Colorado Travel Guide

Geographical Position and Climate of Colorado

Colorado is situated in the western United States, encompassing most of the southern Rocky Mountains as well as the northeastern portion of the Colorado Plateau and the western edge of the Great Plains. It is the 8th largest state in terms of land area and is bordered by Wyoming to the north, Nebraska to the northeast, Kansas to the east, Oklahoma to the southeast, New Mexico to the south, Utah to the west, and touches Arizona to the southwest at the Four Corners. The state’s capital and largest city is Denver.

Best time to visit Colorado

The best time to visit Colorado largely depends on the activities you’re interested in. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:

Summer (June to August):

  • Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and festivals.
  • Warm weather in the mountains and hot on the plains.
  • Wildflowers and wildlife are abundant.

Fall (September to October):

  • Perfect for viewing fall foliage, especially aspen trees.
  • Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Great for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Winter (November to March):

  • Peak season for skiing and snowboarding in mountain resorts.
  • Cold and snowy, especially in the mountains.
  • Enjoy winter sports or cozy mountain retreats.

Spring (April to May):

  • A transitional period with unpredictable weather.
  • Fewer tourists and lower prices.
  • Good for off-season skiing and early hiking, though trails may be muddy or snowy.

Ultimately, the best time to visit is when the activities you want to do are at their best. For winter sports, come in the winter; for warm-weather outdoor activities, summer is your best bet. Fall offers beautiful colors and pleasant weather, while spring can be quieter and more affordable.

Travel to Colorado

By Air:

  • Denver International Airport (DIA): The largest and most commonly used airport, serving as a major hub with flights from around the world.
  • Colorado Springs Airport: Offers another option for those heading to the southern part of the state.
  • Smaller regional airports: Such as Eagle County Airport near Vail, and Grand Junction Regional Airport on the Western Slope, provide access to ski resorts and national parks.

By Car:

  • Interstate Highways: I-70 and I-25 are the main routes into Colorado, connecting from east/west and north/south respectively.
  • Scenic Byways: Colorado has numerous scenic byways for those who prefer a more picturesque drive.

With Bus:

  • Greyhound: Offers service to many Colorado cities.
  • Bustang: Colorado’s interregional express bus service connects major populations, employment centers, and local transit entities.

By Train:

  • Amtrak’s California Zephyr: Runs through Denver and other parts of Colorado, offering a scenic route through the Rockies.

By Private Transport:

  • Shuttle Services: Available from airports to various destinations, especially ski resorts.
  • Car Rentals: Available at airports and most major cities, providing flexibility for travel within the state.

Places to visit in Colorado

Colorado map and flag

 

Important Information

Capital – Denver

Largest City – Denver

Territory – 269,601 km2

Population – 5,877,610

Time Zone – UTC-7 (MST)

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