When you think of Colorado, winter sports is the first thing that pops in must people’s head. There is a lot more than that and you can find many activities in Colorado that will satisfy your family’s US travel interest. Rock climbing, hiking, rafting, fishing, camping, RVing, museums and historic sites just to name a few.

Obviously known for the Rocky Mountains, the state has many other mountains with the highest point being Mt. Elbert. Hiking through the mountains, especially at spring time when everything is blooming can be filled with inspiring scenery. If this would be something you might enjoy, you should check out the Colorado Mountain Club, this club is specifically dedicated to mountain activities.

Adding to the beautiful scenery of Colorado is the fact that water is present nearly everywhere. There are thousands of miles of rivers running through the state which makes water activities another great option for visitors. White water rafting is extremely popular and you can choose to take a lazy float along a calm river or frantically paddling while getting pelted by waves, avoiding rocks and flying off high drop offs. If choosing white water rafting. it is best to find an outfitter that can offer you their experience and sometimes related activities like a picnic or rock climbing.

Of course there is snow in Colorado. With 26 resorts, when you think skiing, Colorado has to be near the top of anyone’s list. From Aspen to Powderhorn to Wolf Creek, every resort has a distinct feel and its own experience. Some have world class moguls; some are famous for their bowls and some for their back country. No matter if you are a beginner skier to the extreme expert; the Colorado Mountains will have something for you.

Another great outdoor activity allows you to “cowboy up” and do it the old fashion way. What better way to see the breathtaking scenery Colorado has to offer than an old fashion horseback ride. Take in the views at North Sterling State Park as you ride the 3 mile trail around the 3,000 acre reservoir. You can ride the prairie like early pioneers and enjoy 1.5 miles of bird watching at The Pawnee Buttes Trail. The Red Shin Trail at the John Martin Reservoir State Park is a 4.5 mile journey that takes riders along the Arkansas River and by Lake Hasty and ends at the famed Santa Fe Trail. If you are looking for a more peaceful ride, the 2.5-mile trail at Trinidad Lake State Park’s will take you through the open prairie and to the 800 acre Trinidad Lake.

If you want to leave the adventures behind, Colorado can do that also. There is an annual Colorado Shakespeare Festival where various Shakespeare classics are produced. Maybe a visit to the many mining sites or famed ghost towns (like Ashcroft) will tempt you to believe in ghosts. How about a walk through history at the mid 1800 trading post at Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site along the Santa Fe Trail National Scenic and Historic Byway. Colorado is full of history just waiting to be explored.

Let’s not leave out the kids. You can take them to see the Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center which has a reproduction of the shelter for a lot of insects like centipedes and butterflies. Go underground exploration at the Cave of Winds and see stalagmite and stalactite rock formations. Watch gator wrestling at Colorado Gators or water slide at Rock Canyon Water Slide. One of the best kid’s adventures started in 1915 and is called Tiny Town and Railroad. This attraction includes 100’s of miniature buildings including a toy store, church and bank and you can take a tour of Tiny Town in an open steam train.

Why not chose Colorado for your next vacation? There is plenty to do for everyone and a lot of places to stay that fit all budgets. If you are looking for a winter vacation or a summer vacation that is not the “same old, same old”, look into Colorado Travel.