Colorado is known for its famous Rocky Mountains and is a year-round destination that boasts spectacular national parks, forests, gold-rush ghost towns and Native American ruins. The capital, Denver, is the gateway to numerous ski resorts and is home to many museums, parks, gardens and a restored Victorian square. State attractions include Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak Ghost Town, the Rocky Mountain, Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Mesa Verde national parks, the sandstone formations of the Garden of the Gods, and Aspen, Vail and Breckenridge ski resorts.

Colorado is a diverse region of mountains, plateaus, canyons and plains. Generally, the eastern half of the state has flat, high plains and rolling prairies gradually rising westward to the foothills of the front range. West of the high peaks of the front range are three natural parks that lead from the north to the south and are named North Park, Middle Park and South Park. The western spine of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado contains the Continental Divide, which runs from north to south through west-central Colorado and bisects the state's watersheds. The western half of the state consists of alpine terrain interspersed with wide valleys, rugged canyons, high plateaus and deep basins.

There are numerous and varied recreation opportunities throughout Colorado. The world class resorts of Aspen, Vail and Telluride are among the better known ski areas. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers enjoy the solitude of snow shrouded pine forests and can make use of several huts systems for backcountry adventuring. Snowmobilers ply what are four-wheel drive roads in the summer, often with a skier or two in tow. Crisp white snow contrasts with deep blue skies to create the perfect winter playground.