This article was produced in partnership with Colorado Tourism
With summer finally upon us, now is the time to enjoy the wonderful ambiance of nature. Lucky everyone, Colorado is home 11 national forests and two national grasslands, totaling 14.5 million acres. In the following eight highlights, you will have plenty of room to explore whether ما by car, By bike, or on foot – because these forests are relatively undiscovered, compared to the national parks in America.
1. Trek the most rugged Rocky Mountains in the San Juan National Forest
southwest Colorado Loved by locals for its Old West feel, complete with state remnants past mining And his constant love for the outdoors Adventure. Leadership Picturesque side roads الطرق, or ride a 140-year-old steam locomotive Across San Juan National ForestWildflower pastures and majestic peaks past several days before hitting the trail backpacks A trip in the famous Needle Mountains near the town SilvertonWhere you’ll find rocky peaks, high alpine lakes, and a few fellow hikers.
2. Enjoy quiet pouring in the Rio Grande National Forest
Next to the San Juan National Forest is the open river country of Rio Grande National Forest– A perfect calming trip after a few sweaty days in the countryside. From early to mid-summer is the best time flying fish The waters of the upper Rio Grande. Head to town South Fork (population 351), which is a low-level base for the tips of angles and a bite to eat.
3. Walking with dinosaurs at Comanche National Grassland
Connect east via Southern side of the state Towards the town of La Junta – across the continental divide – and you will find Comanche National Grassland. As the landscape gives way from mountain to wide-open rolling hills and shallow river valleys, other travelers become even scarcer. the biggest dinosaur tracks website On the continent lies the Picket Wire Canyonlands, where a hike along the Purgatoire River leads to stunning evidence of Colorado’s Jurassic past.
4. Sleeping under the stars at Pawnee National Grassland
Northeast Colorado‘s Pawnee National Grassland Featuring unparalleled open skies and an abundance of space to take in nature, your companions are wildflowers, thistles, and the unfettered wonders of the night sky. There is little light pollution in this 193,000-acre prairie, an hour’s drive east Fort Collins, So Stars stretch across the horizon in all directions. Plan your trip during the new moon to get the full effect.
5. Postcard-perfect fish streams in the Roosevelt National Forest
Covering everything from the eastern foothills of the continental section to glaciers and vast expanses of pristine wilderness, Roosevelt National Forest Holds a lifetime of adventures. Prepare your fly rod And hit the Big Thompson River – “Big T” as the locals call it – where you’ll enjoy many beautiful rocky canyons to explore as much as the trout to catch. With more than enough room to roam, you won’t have to worry about elbows colliding with fellow anglers — nor anyone calling out your trick that day.
6. Reaching great heights in the San Isabel National Forest
Colorado is home to more 14ers—peaks 14,000 feet– Compared to any other country, with 58 at its borders an astounding. At 14,440 feet, Mount Albert It is the highest, but it is a summit that can be reached even if you are not an expert mountaineer. There are several ways up the mountain depending on your skill level, but whichever way you go, be sure to get to the top before noon so you have plenty of daylight to get down. After that, hit a nearby historic mountain town Leadville Labard is well deserved.
7. Let him ride in the Gunnison National Forest
Southwest of Leadville lies another village of mountain paradise: Crested Pot. It’s cuddled inside Gunnison National Forest. Home to every alpine activity on the list, Mountain biking It may be the top lottery in summer and fall. The city features more than 700 miles of trails that alternate between wildflower meadows and exposed cliff drops. 401 Trail is a favorite, complete with ghost townTerrible ups and downs.
8. White-Knuckle the Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway in Uncompahgre National Forest
Driving is probably not the first activity that comes to mind when you think of Colorado, but the state is home to 26 scenic and historic byways. The Untracked Road Scenic Unaweep Tabeguache The Southwest Road Bucket List. Sandstone walls have been smoothed over thousands of years of erosion, and the winding Dolores River Valley is a highlight of some of the country’s most authentic and wilderness terrain. Don’t miss the date Flume Overlook outside Natorita. For off-road adventures, this area is the perfect starting point for the 160-mile saga Remrocker Trail and Aspen-Lined split forks cut قطع Path for walking. For a relaxing stop, go ahead Fifth camp For an unforgettable night in a classic Airstream trailer, plush tent or cozy lodge.
These stunning public lands offer endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all styles. Just be sure to check with state and local governments about Latest Warnings before you hit the road. (Visit Colorado.com directly for special offers And the last holes and Public Health Guidelines in Colorado.) Be safe and have fun! This is the first (and second) rule this summer.
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