Colorado is known for its mountain landscapes, breathtaking vistas, and craft brews, and you can enjoy all those things and more for free.
From scenic drives and ghost towns to world-class hikes and off-grid camping, Colorado offers a dizzying array of sights and activities at no cost.
1. Hike around Red Rocks Amphitheatre
World-renowned for its natural acoustics and stunning beauty, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is an outdoor theatre built between towering 400ft-high red sandstone rocks. Summer nights bring big-name bands and sold-out crowds; however, the amphitheater and surrounding area are open and free to visit during the day.
Explore the venue, check out the panoramic views, and then hit the many miles of trails through the surrounding meadows and remarkable namesake red rock formations.
2. Drive the Million Dollar Highway
Deep in the San Juan Mountains, the Million Dollar Highway is one of Colorado’s most mind-blowing scenic drives. Stretching between the towns of Ouray and Silverton, tight hairpin turns cut through the Uncompahgre Gorge, where steep mountainsides loom large and the valley below is dotted with fir trees and wildflowers.
Planning Tip: Drive with caution. The road is formidable, even in good weather, and the lack of guardrails doesn’t help. Take advantage of pullouts, as the Red Mountain Pass (11,018ft) is a favorite for its 360-degree views.
3. Climb Colorado’s 14ers
Colorado is home to more than 50 peaks higher than 14,000ft (hence the name “14ers”), each offering breathtaking views from the top. While hiking at altitude can be challenging, the variety of 14ers in the state allows access for all levels of hikers.
Whether you decide to hike the short 3-mile trail to Quandary Peak near Breckenridge or tackle a multi-day route to Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park, each offers significant reward.
4. Learn about Native culture at Hovenweep National Monument
Ancient culture and natural beauty interweave at Hovenweep National Monument, occupying a vibrant desert landscape. The site encompasses six Ancestral Puebloan villages, inhabited from 500 to 1300 CE.
Today, several dwellings, ceremonial kivas, and sandstone towers remain, offering a fascinating glimpse into the artistic skills of ancient inhabitants.
5. Visit Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is a spectacular showcase of red sandstone rock set against a stunning mountain backdrop. Explore the park’s intricate network of trails past mammoth boulders and exquisitely thin pinnacles. Bring a picnic and enjoy the views while watching rock climbers test their skills on towering walls.
A visitor center provides hands-on exhibits, and knowledgeable rangers are available to share tips and maps.
Planning Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
6. Get creative at Anderson Ranch Art Center
Anderson Ranch Art Center is a vibrant cultural hub for the region, located on a five-acre historic ranch outside of Aspen. Visitors can observe renowned artists at work and wander through the sculpture gardens while enjoying contemporary art exhibits.
Planning Tip: Free cultural events, including lectures and workshops, are offered throughout the year.
7. Go dispersed camping
Dispersed camping—camping on federal lands away from established campgrounds—is a unique way to experience Colorado’s outdoors without crowds or fees.
With nearly 23 million acres of public land in Colorado, options abound from mountain peaks to high desert mesas.
Planning Tip: Most dispersed camping areas are accessible by dirt roads. Stop at ranger stations for maps and look for tent symbols while traveling.
8. Get spooked in St Elmo ghost town
St Elmo is Colorado’s best-preserved ghost town, an abandoned mining settlement at the base of the Collegiate Peaks. Over 40 buildings remain, dating back to the 1880s when it thrived.
Visitors can walk past the saloon and jail, gaining a fascinating insight into Colorado’s rich mining history.
Planning Tip: It’s popular during summer weekends; however, a well-maintained dirt road takes visitors to St Elmo year-round.
9. Dress up for Frozen Dead Guy Days
Frozen Dead Guy Days is a quirky spring festival in Nederland, attracting over 25,000 people. This three-day event celebrates Grandpa Bredo Morstoel, a Norwegian who is cryogenically frozen in a local shed. Enjoy a hearse parade, coffin races, and other eccentric activities.
Planning Tip: Costumes are encouraged—aim for the weirdest ones!
10. Tour Great Divide Brewing Company
Colorado takes its craft brewing seriously, treating it as a high art. Among the distinguished breweries, Great Divide Brewing Company consistently stands out, earning numerous awards for its bold and balanced beers.
Planning Tip: Free family-friendly tours of its downtown Denver brewhouse are offered daily, with limited capacity. This visit provides a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.
