7 Perfect Destinations For A Long Weekend In Colorado

The holiday season can certainly be stressful, making it all too easy to get caught up in the commotion and forget to enjoy yourself. So why not plan a weekend away this year to unwind? If scenic drives in the Rockies, cross-country skiing, gondola rides, or Christmas shopping sounds like the ideal getaway for you, consider a little escape to one of these seven Colorado towns.

Ouray

Known as the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Colorado,” the alpine community of Ouray attracts visitors with its canyoneering, ice climbing, hiking, and hot springs. Adventure seekers can explore the steep alpine canyons of Portland Creek and Angel Creek, both featuring cascading falls. For a bird's eye view of Ouray, consider hiking the renowned Perimeter Trail, which circles the city, passing Box Canyon Falls, Cascade Falls, valleys, and views of Mount Abrams. In the winter months, the Ouray Ice Park is popular for climbers, home to over 200 iced and mixed climbs. After a chilly afternoon of ice climbing, visitors can head to Box Canyon Lodge and Box Springs, where they can unwind in the thermal waters of the springs before turning in for the night at the Victorian-style hotel on the premises.

Grand Lake

Located along the shores of the state’s largest lake, Grand Lake is one of the most relaxing towns for a weekend retreat, home to just over 400 residents. The Arapaho National Forest, spanning 723,744 acres, is a great place to go hiking, home to river valleys, the high Rockies, and both the Colorado River and South Platte River. Planning a getaway in the winter? Grand Lake has countless activities, including cross-country skiing at the Grand Lake Nordic Center, snowshoeing, ice skating, and ice fishing on the lake.

Prefer to get your exercise by strolling through the shops? Grand Lake’s Creative District has many galleries and boutiques to explore as well, with stores such as Marjorie Cranston’s Jackstraw Mountain Gallery and Colorado Artisan’s Collective being great places to look for a gift. To stay in a cozy mountainside bungalow, check out Grand Lake Lodge, featuring amenities such as lake view decks and a tavern.

Estes Park

Estes Park serves as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, offering easy access for exploration by foot, horseback, or car. Trail Ridge Road is a popular vehicle access, the highest continuously paved road in North America, and a favorite route for scenic drives. To see views from the top of 8,900-foot Prospect Mountain, visitors can take a ride up the historic Estes Park Aerial Tramway.

There are plenty of coffee shops in Estes Park to warm visitors up in the colder months, and The Bird’s Nest and Raven’s Roast Coffee Lounge are two popular options. For a weekend completely immersed in nature, consider a stay at Della Terra Mountain Chateau, located right by the entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Keystone

Keystone is most renowned for its extensive ski area, home to the largest ski resort in the county. Situated in the White River National Forest, this resort has over 3,000 skiable acres across three peaks, offering trails suited to skiers of all skill levels. Also in the resort is Keystone Lake, which is popular for sledding and ice skating in the winter months as well. Want to enjoy a dinner with a view?

Grab a bite at Der Fondue Chessel, located atop Keystone's 11,000-foot North Peak, with its Bavarian beer hall accessible via a scenic gondola ride. Once a stagecoach stop in the 1800s, visitors can have both a historic and scenic night away at Ski Tip Lodge, serving as one of the country’s most acclaimed restaurants and a quaint bed and breakfast.

Littleton

While many towns may partially close in the winter months, Littleton comes alive with winter festivals and holiday events. Until January 12th, visitors can stroll through the Hudson Gardens during its Hudson Lights events, which will feature countless lighted exhibits. Still in need of some Christmas gifts? Check out the Holiday Boutique at Depot Art Gallery, running until December 29th. Live holiday performances include Carols by Candlelight Concerts and the Here Comes Santa Claus Concert, both taking place in mid-December. To stay centrally located during all of the holiday festivities, consider lodging at the Modern Littleton Cottage, a cozy vacation rental with a firepit just two blocks away from Main Street.

Cortez

Near rich archeological sites, Cortez is the town to visit for those who want to dive into a weekend of history. At the Hovenweep National Monument, visitors can explore six ancient Puebloan-era villages spread throughout canyons and mesa tops near the Utah-Colorado border. To view ancient petroglyphs, pictographs, and geological land formations, spend an afternoon at the Ute Mountain Tribal Park, where a Native American Ute guide can interpret the history and geology.

After exploring some of the shops on Main Street, visitors can enjoy dinner at Main Street Brewery and Restaurant, which serves great barbecue and 12 in-house brewed beers. Wake up with mountain views at the Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch, situated in the serene McElmo Canyon near Ute Mountain.

Crested Butte

Crested Butte is known for being an exciting travel destination year-round, with snow sports in the winter months and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Backcountry skiers will find endless opportunities near Crested Butte. For a guided expedition, Irwin Guides offers expert-led tours through the Elk Mountain Range. Other winter sports include fat biking, snowshoeing, sledding and tubing, and snowmobiling.

After spending Saturday on the snow, tired travelers can unwind on Sunday at one of Crested Butte’s spas, with Elevation Spa and Creekside Spa both having relaxing massage experiences to savor. Those who get a spa treatment at Elevation Spa may find it convenient to spend the weekend at Elevation Hotel, a luxurious hotel conveniently located near Crested Butte Mountain.

Final Thoughts

Take a weekend to slow down and treat yourself to whatever feels right for you. Whether you enjoy snow sports, shopping, or a spa day, all of these towns offer the relaxation needed for a relaxing and memorable few days. After all, you have earned it!