If you’ve set your sights on the majestic state of Colorado, you’re in for a treat that includes way more than just the standard postcard-worthy attractions.
Though you should certainly explore the state’s top destinations, don’t limit your trip to these experiences. In this short visitor’s guide, we’ll walk you through some of Colorado’s hidden gems, places that promise adventure and beauty.
Discover the magic of Bishop Castle
Your first stop is Bishop Castle, a one-man architectural wonder that you have to see to believe. Jim Bishop, the mastermind behind this fairy-tale fortress, began building it over 60 years ago, and it’s as whimsical as it is awe-inspiring.
Picture this: towering stone walls, stained glass windows that play with the Colorado sun, and a fire-breathing dragon, all nestled in the Pike-San Isabel National Forest.
Wander through the Paint Mines Interpretive Park
Next, we whisk you away to the Paint Mines Interpretive Park, a lesser-known Colorado marvel that boasts ethereal landscapes. Imagine walking through a kaleidoscope.
Here, wind and water have sculpted the earth into spires and hoodoos that burst with colors ranging from stark white to vibrant reds and oranges. Perfect for photos and even better for the soul, this place truly is a hidden gem that gives you plenty of reasons to disconnect from technology in Colorado.
Refresh at the Dunton Hot Springs
For those who relish a bit of pampering in the midst of nature, Dunton Hot Springs offers a luxurious respite. Nestled in an extraordinarily restored ghost town, this exclusive resort offers hot springs in stunning outdoor settings.
Imagine soaking in therapeutic waters amid snow-capped mountains or beneath a starlit sky. It’s an intimate, rejuvenating experience.
Explore the mystical Crystal Mill
Lastly, adventure calls at the Crystal Mill, a historical wooden powerhouse perched precariously above the Crystal River. Accessible only by a 4×4 trail, reaching it is part of the thrill.
Once there, you’ll be rewarded with one of Colorado’s most photographable scenes. The mill, with its rugged charm against the backdrop of azure skies and lush forests, looks plucked from a vintage postcard.
In wrapping up this short visitor’s guide to Colorado’s hidden gems, remember that adventure doesn’t always shout from the mountaintops. Sometimes, it whispers from the secluded nooks awaiting your discovery. Here’s to exploring the less trodden paths and collecting memories and stories that sparkle as brightly as the Colorado night sky. Cheers to your next great adventure!
