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Colonia

 * For the German town founded as "Colonia Ara Agrepinensis" and still known in some contexts as "Colonia" or derivatives, see Cologne.

Colonia del Sacramento is in southwestern Uruguay, across from Buenos Aires on the northern shore of the Rio de la Plata. Founded in 1680 as a Portuguese colony, Colonia's historic district is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings.

Understand
Colonia del Sacramento (Nova Colonia do Santissimo Sacramento) was founded in 1680 by the Portuguese (Manuel Lobo), sandwiched in between the Portuguese colony of Brazil and the Spanish Vice Royalty of the River Plate (later Argentina, Uruguay and Southern Brazil). Its strategic position and use as a smuggling port meant that its sovereignty was hotly contested and the city changed hands several times between Spain and Portugal and was for a while also part of Brazil before the independence of Uruguay.

The city now has 25,000 inhabitants. Its old buildings and cobblestone streets preserved from the colonial days make it a popular destination for people from Buenos Aires on the opposite side of Rio de la Plata. It's especially popular as a weekend getaway for couples or as an attractive stop on a trip between Buenos Aires and Montevideo.

Orientation
Colonia's historic district (barrio histórico) is on a small peninsula pointing west, towards Buenos Aires. Walk east a bit and you'll be in the downtown area (centro), including the bus and ferry terminals. Going northwest is a beachfront path (rambla or costanera), taking you past residential areas, occasional hotels and restaurants, and views of the Rio de la Plata, for 4 km or so. Hotels and attractions are mostly concentrated in the historic district and downtown, aside from a few dotting the beach; the biggest tourist attraction outside of the compact, walkable central area is the old bullfighting ring (Plaza de Toros), a little over 4 km northwest of downtown.

Tourist information
There is a large tourist information center adjacent to the ferry terminal, a tourism booth in the bus terminal, a larger one in the basement of the cultural center two blocks from the terminals along Odriozola/Calle Florida and as well as a small office at the western terminus of Calle Manuel Lobo near the old city gate. Some brochures and other tourism information is also available in the Casa Nacarello museum next to the main square.

By bus
The is about 1 km east of the old town (or 1½ km south from the commercial downtown), not far from the port and is accessible by foot. Food, luggage storage, an ATM, and restrooms are available. The following companies offer intercity bus service to the terminal: Berrutti, COT, Grupo Agencia, Nossar, Ómnibus Colonia, and Turil.

There are almost hourly connections from Montevideo, with most buses leaving from Montevideo's Tres Cruces terminal. The ride takes 2½ to 3½ hours depending on stops and several bus companies operate the route. Expect to pay U$300–400 (Uruguayan pesos) for a one-way ticket as of July 2017. There are no two-way tickets, and if you are traveling to Colonia and back you will pay exactly as much as two single tickets.

Be careful with people telling you that all buses are booked out. This is in general not true, as you can also buy tickets on board if you don't have one when boarding the bus and there are places to stand on board if all the seats are full. A taxi is several times more expensive, and should probably be considered only in emergencies. For peace of mind, buy a bus ticket upfront to avoid rare disappointment - this would apply in the main tourist season in the Southern Hemisphere summer.

By car
Two major highways arrive in Colonia. Highway 1 unites Colonia with Montevideo and other destinations in the east. Highway 21 goes north to the Aarón de Anchorena National Park, and Fray Bentos, and is the one you will arrive along if you are driving overland from Argentina.

There is an airport 17 km east of the town and railway tracks leading into Colonia but plane and train transport have ceased operations.

By boat
Colonia is a good destination for visa runs for those people who wish to extend their stays in Argentina, and an easy day trip from Buenos Aires. The is around 1 km southeast of the old town, at the edge of the commercial downtown.

 * For details check out the comprehensive country level information.

Get around
The old city of Colonia, which holds the main attractions, is quite small. It can be easily walked in a single day. There are shops where you can rent bicycles or scooters which you can use to ride around the city or in to the countryside. Streets aren't always in perfect condition, so keep an eye on the road, especially cobbled ones.

The ferry and bus terminals are next to each other, about 500 m east of the old town (barrio historico) and about 1 km south of the city center. You can rent row and sail boats from the marina, and there are companies around the bus and ferry terminals that rent cars and golf carts.

By bus
There is a tour bus (information is available at the port) but it's probably not worth the money—most of Colonia's sights are within walking distance, and the few that aren't can be visited more cheaply by local bus or even by taxi.

There are two local bus companies, ABC and Sol Antigua. Most of their routes aren't too useful to tourists, but Sol Antigua's service to the old bullfighting ring is convenient. It starts in the old city, passes near the bus terminal, and takes you to the Plaza de Toros, for U$23. Look for the orange buses going to "Real de San Carlos".

By taxi
You'll see white taxis waiting around at convenient locations, like outside the bus station. You can also ask for a taxi at the information desk next to Ta-Ta supermarket at the shopping center. If you're in an out-of-the-way place or it's an unusual time of day, you can call one at +598 4522 2920 or +598 4522 9230. Fares are higher than in Montevideo—to get from the center to the bull ring is about U$200, for instance.

By electric car
Thrifty at the west end of the main road (Gral. Flores) just before the water rents electric 4/5 seater mini cars that are great for exploring the surroundings of Colonia and its beaches.

By motorbike
There is a motorbike rental company at the southwestern corner of Gral. Flores and Ituzaingó roads. Equally great for exploring the surroundings of Colonia if it's just one or two of you.

See
The main attraction in Colonia is its historic center, the lower part of the town which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of lots of old buildings, many from the Portuguese colonial age. It's a lovely area to wander around. The old fort has played an important role in the wars against Argentina and Brazil, and the old city wall is worth seeing.

You will frequently encounter old cars parked on the streets of Colonia, the oldest of them being from the 1930s.

Streets and squares
Few of the streetscapes in Colonia's old town are not worth taking a photo of, but here are the most famous places:

The eight museums
There are eight small museums that can be visited with one ticket (U$50) which must be purchased in the Museo Municipal. Children under 12 are free. They are open 11:15-16:15. However, every museum is not open every day; each of them is closed one or two days a week. Because of this you'd have to stay two days if you want to see all museums. Also, photography is banned in all of them.

Do

 * Walk around: wander the old city center, or walk along the . The views of the water are lovely, and Colonia's sunsets are famously beautiful. At night you can see the glow from the city lights of Buenos Aires across the water. Watching the moon set at night is breathtaking as well.
 * Every year for the Independence Day celebrations around August 25, there's a festival including horse racing at the racetrack just west of the old bull ring.

Buy
The old city has several small boutiques, and all kinds of stores, including supermarkets, can be found on the downtown area's main street, Avenida General Flores.

If you need to change money, beware of the banks on Avenida General Flores, as some of them have outrageous exchange fees of up to 20%. HSBC has a bank at Calle Portugal with good exchange rates. Also Banco República at Calle General Flores in the historic district is a good place to change and withdraw money. Many places accept US dollars, Argentinian pesos, and Brazilian reais too, but as all but the real use the symbol "$", you'd better check which currency the price is listed in.

Eat

The old city is full of restaurants which serve the weekend tourist crowd from Buenos Aires. The specialties are Italian (pizza and pasta) and asado (barbecue). Fresh ice cream or Uruguayan specialties like chivitos are good choices too. If you pick a place by the water, you'll have lovely views while you eat—though of course you'll be paying more for the privilege, and be careful of sitting outside if it's a windy day.

Being a significant tourist destination, Colonia's restaurants tend to be more expensive than elsewhere in Uruguay. They're especially expensive in the old city. There's a mix of price ranges in the downtown area, and budget options tend to be located a bit further out.

Sleep
Accommodation is generally concentrated in the downtown and old city area, though there are also some hotels dotting the beach as you go north.

Stay safe
Colonia is a preserved tourist town with very little of the harassment seen in most cities in Latin America. The dominance of local weekenders from Buenos Aires and Montevideo creates a very different environment from other tourist cities. Many streets seem eerily empty outside the main tourism season.

However petty crime still exists, and especially on the beach you should never leave your stuff out of sight.

Like in other towns in Uruguay, there are a good number of stray dogs. They might follow you around a bit, but they do not seem to behave aggressively towards people, though it's always better to be careful.

Connect
The Uruguayan government's free "Ceibal" wifi is available in some of the historic district, though it's hard to find in other parts of town. Beyond that, some restaurants have Wi-Fi.

Consulates
Due to its geographic importance and history, Colonia has two consulates, but most travellers in need of consular services will have to go to nearby Montevideo or Buenos Aires.

 * 🇦🇷 Argentina
 * 🇵🇹 Portugal

Go next

 * Buenos Aires – one of South America's great cities is just across the river
 * Conchillas – a tiny town founded by English immigrants and still featuring distinctively English architecture
 * Fray Bentos – home to Uruguay's other UNESCO World Heritage site, a complex of former meat-packing buildings that were once a globally important industrial plant
 * Montevideo – the capital of Uruguay is a natural next place to go, perfect if you want more activity than Colonia but less of a "big city" feel than Buenos Aires
 * Nueva Helvecia – founded by Swiss and German immigrants, now known for its dairy products and remnants of Swiss culture

title: Colonia


text:
Colonia Carlos Pellegrini

Colonia Carlos Pellegrini is the biggest village in the Esteros del Ibera in Corrientes with about 500 permanent inhabitants. There are some hotels, hostels, restaurants and other basic tourist infrastructure. Apart from that it is very rural.

Get in
There´s a bus Monday to Saturday from Mercedes, AR$25, 3 hours on a dirt road. There might also be occasionally a transport option from Posadas.

See
Wildlife at its purest; such as marsh deer, caimans, capybaras, giant otters, anacondas, howler monkeys, armadillos... and of course the most important of all: 350 species of birds, many of them endemic or in danger of extinction.

Ibera Wetlands is a nature reserve 1000 km north of Buenos Aires. Swamp area of 13,000 km². With the richest fauna of all the country: Caimans, capybaras, swamp deer, howler monkeys, anacondas, maned wolves, armadillos, and greater rhea. All of them at sight for the visitors when doing excursions by boat on foot/horse back. A true paradise for nature lovers, birders, eco tourists and travellers looking for relax or the ultimate gaucho experience.

Eat
There are a few restaurants.

Sleep
There are different options for sleeping starting at about 25 pesos for a bed in a dorm to a couple of hundred dollars in one of the luxury resorts. Tell the bus driver where you are going to stay and he will drop you off there. Most accommodation places offer (the same) tours.

Go next
There's a connection to Mercedes by bus Monday to Thursday at 05:00, Friday at 17:00. It goes to Pellegrini M-F at 12:30, Sa at 09:30.

No bus service to Posadas. Only way is taking a private 4x4 transfer at Pellegrini.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Colonia Carlos Pellegrini


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Colonial Beach

Colonial Beach is a town in Westmoreland County (Virginia).

Understand
The birthplace of James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States of America is not far from the town, located in Westmoreland County, Virginia on Route 205.

title: Colonial Beach


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Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is a "living-history museum" located in a historic district in Williamsburg, Virginia. Encompassing, Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Area re-creates 18th-century Williamsburg as it appeared preceding and during the American Revolution. Throughout the city, sights, sounds, and activities help guests reconnect with America's past and become active participants in 18th-century life. The Historic Area is protected from modern intrusions by a greenbelt.

Understand

From 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg was the capital of England's oldest, richest and most populous mainland North American colony and the seat of power in the new nation's most influential state. Named in honor of William III, King of England, and designed by Royal Gov. Francis Nicholson, Williamsburg is one of the country's oldest planned communities.

In the late 1920s a project was started to recreate the town as it would have existed in the 18th century, led in part by John D. Rockefeller. In 1928 public land was transferred for the project, and thereafter 720 buildings that postdated 1790 were demolished. Reconstructions of colonial buildings were built on the original foundations using period illustrations, written descriptions, early photographs, and informed guesswork. In total, 500 buildings were reconstructed or restored, with 88 being labeled as original colonial structures.

Today the area is owned and operated by the non-profit Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, a foundation that was endowed by the Rockefellers. Visitation peaked in 1985 with 1.1 million visitors but declined thereafter, but has grown somewhat since bottoming out in 2004.

Get in
See Williamsburg for details on getting to the city. While it is free to walk through the historic district, to experience all of the sights within the historic district requires purchasing a ticket online or from the visitor center. Once you purchase your admission pass, you can either take the shuttle bus or walk to the Historic Area. The historic district is open 365 days a year. In addition to the three ticket types listed below, there are other options available, for example, that include lodging or admission also to nearby attractions, or admission only to the museums.

Get around
No cars are allowed in the Historic Area. Sites within the area are easily walkable. The Duke of Gloucester Street is one mile long, so wear comfortable shoes.

The Historic Triangle Shuttle provides transportation from the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center to nearby Jamestown and Yorktown.

See
Some of the sites in Colonial Williamsburg are reconstructions or were built after colonial times. Buildings that are original colonial structures are denoted below as "an original colonial building".

Many buildings are closed on certain days of the week, with hours varying seasonally, so be sure to check in advance that a desired destination is open.

Trade shops
The trade shops are staffed with individuals who wear costumes from colonial times and carry out the tasks that the shop owner of the time would have performed.

Community places

Family homes and gardens

Historic Re-enactments
Historic re-enactments occur daily and present dramatic presentations of historic events. The "Storming of the Palace" re-enactment recreates the historic event in which colonials marched on the governor's residence to demand that powder removed from the town magazine be restored. The "Order in the Court" re-enactment allows visitors to participate in a trial in the courthouse. During re-enactments staff members in period costumes assume historic roles, and visitors are often encouraged to participate. Check the daily calendar for times and locations of re-enactments as schedules vary. Tickets may be required for visitors to be present when re-enactments are taking place.

Evening programs take place every night, including ghost walks and witch trials. Separate tickets are required, and many of these events are not recommended for children due to the subject matter and sometimes intense emotion.

Tours
Tours are offered for everything from orientation to Colonial Williamsburg to guided walks through residences or other areas in the historic district. In the evenings there are ghost walks and similar tours. The daily calendar includes a list of some of the available tours.

Events
Special events are held throughout the year and are listed on the special events web page.

Other activities
Guests at Colonial Williamsburg's hotels also can enjoy swimming pools, tennis courts, lawn bowling greens, lawn croquet, shuffleboard, bicycling, and miniature golf.

Buy
Recognized as one of the first planned shopping malls in the United States, is home to more than 40 shops and restaurants, including local and national specialty stores and a selection of restaurants.

The Williamsburg brand offers fresh, spirited designs in all categories of furniture and accessories for the way people live today. The Williamsburg products program includes 60 licensees producing more than 7,000 products in home furnishings, collectibles, and gifts. It operates 26 retail stores, a mail-order catalog, and an e-commerce site. Sales of products support the preservation, research, and educational programs of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, the not-for-profit organization that oversees the restored colonial capital.

Eat

Additional dining options can be found outside of the historic district in the town of Williamsburg.

Historic dining taverns
Colonial Williamsburg's historic dining taverns feature food and drink of the 18th-century as well as period entertainment meant to provide guests with a sense of what dining in Williamsburg more than 200 years ago would have been like.

Sleep
The following lodging is operated by Colonial Williamsburg and can be found within or adjacent to the historic district. Other lodging can be found in the city of Williamsburg.

Go next

 * Busch Gardens Williamsburg - a few miles southeast of Williamsburg, this amusement park features roller coasters and other thrill rides and was voted the world's "Most Beautiful Park" for 20 consecutive years by the National Amusement Park Historical Association.
 * Newport News - about southeast of Williamsburg on I-64, Newport News is home to the massive Newport News Shipbuilding, a shipyard that builds many American aircraft carriers, submarines and other military ships.
 * Richmond - about west of Williamsburg on I-64, Virginia's capital city was settled in 1607, served as the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War, and today offers a wealth of Civil War history.

title: Colonial Williamsburg


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Colonia Suiza

There is more than one place called Colonia Suiza:

Argentina

 * Colonia Suiza (Argentina) — A town in Argentina.

Uruguay

 * Nueva Helvecia — A town in Uruguay, also known as Colonia Suiza.

title: Colonia Suiza


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Colonia Suiza (Argentina)

Colonia Suiza is a village in Rio Negro. It is picturesquely situated near the Lago Perito Moreno, about 24km from Bariloche or 13km from Llao-llao.

The village was founded in the late 19th century by Camilo and Felix Goye and Maria Felley. They were originally from the canton of Vaud in Switzerland, but had previously lived for 10 years in Chile. They came for a purpose: According to the ley de hogar, the settlers land law, they were offered a plot of land free of charge under the condition that they develop it within 10 years or it would fall back to the state. More immigrants followed: Mermoud, Cretton and Jacquards, as well as Pothoff and Neu.

Today the place - which had originally been barren pampa - is a village with swiss-style chalets, many shady trees and it mainly caters for tourists from nearby Bariloche.

Get in
By bus No 10 from Bariloche

Get around
Everything is within walking distance

See

 * Capilla Nuestro Senora del Rosario built in 1958
 * Museo de los viejos Colonos, situated in one of the pioneer homes of 1937, is only open on one day per month, which one I could not find out.
 * Pioneers houses at the eastern end of town, built in 1937 in a Chilean style (Hostal a lo de Juan).

Do

 * Hike to the Cerro Lopez
 * Hike to Laguna Negra
 * Visit the Cementero de montanes
 * Visit the canopy
 * Visit the trout farm

Sleep
There are several hostels and campsites in town.

title: Colonia Suiza (Argentina)


text:
Nueva Helvecia

Nueva Helvecia, also known as Colonia Suiza, is a city in Uruguay.

Situated around 60km southeast of Colonia del Sacramento, this little town looks a bit like Switzerland transplanted to South America, complete with Central European crests adorning the houses.

The town was founded on April 25, 1862, by European settlers, mainly Swiss, who started to grow crops. It soon became one of the most important agricultural areas in Uruguay. It was here where in 1868 the first mechanical threshing machine of Uruguay was installed, followed in 1876 by the first steam-powered mill.

The town's official name, Nueva Helvecia, means "New Helvetia", from an old word for Switzerland. The alternative name Colonia Suiza means "Swiss Colony".

Get in
Buses are available from Montevideo and Colonia.

Do

 * The traditional market on Wednesday mornings.

Eat
A distinctive Swiss-influenced Uruguayan cheese, Queso Colonia, originated in Colonia Suiza. It's also worth trying papas a la suiza, a local specialty consisting of shredded potatoes cooked in a sort of loose pancake.

title: Nueva Helvecia


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Colorado

Colorado is a state of wild contrasts. From the flat plains of the eastern portion of the state to some of the Rocky Mountains' highest peaks to the high desert and red rock country of the western reaches of the state, the landscape is incredibly varied, home to many diverse ecosystems and natural marvels, and supports a thriving hunting and outdoors culture that draws people from around the world.

And yet, the contrasts in the natural landscape are nothing compared to the political and social contrasts you will find here. Like much of the rest of the American West, Colorado is a traditionally rural state with a frontier heritage and a very pro-business attitude. But here you will also find fiercely liberal communities in the college and resort towns that have been home to hippies and major countercultural figures. There's a wide range of outlooks and attitudes here in a state that lives up to its nickname — "Colorful Colorado".

Regions
There is no universally agreed-upon breakdown of regions in Colorado. You'll often hear natives speak of a very simple structure comprised of the Eastern Slope (meaning everything east of the crest of the Rockies), or the Western Slope (everything west of the range crest), and anomalous Denver or the "valley". The breakdown below is a bit more complex, partly for reasons of style and partly because the simple east/west/Denver formulation lumps areas together that are really very disparate. It's also roughly what's used by the Colorado Department of Tourism. If you are confused by some of the boundaries, simply consult a map of Colorado counties, as many of the regions follow county lines.

Cities

 * — Prominent research center at the foot of the Flatirons is home of the University of Colorado.
 * — Founded as a placer mining camp, the "Mile-High City" is the state capital and the most populous city within 560 mi.
 * — Colorado's second-most-populous city is a military, technical, and recreational complex at the foot of Pikes Peak.
 * — Historic frontier town with scenic narrow-gauge railroad to Silverton in the San Juan Mountains.
 * — This technology and recreation center is the home of Colorado State University.
 * — The most populous city of western Colorado is the gateway to Colorado National Monument and Colorado's Wine Country.
 * — Site of a historic agricultural colony on the South Platte River and home of the University of Northern Colorado.
 * — Historic frontier town is the gateway to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
 * — Historic city on the Arkansas River, once the border between the United States and Mexico.

Other destinations

 * – Former gold mining camp turned international resort community.
 * – Near Grand Junction. Viticultural area has some of the highest vineyards in the world.
 * – Former coal ming town is now a mecca for skiing and mountain biking.
 * – Historic town at the mouth of spectacular Glenwood Canyon has the world's largest hot spring pool and adventure park.
 * – Near Idaho Springs. The highest paved highway in North America ascends this 14271 ft Front Range mountain overlooking Denver.
 * – Near Leadville. This 4401.2 m summit is the highest point of the Rocky Mountains of the United States and Canada.
 * – Near Colorado Springs. Both a cog railway and a toll road ascend to the 4302.31 m summit of "America's Mountain".
 * – Hot springs and western-style ski resort at the foot of the Park Range.
 * – Second largest ski resort in North America.

History
Composer Igor Stravinsky once rode a ski lift in Aspen in the summertime, while Prospector Alferd Packer dined on human flesh near Lake City. Inventor Nikola Tesla created artificial lightning hundreds of feet long in Colorado Springs, and Writer Oscar Wilde attended a fancy dinner party at the bottom of a Leadville silver mine. Outlaw Butch Cassidy robbed the bank in Telluride, while Lawman Doc Holliday and Showman Buffalo Bill were buried in Glenwood Springs and Denver, respectively. All are part of the quirky and sometimes colorful history of Colorado.

Around 15,000 years ago, Native Americans migrated to Colorado, a nomadic group of hunter-gatherers distributed on the plains as well as the western plateaus. The first agricultural communities appeared on the Eastern Plains approximately 5,000 years ago. Circa 600 AD, the Ancient Pueblo Peoples began building elaborate communities in Southwestern Colorado in the Mesa Verde area. Other Native American groups, including the Arapaho, Apache, Cheyenne, Comanche, Kiowa, Shoshone and Utes have called Colorado home.

The Spanish were the first Europeans in the area. In 1541, Coronado led an expedition north through Colorado from Mexico in search of the fabled Seven Cities of Cibola, where the streets were supposed to be paved with gold. In 1803, French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte sold the United States a vast tract of land known as the "Louisiana Purchase," an area which included Colorado. Lieutenant Zebulon Pike explored the recently purchased territory at President Thomas Jefferson's behest. Pike and his men were the first European Americans to find the 14,000-ft (4,268-m) peak near Colorado Springs, which today bears his name.

From the 1820s through the 1840s, Colorado became part of the Wild West, as fur trappers and mountain men began harvesting highly valued beaver and buffalo pelts for the Eastern U.S. and Europe. Trading posts were established for barter with the Native Americans, while trade routes sprang up between the United States and Mexico.

In 1858, gold was discovered at the mouth of Dry Creek in the present-day Denver suburb of Englewood, triggering the "Pike's Peak or Bust" gold rush of 1858-59. Approximately 50,000 people immigrated to Colorado in search of gold, creating the first large scale permanent settlements. Hard rock silver and gold mining towns were established throughout the territory.

A new town named Denver City was founded in honor of James W. Denver, governor of Kansas Territory.

In 1876, Colorado was admitted as the 38th state in the union. Colorado was called the "Centennial State" in honor of the one-hundredth anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.

In 1912, Hot Sulphur Springs hosted a ski jumping tournament and invited the Denver press. From this humble beginning, Colorado's ski industry was born. A handful of early ski runs were built around the state over the next 20 years, with the Highland-Bavarian Corporation beginning a rudimentary development of Aspen. World War II and the arrival of the 10th Mountain Division to train near Minturn ushered in the mid-20th century explosion of Colorado ski resorts. Trained for high alpine combat in Italy, the alumni of the 10th Mountain Division returned to the U.S. after the war to build Aspen, Vail and Arapahoe Basin.

By the 1960s, Colorado was a popular global destination for alpine skiing, with travelers drawn to the state's sunny days and champagne snow.

Geography
Colorado is split down the middle north to south by the Rocky Mountains. To the east is a region of high prairie, dry and wide open. To the west are rugged mountains arranged in various groups or ranges. (The largest single range in the state, the San Juan Mountains of the southwestern quarter, aren't actually part of the Rockies.) Meandering through the mountains is an imaginary line called the Continental Divide. This marks the flow of precipitation. Rain falling on the west of the Divide makes its way to the Pacific Ocean. Rain on the east makes its way to the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. What may be surprising to visitors, however, is that, despite stereotypes, comparatively little of the state is actually mountainous. Perhaps a third of it is covered by hills or mountains, and even less is actually home to the soaring, jagged peaks for which the state is known.

Colorado has 54 mountain peaks above 14,000 ft (4,267 m) of elevation. The highest peak, Mount Elbert, rises to 14,440 ft (4,401 m) above sea level making it the highest peak in the North American Rockies. Tourism is a major industry, with skiing, snowboarding, hiking, camping, hunting, mountaineering and fishing as large sources of income for the state economy.

Colorado's population was about 5.6 million in 2017, a 30% increase from 2000. The state's population is growing, particularly in the large towns along the Front Range where the prairie and mountains meet. These towns include the capital, Denver, and Colorado Springs, Boulder, Longmont, Loveland and Fort Collins. Many of the residents of Colorado migrated from other states so being a "Colorado Native" is a point of pride with many people.

Climate
Those who've never been to Colorado might imagine a frigid, snowy state. However, Denver's 300 sunny days a year and overall mild temperatures are a point of pride among Coloradoans. Due to the Rocky Mountains which split the state in half, climate differs greatly from east to west, low to high. The weather changes rapidly and unpredictably, so be prepared for anything if you're traveling in most seasons. Colorado is also an exceptionally dry state, and has suffered through droughts in 2012-14 and 2018-19. Drink lots of water and watch for dehydration.

Winter is generally cold, though the weather is drastically different depending on elevation. While the mountains are likely to experience frequent snow storms, guaranteeing lots of fresh powder for skiing, they become less and less frequent as one travels down on the Eastern slopes. Lower elevations to the east of the Rockies experience occasional snow storms and even huge blizzards, but low temperatures seldom last long, and the winter is frequently interrupted by warm days with temperatures in the 50s, 60s °F (10s °C), or even higher. Bring warm snow clothes, but also a light jacket. While March is the snowiest month of the year, the warm days of spring are more frequent in this month, and even in the mountains it is not unusual for temperatures to rise to the 60s °F (15 °C) or above, making for some very interesting skiing.

Spring is generally brief and mild. Snow is not uncommon as late as May, even in lower elevation cities, and some ski resorts stay open as late as July. However, except during snow, the temperatures are warm and pleasant. Be prepared for rapid changes: its not unusual for there to be temperatures during the day and snow in the evening.

Summer is perhaps Colorado's most predictable season. While some ski resorts may stay open until July, don't be deceived: the temperatures are warm, even in the mountains. While days in the 80s and 90s °F (27–38 °C) are frequent, higher temperatures are not unheard of. Fortunately, Colorado's low humidity means that even the hottest days don't pack the punch of heat in more humid regions. Summer does arrive later in the mountains, and some peaks have snow all year round. Still, even at the higher elevation, summer days tend to be warm, though nights are cooler. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent starting in mid-July and continuing until about mid-September. Though very heavy, these are usually brief, lasting from as short as half an hour to two or three hours. Though they are a great relief from the dry days of earlier summer, lighting is dangerous and a huge risk factor for forest fires. These afternoon thunderstorms are especially severe in the eastern plain region of Colorado, and tornadoes also occur during this time. South Eastern Colorado has very desert-like summers, including flora and fauna, and shares many similarities to nearby New Mexico.

Fall is another relatively short season in Colorado. While daytime temperatures tend to stay warm, nighttime temperatures begin to drop starting in late August. Aspens, the primary native deciduous tree, changes colors in mid September. The first snow usually arrives sometime in October at lower elevations, though even earlier snows are not unheard of, and fairly common in the mountains.

Tourist information

 * Colorado tourism website

Talk
English is the principal language of Colorado, while 20% of the residents also speak Spanish. As a major international tourist destination, speakers of many languages can be found in Colorado. English is normally spoken in Colorado with a standard American accent.

By air
Many major airlines fly into Denver International Airport, one of the ten busiest airports in the world.

Other airports serving Colorado include:

 * Aspen, Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (Sardy Field)
 * Colorado Springs, City of Colorado Springs Municipal Airport
 * Cortez, Cortez Municipal Airport
 * Denver, Denver International Airport
 * Durango, Durango-La Plata County Airport
 * Eagle, Eagle County Regional Airport
 * Fort Collins / Loveland, Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport
 * Grand Junction, Grand Junction Regional Airport (Walker Field)
 * Gunnison, Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport
 * Hayden, Yampa Valley Airport (Yampa Valley Regional)
 * Montrose, Montrose Regional Airport
 * Telluride, Telluride Regional Airport

By rail

 * The Amtrak California Zephyr runs from Emeryville to Chicago with stops in Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Granby, Fraser, Denver, and Fort Morgan.
 * The Amtrak Southwest Chief runs from Los Angeles to Chicago with stops in Trinidad, La Junta, and Lamar.
 * The Amtrak Winter Park Express runs seasonally between Denver and Winter Park

By highway

 * Colorado is served by five Interstate Highway routes and 18 U.S. Highway routes: I-25.svg I-70.svg I-76.svg I-225.svg  I-270.svg US 6.svg US 24.svg US 34.svg US 36.svg US 40.svg US 50.svg US 84.svg US 85.svg US 87.svg US 138.svg US 160.svg US 285.svg US 287.svg US 350.svg US 385.svg US 400.svg US 491.svg US 550.svg

By bus

 * Greyhound Lines provides service to Brush, Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, Fort Morgan, Frisco, Glenwood Springs, Greeley, Idaho Springs, Lamar, Loveland, Monument, Pueblo, Springfield, Trinidad, Vail, and Walsenburg.

By bicycle
The Adventure Cycling Association sponsors five long distance bicycle routes that pass through Colorado:
 * The TransAmerica Trail
 * The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route
 * The Eastern Express Connector
 * The Western Express Route
 * The Great Parks South Route

By foot

 * The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is a challenging hiking trail running approximately from Canada to Mexico. The trail follows the Continental Divide of the Americas along the crest of the Rocky Mountains and traverses five U.S. states: Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico.
 * The American Discovery Trail extends across the United States from Point Reyes, California, to Cape Henlopen, Delaware. The trail enters Colorado from Utah along the Colorado River and splits with the northern leg following the South Platte River into Nebraska and the southern leg following the Arkansas River into Kansas.

Get around
If you want to travel the state, then you will need to rent a vehicle. Prices are the same as across the United States.

The state is roughly quarted by two major Interstates, the north-south running I-25 and the east-west running I-70. (I-76 also enters the state in the Northeast from Nebraska). Surrounding the greater Denver area is a beltway consisting of the Northwest Parkway (tollway), C-470, E-470 (tollway)]. The Northwest Parkway is a 75-mile per hour toll road that seamlessly connects I-25 at E-470 in the north metro Denver area, with U.S. 36 and State highway 128 in Broomfield. Outside of the Front Range, the rest of the state is traversed by small highways and county roads.

The major cities of the greater Denver area (Denver, Aurora, Boulder, Lakewood, Littleton, Longmont, Broomfield) are linked by bus and train transportation using RTD. The cost is very reasonable and the busses run regular schedules.

Taxis and shuttle services are also available throughout the state.

By bus
Information on transit can be found from APTA.

CDOT runs a bus service called Bustang that offers intercity bus services across the state for very low fares.

See
Among many other attractions, Colorado is home to four national parks, nine national monuments, three national historic sites, two national recreation areas, four national historic trails, one national scenic trail, 11 national forests, two national grasslands, 44 national wildernesses, three national conservation areas, eight national wildlife refuges, three national heritage areas, 26 national historic landmarks, 16 national natural landmarks, more than 1,500 National Register of Historic Places, one wild and scenic river, 44 state parks, 307 state wildlife areas, 93 state natural areas, 28 national recreation trails, six regional trails, and numerous other scenic, historic, and recreational areas.

National forests
There are 11 national forests and 2 national grasslands in Colorado:
 * Arapaho National Forest - The 14271 ft summit of Mount Blue Sky can be reached by the highest paved road in North America.
 * Comanche National Grassland
 * Grand Mesa National Forest
 * Gunnison National Forest
 * Pawnee National Grassland
 * Pike National Forest - Near Colorado Springs. Home of 4302.31 m Pikes Peak, the most visited mountain in North America and the second most visited mountain in the world behind Japan's Mount Fuji. Drive to the top or ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
 * Rio Grande National Forest
 * Roosevelt National Forest
 * Routt National Forest
 * San Isabel National Forest - The true high country in Colorado, with 19 of the state's "14ers," including 4401.2 m Mount Elbert, the highest summit of the Rocky Mountains of North America. Contains many famous mountain ranges: the Sawatch, Collegiate Peaks, Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Spanish Peaks.
 * San Juan National Forest
 * Uncompahgre National Forest
 * White River National Forest - Home of the famous 14,163 ft Maroon Bells near Aspen. Also home to 14011 ft Mount of the Holy Cross near Vail.

State parks
Recreation and rugged natural beauty are the common denominators for Colorado's 44 state parks.

City parks
Wilderness areas are hard to define in Colorado, with many of the state's most visited attractions administered by towns and cities. There are many places of cultural and historical significance, as well.

 * Denver City Park - Designed in 1882, this graceful urban playground houses both the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature & Science.
 * John Denver Sanctuary - In Aspen. Fan pilgrimage site and monument to the folk artist who gave so many a "Rocky Mountain High."
 * John Denver Sanctuary - In Aspen. Fan pilgrimage site and monument to the folk artist who gave so many a "Rocky Mountain High."
 * John Denver Sanctuary - In Aspen. Fan pilgrimage site and monument to the folk artist who gave so many a "Rocky Mountain High."

Scenic Drives

 * Pike's Peak - Beautiful drive to the summit of Pike's Peak.
 * Independence Pass -Highest paved pass in Colorado, Highway 82 near Aspen. Summit reaches 12,000 ft. Very scenic drive, road becomes one lane at points. Closed November (Thanksgiving) through May (Memorial Day).
 * Million Dollar Highway - Incredible scenery between Ouray and Silverton first opened by Otto Mears in late 1800s. Road is opened year round.

Snowmobiling

 * Colorado is home to some of the best snowmobiling in the country. Glenwood Springs is surrounded by two areas, White River National Forest and the Grand Mesa. Trail riding on groomed trails, hill climbing, deep powder carving, scenic views, with a mixture of trees and meadows. These areas get an average of 35 feet of snow a year.

Fishing
With 6,000 miles of streams and more than 2,000 lakes and reservoirs to choose from, you can fish for over 35 species of both warm- and cold-water fish. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy angling, high mountain stream fishing and ice fishing in Colorado. Don't forget to watch the seasons set by the state and obtain your fishing license. Otherwise, you may be facing a stiff fine up to $50.

Gambling

 * There is casino gambling in the historic towns of Black Hawk, Central City, Cripple Creek, Ignacio, and Towaoc.

Hiking

 * Colorado has a seemingly endless amount of hiking trails. Colorado hiking trails can lead you through various terrain, including deserts, mountains, canyons, and more.

Mountain climbing

 * Colorado has 54 "Fourteeners", mountain summits that exceed 14000 ft elevation, Most can be climbed without ropes or technical experience. The rewards are breathtaking. The current standard among introductory guidebooks to routes on Fourteeners is Borneman and Lampert, A Climbing Guide to Colorado's Fourteeners. This book is updated frequently to reflect changes in access restrictions (several are on private land or have private holdings high on the mountain that interfere with some routes). Many people also find Gerry Roach's (the second person in the world to summit all of the Seven Summits) book, Colorado's Fourteeners: From Hikes to Climbs to be a comprehensive guidebook for hiking and climbing these Colorado giants. Colorado has more "14ers" than any other state in the USA.  Be prepared for crowds on some of the more popular summits during the summer on weekends.  Also be prepared for an outing, as conditions can and do change rapidly on Colorado's high mountains.
 * There are also many "high Thirteeners" that are nearly as rewarding to climb as the Fourteeners, while typically far less crowded with would-be mountaineers. Some of the high Thirteeners are more technically difficult than any Fourteener and require rope and technical expertise.

Mountain biking

 * Colorado is one of the best places in the world to go mountain biking. The choice of location will depend on the season.  Crested Butte, Steamboat Springs, Winter Park, Salida, Leadville, Vail, and Summit County all offer world class mountain bike trails, but many are only ridable after the snow melts in June and before the snow returns in September or October.  During the spring and the fall, conditions are perfect at Grand Junction and Fruita, which offer desert trails similar to the famous bike trails in Moab, Utah.  The trails along the Front Range, near Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, and Colorado Springs are also excellent and, since they are located at various elevations, offer riding almost year-round.  Additionally, most ski resorts offer lift-served mountain biking; Keystone, Winter Park, and Sol Vista resorts are among the most notable.

Skiing and snowboarding
Colorado is one of the world's top destinations for alpine skiing, snowboarding, and other winter mountain sports. Home to 26 ski areas and resorts, Colorado offers the perfect location to take a family or solo or couples vacation to. From beginners to expert mountains, these resorts are open to anyone. Even for the non skiers, the resorts and ski towns offer shopping, spas, tubing and any multiple other fun attractions to enjoy. Many of these resorts are only 1-2 hours outside of Denver.

Whitewater rafting

 * Skiing isn't the only reason thousands of people travel to Colorado each year. During the summer months, Colorado offers, perhaps, some of the best white water rafting in the country. The Arkansas River is one of the most rafted river in the country with over 50,000 rafters experiencing the pounding white water of "The Ark", as the locals call it. Many of the outfitters are less than 2 hours outside of Denver and offer a variety of trips for all ages and experience levels.
 * Golden has a world-class kayak course that is free and open to mostly year round use. There are several kayak shops in Golden, and they also have demos and clinics on various dates.
 * Many of the mountain towns along the Colorado and Arkansas Rivers offer whitewater rafting excursions. You can choose a half-day, full-day or overnight trip.
 * Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers outstanding whitewater rafting and Gold medal trout fishing on the Gunnison River.

Wildlife viewing
It's not hard to spot wildlife in Colorado. There is a diversity of wild animals maintained by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Elk, mule deer, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, antelope, brown bears, mountain lions and a smattering of bobcats range the national parks, forests and state parks. Migratory birds such as hummingbirds and the sandhill cranes return each year to their summer habitat. Look for "Wildlife Viewing Area" signs along the highways and interstates. Or simply venture into any wilderness area. You will need binoculars, a camera, as well as good luck and patience.

 * I-70 at Genesse Park - This western suburb of Denver in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains is home to the City of Denver's Buffalo herd. Pull off the Interstate and snap a few photos with the bison in the foreground and the snow capped Continental Divide in the distance.
 * Mount Evans - Also off I-70 Near Idaho Springs. Drive the Mount Evans Scenic Byway & Wilderness, the highest paved road in the U.S. More often than not, you will see a herd of shaggy white mountain goats on the drive.
 * I-70 through Georgetown - Just west of Denver. Around the Downieville Starbucks, start scanning the north side of the Interstate. A herd of bighorn sheep routinely grazes on the steep slopes, often venturing as close as the shoulder of the highway.
 * Alamosa/Monte Vista/Baca National Wildlife Refuge Complex - Near Alamosa. Threatened bird is the largest crane in North America. Each October and March, 3,000 -5,000 cranes make a migratory stopover. In the spring the San Luis Valley celebrates the Monte Vista Crane Festival to honor this impressive bird.
 * Gould - In the North Park area of the state near Wyoming, is the Moose Watching Capital of the state, while Colorado in general is home to the southernmost moose population in North America.
 * Rocky Mountain National Park is a wonderful place to look for elk. Fall days are the best time of the year to enjoy watching elk.  Herds can be spotted all through the park and the elk's bugling is an almost constant noise during some times of the year.

Festivals & events

 * Cherry Creek Arts Festival Held every Independence Day weekend in the Cherry Creek section of Denver, this is an outdoor festival full of shopping and food.
 * Colorado Labor Day Lift Off Held annually over labor day weekend in Colorado Springs. Hot air balloons and crew come from all over the country to participate. This event takes place in Memorial Park, off Pikes Peak Avenue between Hancock Avenue and Union Boulevard near the shores of Prospect Lake. Mass ascensions of dozens of balloons happen on Saturday, Sunday and Monday mornings with a Balloon Glo scheduled for Saturday and Sunday evenings dependent on weather conditions. As this park is at the foot of Pikes Peak, the photos are spectacular. Originally called the Colorado Balloon Classic, the event was begun in 1977 and has grown to be the largest and longest continuously running hot air balloon launch in the Rocky Mountain Region and in the State of Colorado. Admission is free and this is a family friendly event.
 * Mesa Verde Country Indian Arts & Culture Festival. May is archaeology month in Colorado and there is no better place to celebrate than Mesa Verde Country, the archaeological center of America. Archaeology ties all of us to the heritage we proudly share with the Ancestral Pueblo people from the past and the Native Americans living here today.
 * Old South Gaylord Street Festival Held every Memorial Day weekend, this festival started when several local stores held sidewalk sales at the same time. They decided to coordinate their efforts next year, and now decades later vendors from all over the state set up tents. Many of the goods on sale are handmade, and there is plenty of food, live music and fair-style attractions as well.
 * Strawberry Days Every June, Glenwood Springs holds a festival and carnival with something for everyone of every age to enjoy. They serve free Strawberries and Ice Cream on Saturday of the event. This event goes back over a hundred years. It is the longest running festival west of the Mississippi River. The festival was started to celebrate the strawberry harvest and to gather with friends and family to celebrate the warm days of summer ahead.
 * Taste of Colorado Every year in downtown over 40 restaurants set up booths near the state capitol in Denver's Civic Center Park to celebrate the weekend. Admission is free but tickets are needed for the carnival rides and other attractions.
 * Taste of Colorado Every year in downtown over 40 restaurants set up booths near the state capitol in Denver's Civic Center Park to celebrate the weekend. Admission is free but tickets are needed for the carnival rides and other attractions.

Cannabis
Any visitor who's seen Denver's numerous marijuana dispensaries can see that Colorado has permissive laws regarding cannabis. As of 2017, it is legal for out-of-state visitors to purchase up to 1/4 oz (around 7 g) from licensed dispensaries, while Colorado residents are able to purchase up to 1 oz (around 28 g). Consumption is only legal within private residences with the owner's permission, but not in places open to the public, such as cafes, restaurants, nightclubs, etc. Marijuana is also not allowed at Denver Airport. Consumption is permitted in a manner similar to alcohol, with equivalent offenses prescribed for driving under the influence. Drug tourists should still exercise caution and discretion. Cannabis is still illegal under US federal law, and taking marijuana (or other drugs) across state lines is considered drug trafficking and will be treated very harshly by authorities in neighboring states.

Local Art

Anyone who lives in Denver or has been to Denver can tell you that the art scene is quite vibrant. You can buy small paintings that cost $50-$200 from many local restaurants, but if you want to go all out, you can buy large and expensive paintings from various clubs, showcases, and even the Denver Art Museum itself. Be warned, outside of big cities or large towns, there will be very little professional quality artwork to buy.

Eat
Colorado is filled with a large variety of restaurants with different cuisines. You can find almost everything you would ever want to eat or drink. But what, exactly, is Colorado cuisine? There are several indigenous foods worth trying, sought out for their associations with this Rocky Mountain state.

First, there is the cliché Denver omelette or Western omelette, an egg dish prepared with cheddar cheese, diced ham, onions, and green bell peppers. It probably originated on Western cattle drives, cooked up by cowboys, and most likely was not invented by a French gastronome as a "dénuer omelette," or a tasteless American omelette deprived of all class. Contrary to popular belief, you can get a Denver Omelette in Denver, but it will simply be one egg item out of many on the menu. This omelette doesn't inspire the hometown pride of, say, a Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia. Also, there is the duffy roll, something like a cross between a cinnamon roll and a croissant.

Along with Pasadena, California, and Louisville, Kentucky, Denver is one of three cities that claim to have invented that quintessential American food, the cheeseburger. Made with American cheese layered on top of a patty of ground beef, cooked on a griddle or grill, and placed on a bun with the usual sides of pickles, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and condiments, the cheeseburger is a fast food classic. In 1935, Louis Ballast of the Humpty Dumpty Drive-In in Denver received a trademark on the term, "cheeseburger." So Denver was arguably not the first place of origin for the cheeseburger, but it's the official one.

Sometime during your stay, a giggling friend will attempt to get you to eat a plate of Rocky Mountain Oysters. When asked, even your waiter or waitress will be coy about giving a straight answer. Don't be fooled, however. There are no fresh water molluscs thriving at high altitude. These oysters are bull or sheep testicles, flour battered and pan fried.

Many chefs reference Colorado's pioneering past and work with fresh game. Quail, rabbit, elk, venison, moose and even rattlesnake are served, ranging from the kitchen tables of families that still hunt all the way to four star restaurants.

Three meats, however, have deep associations with Colorado: Buffalo, Colorado Rack of Lamb, and Fresh Water Trout.

More aptly described as "bison," buffaloes once roamed the Great Plains of the U.S. in the millions. Nearly hunted to extinction for their hides, buffalo have been making a quiet comeback on ranches as a heart-healthy alternative to other meats. It is lower in cholesterol than either chicken or beef. Buffalo is a red meat best served medium rare--cooked too long and it will toughen. A plethora of restaurants serve bison as steaks, hamburgers and jerky, and in pot roast, meat loaf, even tacos and spaghetti. If you have access to a grill during your stay, buy some ground bison at the supermarket and make your own buffalo burgers. (Just be sure to mix the meat with oatmeal and egg as a binding agent, since bison is so lean, it tends to fall apart).

One hundred years ago, Greek immigrants settled in Western Colorado, bringing with them a millennia-old sheep raising tradition. Many of these high mountain ranches have morphed into the state's ski resorts, but a handful remain. In summer time, young lambs are still grilled in open charcoal pits in the Greek fashion, while Colorado lamb is a much sought-after gourmet ingredient. Be sure to ask for all-natural lamb raised in Colorado with no growth stimulants or added hormones.

Hiding in pools in mountain streams are wild brown, speckled and rainbow trout. The rainbow is a fresh water cousin of the salmon. Catching these skittish fish in the outback of the Rockies is half the challenge, since they are extremely sensitive to vibrations and hide when something approaches the stream. But once caught, trout meat is very flavorful and clean, if prone to tiny, throat-sticking bones.

During the late summer months, be sure to try some of Colorado's best produce. Melons from Rocky Ford, sweet corn from Olathe, peaches from Palisade, cherries from Paonia and chili peppers from Anaheim will enhance any Colorado vacation.

Drink
Colorado and drinking are often linked. It dates back to the grizzled fur trapping, mountain man days of the 1840s, when some of the state's pioneers would hole up in Bent's Fort and drink themselves blind with earthen jugs of "trade whiskey' - a dubious combination of "red eye" whiskey, hot chili peppers, plug tobacco and gunpowder. (A gourmet recreation of the drink can still be sampled at The Fort Restaurant, in Morrison, Colorado).

Colorado is only behind Vermont, Oregon and Montana in microbreweries per capita and considers itself the beer capital of the United States. (Denver is sometimes referred to as the, "Napa Valley of Microbreweries"). The magazine "Modern Drunkard" is headquartered in Denver. Brewpubs are open in almost every town.

One of the most popular adult tourist activities in Colorado is the Brewery Tour circuit. From the megabrewer Coors in Golden, to the refined tastes of New Belgium Brewing in Fort Collins, the Front Range of Colorado offers many opportunities to see beer being made.

Denver also hosts the Great American Beer Festival every Fall. This three day bacchanal celebrates micro, medium and mega brews from across the country with awards handed out to the judges picks for best brews.

There are also less celebrated, but equally worthy, meaderies and vineyards throughout the state. Colorado's nascent wine industry has exploded in the last 20 years. While there are now over 70 wineries in Colorado, ranging from the mountains to the plains, the communities of Grand Junction and Palisade on the Western Slope rightly label themselves as, Colorado's Wine Country. The high desert farming town of Palisade witnessed the birth of the state's modern vineyards in the '70s and early '80s. Even today, a majority of the state's wine grapes are grown in this tiny Victorian town in the federally-designated Grand Valley American Viticultural Area. (AVA). Palisade also hosts the Colorado Mountain Winefest every September at harvest time.

The earliest history of wine in Colorado, however, dates back to the nineteenth century. The first recorded wine production in Colorado was 1899. It was Colorado Governor George A. Crawford, the founder of Grand Junction in 1881, who first saw the Grand Valley’s potential for grape production. Crawford planted 60 acres of wine grapes and other fruit on Rapid Creek above Palisade.

Unfortunately, these early forays into viticulture ended with Prohibition in 1916. The General Assembly of Colorado enacted a statute and Colorado went "dry" four years before the passage of the 18th Amendment, which created national prohibition. Commercial winemaking ceased in Colorado and Palisade's grape vines were ripped out of the ground by authorities. It took over 70 years for the state's wine industry to reestablish itself.

Newer to the scene are Colorado's hard liquor and spirits distillers. A handful of artisan distillers such as Stranahan's in Denver and Peach Street Distillers in Palisade are creating bourbon, whiskey, gin and other flavored hard grained alcoholic beverages in limited batches.

One note of caution - some people find that their alcohol tolerance is lower at higher altitudes. Drink slowly until you acclimate.

Crime
Colorado usually sits in the top-tier of the safest states when it comes to crime, and most towns and suburbs are very safe. However, the state is not immune to gun violence and assaults. Denver, for example, is safe, but has seen an uptick in insecurity. Some places like Aurora and Colorado Springs have made headlines because of mass shootings.

Outdoors
Dehydration is a serious concern. The aridity of the air is deceptive--you will perspire and exhale moisture from your mouth and nose without even realizing it. If you're going to hike anywhere in Colorado, take plenty of water (at least one gallon per person, per day), decent nonslip boots or sneakers, as well as layers of clothing. Always hike with a waterproof jacket--more people die of hypothermia in Colorado in the summer simply by being caught unaware. Let people know where you are going and when you expect to get back.

Be careful and watch for lightning while hiking, especially in the high country. It's often best to hike in the early morning to avoid the possibility of hitting an afternoon thunderstorm.

Very occasionally, mountain lions will attack. It is best to hike when the sun is up to avoid those attacks.

Tornadoes
The eastern plains region of Colorado is in tornado alley.

Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms with high winds and hail are not uncommon during the spring and summer months. Make sure you keep a radio on in the car. Should you hear the tornado sirens sounding, locate a suitable tornado shelter at once--do not stay outdoors to get a picture! Also, do not try to outrun the tornado in your car! You may wind up driving directly into the tornado's path.

Should the skies be cloudy, and the light take on a greenish-yellow cast, this is an indication of an imminent hail storm--again, seek shelter at once.

Keep in mind, these storms are spread over a wide area and many residents have never seen a tornado; however, Colorado residents do not hesitate to run to the basement/cellar if a tornado warning is announced. Refer to the Tornado safety article for analysis of the issues here.

Rattlesnakes
Of the 25 species of snakes in Colorado, only two are venomous: the western rattlesnake, which lives almost everywhere, and the massasauga, which is limited to the grassy lands of the Eastern Plains. If you are afraid of snakes, head for the cool, highest elevations of the Rockies. Western rattlers can't live above 7,500 to 9,500 ft (2134 to 2743 m).

Rattlesnakes are more afraid of you than you are of them. If you hear a rattle, it's a warning. Freeze and look around for the snake. Move cautiously away from the snake once you locate it, even if it means cutting your hike short.

Do not try to kill or further antagonize the snake, as this may lead to additional bites.

If you are bitten, the good news is that you almost certainly will live through the painful experience. Remain as calm as possible. Rattlesnake venom is essentially digestive enzymes, and will break down tissue around the bite. Try not to move much (which spreads the venom) unless you must do so. Painful swelling of lymph nodes in the groin or armpit usually occurs within one hour if the bite is on the leg or arm. Call emergency medical services (911) and/or a poison control center. There is antivenin available for use against all native pit vipers in the US.

Go next
Colorado is bordered by seven other states, and is a great launching pad for any tour of the "Old West." Many domestic and international tourists use Denver as a gateway city for their Western visits.

 * Wyoming - Located to the north of Colorado, Wyoming is home to most of the landmass of Yellowstone National Park and provides an excellent opportunity to experience America's cowboy heritage.
 * Nebraska - The state's northeastern neighbor has a rich agricultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into America's heartland.
 * Kansas - Located to the east of Colorado, Kansas is generally considered the center of the country, at least in geographical terms, and is nicknamed "the Heart of America."
 * Oklahoma - Colorado's southeastern neighbor has been a state since only 1907 and retains some of the pioneer spirit from its early days as a frontier, along with a lot of Native American history and culture.
 * New Mexico - Colorado's southern neighbor was a Spanish and then Mexican colony until the Mexican War of the 1840s, and retains a culture that is heavily influenced by its native and colonial past.
 * Arizona - Home to the Grand Canyon, Arizona borders Colorado to the southwest.
 * Utah - Colorado's western neighbor is worth visiting for the mind-blowing rock formations found in places like Arches National Park and Zion National Park, as well as the winter recreation opportunities found around Salt Lake City, host of the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Other nearby destinations include:

 * Route 66 traversed four of the states that border Colorado.
 * The Four Corners where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet. Visitors can twist their bodies so that they are in four states at once.

title: Colorado


text:
Colorado's Wine Country

While many Colorado visitors enjoy the state's Alpine skiing and other mountain activities, only a lucky few have discovered the area's Wine tourism. And yet Colorado is home to over 80 wineries and the highest altitude vineyards in the U.S. Trips to this wine region are usually one or two day jaunts, and combine easily with any Colorado itinerary. It can be a welcome respite from skiing or mountain biking, a slower paced end to any frenetic trip. Most of the wineries are family friendly, so don't be afraid to bring the kids. Like the rest of Colorado, wine country is fairly laid-back and unstuffy.

Understand
A visit to wine country is an indulgence of the senses. Savor complex flavors at a spring barrel tasting. Smell the bouquet and aroma of a Colorado Pinot Noir. Taste fresh Palisade peaches or Colorado rack of lamb at a food and wine pairing. See historic Victorian towns at cherry blossom time. Stay at quaint boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts. All of this can be enjoyed while surrounded by amazing scenery, ranging from red rock mesas to snow-covered mountains.

History
Colorado's fledgling wine industry has exploded in the last 20 years. The high desert farming town of Palisade witnessed both the birth and rebirth of the state's vineyards.

The first recorded wine production in Colorado was 1899. It was Colorado Governor George A. Crawford, the founder of Grand Junction in 1881, who first saw the Grand Valley’s potential for grape production. Crawford planted 60 acres of wine grapes and other fruit on Rapid Creek above Palisade.

By the early 20th century, grape growing was a booming business. In 1909, a U.S. Department of Commerce Agricultural Census reported a Colorado harvest of 1,037,614 lb from 254,292 vines of bearing age and 101,332 vines of pre-bearing age. At least 1,034 Colorado farms were involved in grape production.

Unfortunately, these early forays into viticulture ended with Prohibition in 1916. The General Assembly of Colorado enacted a statute and Colorado went "dry" four years before the passage of the 18th Amendment, which created national prohibition. Commercial winemaking ceased in Colorado and Palisade's grape vines were ripped out of the ground by authorities. Prohibition eventually proved a failed national experiment, and was repealed in 1933. Even so, it took over 70 years for the state's wine industry to reestablish itself.

In 1977, the General Assembly enacted the Colorado Limited Winery Act, which created a special permit for small "farm wineries," which are the backbone of the Colorado wine industry. This bill still shapes the artisan nature of the state's wineries, each winery producing limited vintages of wine.

The freewheeling culture of the 1970s drew an eclectic mix of aging hippies, hopeless romantics, artists and entrepreneurs to Palisade. They all shared a common dream of creating a wine culture in Western Colorado. Slowly, with a lot of trial and error, this core group of self-taught winemakers began growing grapes.

From a handful of wineries in Palisade in the late 1980s, the number of wineries continued to expand. Growth, however, was not without controversy. Some vintners were mixing Colorado and California grapes in their vintages. To protect the integrity of Colorado wine, the General Assembly amended the limited winery statute in 2005, replacing the requirement to use 75 percent Colorado fruit with a more informative labeling regulation for Colorado wine. Wines with the "Colorado Grown" seal on their labels now must use 100 percent Colorado grapes.

Continuing its commitment to nurture its wine industry, Colorado provides funds for a state viticulturist, enologist and wine research program through Colorado State University. All collaborate to find the grape varietals and growing techniques best suited to the area's highly variable climate.

Terroir
Vineyards in Colorado are by far the highest in elevation in the U.S., and some of the highest vineyards in the world. In the Grand Valley area in Northwestern Colorado, most grape vines grow around, and some vineyards in Delta County are located at almost. By comparison, average plantings in Argentina are in the to  range.

Colorado's wine community is geographically disparate. Award-winning wineries and vineyards are found throughout the state. There are Front Range tasting rooms in Boulder, Denver, Fort Collins and Colorado Springs. But the majority of Colorado's vineyards are on the Western Slope.

There are two federally designated appellations in Colorado: the Grand Valley and West Elks American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). In the U.S, AVAs are approved by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), and are essential for conveying quality. A vineyard or winery must be located in, and acquire all its grapes from an AVA, or it cannot label itself "Estate Bottled."

All the towns and AVAs mentioned above are included in various Wine Trails organized by the Colorado Wine Industry Development Board, a promotional entity funded by the state. The various Wine Trails can be driven or biked.

Vineyards in Colorado are mostly nestled in the temperate, high elevation river valleys and mesas of Mesa and Delta counties, with some acreage in Montezuma county.

Undoubtedly, the epicenter of Colorado's wine industry are Palisade and Grand Junction, which produce 85 to 95 percent of the state's grapes. The Rocky Mountains desert region around Palisade is irrigated by a series of canals connected to the Colorado River. The growing season is short compared to vineyards in California. But given Palisade's aridity, the grapes do not suffer the same mildew and blight problems of lower, wetter wine regions. This limits the use of pesticide spray applications.

The desert soil is a mixture of sand and clay, which drains easily so the vines do not sit in water. The temperature extremes are ideally suited to white wine grapes. Cool desert nights and hot, sunny days (augmented by high altitude ultra violet rays), bring out the natural acids and sugars in the wine grapes. This means that Palisade's wine makers have little difficulty producing the brix levels they want, with many Colorado wines at 15 percent alcohol or more. Warm air whistling through Debeque Canyon to the east of Palisade protect the grape vines in the spring months, while heat radiates off the neighboring Bookcliffs in the summertime. Winter temperatures in Colorado can be very cold, but in Palisade and Grand Junction it has never been less than.

Located in Southwestern Colorado, the terroir of the West Elks AVA is fed by the North Fork of the Gunnison River. It encompasses an area between Delta, Montrose, Paonia and Hotchkiss. These are the nation's highest elevation vineyards, at above sea level, growing Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Noir. West Elks can by reached by driving south from Glenwood Springs, Hwy 133 over the beautiful McClure Pass; from Grand Junction, south on Hwy 50 to Delta, and east on Hwy 92; or from Montrose, north on Hwy 50 to Delta, then east on Hwy 92.

Low precipitation and canals allow West Elks growers to precisely control the water that feeds their grapes. However, cold winters lower the yields West Elks vineyards produce, growing less than one ton per acre, compared to about 3.5 tons in the Grand Valley AVA.

At least 95 percent of the state's vineyard acreage is planted in premium vitis vinifera varietals. The popularity of planted grape varietals in Colorado is, from greatest to least: Merlot, a tie between Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling, Chardonnay, Syrah, Pinot noir, Cabernet Franc, Gewürztraminer, Viognier.

Many of the vines in Colorado are "own-rooted," or grown with their original root stock and not grafted onto different roots, a common practice in viticulture. This helps the grapes develop the original flavors and characteristics that these varieties have long been noted for.

When to go
Late March is usually when the fruit orchards blossom, with the days averaging about, the nights about. Spring tastings happen at many of the vineyards in April and May, and are accompanied by food and wine pairings. High season occurs during the summer months of June, July and August. Late summer can range around in this desert biome, but is well worth the visit because the peaches and other fruit crops fill the fruit stands throughout the region. The West Elks AVA is best visited June–September, before the mountain passes become snowy. Autumn weather is mild and sunny during September, and the perfect time to visit. September is harvest time for the grapes, and home to Colorado Mountain Wine Fest, the official wine festival of the Colorado Association of Viticulture and Enology (CAVE). This increasingly popular four day festival is the Oktoberfest of Colorado's wine industry, so book your rooms early. It is the biggest event of the year in the Grand Valley, and hotel rooms fill quickly. The Wine Fest is accompanied by Tour de Vineyards, a bike-a-thon and chance to cycle to Palisade and Orchard Mesa wineries and sample the fare. The third week in September is also the height of the fall color season in Colorado, when the aspen and cottonwood trees change many brilliant colors of yellow, red and orange. October is a shoulder season where the weather is usually decent, but minus the crowds and high hotel prices. November through February are the slow months, when the Grand Valley shuts down for the winter. Bargain hunters can still book hotel rooms at drastically reduced prices, while a majority of the wineries and tasting rooms remain open. Be sure to call ahead, however. Western Colorado is home to an oil shale and natural gas boom, and many hotels are already full of energy workers needed to work the fields.

Wine resources
To sign up for a wine class or learn more about Colorado Wine, please visit this official link:

 * Western Colorado Research Center, A State-Funded Viticulture Program.

Get in
To visit the wine country, wine lovers are going to have fly and/or drive.

By plane
There are major airports in Denver and Grand Junction, and regional airports in Aspen, Vail and Telluride.

 * Denver International Airport, . Commonly referred to as DIA.  It is located about 20 miles to the east of downtown. Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines all maintain hubs at the airport in Concourses A, B, and C respectively. Most other major domestic carriers also have service here.
 * Grand Junction Regional Airport,, otherwise known as Walker Field, is served by five airlines with nonstop service to Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Phoenix and Salt Lake City. Some service is seasonal. For private pilots, it is also possible to fly your small plane into the airport and leave it while you tour the area. Taxi service is also available at the airport.
 * Rental car agencies at Walker Field include:
 * Rental car agencies at Walker Field include:

Taxi service is also available at the airport.
 * Vail/Eagle County Airport . 20 minutes west of Vail in Eagle.
 * Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, ), also known as Sardy Field. Major carriers to Aspen include United, American, Delta Air Lines, and Frontier Airlines. ASE is a small airport for small planes only, and traffic tends to stop in any inclement weather.
 * Telluride Regional Airport, is just outside of town that offers commercial flights to Phoenix in the winter, and year-round service to Denver.
 * Vail/Eagle County Airport . 20 minutes west of Vail in Eagle.
 * Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, ), also known as Sardy Field. Major carriers to Aspen include United, American, Delta Air Lines, and Frontier Airlines. ASE is a small airport for small planes only, and traffic tends to stop in any inclement weather.
 * Telluride Regional Airport, is just outside of town that offers commercial flights to Phoenix in the winter, and year-round service to Denver.
 * Telluride Regional Airport, is just outside of town that offers commercial flights to Phoenix in the winter, and year-round service to Denver.

By car

 * Montrose - US 50 runs east-west through town, from Grand Junction to the west and east to Gunnison and Pueblo. US 550 comes in from Albuquerque ending at the corner of Townsend Avenue and Main Street, in Montrose.
 * Grand Junction, Clifton and Palisade - Palisade and Grand Junction are on Interstate 70, about 40 minutes east of the Utah border and 4 hours west of Denver. From the South, (Telluride, Delta and Montrose), drivers can travel US 50 north.
 * Paonia - Paonia is 70 miles from Glenwood Springs on Highway 133. If you're in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park or Curecanti National Recreation Area take Highway 92 north. From Grand Junction take Highway 50 southeast to Highway 92 east for a total of about 70 miles.

By train
Amtrak serves nearby Grand Junction with the California Zephyr, which runs daily between Emeryville (in the San Francisco Bay Area) and Chicago. Amtrak and AAA partner to run several Wine Trains between Denver and Grand Junction each spring.

There is no train service to the communities in the West Elks AVA.

By bus

 * Grand Junction, Clifton and Palisade
 * Delta
 * Montrose
 * Montrose
 * Montrose

Get around
The Grand Valley's roads were originally designated by how many miles they were from the Utah border to the West. This "grid" was further defined by a North-South axis of roads demarcated by letters of the alphabet: A, B, C, etc. Unfortunately, the map collided with reality; the roads had to skirt a patchwork of fields and orchards. No one was willing to relinquish valuable arable land for orderly roads. The results are a bewildering amalgam of added fractions and decimals. Travelers may find themselves at F 3/4 Rd or D.50 Rd. The best answer is to grab a free map at one of the local Visitor's Centers or Chambers of Commerce.

Travel by car, bike, or rent a limo or shuttle service and go on a wine tasting tour. Please enjoy the wine in moderation and drink responsibly. Colorado's drunk driving laws are strict.

There are tour services available, as well.

Itineraries

 * Palisade to Grand Junction The wineries are clustered in the town of Palisade and on Orchard Mesa. After your tour, follow Interstate 70 along the Colorado River from Palisade to the foot of the spectacular Colorado National Monument just west of Grand Junction.
 * Delta, Montrose, Paonia & Hotchkiss Follow US 92 west along the Gunnison River. Turn north on US 65 and stop at the wineries along Surface Creek, on the south slope of Grand Mesa, the largest flattop mountain in the world. Or, travel along the North Fork of the Gunnison River on US 92 east out of Delta and then US 133. This will take you to Hotchkiss and Paonia, where you will find yourself in the West Elks AVA.

Do
Tour the wineries and sample the vintages in a casual atmosphere complemented by mountain or desert scenery. The free tours and tastings are laid back, informative and family friendly. Colorado's Wine Country offers many complex reds and whites for serious wine lovers. Most of these little wine towns also tend orchards, so many wineries produce an assortment of fruit and dessert wines. There are a wide variety of sweet wines and blushes to satisfy even the most inveterate sweet tooth. Not every vineyard offers a tasting room, while some open by appointment only. These vineyards are included because they are still available on wine lists and are sold at area liquor stores.

Grand Valley AVA Wineries

West Elks AVA Wineries

Festivals & events
This is strictly a list of wine events; there are many great food festivals in Colorado, as well:
 * April Taste of Vail, Palisade “Barrel Into Spring” Barrel Tasting (first weekend)
 * May Palisade “Barrel Into Spring” Barrel Tasting (second weekend)
 * June Manitou Springs Colorado Wine Festival, Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Telluride Wine Festival, Boulder Food and Wine Festival
 * July Castle Rock WineFest
 * August Taste of Grand County Wine, Mesa Verde Country Wine & Art Festival, Corks & Forks in Westminster
 * September Snowmass Wine Festival, Vino & Notes - A Wine, Food & Jazz Festival in Woodland Park, Colorado Mountain Winefest in Palisade
 * November Denver International Wine Festival

Other attractions
In addition to art galleries throughout the region, Colorado's Wine Country is also home to several unique art centers, museums, theater troupes, orchestras and concert halls.

Buy
It is not necessary to have visited a Colorado winery prior to ordering wine to be shipped. However, as each state's shipping laws are different, whether a winery can ship directly to a buyer depends on whether the buyer's home state will allow it and whether the winery has purchased a shipping license for that state. Many of those licenses are prohibitively expensive for small wineries with very limited production. So please check with each winery about shipping to a location prior to ordering.

Eat
Colorado's Wine Country is home to many succulent local foods: Sweet corn from Olathe, peaches from Palisade, as well as cherries, apples, apricots, plums, pears and honey. There are numerous produce stands where you can shop for fresh fruit and vegetables in season. Also, many of the stands sell locally made brands of salsa, jam, preserves, and other condiments that are flavorful and unique. Fine restaurants and homey diners abound throughout the region. Be sure to ask for Colorado wines on wine lists and any unique Colorado food and wine pairings.

Drink
Don't just drink wine; look, smell, taste, savor, learn and enjoy. Tasting wines is an adventure that will grow your appreciation for both wines and winemakers. Depending on the size of the winery, you may need to pay in hard cash. In theory, you can pay by credit card, but the option is usually unavailable. Colorado's Wine Country is also home to many meaderies, microbreweries and hard liquor distillers.

Sleep
Your visit can include a stay at any number of comfortable hotels, inns or area bed & breakfasts. Other than Montrose and Grand Junction, hotels are few and far between in the more sparsely populated parts of the region. Check out individual city/town listings for more information. Here are a few top picks:

Internet access
Most hotels and coffee shops throughout the region offer wireless Wi-Fi access. But if you don't have a computer, try the public libraries.

Cope

 * Pamper yourself. There are a handful of day spas outside of the resort towns, offering facials, manicures, pedicures, hot stones, body wraps, massages, aromatherapy and other indulgences.
 * Binge on Chocolate. If things aren't going according to plan, medicate yourself with some premium handcrafted sweets.
 * Soak in a hot spring. Relax in a heated geothermal pool. A good reward for children who have been dragged along to wineries all day.
 * Soak in a hot spring. Relax in a heated geothermal pool. A good reward for children who have been dragged along to wineries all day.
 * Soak in a hot spring. Relax in a heated geothermal pool. A good reward for children who have been dragged along to wineries all day.

Stay safe
The rural communities in Colorado's Wine Country are relatively safe compared to the Front Range.

Don't underestimate the Colorado climate. Temperatures swing wildly in the spring and fall, with warm days and cool nights. If you go for a hike, don't forget to bring a waterproof jacket. Most cases of hypothermia in Colorado occur in the summer. Even though this area is green and irrigated, it's still a desert. Stay hydrated, especially while sampling wine.

One note of caution - some people find that their alcohol tolerance is lower at higher altitudes. Drink slowly until you acclimate, or you may end up with nausea and a killer hangover.

Go next
Wine tasting easily combines with any Colorado itinerary. After seeing the wine country, drive to Telluride, Aspen or Vail. Or see a national park in the area: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park.

Other places in Colorado where wine is grown include the Four Corners region and the Front Range.

title: Colorado's Wine Country


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Colorado Bend State Park

Colorado Bend State Park is in the German Hill Country of Texas.

History
Colorado Bend State Park is one of the newer additions to the Texas State Park system, having opened its gates in 1987.

Landscape
waterfalls and mountains

Climate
The January average temperature is 46.2 °F (7.8 °C), while the July average is 85.9 °F (31.9 °C). Historically, the first freeze is on November 20th, and the last freeze is around March 11.

Get in
The only way into the park is via a 6-mile paved road that meanders through the park providing great views of the landscape and wildlife.

Get around
The park has many trails for hiking and biking, but some trails are off limits for cyclists.

See
Many a great birding opportunity on the trails, and a chance to see the rare Bald Eagles that nest around nearby Lake Buchanan.

Buy
The office sells firewood and other odds-and-ends, but not much else.

Eat
Bring enough food to last you, as there are no stores within a significant distance.

Drink
Lots of water! Public display or consumption of alcoholic beverages in the park (and all Texas State Parks) is prohibited, and you can and will be thrown out if you cause too much trouble. Also, alcohol dehydrates the body. Stick to water or sports drinks.

Lodging
No cabins or shelters are available in this park.

Camping
There are two tent camping areas, with sparse amenities. This is a state park to visit if you want to know what camping is all about. Campsites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and posts to hang lanterns on so you can see at night. There are water faucets nearby both camping areas, but no electrical or sewage hookups. If you are looking for a place to take an RV, this is not it.

Backcountry
There are two backpacking sites for those who really enjoy getting off the beaten trail. One site is 1.3 miles away from water and compost toilet, the other is 6. If you want to see Texas the way Texas was when the first settlers came, this is a great opportunity. Ground fires are prohibited in these areas, and the closest town is 35 miles away, so make sure to pack enough containerized fuel. Remember, leave no traces.

Stay safe
As with anywhere in Texas, the weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for the heat, and stay hydrated. This area is also prone to flash flooding. As the State Park Service best put it: It is advisable to leave the park if heavy rain is expected. Make sure to watch for snakes on all trails and near the riverside camping locations, as the grass can be quite tall after a rain, and before maintenance can mow. Fire ants are also a problem in the area, so make sure to scout the area well before pitching a tent! This is a wild area and skunks, raccoons, and other (generally) harmless creatures might enjoy rummaging through your garbage as you sleep, so make sure to bring a container with a secure lid, lest you be woken up by mother natures little bandits!

Go next

 * San Saba
 * Llano
 * Lampasas

title: Colorado Bend State Park


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Colorado City

Colorado City is a city of 4,900 people (2018) straddling the Utah/Arizona border, although most of the city is on the Arizona side. The Utah portion is known as Hildale.

Colorado City is the largest and best-known polygamist community in the United States, and there are few facilities for travelers.

Understand
Mormon pioneers first settled in Utah and neighboring states in 1848 to avoid persecution and to live their faith, which included a belief in polygamy. In 1890, amidst heavy pressure from the United States Government, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints renounced polygamy and to this day continues to forswear the practice.

Some Mormons, however, never accepted the church doctrine and Federal law that forbid polygamy. They continued to practice "plural marriage". As their viewpoints were no longer accepted by the mainstream Church, they founded splinter groups such as the "Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints" (FLDS) and usually lived in remote communities, keeping mostly to themselves. Colorado City is one such community.

The FLDS remains the most influential organisation in the city - Virtually all land is owned by the United Effort Plan, an FLDS corporation, and its members are found in the local government, the police force, and the schooling system. While Colorado City has survived an infamous anti-polygamy raid in 1953, its future remains uncertain. Detractors, including those formerly associated with the Fundamentalist community, say the church leader exercises extreme control over its members and on his orders may reassign wives or banish men.

The FLDS is widely believed by many to be a cult, and in the spring of 2005, the Southern Poverty Law Centre designated it as a "hate group" because of the church's racist doctrines.

A state investigation began over allegations that some underage women were taken as brides in the community and that the local police worked to squelch any investigation about the practice. Community members are also embroiled in a property tax dispute as well as disputes over attempts to evict dissenting residents.

In 2007, Warren Jeffs, whom FLDS adherents regard as their leader and prophet, was convicted in a Utah court as an accomplice to rape, even though his only connection to the alleged victim was as officiant at her wedding. In 2008, more attention was thrust on the community when Texas rangers conducted a botched raid on a FLDS ranch based on a crank phone call. Some outside observers have commented that all this unwanted attention has caused the community to open up somewhat. A handful of small shops have opened, and the presence of visitors is now more or less tolerated.

An unusual and uninviting place for tourists to go, Colorado City might nonetheless be a worthwhile stop for those undertaking a Mormon history tour, or for anyone who wants to see a community that has struggled for years to isolate itself and maintain its own traditions.

Get in
Colorado City is one of the most remote communities in the lower 48 states, both in terms of distance to other cities and in terms of separation from mainstream American culture. But it is along Utah State Route 59/Arizona State 389 and easily reached from Hurricane, Utah.

The nearest airport with commercial service is St. George (Utah). Colorado City is a 55-min drive from there.

Tours
A company started by two former FLDS members, both lifelong residents of the community, offers tours of the town, including a picnic lunch in the Vermilion cliffs. Their tours offer visitors the opportunity to "frame the previously closed community with detail and respect." . Given the dearth of information about this community and its residents, a guided tour might be a worthwhile way to visit the town.

Get around
With less than 3,000 residents, everything is within walking distance. Another way to explore the town quickly is by car.

See
There are numerous unfinished houses in Colorado City. You may also see that local residents dress modestly, often wearing hand sewn clothes similar to what Western settlers wore a hundred years ago.

Do
Unless you are a Fundamentalist LDS church member, there is little more to do here other than to drive by and look at this unusual community and its residents. There is a small playground at the city park.

 * Hike Canaan Mountain - One of the most incredible hikes anywhere! Begin in Hildale (across the state line, but still the same community) This can be done as a hike in and back to where you started or hike from Water Canyon to Eagle Crags in Rockville

 * Hike Water Canyon - This is an impressive canyon that the guides in Springdale use to teach canyoneering. Anyone however with gear and knowledge can descend the canyon.  Water Canyon is not just for canyoneers.  It is a gorgeous hike through a water filled canyon.

 * Squirrel Canyon - This approach to Canaan Mountain is not as impressive as the Water Canyon direction but it is an alternative. Most that do the hike, enter Squirrel Canyon, hike on Canaan Mountain and exit via Water Canyon.

Buy
FLDS clothes - Traditional dresses and other clothing may be offered for sale.

Drink
Colorado City has few bars, and FLDS members do not drink alcohol.

Sleep
There's a few small hotels and "glamping" opportunities on the Utah side.

Stay safe
FLDS members generally feel that their customs have been misunderstood by outsiders. They have gone to great lengths to practice their religion without outside interference and they are often distrustful of outsiders. Because of this, many local residents may not want to interact with you.

The police include adherents of FLDS and may arrest those whom they feel are disturbing the peace or trespassing. However, if you are respectful to the police and the locals, you shouldn't have any problems.

If you are asked to leave, do so. Virtually all real estate in the town is owned by the FLDS. It is advisable to practice vigilance.

Go next
With absolutely nothing inviting to tourists in Colorado City you likely will drive out only a few minutes after arriving. Colorado City is about a 30-minute drive to Pipe Spring National Monument. Pipe Spring is also of Mormon significance and is far more inviting to visitors.

Drive the Historic Smithsonian Butte Backway. From Colorado City, drive approximately 9 miles west on Az 389 soon becoming Ut 59, and look for the dirt road at Big Plain Junction.Turn right onto the dirt road. This is an unpaved road that travels from near Colorado City to Rockville and is 8.5 miles long. Along the way is the popular Gooseberry Mesa Mountain Bike Trail System and grand views to the north of Zion National Park. The road was named by John Wesley Powell.

From Colorado City its a quick jaunt to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park on dirt back roads. Drive 4 miles east on Az 389 toward Grand Canyon and turn north on the paved road to Cane Beds. The road is paved for about 4 miles and then becomes dirt and sand. Continue north on the dirt road as it passes through Rosy Canyon. The road is paved once again when entering Utah, and shortly after Coral Pink Sand Dunes appear.

title: Colorado City


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Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument is a United States national monument in Northwestern Colorado.

Landscape
Colorado National Monument preserves one of the grand landscapes of the American West. Towering monoliths exist within a vast plateau and canyon panorama. You can experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the twists and turns of Rim Rock Drive, where you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles.

Visitor information

 * Park website

Get in

 * Denver International Airport, . Commonly referred to as DIA.  It is located about 20 miles to the east of downtown Denver. Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines all maintain hubs at the airport in Concourses A, B, and C respectively. Most other major domestic carriers also have service here.
 * Grand Junction Regional Airport,, otherwise known as Walker Field, is served by six airlines with nonstop service to Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, and Las Vegas. Some service is seasonal. For private pilots, it is also possible to fly your small plane into the airport and leave it while you tour the area. Most hotels on Horizon Drive offer shuttle service from the airport. Taxi service is also available at the airport.

By car

 * Interstate 70 runs east-west just north of town. Grand Junction is about 30 minutes east of the Utah border and 4 hours west of Denver.
 * US 50 runs north-south beginning in downtown, running south to Delta and Montrose, then turning east towards Gunnison and Pueblo.
 * US 6 runs east-west parallel to Interstate 70.
 * US 139 runs north south, rejoining I-70 west of Grand Junction, in Loma. US 139 travels north over Douglas Pass to Rangely.

By train
Amtrak serves nearby Grand Junction with the California Zephyr, which runs daily between Emeryville (in the San Francisco Bay Area) and Chicago. For more information, see rail travel in the US.

But once at the rail station, you will still have to rent a car.

By bus

 * Grand Junction, Clifton and Palisade

By bike
For extreme mountain bikers, it's possible to follow the Kokopelli Trail from Moab, Utah, then join up with the trail system of the monument. This is a five or six day, strenuous excursion where you must pack in your own food, shelter and water.

There's another north-south running slick rock trail that fat tire enthusiasts can follow into town:

Fees and permits
Entrances fees are valid for seven days, allowing unlimited re-entry for the week. Fees as of 2020 are:
 * $15 Individual Entrance Fee (Hiker, Bicyclist)
 * $20 Motorcycle Entrance Fee
 * $25 Private Non-commercial Vehicle Entrance Fee
 * $45 Colorado National Monument Annual Pass

Do

 * Rim Rock Drive
 * Hiking
 * Bicycling
 * Climbing
 * Horseback Riding

Backcountry
Backcountry camping is also permitted.

Go next

 * Colorado's Wine Country - Colorado is home to over 70 wineries and its own indigenous vineyards. Wine lovers can enjoy several scenic day trips from the Monument to many of the small towns that grow their own grapes. These lovely little communities include Montrose, Palisade, Paonia, Delta and Hotchkiss, as well as the city of Grand Junction.
 * The Monument can also act as the hub for a series of day trips to Telluride, Aspen and Vail, as well as Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Dinosaur National Monument, Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park.

title: Colorado National Monument