Top 10 Scenic Nature Views In Colorado

          1. Rocky Mountain National Park/Bear Lake: Larimer/Grand/Boulder Counties, Colorado                                         

        At Rocky Mountain Park you will see wildflowers, animals, lakes, and waterfalls. There is a beautiful view of the mountains behind the trees. As for animals, there are 67 different mammalian species that live in the area. There are also over 270 species of birds that have been seen. Some of the activities available are hiking, scenic drives, picnicking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    2. Mount Evans/Summit Lake: Clear Creek County, Colorado                                                                                                                                                                         

        The drive to the top of Mount Evans is long and winding, but provides amazing views. The first thing you'll see is Summit Lake which is located towards the bottom of Mount Evans. While driving up the mountain you may see mountain goats or bighorn sheep. Once you get to the top you are more than 14,000 feet high! There is a great view of the glacier valleys, and mountain peaks. There are also campgrounds and 19 trails to hike on! 

                                                                                                                                                                          

      3. Garden Of The Gods: Colorado Springs, Colorado

         At Garden Of The Gods you will see formations of red rocks! There are two special rocks called the balanced rock, and the steamboat rock. The names say it all. (The balanced rock is balanced on another rock, and the steamboat rock looks like a steamboat.) You are allowed to hike, rock climb, mountain bike, or ride horseback. There are also jeep and segway tours. 16 different types of bird species can be seen here. 

          4. Bridal Veil Falls: Estes Park, Colorado

          Bridal Veil Falls is a 365 foot waterfall! There are hiking trails and off-road trails that lead to the waterfall. Biking is allowed as well. There is also a hydroelectric power plant at the top. You will see beautiful meadows, wildflowers and streams. Black bears and moose have been seen in this area. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          5. San Juan Mountains/Blue Lakes: Ridgway/Telluride, Colorado

         At the bottom of the San Juan Mountains there is a beautiful lake called Blue Lakes. Ironic huh? The fall season is the best time to come! The view is spectacular and there's a 8.6 mile trail. People have spotted mountain lions here. Camping is also allowed. 

     6. Kebler Pass: Gunnison County/Crested Butte, Colorado                                               

         May through October, Kebler Pass is open for the public! Most people drive on the trail, but hiking and biking is also allowed. There are a few lakes that have campgrounds where you can fish! It takes about 2 hours to drive the length of the pass. As you drive you will see mountains, trees, and lakes. It is the wildflower capital of Colorado. Bears and moose have been seen here.

    7. Lone Eagle Peak/Mirror Lake: Estes Park, Colorado

          The best time to come to Lone Eagle Peak is between June and October. The trail is used for hiking, camping, bird watching, and horseback riding. Moose, deer, foxes, and snakes have been seen here! There are also waterfalls, streams, and meadows. People recommend camping over night because the hike is 14.8 miles round trip. It's worth the view though!

     8. Conundrum Creek Trail: Aspen, Colorado

         At Conundrum Creek Trail you will see wildflowers, snowy mountains, creeks, and ponds. It takes about 5-8 hours to finish the whole trail, and 3-6 hours to get back to the car. There is also a hot springs pool that gets up to 102 degrees! Locals recommend bringing water shoes with you because there are many creeks you have to cross. It's a wonderful experience with a beautiful scenery.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

     9. Maroon Bells/Maroon Lake: Aspen, Colorado

      There is a breathtaking view at Maroon Bells of the Maroon Lake and snowy mountains. You are allowed to hike, camp, bike, or go on a snowmobile tour if you visit in the winter! There is so much to do at Maroon Bells. Moose, beavers, and elk have been seen in this area. 

                                                                                                                                                                    10.  Wilson Peak: Telluride, Colorado

       Wilson Peak is famous for being on all of the Coors Beer products! There are trails to hike on, and camp sites to stay at.  Climbing is also allowed. The best time of year to climb is July, August, and September. Prepare to spend the whole day hiking or plan to stay overnight.  Mountain goats have been observed in this area.