Heeney is 8,000 feet above sea level and nestled between two spectacular mountain ranges, the Gore and Williams Peak.  This area, one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets, includes the Lower Blue River Valley, the Green Mountain Reservoir, and the popular Cataract Lake & Falls in the Eagles Nest Wilderness area.  Heeney is in Summit County and is only 30-40 minutes from Keystone, Breckenridge, Arapahoe Basin, Loveland, and Copper Mountain ski resorts. The entire area offers unique scenery and peace from the big resorts down the road.

Heeney Green Mountain Reservoir

About Heeney and Green Mountain Reservoir

Heeney was established in the late 1930s as an offshoot of the construction of the reservoir or dam.  In the summer, the lake (Green Mountain Reservoir) is a boater’s playground – fishing boats, jet skiing, water skiing, and pontoon cruising are all popular.  The Lower Blue River is Gold Medal Trout Waters above the lake and Wild Trout Waters below the dam.  It challenges fly fishermen almost year-round.  Winter offers huge lake trout to the patient ice fishermen.  The surrounding area also has a lot to offer, as far as hiking, camping, off-roading, and awesome views.  Heeney has a small marina that provides a public boat ramp, dockside fuel, slip rentals, and boat rentals.  A small liquor store and tackle shop are also in the town.  At the south end of the lake, at the inlet, are cabin rentals and a small convenience-type store.

The area is a lot like it was 50 years ago, with beautiful hay meadows and grazing cattle.  There is still a lot of wildlife in the area, including elk and deer quite often seen grazing early morning or late afternoon.  Get away from it all in Heeney!

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Cañon City royal gorge bridge

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.

Canon City Downtown

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.

Copper Mountain

Copper Mountain, Co. - More Than a World-Class Ski Resort

Copper Mountain Logo

Copper Mnt  |  866-841-2481  |  866-841-2481
209 Ten Mile Circle, Copper Mountain, CO 80443

While Copper Mountain is best known as a world-class ski area and snowboard park, guests also enjoy the resort's intimate, pedestrian-only villages, which offer restaurants, family-friendly activities, shopping, and comfortable lodging, all within walking distance to the lifts.  Copper Mountain is conveniently located just 75 miles west of Denver in the heart of the Colorado Rocky Mountains and offers nearby access to snowmobile tours, dog-sledding, and shopping just six miles away in Frisco.

Copper's naturally-divided terrain provides the perfect place to learn or hone your skiing or riding skills.  With over 140 trails, 23 lifts, 2,465 acres of skiable terrain, and a mountain peak height of 12,313, Copper Mountain is a local's favorite on a powder day or any day.

Copper Mountain

Summer Time at the Ski Area

Nestled in the White River National Forest, Copper Mountain ski resort transforms into a summer vacation playground for the whole family. Popular attractions include:

The Rocky Mountain Coaster - Cruise through the forest on a tracked coaster. 5,800 feet long in fact and maxes out at 25 miles per hour. The longest North American alpine coaster. Something you don't want to miss.

Copper Creek Golf - Experience golfing with the stunning Ten Mile Range backdrop. Outstanding service and prices that will keep you coming back. Season passes are available.

Mountain Biking at the Resort - A mountain biking paradise. From long rides into the Rockies to some of the best lift-service single track in Colorado. A Bike Haul is offered for those seeking more of a downhill adventure. Check out the cross country trails near Copper Mountain Resort. These trails provide access to spectacular trails throughout Summit County.

  • Wheeler Trail - 10.3-mile point to point
    A classic alpine single track with several miles over 12,000 feet. It's popular to start from the McCullough Road trailhead and end at Copper Mountain. Enjoy amazing views of Quandary Peak and Gorge Range along the way.
  • Colorado Trail - Copper Mountain to Searle Pass - 19.3 miles round trip
    Start right at the base of Copper Mountain and top out at 12,044 feet. Best during late summer when all the high-elevation snow has melted. Climb through alpine meadows with expansive views.
  • Friso 20 Loop - 19.9-mile loop
    A classic ride that connects Copper with Frisco on a mix of roads and trails. The loop combines sections of the Wheeler Trail, the Colorado Trail, and the Peaks Trail. Giving you a little bit of everything, including 3,000 feet of climbing.

There's more at Copper Mountain Resort

They have scheduled year-round events such as music, art, or yoga retreats. Fun parks for kids and young adults. An assortment of spas, shopping, and dining. You can surely find a mountain vacation experience to satisfy the whole family.

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Castle Rock Colorado

Castle Rock

Things To Do in Castle Rock

It’s easy to see how Castle Rock got its name when one spies the castle-shaped butte towering high above the town center. The town’s history is also easily visible in the original, well-preserved homes, cafés, and churches throughout the area. Many of these were built using the unusual rhyolite stone that originally attracted the settlers who founded the town in the mid-to-late 18th century. Prior to their arrival, the area was occupied by Cheyenne and Arapahoe Indian tribes. Today, nearly 60,0000 people call Castle Rock home.

With roots in mining and railroads, this affluent town offers an updated taste of the Old West. It boasts a historic downtown area, 265 acres of parks, and 44 miles of trails.  Castle Rock, easily accessible by Interstate 25, is home to the Outlets at Castle Rock (the largest open-air outlet center in the State) and is the seat of Douglas County.  The town encompasses 33 square miles and sits in the East Plum Creek Valley at the base of the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of 6,202 feet.

With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Castle Rock is a safe and welcoming place to enjoy the brisk Colorado air year round.Castle Rock neighborhood

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