You’ve asked for it, and here it is! After exploring Colorado for decades, I’ve compiled a list of the most beautiful places in the state that you may not have heard of. This is a sequel to my previous post on the most beautiful places in Colorado. If you think I missed any hidden gems, feel free to share them. Let’s dive into these stunning locations!
1. Lake Agnes
First up is Lake Agnes, located in Colorado State Forest State Park, which borders Rocky Mountain National Park. This colorful lake is a sight to behold and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. You will need a state park pass to hike here.
2. Willow Creek Area
Next, we have the Willow Creek area in the Gore Range, north of Silverthorne. The highlight here is Willow Lakes, which requires a long and challenging hike to reach (11.5 miles). However, the breathtaking views and serene environment make the effort worthwhile.
3. Upper Animas River
The Upper Animas River, particularly the Animas Forks ghost town area, is another beautiful destination. This well-preserved ghost town offers stunning views and a glimpse into Colorado’s history. If you’re a fan of ghost towns, be sure to follow my Youtube channel, as I have a video coming out soon about the best ghost towns in Colorado!
4. Mesa Verde National Park
You may have heard of Mesa Verde National Park, but it’s worth mentioning again. The park is famous for its incredible cliff dwellings. If you plan ahead, you can sign up for tours that allow you to explore these fascinating structures up close.
5. Rattlesnake Arches
Did you know that the second-largest grouping of arches in the U.S. isn’t in Utah but in Colorado? The Rattlesnake Arches area is a stunning location filled with numerous arches and breathtaking views of the canyon below. It’s a must-visit for any nature lover.
6. Independence Pass
Independence Pass, which connects Aspen to Twin Lakes, offers spectacular views from the top. The drive itself is a visual treat, with stunning scenery all around. It’s a perfect spot for a scenic drive or a quick photo op.
7. Ice Lake Basin
Ice Lake Basin is another beautiful location that you may have heard of. While Ice Lake is stunning on its own, the basin also features Island Lake, vibrant wildflowers, and multiple waterfalls. It’s a fantastic place to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature.
8. Last Dollar Road
Last Dollar Road near Telluride is a picturesque drive that offers breathtaking views. If you don’t want to tackle the entire road, there’s a fantastic viewing spot exactly 7.7 miles from the start, where you can capture amazing views of Mount Wilson and the surrounding landscape.
9. Hot Springs: Pagosa and Strawberry
On opposite sides of Colorado, we have two beautiful hot springs: Pagosa Hot Springs, with its stunning rock formations along the river, and Strawberry Hot Springs near Steamboat Springs, known for its natural pools. Both are perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring. If you’re interested in more hot springs, check out my video on that topic!
10. Cottonwood Pass
Cottonwood Pass connects Taylor Park and Buena Vista, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The drive is scenic and provides ample opportunities for photography and enjoying the great outdoors.
Runner-Ups
Before we wrap up, here are a couple of runner-ups worth mentioning. The Lower Gunnison Canyon is equally beautiful and can be explored at various spots between Delta and Grand Junction. While I didn’t include Glenwood Canyon in this list, it’s also a stunning location that I touched on in my previous post about Hanging Lake.
Additionally, St. Mary’s Glacier is a beautiful lake and glacier located less than an hour from Denver, making it an accessible destination for those looking to escape the city.
Gear Recommendations
Before embarking on your adventures in the Camp Hale Continental Divide National Monument, make sure you’re equipped with the right gear. Below are some recommendations based on my years of testing:
- Darn Tough Socks: Made in Vermont, these socks are warm, cozy, and come with a lifetime guarantee.
- Grayl Water Filters: I’ve relied on these filters for hundreds of miles of backpacking, ensuring clean drinking water on the go.
- Latitude 40 Maps: Created right here in Colorado, these maps are the most accurate and detailed for the Colorado and Utah areas.
I would never suggest a product that I haven’t used vigorously over many years.
I know some of you might be wondering why I didn’t mention certain canyons, waterfalls, or alpine lakes. The reason is that I wanted each of these places to have their own dedicated blogs and videos. If you’re interested in exploring more of Colorado’s hidden gems, be sure to check out my maps and my Youtube channel.
Thank you for joining me on this journey to discover Colorado’s hidden beauty! Happy exploring!
