Best Activities in Colorado by Season

Colorado is a phenomenal year-round playground for both outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Each season offers its own unique charm and a wide range of activities to enjoy for all ages and interests. So when is the best time to visit Colorado? This all depends on what type of Colorado vacation you seek. No matter when you visit this great state, you can be sure to experience spectacular natural beauty and endless fun things to do and see.

Spring in the Rockies

Spring in Colorado is a time of renewal as the whole state comes alive with vibrant colors. If you plan your Colorado vacation during the spring months, you can expect comfortable temperatures with low’s in the mid 50’s and high’s in the mid 70’s. Top spring Colorado activities include:

• Hiking among the wildflowers – Visit the Rocky Mountain National Park or Crested Butte for breathtaking wildflower displays. The Indian Peaks Wilderness is another excellent spot to view vibrant blooms.
• White-Water Rafting – As the snow melts, Colorado’s rivers become ideal for white-water rafting. We recommend the Arkansas River or Clear Creek for a thrilling ride.
• Spring festivals – During the spring months, Colorado plays host to numerous festivals. The most popular include the Colorado Springs Balloon Festival, Denver’s Cherry Blossom Festival, and the many Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

Summer Sunshine in the Mountains

Summer is the most popular season for tourists in Colorado. It’s ideal for outdoor adventures, but be prepared to feel the heat! Temperatures live between high 70’s and low 90’s, so be sure to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated. During the summer months, you can enjoy:

• Hiking – Explore the state’s numerous hiking trails, with options for all levels of hikers. Some of the most popular include Maroon Belles, Alberta Falls at Rocky Mountain National Park, and Devil’s Head Trail.
• Mountain Biking – If you don’t want to hike on foot, there are plenty of great trails for mountain biking. Crested Butte and Fruita are popular destinations for bikers of all skill levels.
• Music Festivals – Colorado has an eclectic music scene and some incredible music venues that play host to annual festivals during the summer months. Be sure to check out the line-ups at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and the Colorado Symphony.

Leaf Peeping All Fall Long

Autumn in Colorado is a spectacle of vibrant foliage and crisp, cool weather. It’s a great time to experience the state’s natural beauty with temperatures as high as 65 and as low as 35. Enjoy the comfortable days and the cooler mornings and evenings. Seasonal activities include:

• Leaf Peeping – Make time to take in the stunning fall foliage along the Million Dollar Highway, San Juan Skyway, or the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop.
• Apple Picking – Find scenic apple orchards in Palisade and Grand Junction where you can pick your own bushel and taste local wines.
• Visit a pumpkin patch – The state is home to dozens of pumpkin patches that are perfect for a fall-festive day trip. Some of the most popular include Diana’s Pumpkin Patch, Chatfield Farms, and Flat Acres Farm.

Snowy Mountain Adventures

Colorado is a beloved winter destination with its snow-covered mountains that offer prime skiing conditions. Skiers and winter enthusiasts flock to the state every year for a world-class winter sport retreat. While there is plenty of snowfall, winters are mild with temperatures between 18 degrees and 50 degrees. Some of the top winter activities include:

• Skiing and Snowboarding – Inarguably the most popular winter activities, a winter Colorado vacation isn’t complete without hitting the slopes. Top skiing destinations include Aspen, Breckenridge, Vail, and Steamboat Springs.
• Ice Skating – Grab your skates and find a picturesque outdoor ice skating rink to enjoy with the family.
• Hot Springs – Relieve your body after a long day on the mountains with a soak in natural hot springs like Glenwood Springs or Strawberry Park Hot Springs.

Top Colorado Resorts

You can’t experience the best year-round activities in Colorado without a home base to retreat to at the end of the day. Colorado resorts offer spacious, family-friendly accommodations equipped with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, living and dining areas, and full bathrooms. Plus, they give you access to fantastic amenities to add value to your stay like swimming pools, restaurants, spa services, sports courts, and activity centers. When planning your Colorado vacation, consider buying or renting at one of these top-rated properties:

• Westin Riverfront Mountain Villas – Avon
• Grand Colorado on Peak 8 – Breckenridge
• Legacy Vacation Club Steamboat Springs – Hilltop – Steamboat Springs
• Wyndham Pagosa – Pagosa Springs
• Hyatt Mountain Lodge – Beaver Creek
• Marriott’s Streamside – Evergreen – Vail
• Ritz Carlton Aspen Highlands – Aspen

Shop all Colorado timeshares for sale and Colorado timeshares for rent to save thousands on your next Colorado vacation, no matter what time of year you visit!