Savor the Late Summer

As the summer starts to wind down, August is a month to savor the last of the warm weather and long days in Colorado. It's also a time of transition, with hints of fall starting to appear in the high country.

August is a great time for a scenic drive, and Colorado has no shortage of stunning routes to choose from. The Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park is the highest continuous paved road in the United States, topping out at over 12,000 feet. Along the way, stop at the Alpine Visitor Center and take a short hike on the Alpine Ridge Trail for stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

For a more adventurous late summer activity, try your hand at rock climbing. Colorado is home to some of the best climbing destinations in the country, from the granite walls of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison to the sandstone towers of the Garden of the Gods. Book a guided lesson or join a group trip to learn the ropes and challenge yourself to new heights.

August is also a great time to explore Colorado's many beautiful wildflower meadows. The Crested Butte area is known as the "Wildflower Capital of Colorado," with fields of lupine, columbine, and Indian paintbrush stretching as far as the eye can see. Hike the trails around Gothic Mountain or Washington Gulch for stunning views and colorful blooms.

As you plan ahead for September, consider booking a fall foliage trip. Colorado's aspen trees turn a brilliant gold in the early fall, creating a stunning contrast against the blue sky and snow-capped peaks. The San Juan Mountains and the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness are both great destinations for leaf peeping, with miles of hiking trails and scenic drives to explore.