Exploring the United States one state at a time is one way to understand the history of our country and the varying cultures that it holds. Let’s explore Colorado! Colorado is a great destination for your next trip, no matter the season. This state offers exciting outdoor adventures, unique dinning, and social media worthy photo opportunities all year round. Whether you’re traveling there for the first time, or heading back for your 100^th time, there are always new things to do and try.

The Outdoors

Year-round recreation is one of Colorado’s biggest claims to fame.  In the winter, you can find locals and tourists flocking to ski/snowboard, skate, sled, and snowmobile. During the warmer months, you might find people biking, zip lining, fishing, whitewater rafting, and exploring the state to encounter some of its majestic wildlife. Hiking is also a big part of Colorado culture. Test your stamina and endurance by being a part of the “14ers club”. What is the “14ers club”?

The Rocky Mountains span over thousands of miles and many states including Colorado. While the Rockies are diverse depending on where you view them, each segment offers spectacular views. The mountains are split into categories – The Canadian Rockies, the Northern Rockies, the Middle Rockies, and the Southern Rockies. Colorado finds itself among the Southern Rockies. With a higher elevation than the Northern or Middle Rockies, many peaks reach heights over 14,000 feet. Colorado has over 50 peaks that meet or exceed that elevation – hence we have the term “14ers club”.

The highest peak, not only in Colorado, but also the entire mountain range, is Mount Elbert. Its peak is 14,440 feet. Hiking your way to the top of Mount Elbert can be done from the Colorado trail, and is said to be a fairly easy, beginner/moderate hike. It’s probably a good idea to prepare in advance for this trip. When hiking high elevations, it is important to acclimate slowly. Be sure to stay well hydrated and nourished. You’ll thank yourself later!

The Beer

If you’re a beer lover; this location might be just what you were looking for on your next trip. Colorado is often called the “Napa Valley” of beer in the US. You'll have the opportunity to choose from over 200 breweries in the state to taste and purchase from. Consider taking a tour of one of the breweries while you're there. You can learn about the history of the beer making process and how it’s actually done. No matter what season you visit there is sure to be some unique and exciting flavors for you to try.

The Cities

The great thing about Colorado is that you have the opportunity to indulge in both wildlife and outdoor adventures, as well as, urban cities because they're in such close proximity to each other. Make your way through Denver, the capital, which offers a variety of style and culture. Catch a Broncos game, hop on one of the many bus tours, or make your way through the Denver botanical gardens.

Consider checking out Colorado Springs, one of the more family friendly cities in this great state. Here, some locals boast about their big city that offers a quaint small-town feel. It has activities for both the kids and for you. Check out the Cave of Winds or maybe the Springs Adventure Park to entertain the little ones. But don’t forget to stop into one of the fine dining opportunities for a date night. You might even want to end it off with some games at a close casino.

Nearby is the city of Boulder. Think about visiting the Boulder Farmers Market, open two days a week (usually Saturday and Wednesday), to try local flavors and support the small business in the area. You’ll be able to choose from homemade pierogis, chips, bread, pasta, fruit, vegan ice cream, honey, mushrooms, and more just by walking through this amazing market.

Cities in Colorado offer eclectic dining opportunities, museums, as well as, public street art, various music styles in big and small venues at every corner, and much more. All you have to do is park your car and take a stroll – it’s almost impossible to find yourself bored in one of these cities.

Colorado really is a state that offers quite a lot year-round. Take advantage of this next time you plan to travel. It may be just what you're looking for, for solo travel, a friend getaway, or a trip with the family. No matter where you travel be sure to consider travel protection each time you leave home. Talk to your travel advisor or visit our website today to learn more about how travel protection can help you. Happy travels!

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