Great news, Coloradans: spring is just around the corner! Even though the Centennial State has seemed to forget about winter altogether (hello, 60-degree days), the spring solstice just makes this beautiful season all-the-more official. If you are ready to get out and really celebrate this wonderful weather and gorgeous scenery, you are going to want to experience these seven Colorado springtime wonders:
1. Rockies baseball
Flickr/- Adam Reeder –
C’mon… you know we couldn’t begin this list without mentioning our beloved boys in purple! To experience the true epitome of spring, grab your friends, head to Coors Field, drink a few brews, and enjoy the feel of a warm Denver breeze and the sounds of a wooden bat hitting the ball. (Side note: ignore our pre-season record. This WILL be our year!)
2. Crested Butte Trail 403
TripAdvisor/MtnLvr2013
If you are searching for a scenic walk that is lined with colorful and fragrant wildflowers, look no further than Crested Butte’s Trail 403, a nearly 8-mile out-and-back trail that passes through lush meadows, mature trees, steep cliffs, and — of course — colorful wildflowers! If you think this picture looks pretty, wait until you see it in person…
3. Visit your four-legged pals at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Flickr/mrwynd
Located just above Colorado Springs, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the nation’s ONLY mountain zoo; it sits at an elevation of 6,714 feet above sea level and was recently named one of the best zoos in the country. When you visit, make plans to stay all day, as the zoo is home to a wide variety of local, aquatic, and exotic wildlife, such as these friendly giraffes.
4. Attend a springtime festival
Taste of Vail Facebook
One of my favorite things about spring (aside from the temperature, of course) are the countless festivals taking place around the state. Whether you hit up the iconic Taste of Vail, Denver’s fun and festive Cinco de Mayo festival, or the tasty Fruita Fat Tire Festival, you are guaranteed to be getting the most out of your Colorado springtime!
5. Stroll the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens
Western Colorado Botanical Gardens Facebook
Okay, Grand Junction/Western Slopers – this one is for you! The Western Colorado Botanical Gardens feature more than 12 acres of stunning gardens and butterflies that are sure to put you in the springtime spirit. Don’t live anywhere near the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens? No problem, as Colorado is home to a number of other lovely gardens like the Denver Botanic Gardens, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and Yampa River Botanic Park.
6. Hike the Maroon Bells
Flickr/slack12
No matter the season, it is always the PERFECT time to visit the Maroon Bells, which is as famous for its views as it is for its hike. Pro tip: visit the Maroon Bells once every season, as it is always changing, yet always keeps its unforgettable natural beauty.
7. Photograph Hanging Lake
Wikimedia Commons
Last, but certainly not least on our list of the seven wonders of a Colorado springtime, is none other than the jaw-dropping Hanging Lake. The water is an incredible aqua color due to travertine deposition that was originally created by dissolved limestone from the Mississippian Period Leadville Formation. Unfortunately, due to disrespectful visitors who insist on swimming in and dumping their trash into this pristine body of water, you may soon need a designated pass, so be sure to double check before you hit the trail.
