Spring Activities In Colorado

  While the majority of people visit Colorado in the summer or winter, the state is a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts and vacationers alike. Some of the best recreation opportunities are in the spring when crowds are at a minimum and the state is beginning to thaw. Spring can be a mixed bag in Colorado, where the weather can be sunny and in the 70’s one day and then dumping snow the next. We like to think of it as the best of both worlds! However, rapidly changing conditions means it’s very important to know before you go, so be sure to check out trail conditions and weather before venturing out. With that being said, here are our favorite springtime activities. Hiking:

There is nothing quite like soaking in the sunshine on a warm spring day after a cold Colorado winter. Despite the sometimes challenging conditions, spring is one of the best times to hike if you’re craving some solitude. We recommend sticking to the Front Range to maximize warmth and avoid more challenging snow conditions. Check out Button Rock Preserve just outside of Lyons for a great selection of easy to moderate trails with amazing views. Spring is also a great time to bag a peak before the busy season. South Boulder Peak and Bear Peak via the South Mesa Trailhead are great options for those looking to summit one (or both) in a day. Mountain Biking:

The Front Range offers some excellent year-round mountain biking trails that are especially awesome on a warm spring day. For beginners, check out the trails at Boulder Valley Ranch just north of town. These trails are on the wider side, with low technicality and doable inclines making them great for those who are just starting out. For intermediate riders, North Table Mountain in Golden is an excellent 7.5-mile loop that offers great views of the Front Range and Denver. If you prefer something a little more technical, White Ranch Park is right across the road and perfect for more advanced riders. Climbing:

Not too hot, not too cold weather makes spring the perfect time to get out climbing on some of Colorado’s famous spots. For sport climbing, check out Clear Creek Canyon. This stunning canyon is only a short drive from Denver and boasts some world-class sport routes. Check out the Canal Zone crag for a great variety of routes, ranging from 5.9’s to 5.11b/c. For bouldering enthusiasts, check out Flagstaff Mountain in Boulder for some fun, funky routes. There’s a road that snakes its way to the top, with plentiful pull-offs for climbers. We recommend using the app the Mountain Project for finding your way around local crags. Or better yet, hiring a guide! Brewery Tour:

For those looking to experience the less wild side of Colorado, nothing beats sipping a Colorado craft brew on a patio under the warm spring sun. Home to the Brewer’s Association, Boulder is an excellent place for those looking to sample Colorado’s liquid gold. The town boasts 20 craft breweries, with a lot of them being within easy walking distance of each other. We recommend brewery hopping on downtown Pearl Street, or venturing up to Avery in Gunbarrel for some great brews and awesome outdoor space. For more inspo on how to make the most of this spring, check out some of the trips we offer!