Colorado is an outdoor recreational playground, with plenty of amazing vacation destinations to choose from. Some of the best vacation spots in Colorado include: Breckenridge, Aspen, Vail, and Telluride. All three of these mountain towns offer unbeatable skiing in the winter and MTB in the summer. All set in the most picturesque mountain towns imaginable. So, when you are searching for new Colorado vacation spots for your next outdoor adventure, start with this list of the top four best mountain towns.

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Editor Notes:

I spent a year living in Colorado and am in love with the lifestyle there. Summer was spent trail running through forests and along streams. Winter was spent skiing the best mountains in the world. As a passionate outdoorsman, there is no better place than Colorado. My favorite towns are, “the towns that were towns, before they were ski towns” as my CO native friends would say.

Vacationing in Breckenridge

Located in Summit County, Breckenridge is one of the oldest ski towns in all of Colorado. With over 186 trails and five terrain parks among its four peaks at an elevation of 9600 feet, this town offers exceptional skiing and boarding for all levels. The town also features plenty of charming shops and restaurants to explore after a day on the slopes.

Breckenridge, Colorado is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, the town boasts stunning views of snow-capped peaks and sprawling forests. Vacationers can enjoy a variety of activities, from skiing and snowboarding on the slopes to hiking through lush meadows. The endless activities makes Breckenridge one of the best vacation spots in Colorado.

Summer in Breckenridge

In the summer months, Breckenridge is home to some of the best mountain biking trails in the state. There are several options for all levels of biking enthusiasts, ranging from beginner-friendly green runs to more challenging double black diamonds.

If you’re looking for a break from the adrenaline rush of downhill biking, Breckenridge also offers plenty of peaceful nature walks where visitors can take in spectacular views while listening to the sounds of babbling brooks and singing birds. Local wildlife like deer and marmots can often be spotted along these trails, making it an ideal way to experience nature up close.

For those who seek thrills without leaving town, Breckenridge’s Main Street is full of fun activities. Take an afternoon to explore its vibrant shops, galleries and museums before grabbing dinner at one of its many cozy restaurants. The area also has live music venues that provide year-round entertainment for locals and visitors alike.

Whether you’re looking for a high-energy adventure or a relaxing getaway, Breckenridge has something for everyone! With its stunning scenery, variety of outdoor activities and vibrant nightlife scene, vacationing in this beautiful mountain town is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Aspen Vacation Ideas

Located in Pitkin County, Aspen was first developed as a silver-mining camp during the late 1800s. Today it is known for its luxurious ski resort which offers access to four different mountains with over 100 runs combined. The history and glamour of Aspen makes it the best vacation spot in Colorado in my opinion.

Aspen, Colorado is a picturesque mountain town that offers visitors a variety of activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or quaint charm, it will be easy to craft the perfect itinerary for your trip to Aspen.

Start off your vacation by taking in some of the breathtaking landscapes that make this area so special. Take a scenic drive up Independence Pass and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and explore the backcountry trails accessed from nearby Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area.

When it comes time to dine out, you won’t have to go far – Aspen is home to a wide range of restaurants with something to suit all tastes. From upscale bistros serving locally sourced fare to cozy cafes with down-home cooking, there’s something for everyone here. Don’t forget to save room for dessert – there’s also no shortage of delicious ice cream parlors and bakeries in town!

Once you’ve filled your belly, take advantage of some unique shopping opportunities! Specialty stores like Mother Freedom offer handmade goods crafted by local artisans while more traditional retailers line the main streets with fashionable finds. Be sure to pick up souvenirs along the way so you can remember your Aspen getaway long after it ends.

The Best Aspen Vacation

For those who can’t get enough of nature, plan ahead and book one of Aspen’s many guided tours – from jeep rides through rugged terrain to horseback excursions through mesmerizing meadows, these experiences are sure to leave lasting memories! If skiing or snowboarding is more your speed, choose from four world-class ski resorts located conveniently near downtown Aspen – giving you easy access to powdery slopes come wintertime.

No matter how you plan it, a trip to Aspen is sure to be filled with exciting memories and experiences so start planning today! With its incredible scenery and abundance of recreational activities, this charming mountain town will provide adventure no matter what time of year you visit!

Visiting Vail Colorado

Vail is considered one of the premier ski destinations worldwide thanks to its expansive 5,289 acres across seven legendary back bowls. Located off I70, Vail is convenient to get to and the ideal destination for a vacation filled with adventure and stunning natural beauty. Vail also boasts easy access to quaint Alpine villages as well as world-class dining options that make it perfect for those seeking a luxurious getaway experience.

Begin by exploring the majestic mountains that make Vail one of the most desirable destinations in Colorado. Take a gondola ride up to Mid-Vail and soak in the panoramic views of the White River National Forest, or get a bird’s eye view from atop Eagle’s Nest Gondola. For those looking for more interactive experiences, take advantage of some of the unique guided tours offered in town – from snowshoeing through powdery trails to helicopter rides over snow-capped peaks, you won’t want to miss out on these thrilling adventures!

What to do in Vail Colorado

After taking in the scenery, head downtown and check out the wide selection of dining options available in Vail Village. Try something new at local favorites like Sweet Basil or Game Creek Restaurant, or grab a quick bite at one of many fast-casual eateries. Don’t forget to leave some room for dessert – Vail has no shortage of delicious bakeries and ice cream shops sure to satisfy even the sweetest cravings.

Once you’ve refueled, take some time to explore all that this charming mountain town has to offer – from art galleries showcasing local talent to shops filled with everything from apparel and jewelry to souvenirs and gifts. There are plenty of indoor activities as well – visit Betty Ford Alpine Gardens for spectacular displays year-round or catch a show at The Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater on summer evenings.

Finally, don’t miss out on what makes Vail such a popular winter destination – its impressive ski resorts! With five world-class resorts located conveniently near town (including Vail Ski Resort), it will be easy to hit the slopes whenver you please during your stay. Whether you’re an experienced skier or just getting started on your skiing journey, you’ll find ample opportunities for fun here!

No matter how you plan it, a vacation in Vail is sure to be an unforgettable experience! If you are ready to book one of the best vacation spots in Colorado, use this link to save on your hotel booking.

Editor Notes: I’ve been to Vail a few times and love the connivence. There is a key distinction between Vail and the other resorts on this list. Vail was built to be a ski town, while the other spots were towns before they were ski towns. I love the skiing at Vail but if I am looking for a cute ski town experience, Aspen or Telluride are my top picks.

The Perfect Telluride Vacation

Lastly, Telluride takes luxury to a new level. Similar to Aspen, Telluride is located in a box canyon. Telluride is a stunning mountain town with breathtaking views and plenty of activities to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for an adventurous ski trip or a tranquil getaway in nature, Telluride offers something for everyone.

Begin by exploring the iconic mountain scenery that makes Telluride such a popular destination. Take the free gondola from Mountain Village and admire spectacular panoramic views from San Sophia Gondola Station, or take advantage of one of the many guided tours available – from snowshoeing through pristine trails to horseback rides deep into the forest, you won’t want to miss out on these unforgettable experiences!

The Town of Telluride

When you’re done taking in the sights, head downtown and explore some of Telluride’s many restaurants and shops. Enjoy traditional dishes or ethnic cuisine at local favorites like The Butcher & Baker Café or La Cocina de Luz. Then stroll along main street and check out the wide variety of stores offering everything from apparel and jewelry to souvenirs and gifts. Don’t forget to leave some time for exploring galleries showcasing local artwork as well!

Next up is winter activities – after all, Telluride is home to some of the best skiing in Colorado! With four world-class resorts located conveniently near downtown (including Telluride Ski Resort), you’ll have easy access to powdery slopes whenever you please during your stay. Whether you’re an experienced skier or just getting started on your skiing journey, there are plenty of opportunities for fun here!

Finally, don’t miss out on all that this charming mountain town has to offer in summertime – from biking along winding trails through meadows filled with wildflowers to kayaking across shimmering lakes, there are countless ways to make lasting memories in Telluride. Be sure to take advantage of one-of-a-kind events like Music on the Green or National Parks Free Days too!

Editor Notes: Telluride is one of my favorite ski towns in Colorado. I love driving into the dramatic box canyon and by all the historic homes on Colorado Ave – the towns Main Street. For me, it is a tie between Telluride and Aspen as the best vacation spots in Colorado.

Booking a Colorado Vacation

Colorado provides an array of stunning locations that can accommodate everyone’s desire for outdoor adventure while still providing plenty of other activities when you want to take a break from skiing or snowboarding. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed winter vacation or simply want to relax by a fireplace with hot cocoa in hand, Colorado’s breathtaking mountain towns have everything you need for an unforgettable experience!

The best time to visit Colorado is in the fall, specifically in September and October. The scenery during this time is absolutely breathtaking. The Aspen trees turn a stunning shade of gold, making for a picturesque landscape. Plus, the weather is mild and the crowds have thinned out from the busy summer months.