Northern Colorado

The wind whips wild and free through the northern reaches of Colorado. In the east you will find vast stretches of grasslands, and playful nights and more brewpubs than people in the foothills college town of Fort Collins. Continue west through vertiginous canyons to the snowcapped peaks, wildflower-choked meadows and towering mountains of Rocky Mountain National Park. Further toward the Western Slope you will also find world-class skiing and gorgeous hot springs in Steamboat. While in the places in between you will find laid-back adventures by horse, by foot, by mountain bike and by boat.

Attractions

Must-see attractions for your itinerary

Great Stupa of Dharmakaya
Northern Colorado
The Great Stupa of Dharmakaya has an electrifying energy and is one of the most significant examples of Buddhist architecture in North America. It's…
Moraine Park Discovery Center
Northern Colorado
Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1923 and once the park’s proud visitors lodge, this building has been renovated in recent years to host…
Dinosaur National Monument
Northern Colorado
Straddling the Utah-Colorado state line, Dinosaur National Monument protects one of North America's largest dinosaur fossil beds, discovered here in 1909…
Mount Zirkel Wilderness
Steamboat Springs
One of the five original wilderness areas in Colorado, Mount Zirkel Wilderness is an untamed, roadless expanse dotted with icy glacial lakes and granite…
Fish Creek Falls
Steamboat Springs
Just 5 miles out of town, Fish Creek Falls is a wonderful hike for families. The 0.8-mile loop takes you to a scenic overlook with views across to the…
Swetsville Zoo
Northern Colorado
Bill Swets, a former farmer, volunteer firefighter and insomniac, created a scrap-metal menagerie during his restless nights, a whimsical roadside…
Pearl Lake State Park
Steamboat Springs
A glorious spot for camping and canoeing, this small alpine lake backs up to aspen and evergreen forests, and has some excellent lake-front campsites ($20…
Rocky Mountain National Park
Northern Colorado
On top of the world, this mighty national park is home to loads of wild animals, plenty of great backwoods hiking and top scenic drives that are choked…

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Articles

Latest stories from Northern Colorado

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Gorgeous walking country in Rocky Mountains National Park

Hiking

How to conquer the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Oct 8, 2021 • 6 min read

Easy access to dramatic peaks and wild wilderness makes Rocky Mountain National Park a wonder for day hikers and adventure nuts. Here are the park's best hikes.