Colorado is a kaleidoscope of natural wonders because it's home to expansive plains, alpine mountains, dunes, and canyons, all working together to create one grand show for outdoor lovers. Hikers will enjoy exploring the many mountains of the Centennial State, while sightseers will have surprising moments when exploring quaint towns.

When the cold months arrive, the state turns into a winter wonderland, thanks to its alpine destinations where powdery snow knows no limits. During summer, the Colorado sun entices travelers to explore beyond the urban jungle and have an outdoor experience unlike any other. Whatever the season, charming Colorado is a colorful playground.

10 Garden Of The Gods

Early explorers were probably so amazed by the rock formations in this Colorado Springs park that they called it Garden of the Gods. This aptly-named destination is known for its stunning panorama, where the geological wonders work together to deliver mesmerizing moments for travelers.

The area is popular among hikers, rock climbers, bikers, and equestrians. It’s safe to say that this heavenly place is a behemoth in recreational activities.

With such magnificence, it's not surprising that Garden of the Gods was voted on TripAdvisor as the top park in the United States.

9 Royal Gorge Bridge

Royal Gorge Bridge in Cañon City is one of Colorado’s iconic landmarks, making it a must-visit, especially for first-time visitors. The bridge spans the Arkansas River and is the best spot to take in the sights and sounds of Royal Gorge.

After all, it is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S., so taking in the expansive views while crossing it is something easily done. It is located in a park, so aside from reaching the bridge’s endpoints, tourists can also try other things, like via Ferrata for thrill-seekers.

8 Great Sand Dunes National Park And Preserve

Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes is open 24/7, so spontaneous ones caught by the travel bug on a hump day can pack a bag and head to this massive destination.

Though sandy, the park has a diverse landscape, from grasslands and wetlands to forests and waterways. One of its top attractions is North America’s tallest dunes, something to excite sandboarders and sledders.

Those who want to make a splash can enjoy the seasonal waters of Medano Creek, while anglers can score trout in Sand Creek Lakes. Hikers and stargazers are also welcome to experience the day and night of the Great Sand Dunes.

Related: 10 Places To Stay Near Great Sand Dunes National Park

7 Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Can Mother Nature’s wonder and a man-made attraction be combined to create a stunning masterpiece? Red Rocks Amphitheatre is just that. It’s a popular concert venue, offering a unique experience for audiences who want to enjoy performances under the stars.

Many performers have graced the stage of this amphitheater built into a rock structure. Beyond the shows and events, the Red Rocks area is also big on recreational activities, so before a performance, tourists can enjoy a geological show courtesy of Mother Nature.

6 Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak is one of Colorado’s best hiking destinations, a scenic summit where trekkers will experience sky-high excitement. Standing 14,115 feet tall, this natural wonder knows how to test the skills of hikers.

Sure, the peak can be reached by car, railway, or shuttle, but the best way to have a rewarding journey in this Colorado landmark is by cycling or hiking up there.

Those who decide to climb the summit can choose from many trails, easy or difficult, but all offering scenic vistas of the Rocky Mountains.

Related: 10 Things You'll See On The Scenic Pikes Peak Cog Railway

5 Mesa Verde

Mesa Verde National Park is one of the country’s cultural World Heritage Sites and hosts a well-preserved archaeological site related to ancient Puebloans.

This destination will inspire lovers of archeology and those who want to step back in time. Visitors can join a tour that will lead them to the dwellings, sharing along the way the rich history of the area.

Hiking trails also abound for those who want to explore the park on their own, appreciating its landscapes and maybe meeting new critter friends.

4 Denver

Being the state capital, a tour of Denver is the best way to be introduced to Colorado. This urban jungle is home to many landmarks, from modern buildings to pockets of greenery.

For starters, tourists can head to the Denver Art Museum for a kick of inspiration before they explore the neighborhood to meet locals.

The State Capitol also welcomes tourists who want to take a few snaps of its majestic facade, while those who want to be with lushness can find their center in the city’s many parks or the botanical garden. Wherever tourists stay, Denver delivers.

3 Vail

When winter adventures are needed, the town of Vail is always ready to serve. This destination has that alpine breeze that entices visitors to explore its many natural wonders, like the White River National Forest that surrounds it and Gore Creek that passes through it.

Its top destination is Vail Ski Resort, a scenic place to slide, glide, and play with the snow. It has almost 200 trails for beginners and experts, with its longest run spanning four miles.

The numbers look promising, more so when skiers are conquering the terrain.

2 Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Though named after a dark shade, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one colorful destination. The Black Canyon has some of the oldest exposed rocks in the world, an enticing prospect for geology lovers.

Fishers can take on the challenge of the waters near Crystal Dam and the North Fork of the Gunnison River, while equestrians can explore Deadhorse Trail on the North Rim.

What takes the cake, however, is hiking through the many trails of the canyon, leading trekkers to a worthwhile outdoor escapade.

1 Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain is Colorado’s best attraction, so it’s no wonder why it’s the most visited park under the management of the National Park System.

Aside from majestic mountains, this Colorado charmer is home to alpine lakes, forests, and tundra, where a conglomeration of wildlife thrives, awaiting tourists who want to observe them.

Those who want to experience the best of the park can camp for a night or two, then explore hiking, equestrian, and biking trails, wade through rivers to catch a score, scale rock faces, or just enjoy a picnic. The Rockies rock, indeed.