Escape to the Rocky Mountains on the Ultimate Colorado Family Vacation
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Eye Popping Adventures at Every Turn: Colorado in the Summer
Take your best family vacation yet with an unforgettable adventure, where breathtaking landscapes and high-adrenaline activities await at every turn. From exploring epic mountains to enjoying exciting outdoor experiences, Colorado offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable vacation this summer.
Dive into the beauty of the Rockies as you experience stunning Colorado hiking trails, spot wildlife in their natural habitats, go fishing, or just relax in a hammock and take in the stunning panoramic views.
Get your thrills with white-water rafting, ziplining, mountain biking, horseback riding, canyoneering, or rock climbing, and create lasting memories as a family.
When it comes to lodging, Colorado has endless options for every budget and preference, ranging from sleeping in a tent under the stars, to cool RV rentals set up on spot, and of course, gorgeous mountain cabins with views for days.
Dive into vibrant cities like Denver and Colorado Springs, where you can explore cultural attractions, savor delicious cuisine, and indulge in unique shopping experiences.
Or make a beeline to one of Colorado’s national parks or to one of our favorite towns in the Rocky Mountains, where you can hike and play to your heart’s content.
We’re dishing out our favorite mountain towns for your next family vacation.
With each destination we share below, keep your eyes peeled for our Hikes We Love and our Top Thrill in each destination! Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime on the perfect family vacation in the enchanting state of Colorado.
Tips for Planning a Memorable Colorado Family Vacation in 2025
Planning a family vacation to Colorado is exciting, but it's also important to keep a few key tips in mind to ensure a seamless and memorable trip.
One of the most important considerations is the time of year you choose to visit, as Colorado's seasons can vary greatly in terms of weather, activities, and crowds.
For families seeking a winter wonderland, the peak ski season from December to March is an excellent choice, offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and a wide range of snow-based activities.
However, if you're looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder temperatures, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall can be equally enticing, with fewer tourists and the opportunity to explore the state's natural beauty without the snow.
Our favorite time of year, summer in Colorado offers you so many fabulous opportunities to enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, climbing, paddle boarding, mountain biking, camping, and more. June through August is a popular vacation time in the Rockies, with July seeing the most visitors to the state. Keep this in mind when planning your family vacation.
Colorado is definitely a year-round destination, offering so many fun activities and experiences for families throughout the seasons. However, here in this post, we are focusing on our favorite things to do in summer at each destination. Let’s go!
Safety Tips for a Family Vacation in Colorado
While in Colorado on a family trip, it's important to keep a few key safety considerations in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation.
One of the most important factors to consider is playing in the high altitude, which can pose a risk of altitude sickness, especially for those not acclimated to the thin mountain air.
It's crucial to stay hydrated, don’t tackle anything super strenuous the first couple of days, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
When in doubt, drink more water. In fact, start hydrating before you reach Colorado. Carry a water filtration system in case. We have some favorite ways to get clean water in the mountains.
Another important safety consideration for families is the abundance of wildlife in Colorado's natural landscapes. While close encounters with animals are rare, it's essential to educate yourself and your children on proper wildlife etiquette, such as maintaining a safe distance, not feeding the animals, and being aware of your surroundings.
Additionally, be sure to pack appropriate gear, such as bear-proof food containers and bear spray, if you plan to hike or camp in backcountry areas.
Use the Thumb Rule: If you spot wildlife, hold up your thumb over them in your line of sight. If your thumb doesn’t cover the animal completely, you are too close and you should back away slowly and carefully.
Know before you go
When it comes to outdoor activities, it's crucial to prioritize safety and follow all safety guidelines and instructions, especially for activities like white-water rafting, rock climbing, and canyoneering. Ensure that you and your family members are properly equipped with the necessary safety gear, and consider booking guided tours or lessons to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
It's also important to be aware of weather conditions and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly, as sudden changes in weather can pose a risk in the mountains.
The Leave No Trace Seven Principles
While on vacation in the Rocky Mountains, respect nature and others by keeping these mantras in mind:
Plan Ahead and Prepare.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces.
Dispose of Waste Properly.
Leave What You Find.
Minimize Campfire Impacts.
Respect Wildlife.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors.
Learn more at https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/.
Colorado Summer Camping
With our warm summer days and cool nights, lots of families love to go camping here in the summer. We’re all about it!
For the past three decades, we’ve narrowed down our essential gear list for camping in the Rocky Mountains in our list of 11 must-haves.
Another way to experience sleeping under star studded skies, when you’d really prefer to have a bed, is to rent an RV in your destination. We’ve done this kind of glamping several times and we love it.
COHH TIP: Rent from RV owners who will deliver, set-up, take down and clean the RV, so we don’t have to. Now that’s glamping!
RV Rentals for your summertime vacation
Outdoorsy’s huge RV selection and delivery options are the real deal — and often, owners are able to set up their RVs for you at the campground. Just choose “SET UP” when you are selecting vehicle type.
Outdoorsy makes it easy to enjoy RVing while relieving you from the headache of maintaining and storing your own.
Save $50 OFF your next Outdoorsy RV Rental using our promo code: “COHH50".
What to Wear While Hiking in Colorado
We’re a hiking blog, so in every post, we absolutely share our favorite Colorado hiking trails and the helpful gear that keeps us going on all our outdoorsy adventures:
We love the Osprey Sirrus Hiking Daypack for women, or the Stratos version for men, for carrying water, layers, and snacks on day hikes
Lightweight, versatile Hiking Poles built for a full day’s send on the trail — hike longer and stronger
2L or 3L Water Reservoir — This affordable reservoir is easy to fill
Patagonia Torrentshell - a true waterproof rain jacket and fantastic layering piece
Nano Puff Jacket - our favorite for 3 seasons
Sun hoodie - a must have in the intense sun!
Med kit
Without further ado, let’s get to our favorite spots in our glorious state for the summer.
Do you plan to go tent camping in Colorado? Grab our Ultimate Guide to set you up for success with your crew.
Colorado in the Summer
Destinations
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
One of the must-visit destinations for families is the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can check off breathtaking hikes and see majestic wildlife in their natural habitats.
Explore the park's stunning alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and towering peaks, and simply immerse yourselves in the serene beauty of the great outdoors. Horseback riding with the crew is also a treat.
Estes Park, Grand Lake, or Granby are the best places to park yourself, but only if you don’t succeed in reserving a campsite at one of the campgrounds in the park.
HIKES WE LOVE IN RMNP
Easy: Adams Falls Trails
Moderate: Bear, Dream, Nymph, Emerald, Haiyaha, and Mills Lake via Glacier Gorge Loop (you’ll see Alberta Falls at the end)
Challenging: Cascade Creek to Mirror and Crater Lakes
Read more about those and all of our favorite hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park
TOP THRILL! Buckle up and ride the Mustang Mountain Coaster through Sombrero Ranch for stellar views of Estes Park. Looking for fun at night? Ask a ranger about attending one of RMNP's Night Sky programs.
STAY HERE: Custom log mountain home with a wrap around porch and outdoor dining area in the woods. This wonderful cabin also offers a fireplace, private hot tub, sitting on one acre with spectacular mountain views.
GREAT SAND DUNES NATIONAL PARK
Camping in the Great Sand Dunes National Park is the perfect way to enjoy flying-fast sand sledding on North America’s tallest sand dunes on an unforgettable Colorado family vacation.
Located 180 miles from Colorado Springs, the Great Sand Dunes National Park offers year-round camping and visitation, but May and June are the most popular months to explore North America’s tallest sand dunes and a fantastic waterfall hike.
Not only can you lounge at the beach, but you’ll want to plan for an early morning ride down the dunes, before it heats up. Surfs up in the Centennial State!
HIKES WE LOVE IN GREAT SAND DUNES
Easy: Montville Nature Trail
Moderate: Zapata Falls or Mosca Pass
Challenging: High Dune
Read more about those and more hikes we love while camping at Great Sand Dunes National Park.
TOP THRILL: Sand sledding or sand boarding the Great Sand Dunes, of course! Rent sand sleds or boards at The Oasis, just before the park entrance. 7800 Highway 150 North, Mosca Colorado
DENVER
Besides nearby natural wonders, Colorado boasts a rich cultural heritage and loads of family-friendly attractions that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
For example, head to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and explore the museum's prehistoric dinosaur fossils and interactive space exploration displays. The museum also features a state-of-the-art planetarium, where you can gaze up at the stars and learn about the wonders of the cosmos. Or consider the Children’s Museum of Denver.
Walk the River North (RiNo) Art District and revel in urban charm and industrial renewal with jazz bars, brewpubs, art galleries, fun eatieries, unique shops, and more. Or head to the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Read up on our complete Denver Walking Tour.
TOP THRILL! One of the most iconic landmarks in the state is the stunning Red Rocks Amphitheatre, just on the outskirts of Denver. This natural outdoor concert venue between towering red sandstone formations, offers a unique location for catching a live concert at night.
Hikes Near Denver We Love:
Easy: Lair O the Bear Park
Moderate: St. Mary’s Glacier or Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass
Challenging: Devil’s Thumb Lake (on my list!)
Read up on those and other hikes near Denver that we love.
STAY HERE: This spacious home in a great neighborhood south of Denver is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, Whole Foods, and a movie theater. Large backyard with outdoor family dining and kids playhouse, and just a short walk to a park with a playground and snow sledding hill.
COLORADO SPRINGS
Whether you're planning a day trip or a week-long escapade, the sky's the limit in Colorado Springs while on an epic Colorado family vacation.
As locals, we never tire of the 300 days of warm sunshine and mild winters. We enjoy year-round hiking and exploring the best Colorado Springs CO microbreweries.
Home to Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Air Force Academy, and so much more, the possibilities are endless in this city, rivaling Denver, with a bazillion cool factors.
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Stroll through Garden of the Gods
Moderate: Pulpit Rock
Challenging: Choose between the Manitou Incline, Pikes Peak or Mount Rosa
Read up on all our favorite hikes and things to do in Colorado Springs
TOP THRILL! Soar over Cheyenne Canyon via some of the longest, highest zip lines in Colorado. Open year-round, the Seven Falls Ziplines in Colorado Springs are the most scenic tours you can take in the area. The Combo zip line course is our favorite and you score 10% OFF using our unique promo code “COHIKES” when you BOOK ONLINE.
STAY HERE: We found a gorgeous, modern mountain cabin for your next Colorado family vacation. Great views of Pikes Peak and walking distance to historic Rockledge Ranch and Garden of the Gods. Hike, bike and explore Colorado Springs from this epic spot.
Aspen - Snowmass
Aspen Snowmass is one of those repeatable Colorado trips for families. We’ve lost count of our camping and hiking trips to the area. The fun begins before you even get there: skip I-70 and drive the scenic, hair-raising Independence Pass (Hwy 82) over to Aspen from Twin Lakes, not far from Buena Vista. Closed in winter, you’ll love the panoramic views from the top of the pass in summertime.
We’ve done A LOT OF day hiking and backpacking in the Maroon-Bells Wilderness - we could talk your ear off about it! Melody completed the Four Pass Loop, Tanya hiked with friends from Aspen to Crested Butte, as well as an overnight to Conundrum Hot Springs for a soak above 11,000”.
While lots of families flock to Aspen for skiing in the winter, we head there in the summer for unforgettable, scenic Colorado hiking trails.
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Rio Grande Trail
Moderate: Crater Lake from Maroon Bells Scenic Area
Challenging: Conundrum Hot Springs
Read up on those and more hikes in Aspen.
TOP THRILL! After you’ve seen the iconic Maroon Bells of course, hop on a gondola up to the top of Aspen Mountain and enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at the top after a round of Frisbee Golf. Or head to Lost Forest at Snowmass for a zip line tour, ropes course, the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, and more.
STAY HERE: We think these digs are a great base camp within walking distance of town — you’ll have everything you need in this gorgeous, comfy condo with a hot tub.
Boulder
Boulder is home to the CU Colorado Buffs and the iconic Flatirons, visible from just about anywhere in this active college town. Some folks hang out in Boulder for a day, or make it their home base for their Colorado family vacation for the week.
Stroll through downtown Boulder’s Pearl Street, where you’ll hear lively street performers and find some of the best local breweries, along with great shopping. Also, the Boulder Farmers Market is a real treat — great for grabbing a picnic lunch.
If you’re up for a bit of culture, the Boulder Dushanbe Tea House, with its rich Tajikistan heritage, is amazing.
My husband fondly remembers a tour of the Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory and many claim it is worth your time, even if you're more of a coffee person.
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Ann U White Trail
Moderate: Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass Trail or Lost Lake via Hessie Trail
Challenging: Crater Lakes via Moffat Tunnel East Portal
Read up on those and all of the great hiking trails in Boulder, plus where to get a local beer.
TOP THRILL! A while back, Boulder Creek was named one of the ten best lazy rivers for tubing in America by Men’s Journal. It has forever been a popular tubing spot in the summer. NOTE: Check the water levels to see if they are runnable on the American Whitewater website. Colorado creeks can be powerful, depending on the time of year and the weather.
STAY HERE: Walk from this central Boulder home to Pearl Street Mall, the University of Colorado, Boulder Creek Path, and more. Walk or bike to everything from this home away from home.
Buena Vista and Salida
With twelve mountains peaking over 14,000 feet, you can see why this part of the Rocky Mountains offer lots of jaw-dropping fun.
Two of our favorite mountain towns in Colorado in the summer, Buena Vista and Salida dole out small-town appeal while packing a punch along the Arkansas River. Buena Vista is our family’s go-to getaway destination.
From Colorado Springs, it’s just a two hour drive or so on Hwy 24 to 285 - no bumper to bumper interstate driving to reach the Collegiate Peaks in this part of Rockies. We include Buena Vista and Salida together because they are just 24 minutes apart and it’s so easy to go between the two.
On a summer vacation here, you have access to all kinds of hiking, mountain biking, climbing, fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting adventures. In winter, we hit the slopes at Monarch, an independent ski resort nearby that is much more affordable than all the big guys.
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Barbara Whipple Trail
Moderate: Browns Creek Waterfall Trail
Challenging: Mount Elbert
Read up on those Colorado hiking trails near Buena Vista and Salida
TOP THRILL! Whitewater rafting the Arkansas River with Noah’s Ark. Or throw in a day at Mount Princeton Hot Springs with the family, and you’ll see why the area’s motto is “Now this is Colorado!” Book a one night stay there and use ALL of the pools for two days at our favorite hot springs.
STAY HERE: Vacation minus the crowds, this South Main Chalet is located in the heart of Buena Vista near the Arkansas River. Only steps away from shopping, biking, hiking, fishing, or a date night at the trendy Wesley and Rose Bar at the Surf Hotel, this modern home has everything you need.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is brimming with summer thrills for one of the most memorable Colorado trips for families
Head out mountain biking, paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, hiking and camping — you can see why Coloradoans head here for outdoor adventures in summer.
Pssst… Winter sees it’s fair share of skiers and snowboarders here, with some of the most challenging slopes in the state.
I’ve dispersed camped way up at Paradise Basin with my honey, and our family loves paddleboarding down the Lower Slate River.
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Judd Falls Trail or Meridian Lake
Moderate: Green Lake Trail
Challenging: West Maroon Bells Pass or Copper Creek Trail to Copper Lake
Read up on those hikes and more things to do.
TOP THRILL! With over 30 miles of trails, beginner to advanced mountain bikers head to Crested Butte Mountain with a lift ticket on the Red Lady Express Lift to gain access to the trails. Or head to Adventure Park for more summer fun.
STAY HERE: This charming and cozy house has been completely remodeled and redecorated from top to bottom, with a relaxing patio and hot tub. This quiet vacation home sits in the heart of historic Crested Butte, just a block from all the fun on Elk Avenue.
Durango
Durango sits in the picturesque Animas River Valley in the southwestern part of Colorado. Just an hour from spectacular Mesa Verde National Park, Durango is your gateway to mining ghost towns, like Animas Forks, as well as mountain biking, zip line tours, jeep rides, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and fabulous hiking.
Alpine sliding and mountain go-karting in nearby Purgatory — where you can also ski in winter -- is a total blast.
The Durango Hot Springs Resort has had a complete makeover and shouldn’t be missed!
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Potato Lake via Spud Lake Trail
Moderate: Purgatory Trail
Challenging: Island Lake to Ice Lakes via Ice Lakes Trail
Read up on those and more hikes and things to do on a Colorado family vacation in Durango
TOP THRILL! All aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! Chug through jaw-dropping San Juan mountain views, and go back in time to the “Golden Age” of the railroad. This is a National Historic Landmark all ages enjoy.
STAY HERE: The Carriage House is a beautiful, modern, timber-frame home located in a fun part of historic downtown Durango.
Coming to Durango with a crowd? Check out the Durango Hideout that sleeps 10 in 4 bedrooms.
Glenwood Springs
Heading east to west on I-70, you’ll cruise through Glenwood Springs, which just so happens to be an hour from Aspen. Whitewater rafting, biking, hiking and fishing are all at your fingertips, plus several fabulous hot springs experiences.
Did you know the California Zephyr Amtrak scenic train travels from Chicago all the way to San Francisco, passing right through Denver and then Glenwood Canyon? This gorge carved out over time by the Colorado River, gifts magical views of towering cliffs and waterfalls in this area. Take the Zephyr as far as you, across the gorgeous Rockies to Salt Lake City, and then through Reno and Sacramento.
All of our favorite hikes mentioned below feature cascading or tall waterfalls. Hanging Lake is a national natural landmark and requires permits to hike — it pays to plan ahead.
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Glenwood Canyon Trail or head to nearby Rifle Falls State Park
Moderate: Grizzly Creek Trail
Challenging: Hanging Lake to Spouting Rock
Read up on these hikes and more fun things to do on a Colorado family vacation in Glenwood Springs.
TOP THRILL! Not for the faint of heart, ride the Glenwood Canyon Flyer at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. You’ll hop on a gondola just to reach the park, sitting way up above town.
STAY HERE: Plan your next family trip to Colorado by staying in this retreat within walking distance of downtown. A perfect 1.5 acre retreat for family or friends sitting above the Roaring Fork River, to which you have private access.
Grand Junction
Grand Junction on the western slope is packed with things to do in the summer.
Home to Colorado National Monument, see dinosaur fossils, stunning sandstone arches and Colorado's largest "flat-top" mountain.
Fantastic biking and hiking trails traverse the peach country of Palisade — in summer, you’ll want to hit the trails early to beat the heat. Palisade peaches are dripping with deliciousness.
Pair your outdoor adventures with a stop at some of Grand Junction's local vineyards, stand up paddle board (SUP) on the Colorado River, and more.
Make Grand Junction a stop on a summer road trip or stay for a week, depending on what you like to do.
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Coke Ovens Trail
Moderate: Lower Route of Monument Canyon Trail (first 6 miles) or Rattlesnake Arches Upper Trailhead
Challenging: Liberty Cap Trail
Read up on those hikes and more things to do in Grand Junction area
TOP THRILL! Acres upon acres of vineyards are yours to explore along the fruit and wine byway in Palisade. You can choose to visit by foot, bike, tour, or shuttle service. Two Roaming Souls talk all about their weekend winery tour by bike.
STAY HERE: Grab a cruiser bike & head downtown, to Lincoln Park, Grand Mesa University campus, or spend the evening relaxing under the covered patio, grilling a delicious dinner with your family & friends, soaking in the hot tub, sitting around the fire, or kicking back in the recently updated outdoor oasis. Four-legged friends welcome.
Ouray + Telluride
Your outdoor adventure hub for an amazing Colorado family vacation in the San Juan Mountains is the town of Ouray, sitting in a canyon along the famous Million Dollar Highway.
And Telluride is just a hop, skip, and away through the town of Ridgway, where we suggest making your base.
Hiking to waterfalls, canyoneering, jeep rides to mining ghost towns, climbing, biking, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting in this part of southwest Colorado will leave you breathless, wanting more.
Adventure abounds for the whole family in this “Switzerland of America”, especially when you head to our top thrill mentioned below. This area is also included in our stunning southern Colorado road trip.
HIKES WE LOVE AROUND OURAY:
Easy: Baby Bathtubs Trail
Moderate: Bear Creek Trail
Moderately Challenging: Chief Ouray Mine via Upper Cascade Fall
Challenging: Blue Lakes Trail
Read up on those hikes and more things to do in summer around Ouray.
TOP THRILL! Adrenaline junkies must try the new via ferrata. A top-notch team of climbers, guides, engineers, and rigging geniuses crafted this route through the incomparable Uncompahgre Gorge. Get ready for climbing like never before at Ouray Via Ferrata.
STAY HERE: This San Juan mountain getaway is the perfect spot, just between Ouray and Telluride. Central to everything the town of Ridgway and surrounding areas have to offer with convenient access to great dining experiences, iconic mountain landscapes and endless outdoor adventures.
Steamboat Springs
Head to Steamboat Ski Resort for world-class mountain biking trails, then float down the Yampa River, with access right in town. In summer, head to the rodeo or go horseback riding.
Swim and soak in epic geothermal hot springs at Old Town Hot Springs or at Strawberry Hot Springs.
Bring your inflatable paddleboard and grab your fishing poles.
Our family loved camping lakeside at Pearl Lake State Park. You can rent a fishing boat, pontoon boat, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards at the Steamboat Lake Marina. Stagecoach and Yampa River are two more popular state parks in Steamboat, and for good reason.
HIKES WE LOVE:
Easy: Lower Fish Creek Falls
Moderate: Mad Creek Trail
Challenging: Zirkel Circle
Read up on those hikes and more things to do on a Colorado summer vacation in Steamboat.
TOP THRILL! Our family loved the Steamboat Pro Rodeo Series that takes place every Friday and Saturday night from July through August in Downtown Steamboat Springs. It’s a hoot and arguably the most entertaining rodeo we’ve seen in summer.
STAY HERE: Only a short walk from the gondola and Steamboat’s mountain base, this is the perfect spot to call home during your summer vacation in Colorado. Bonus: the deck offers a grill and overlooks a sweet aspen grove.
Conclusion: Create Lifelong Memories on a Colorado Family Vacation
Colorado is a true gem for families seeking an unforgettable adventure, offering so many different activities, attractions, and natural wonders that cater to every interest and age group.
From the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Rocky Mountains and the Great Sand Dunes to its vibrant cities and cool mountain town, the Centennial State simply rocks!
Hike through stunning trails, spot majestic wildlife, and immerse yourself in the state's rich history and heritage. Indulge in thrilling activities like white-water rafting, fishing rock climbing, and skiing, or simply relax in hot springs. Soak in the breathtaking views that Colorado is famous for.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable family adventure in the enchanting state of Colorado. The memories you make will be truly unforgettable.
Related reading
We’ve dished all about summer vacation for families in Colorado.
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