Colorado State Parks

Location:

San Luis Valley, CO

Highlights:

If you've never seen a 750-foot sand dune under a Colorado sky, you're in for something unforgettable. Great Sand Dunes National Park is where you can hike, sled, and stargaze in a truly otherworldly landscape.

We Recommend This For:

Adventure seekers, photographers, history lovers, families, and anyone fascinated by unique geological wonders.

What we Love:

Towering dunes, sandboarding thrills, rich Indigenous history, and incredible night skies in one of the quietest places in the U.S.

• Climb the tallest sand dunes in North America—some rising up to 750 feet, with epic panoramic views from the top.
• Sled or sandboard down the slopes—rentals are available in nearby towns for a gravity-fueled adventure.
• Explore on foot or with a guide to learn about the area's first inhabitants, including Navajo, Apache, and Southern Ute peoples.
• Stargaze in one of the best dark sky parks in the country—perfect for spotting constellations and meteor showers.

Distance from Alamosa, CO:

About a 40-minute drive northeast via CO-150 N.

How to Get to Great Sand Dunes National Park:

From Alamosa, take US-160 East, then head north on CO-150. Follow signs for the national park entrance—parking and visitor info are well-marked.

Location:

Montrose, CO

Highlights:

If you’re chasing dramatic cliffs and near-vertical drops, Black Canyon of the Gunnison is jaw-dropping. It’s one of the deepest, narrowest, and darkest canyons in North America—parts of it only see 33 minutes of sunlight a day!

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, photographers, geology buffs, thrill-seeking sightseers, and anyone craving rugged, unfiltered natural beauty.

What we Love:

Sheer canyon walls, rare lighting conditions, epic overlooks, and that remote, wild feeling you get as you peer into the abyss.

• See 12 stunning miles of the 48-mile Black Canyon, with viewpoints that let you take in the gorge’s narrow depth and stark beauty.
• Hike rim trails or venture into inner-canyon routes if you’re experienced and up for the challenge—permits required for descent.
• Marvel at how little light touches the canyon floor—certain areas only get a half hour of sunlight each day due to the sharp cliff angles.
• Visit year-round for stargazing, scenic drives, and fewer crowds compared to other national parks.

Distance from Montrose, CO:

About a 20-minute drive east via US-50 and CO-347.

How to Get to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park:

From Montrose, head east on US-50, then turn north onto CO-347. Follow the signs to the park’s South Rim Visitor Center and overlooks.

Location:

Colorado Springs, CO

Highlights:

If towering red rock spires and ancient stories carved into stone speak to you, Garden of the Gods is a must-see. It's where geology, history, and breathtaking scenery collide—right in the heart of Colorado Springs.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, photographers, geology lovers, families, and anyone drawn to the beauty of natural rock formations and cultural history.

What we Love:

Striking sandstone formations, Native American petroglyphs, scenic trails, and free admission to one of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks.

• Explore 1,367 acres of dramatic red rock formations, including the famous Lyons Formation created by a fault-line upheaval millions of years ago.
• Walk or bike the many paved and natural-surface trails—perfect for casual strolls or more active adventures.
• Discover petroglyphs and learn about the Ute people's connection to the land dating back to 250 BC.
• Visit the free Visitor & Nature Center for geology exhibits, cultural history, and panoramic views of Pikes Peak.

Distance from Downtown Colorado Springs:

Just a 10-minute drive northwest via W Colorado Ave and N 30th St.

How to Get to Garden of the Gods:

From downtown Colorado Springs, head west on W Colorado Avenue. Turn right onto N 30th Street and continue to the main entrance at 1805 N 30th St.

Location:

Colorado Springs, CO

Highlights:

If you’re looking for quiet trails, mountain views, and a chance to spot wild Colorado wildlife, Cheyenne Mountain State Park has it all. It’s a newer gem with deep roots, and it’s perfect for hikers, campers, and curious explorers of all ages.

We Recommend This For:

Families, hikers, wildlife watchers, RV travelers, and anyone seeking scenic trails and educational experiences near Colorado Springs.

What we Love:

Interactive programs at the Visitor Center, sightings of golden eagles and black bears, and peaceful campsites right near the base of the mountain.

• Explore 1,680 acres of El Paso County’s only state park, with trails offering views of Cheyenne Mountain and native habitats.
• Visit the modern Visitor Center for interactive displays, nature education, and year-round programming for all ages.
• Camp in well-maintained tent and RV sites, or enjoy a mountain-view picnic at designated day-use areas.
• Spot wildlife like coyotes, foxes, golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, black bears, and even elusive cougars.

Distance from Downtown Colorado Springs:

About a 20-minute drive south via CO-115.

How to Get to Cheyenne Mountain State Park:

From Colorado Springs, head south on CO-115, then turn right onto JL Ranch Heights Road. Follow signs to the park entrance at 410 JL Ranch Heights Rd.

Romantic Colorado State Parks:

Location:

Fruita, CO

Highlights:

If red-rock canyons, high desert solitude, and soaring raptors are your thing, Colorado National Monument is a stunning escape. Known locally as “the monument,” this vast landscape is perfect for scenic drives, hikes, and birdwatching with a view.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, photographers, bird watchers, cyclists, campers, and anyone seeking dramatic rock formations and quiet desert beauty.

What we Love:

Sheer canyon walls, sandstone spires, epic lookouts, and a museum-rich visitor center nestled high on the Colorado Plateau.

• Drive the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive for sweeping views of cliffs, canyons, and desert scenery that rivals the best of the Southwest.
• Hike or bike along scenic trails—from short walks to strenuous climbs—each offering panoramic views and geological wonders.
• Watch for golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and ravens—binoculars are a must for birders and nature lovers.
• Visit the Saddlehorn Visitor Center to explore natural history exhibits, browse the gift shop, and plan your canyon adventure.

Distance from Grand Junction:

About a 15-minute drive west via Monument Road.

How to Get to Colorado National Monument:

From Grand Junction, take Monument Road south to Rim Rock Drive. Follow signs to the west entrance near Fruita and continue into the park.

Location:

Lake George, CO

Highlights:

If big skies, quiet trails, and top-tier fishing sound like your kind of getaway, Eleven Mile State Park won’t disappoint. Just eleven miles from Lake George, it’s a peaceful, scenic escape anchored by a sprawling reservoir.

We Recommend This For:

Anglers, campers, cyclists, families, and anyone eager to explore Colorado’s lakeside landscapes.

What we Love:

The serene Eleven Mile Reservoir, over 300 campsites, thriving fish populations, and beautiful trails for hiking and biking.

• Fish for cutthroat and rainbow trout, northern pike, or the park’s prized Kokanee salmon—anglers love this lake.
• Hike or bike five miles of scenic trails around the reservoir, with plenty of open views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Camp at one of 300+ campsites, from lakeside tent pads to RV-friendly spots with incredible starry skies at night.
• Begin at the Visitor Center for maps, info, and ranger guidance to make the most of your outdoor adventure.

Distance from Colorado Springs:

About a 1 hour and 15-minute drive west via US-24 W.

How to Get to Eleven Mile State Park:

From Colorado Springs, take US-24 W to Lake George. Turn left onto County Road 90, then follow signs to 4229 Co Rd 92 to reach the park entrance.

Location:

Brighton, CO

Highlights:

If your ideal day includes birdwatching, lake views, and trails for the whole family, Barr Lake State Park has you covered. With space for both recreation and refuge, it’s a beautiful balance of activity and wildlife sanctuary just outside Denver.

We Recommend This For:

Families, bird watchers, hikers, cyclists, nature photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful park close to the city.

What we Love:

The 8.8-mile lake loop trail, wildlife viewing stations, bald eagle sightings, and the park’s dual zones for boating and conservation.

• Hike or bike 12 miles of trails, including the scenic loop that circles the lake and offers stunning panoramic views.
• Watch wildlife from dedicated viewing stations—Barr Lake is home to over 350 bird species and a well-known nesting area for bald eagles.
• Fish or boat on the north side of the lake, while enjoying the serenity of the southern wildlife refuge zone.
• Visit the nature center for interactive exhibits and programs that bring the park’s ecology and bird life to life for all ages.

Distance from Denver:

About a 30-minute drive northeast via I-76 E.

How to Get to Barr Lake State Park:

Take I-76 E from Denver, then exit at Bromley Lane in Brighton. Head east and follow signs to Picadilly Road; the park entrance is at 13401 Picadilly Road.

Family-friendly Colorado State Parks:

Location:

Golden, CO

Highlights:

If you’re after mountain trails, wildlife sightings, and year-round adventure close to Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park delivers. With 12,000 acres of Colorado beauty, it’s a playground for hikers, campers, and trail lovers of every kind.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, bikers, horseback riders, campers, wildlife watchers, and day-trippers looking for high-altitude peace and panoramic views.

What we Love:

Miles of multi-use trails, over 100 picnic and camping spots, and the chance to spot black bears, elk, moose, and more in their natural habitat.

• Hike, bike, or ride across 36 miles of scenic trails—ranging from mellow forest strolls to steep summit climbs.
• Camp or picnic at one of 100+ designated sites, ideal for family gatherings or a night under the stars.
• Start your visit at the informative Visitor Center to get trail maps, learn about local history, and check for wildlife sightings.
• Spot wildlife including mule deer, elk, wild turkeys, black bears, and the occasional mountain lion or moose.

Distance from Denver:

About a 45-minute drive west via CO-93 and Golden Gate Canyon Road.

How to Get to Golden Gate Canyon State Park:

Take CO-93 north from Golden, then turn west on Golden Gate Canyon Road. Continue to 92 Crawford Gulch Rd and follow signs to the main park entrance and Visitor Center.

Location:

Franktown, CO

Highlights:

If you love mixing natural beauty with fascinating history, Castlewood Canyon is a hidden gem. With dramatic canyon views and relics like a broken dam and a historic bridge, this park tells a story as you hike.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, history buffs, climbers, photographers, and families looking for a scenic half-day adventure just outside Denver.

What we Love:

The ruins of the 1933 dam, Cherry Creek Bridge, canyon-side trails, and the perfect blend of geology and Colorado history.

• Explore the remnants of Castlewood Canyon Dam, whose collapse in 1933 sent a 15-foot wave of water into Denver.
• See the historic Cherry Creek Bridge, a 1948 concrete arch bridge listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Hike through scenic trails carved along the canyon rim, with options for all skill levels and beautiful photo spots.
• Climb or picnic throughout the park, with designated areas for rock climbing and plenty of quiet spaces to relax.

Distance from Denver:

About a 45-minute drive south via I-25 and CO-86.

How to Get to Castlewood Canyon State Park:

Take I-25 S from Denver, then exit onto Founders Pkwy and continue on CO-86 E. Turn right onto CO-83 S, and follow signs to the entrance at 2989 S State Hwy 83.

Location:

Silt, CO

Highlights:

If you’re after a quiet day on the water surrounded by trees and songbirds, Harvey Gap State Park is your kind of spot. Centered around the 190-acre Grass Valley Reservoir, it’s a favorite for anglers, paddlers, and picnickers alike.

We Recommend This For:

Fishermen, families, bird watchers, paddlers, and anyone looking for a peaceful day-use destination with calm waters and shade.

What we Love:

Year-round fishing, quiet boating, shaded picnic areas, and the serenity of being surrounded by cedar and cottonwood groves.

• Fish all year long for northern pike, trout, crappie, catfish, perch, and both smallmouth and largemouth bass.
• Boat on the calm waters—small boats and non-motorized craft are welcome for low-key paddling and fishing trips.
• Relax at the day-use area with shaded picnic tables, or enjoy a dip at the small swim beach in warmer months.
• Spot wildlife among the cottonwoods and wetlands—look for migratory waterfowl, songbirds, and native plants.

Distance from Glenwood Springs:

About a 30-minute drive west via I-70 and CO-13 N.

How to Get to Harvey Gap State Park:

Take I-70 W from Glenwood Springs to Silt. Head north on CO-13, then east on County Road 237. Follow signs to the park and Grass Valley Reservoir.