Explore Colorado’s Lesser-Known Outdoor Adventures

You know about the skiing in Telluride, the hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, and even the whitewater rafting along the Colorado River. But all that barely scratches the surface of the adventure that’s waiting in the Centennial State. Whether you’re looking for something new or you simply want to get away from the crowds, here are some of Colorado’s lesser-known outdoor adventures for you to explore.

Picture Canyon

Picture Canyon sits in the Comanche National Grassland of southeastern Colorado. Rugged, bare, and full of history from both the Native Americans inhabiting it and the early pioneers building on it, the grassland takes you back in time. Explore the ruins of homesteads from the early 1900s or peek back even further in time with the craggy stone formations full of ancient rock art.

You can’t forget the wildlife, either. Picture Canyon is home to incredible birdlife, so keep an eye out for wrens, scaled quail, woodpeckers, grosbeaks, and more. The area is perfect for hiking or mountain biking, and there’s also free camping on the shortgrass prairie. Just be prepared—the area is quiet, rugged, and overgrown, which means you’re on your own under the stars out here.

Flat Tops Wilderness Area

The Flat Tops Wilderness Area in northwestern Colorado is home to an entire world of diverse landscapes. Explore dramatic volcanic cliffs, sweeping alpine tundra, serene aspen forests, and crystal-clear waters in the hundred or so lakes and ponds that dot the region.

You can take the Flat Tops Trail scenic byway that follows the White River and boasts views of rustic cabins and guest ranches along the water. But if you really want to get away, you can visit one of those ranches or set up camp on your own at one of the many campgrounds in the area. Spend your time hiking, fly fishing, and enjoying the incredible views.

If you’re feeling particularly daring, try tackling the 10.6-mile loop of the Devil’s Causeway. The climax of the hike is the causeway itself—a thrilling land bridge overlooking the incredible mesas and valleys in the area. If picking your way across a four-foot-wide strip of land at nearly 12,000 feet isn’t for you, though, don’t worry. You can always head out and back or take one of the shorter loops without crossing the Devil’s Causeway. You’ll still be rewarded with incredible views of the lakes, wildflowers, and tundra every step of the way.

Jackson Lake State Park

If you want to explore a hidden gem that takes you out on the water, head up to Jackson Lake State Park in the northeastern plains. The beach is perfect for swimming, boating, standup paddleboarding, fishing, and waterskiing. The area is also on the Central Flyway for migratory birds, making it a great spot to go birdwatching in the fall.

You can camp at Dunes Group Campground nearby. Plan to stay up late at least one night—the area is an International Dark Sky Park that offers breathtaking views of the stars above.

Gear up to venture off the beaten path by visiting YoColorado before exploring Colorado’s lesser-known outdoor adventures. Shop women’s Colorado trucker hats and other stylish, comfortable apparel today.