It’s officially America’s highest state, so it’s no wonder Colorado is known for its fabulous skiing. The names Aspen, Vail and Winter Park conjure up images of perfect powder and picturesque mountain towns tucked within the folds of the Rockies. But head off-piste in another season, and there’s so much more to discover. Hike the ridges among a kaleidoscope of mountain wildflowers in spring and whitewater raft through the canyons. Hit a summer festival and sip craft whiskey under some of the darkest skies in the US, explore the striking cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans, or head to Denver for Michelin-starred cuisine inspired by the state’s natural riches.
This year, there is even more reason to seek out that Rocky Mountain high, as Colorado celebrates its 150th birthday as a state. It coincides with nationwide celebrations to mark 250 years of American independence, ensuring a calendar packed with events and festivities. Here are four reasons to book your 2026 escape.
Adrenaline for every season
Almost 30 ski and snowboard resorts run the gamut from large and lively centres with après-ski to die for, to hidden spots where you might just be the only one on the slopes. The sheer space is exhilarating, with an unparalleled sense of adventure. And those isolated mountain peaks are just as spectacular in the summer. Trek up pine-covered slopes in the Rockies, learn to climb among the red rock canyons and towering monoliths of Colorado National Monument, or kayak solo through the rushing rivers carving their way through the gorges.
Away from the mountains, Colorado’s other landscapes are just as thrilling. Take a four-wheel off-road drive near Great Sand Dunes National Park, or explore the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park by foot, looking down at the vertiginous cliffs of the canyon plunging nearly 3,000ft down to the Gunnison River. At night, camp out in one of Colorado’s Certified Dark Sky designated destinations, gazing up at the Milky Way and dazzling stars above.
Events and festivals galore
In Colorado, there is always something happening and the 2026 calendar is packed. Outdoors enthusiast? You won’t want to miss the GoPro Mountain Games in Vail in June. Country music? June also sees the Red Rocks Music Festival set in the open-air amphitheater in the shadow of the imposing and beautiful surroundings and featuring incredible world-acclaimed artists, as well as local talent. Whatever your passion, there’s an event to match.
Get a flavour of the West at the National Western Stock Show, an old-school rodeo that happens annually in Denver in January, and has been running for over 100 years. The Colorado State Fair has been around even longer, offering fairground rides and carnival alongside the cowboys. History buffs can get dressed up for the Renaissance Festival in the summer, a little piece of Tudor England in the West with jugglers, acrobats, and jousting. Or combine two of the best things in the world, craft ale and lovable dogs, at the Brews for Rescues Beer Fest, where all proceeds go to animal centres.
Culture capitals and cities with soul
State capital Denver is known as the Mile High City and its cultural scene is soaring, with museums and galleries, ambitious arts programmes and inspiring music venues. Catch a concert at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, where sandstone monoliths make for the ultimate backdrop. Sports fan? Don’t miss the electric atmosphere of a Denver Broncos football game, or watch a basketball game with NBA stars, the Denver Nuggets. The city’s neighbourhoods are dynamic, diverse and a joy to explore. From the walkable Downtown to the creative ambience of River North Art District (RiNo), the jazz history of Five Points to the dozens of galleries and colourful street art of Santa Fe.
Just 70 miles away, the mountain village Estes Park is your gateway to both Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest, and its lovely downtown is home to independent stores, galleries and bars serving local craft beers. Visit in autumn for golden scenery and events that range from the Scottish Irish Highland Festival to Native American storytelling and wildlife exhibits at Elkfest. For mining history, head to Telluride, where you can visit the Historical Museum to learn about the Victorian-era homes, wander among the clapboard storefronts, and discover the gold-rush frenzy of the 19th century. In June, you can dance the days away at Telluride Bluegrass Festival, set within the pine-clad scenery of the San Juan Mountains. Take a free gondola up to the peak of Mountain Village, Telluride’s sister town perched on the heights above, ideal for skiing in winter and alpine hiking in summer.
Every flavour of food (and then some)
Colorado’s fertile prairies and high-altitude farms have created a foodie revolution. Small producers proudly farm the land to deliver fruit and vegetables, superb artisan dairy, and craft breads. Not to mention all those cowboys on the dude ranches with their immense herds of cattle. Farm-to-table is a way of life here, where premium freshness is run-of-the-mill, and chefs flock to work with the best ingredients. There are plenty of excellent fine-dining restaurants, if that’s your bag, but the food in more casual environments is equally good, albeit in a less refined way.
Food trucks offer must-try Pueblo Chile burgers, or head to a food vendor or farmer’s market to sample the famously juicy Palisade Peaches; supposedly the best in the world, and tender Olathe Sweet Corn. And it’s as much about what’s in your glass as what’s on your plate. Mountains of grain go to distilleries and breweries for craft whiskey and beer, and the vineyards have wineries attached, making vintage local wine under the great starry skies.
Celebrate in Colorado
From winter sports to summer skies, Colorado is the state that shines in every weather. Head over for a double anniversary celebration in 2026 and enjoy the peak of the season all year round. Find out more and plan your trip at colorado.com.
