The Corken + Company team cannot get enough of beautiful Colorado. These helpful Colorado travel tips will let you enjoy the state by traveling at off-peak times, exploring lesser-known treasures, and traveling like a local.
Travel Tips:
The more time you’re in the car, the less time you have to breathe in Colorado’s fresh air. Maximize your vacay days with these helpful hints:
1. Make longer drives during the weekdays and avoid holiday weekends. The roads will be clearer and, as a bonus, many hotels offer lower rates to mid-week travelers.
2. Heading to the mountains? Peak travel days are Fridays (westbound on I-70) and Sundays (eastbound on I-70). Plan your excursions around those days so you spend more time soaking up alpine views than looking at brake lights. Also, check weather predictions for where you’re heading, not just where you are, especially in winter. It may not be snowing along the Front Range, but it definitely can be in the mountains. That’s why it’s important to check for road conditions and safety road closures before you go. Use cotrip.org for travel information and alerts.
3. Some popular natural attractions, including national parks, have reservation systems so check in advance to see if you need one before you go.
4. Regardless of whether you’re in a big city or small town, you’ll find plenty of ways to get around without using your car keys. With a multitude of bike shares, bike rentals, and even electric scooters spread across the state, two-wheeled transport is a cinch to locate. Those planning urban vacations will also have easy access to public transport, including commuter trains, buses, and shuttles. So, jump on a shuttle and shop till you drop!
5. Bagging fourteeners is a popular summer pastime but let us tell you about our 13,000-foot peaks: We have 600-plus to pick from. You’ll get the same spectacular views of cerulean lakes, glaciers, alpine tundra, and wildlife (like mountain goats and the pika) without the steady stream of peak pilgrims you’ll find on fourteeners.
6. Always read trail descriptions and reviews before setting out. Some may require route finding while others may have hazardous conditions to avoid. Always stick to the trails to protect natural areas — and there’s no shame in not reaching the summit if it keeps you from pushing yourself too hard.
7. We have more than 39,000 miles of mapped trails, so you’ll have plenty to choose from no matter which region of the state you’re exploring. When looking for less-trafficked options, including thirteeners, check out apps like COTREX. Not only do these help you map out your route, but they can also give you an idea of how popular a trail is.
8. Help prevent overcrowding at trailheads and ski areas by carpooling with your buds.
9. Take a pass on areas that are heavily posted by social media influencers, as they’ll likely be more populated. And while we encourage you to photograph and post your stunning pics of the Centennial State (no filter needed … ever), please tag them responsibly — or don’t geotag them at all — to protect natural areas and keep them wild for your future visits.
Find more Colorado travel tips at:
https://www.colorado.com/articles/15-colorado-travel-tips-you-need-to-know
