Mountain sailing at Lake Dillion Colorado

Year-Round Activities

Year-Round Activities in Colorado

Colorado is most famous for its world-class skiing and hiking. However, its varied geographical regions and diverse population, make Colorado a place to be enjoyed by people of all passions and ages with year-round activities abound.

Colorado’s diverse activities

Besides the high-profile activities found in Colorado’s resort towns. People with other interests should not be surprised to see their favorite activities and organizations in Colorado too. Here are a few activities that might not be front of mind when thinking of Colorado but are in fact popular and thriving in Colorado.

Adventure Parks

If you’re looking for man-made assisted fun. The adventure parks in Colorado are not to be missed. Similar to the urban amusement parks, Colorado’s adventure parks combine the awesomeness of mountains, and their natural setting, with the thrill of manmade fun.

ATVs and Jeep Tours

If hiking, riding horseback, or mountain biking is not your thing. Getting the “out there” feeling of being in the National Forest is something anyone can do. There are a variety of companies that provide guided backcountry tours to suit your style. With the advent of modern ATVs, you can even tour the backcountry year-round. The modern buggy ATVs can accommodate small parties through remote areas in the summer and winter.

Marinas and Boating

Boating is certainly not first to mind when thinking about Colorado. However, this state has a variety of exceptional mountain lakes and reservoirs to satisfy your mariner cravings. If oceans and big bodies of water are more your style. Consider the lakes of Colorado to be a new challenge. Generally speaking, these lakes are suited for smaller crafts and will call upon a modified skill set.

Hot Air Ballooning

A really fantastic activity that anybody can do is hot air ballooning. The mountains of Colorado are perfect for ballooning year-round. The mountain views are just stunning. A truly “eagle eye” experience.

Spas and Hot Springs

If you just need to unwind Colorado has got you covered. Throughout Colorado, you can find natural hot springs. Often these springs have been developed into spas or accompany resort getaways. Hot Springs are open year-round. The hot mineral-rich waters can feel even more satisfying in the winter. Follow that up with a message and you’ll be ready to take on life with new meaning. You will also find top-notch spas in all of the resort communities.

Activities for those more Culturally Minded

Colorado Museums

Colorado has been an integral part of western immigration. Pioneering the west involved navigating the Oregon and Santa Fee overland trails. Colorado essentially bisected these traveling routes. Then there was the gold rush which established most of Colorado’s small towns still in existence today. Simultaneously, the open-range cattle industry boomed and clashed with the mining town culture. Creating the romanticized cowboy lifestyle that developed the Hollywood western movie storytelling that is still seen and loved. Small-town museums can be found throughout Colorado. If you’re a history buff or fascinated by the early western culture. Stop by any number of these museums and step back in time and check out the early days of the west.

Colorado Performing Arts

Colorado has a unique ability to draw eclectic people. So, no surprise to find a strong influence of performing arts throughout the state. Home to Colorado Symphony Orchestra, a plethora of Bluegrass festivals, The famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver’s Center for Performing Arts, and more. You will also discover similar cultural experiences available throughout Colorado’s small mountain towns.

Year-Round Vacationing in Colorado

When you think of vacationing in Colorado. Think of all the incredible year-round activities, cultural experiences, and events you can mix into your trip. With a little planning, you can easily check off activities to satisfy your body and mind. Find activities to thrill you, challenge you, stimulate your curiosity, or just find satisfying relaxation. Colorado is the place to get a recharge on life.

South Park

South Park, Colorado

Perched high in the Colorado Rockies, South Park Colorado is a microcosm of Western history. From deep canyons to vast grasslands to snowy peaks and alpine meadows, this compelling basin is home to the nation’s highest incorporated town, gold mines, cattle ranches, and mountain passes. As one of only 49 National Heritage Areas in the United States, South Park offers a rare glimpse of pioneer life at high altitudes during the settlement of the American West.

This region is a landscape rich with heritage and attracts individuals who value Western authenticity. Some ranches have been operated for five generations by the same family. As they have for centuries, residents still depend on the land for their livelihood, recreation, and quality of life. As other places lose their inherent charm, South Park becomes a more engaging destination.

South Park Heritage

South Park boasts an array of nationally significant artifacts that reflect different aspects of this country’s heritage. The basin’s high peaks, clear streams, and copious wildlife embody the resources that sustained the native people and attracted settlers west. Hundreds of historic sites and structures still remain 150 years after the development of early mining, railroading, and ranching at 10,000 feet. Local events celebrate the lives of early pioneers in this area. Together, these resources and traditions evoke images of the struggle for prosperity that played out within the ring of mountains that define Colorado’s largest mountain park.

Park County Courthouse

Seven years after Fairplay became the county seat in 1867, the old Park County Courthouse was built of native sandstone in the Italianate style. Along with the adjacent stone jail, this building witnessed a parade of the famous, the notorious, and the ordinary. Known as the “hanging court,” decisions made here had a profound impact on Colorado case law. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it now serves as a public library and is one of 12 properties showcased in the Fairplay Historic Walking Tour brochure.

Boreas Pass Section House

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the Boreas Pass Section House was built in 1882 to house railroad workers on the Denver, SP & Pacific Railroad Highline Route between Como and Breckenridge. Next to the Section House, the 1860s Wagon Cabin was built when this route was a mere wagon trail over the Continental Divide. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, these structures now serve as a visitor center and museum during summer and a backcountry ski hut during winter.

More About South Park Colorado

Perhaps you’re curious about the more modern attraction, the cartoon South Park. What does this area of Colorado have to do with the cartoon anyway? One can really only speculate on the subject. Perhaps these two places (one real, the other fictional) have nothing to do with one another. It’s just a mere coincidence that they bear similar names. However, it’s also possible that there’s more to it than mere coincidence. One similarity that stands out is that the historical South Park was outlandish, full of ironies and scandal. This is also true about the cartoon. Learn more about South Park, Fairplay, and Conifer, Colorado. Some interesting connections between them might satisfy your curiosity.

Highway US 24 Corridor

Transcontinental Highway of 1926 – US 24

U.S. Hwy 24 or Route 24 is one of the original transcontinental highways of 1926. Initially, it started at Pontiac, Michigan in the east and headed west, and terminated at Kansas City, Missouri. Today US 24 runs from Independence Township, Michigan at an intersection with I-75, and terminates at Minturn, Colorado at an intersection with I-70.

When the US highway system was started in 1926, US Route 24 in Colorado was called US 40S. This highway started in Grand Junction and proceeded west along the current I-70 route to Minturn. Then proceeded to the current route to Limon. From Limon, it proceeded to the Kansas border and was called US 40N. The US 40S and US 40N, west and east of Limon respectively received US 24 designation in 1936; however, in 1975 when US 24 was extended west from Kansas City, Missouri. The stretch between Grand Junction and Minturn was decommissioned.

Looking back on the naming and development of US Route 24 and how this transitioned into other major highways is confusing, to say the least; however, it does let us know that US 24 was an important highway in terms of western migration and the development of west/central United States.

Telegraph Road

Dixie Highway in Pontiac, Michigan, and Laskey Road in Toledo, Ohio, denote a section of highway that was known as Telegraph Road. This telling name came about before the highway even existed after the telegraph wires which ultimately ran parallel to the route. US Route 24 was the western edge of Telegraph Road that ran through Detroit. Mark Knopfler of the Dire Straits even wrote the song “Telegraph Road”, which is the story of the development and decay of this highway.

Town of Frisco

Frisco, the Heart of Colorado

Frisco is located in the heart of Summit County, Colorado, within minutes of many world-class ski resorts. Originally settled by the Ute Indians, followed by trappers/mountain men, the mining industry, and eventually skiing, Frisco has evolved into a year-round outdoor recreation hub and relaxation destination for all ages. While it may look and feel charming, inside this town beats the heart of adventure.

Palisade

Palisade, Colorado

A town in Mesa County, Colorado. Palisade, part of the Grand Junction Metropolitian statistical area, and named for the cliffs near town. Palisade is most famous for delicious peaches and wine vineyards. Although that’s what Palisade is known for, this small town on Colorado’s western slope embodies all of what Colorado is about. Palisade’s nearly central location but lower elevation of 4,728 feet makes it an area with warmer year-round temperatures, a longer growing season, yet close to skiinig and other mountain attractions.

This historical farming community has kept pace with the rest of Colorado. Attractions like rafting, skiing, mountain biking and a variety of farm tours are all right around the corner in Palisade. Colorado National Monument, Tillman Bishop State Wildlife Area, Grand Mesa National Forest, and a variety of parks are all accesible from Palisade.

Fruita

Visit Fruita, Colorado!

Surrounded by dramatic mountain cliffs and gorgeous desert landscapes, this fun little town is dream come true for many adventure seekers. Mountain biking, hiking, Jeep and dirt bike trails cover the thousands of acres of public lands surrounding Fruita.

Berthoud

Visit Berthoud, Colorado

Historically rich and Americana-steeped Berthoud, 45 minutes north of Denver, is nicknamed the “Garden Spot of Colorado” with good reason – a small community surrounded by rich farmland, it hosts annual events such as “Berthoud Day” in early June for residents and visitors to gather and celebrate family-style with a parade, music, and picnic.

The Annual Quilt Show

The town’s persona comes through in its annual quilt show and in its expanding sculpture exhibit in Fickel Park. Wildlife and outdoor themes mix with contemporary designs in a wonderful way.

While conveniently providing a gateway to mountain fun in the nearby Rockies, Berthoud also offers the laid-back and welcoming atmosphere of farmer’s markets, a town swimming pool, and vibrant arts community that includes dance and live theater – truly something for everyone!

Berthoud’s Location

If you’re looking for a smaller-town vibe, try visiting Berthoud. The cost of living is higher than the national average by 25.7 points. This is mostly reflected in housing costs. However, it does have a desirable location. Access to Estes Park and RMNP is just 35 miles away. If you like access to mountain lakes and reservoirs, this location is ideal. With over 20 lakes and reservoirs nearby and twice that amount a little further away. Deciding where to go will be the greater problem.

Berthoud has easy access to several state parks and nearby campgrounds. If you’re passing through or just want to get away for a few days. There is a large selection of state parks and campgrounds to choose from.

Frisco Inn on Galena

The Frisco Inn on Galena

Discover the perfect mountain getaway at the Frisco Inn on Galena, Summit County’s premier lodging experience. Our Inn is a one-of-a-kind Boutique Hotel, Bed and Breakfast that offers exceptional hospitality, service, amenities, and dining. The Inn is the perfect setting to “Relax, Reconnect, Recreate, and Rejuvenate,” with an ambiance reminiscent of Europe’s fine, small hotels and B&Bs.

The Frisco Inn on Galena is Conveniently Located

The Frisco Inn on Galena is centrally located in Colorado and central to many activities and attractive Colorado destinations. Just a few miles in any direction from a choice of world-class ski resorts such as Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Keystone, Loveland, Arapahoe Basin, and Vail. The inn is also central to Frisco and minutes to lake Dillion, golf courses, events, shopping, dining, hiking, and more. Consider the Frisco Inn your headquarters for multi-day Colorado adventure fun, and the staff at the Inn as your guide to help you find just the right kind of fun to suit your style. Learn more about the Frisco Inn experience.

Arkansas River Tours

Arkansas River Tours – Whitewater Rafting

Since 1973, Arkansas River Tours has connected over 300,000 guests to the river on fun whitewater rafting adventures. From family-friendly floats and multi-activity packages to advanced Royal Gorge rafting, Arkansas River Tours has a trip for everyone!

Whether planning a family vacation or weekend getaway, whitewater rafting is the perfect activity to tack on a little adventure. Our goal at Arkansas River Tours is to provide premium whitewater rafting experiences through experiential learning and emphasis on safety. From the courteous office staff to the quirky yet professional guides, Arkansas River Tours is sure to make your Colorado adventure a memorable experience.

Choose an Arkansas River Tours Trip

Not sure which trip to choose? Our support staff is available to help. Our most popular trip is the Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting trip. This experience is perfect for families that are looking to “get their feet wet.” For those who have been to Colorado whitewater rafting before, the Royal Gorge river rafting trip is challenging and provides lasting memories for all. Brand new to rafting and not sure where to start? The Cottonwood Family Float trip offers wildlife viewing and an introduction to the river environment. Spending the day in nature with your young ones is the perfect way to eliminate screen time and show them the great outdoors!

Book Your Arkansas River Rafting Trip With Arkansas River Tours!

Quality Inn & Suites Cañon City

Cañon City’s only FULL SERVICE HOTEL. FREE Deluxe Continental Breakfast, FREE High Speed Internet Access, Relax & Enjoy the Hotel’s Indoor Hot Tubs & Outdoor Heated Pool.

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