Colorado

Question

My family and I live in Mississippi. I am almost 50 years old and it has been a dream of mine to travel out west, specifically Colorado. If you were headed there for a once in a lifetime trip, tell me what you'd HAVE to see and do. I love nature. I need to see the blue lakes with the surrounding mountains. Also, off roading in the wilderness is something I want to do.

I know this is laughable, but I would like to stay away from crowds as much as possible. I don't mind crowds when going into town for dinner. Tell me, where would you go if you had one shot at it? Also, what's the one hike that will blow my mind? Thanks

Answer

Colorado is a breathtaking state, offering a perfect mix of rugged wilderness, alpine lakes, and high mountain peaks. Since this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for you, I’d focus on a blend of scenic drives, off-roading adventures, and iconic hikes, while still allowing some time in small towns for dining and local culture.

Must-See Natural Sights:

Blue Lakes near Ouray: Absolutely a highlight. The hike to Blue Lakes is moderate and rewards you with crystal-clear alpine lakes framed by dramatic peaks. The wildflowers in summer add an extra layer of beauty.
San Juan Mountains: Near Ouray and Silverton, these mountains are perfect for off-roading and exploring ghost towns, alpine streams, and rugged terrain. Trails like Engineer Pass and Imogene Pass offer challenging 4x4 experiences with jaw-dropping scenery.
Maroon Bells near Aspen: Stunning twin peaks reflected in a turquoise lake. If you go early in the morning or late in the day, you can avoid most crowds.
Great Sand Dunes National Park: A surreal landscape with massive dunes, surrounded by mountains. Fun for climbing, sand sledding, and photography.

Off-Roading Adventures:

Ouray/Silverton area offers world-class Jeep and SUV trails that range from moderate to extreme. Engineer Pass and Imogene Pass are legendary.
Make sure your vehicle is suitable for high-altitude, rugged conditions. Guided off-road tours are available if you prefer a local expert to lead the way.

Town Stops and Dining:

Ouray: Known as the “Switzerland of America,” a small town with charming streets, hot springs, and good restaurants. A great spot to unwind after a day of hiking or off-roading.
Silverton: Historic mining town with a few excellent eateries and a very small-town vibe. Less crowded than other tourist areas.
Aspen or Telluride: If you want a more upscale dining experience, these towns offer excellent restaurants, though they attract more visitors.

One Hike That Will Blow Your Mind:

Ice Lake Basin Trail: Near Ouray, this hike is moderately challenging, about 8–9 miles round trip. The reward is staggering: vivid alpine lakes surrounded by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and wildflower meadows. It feels like stepping into another world.

Other Tips:

Travel in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds at popular spots.
Altitude can be challenging, so take it slow your first day and stay hydrated.
Consider a mix of guided tours and self-driven excursions to balance safety, comfort, and adventure.

In short, focus on the San Juan Mountains region for your off-roading and alpine lakes, hit a few iconic vistas like Maroon Bells, and take the Ice Lake Basin hike for a mind-blowing experience. Small towns like Ouray and Silverton will give you the charm and local flavor while avoiding large tourist crowds.

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