1. Maroon Bells (Aspen)
The Maroon Bells in Aspen are one of the most photographed places in all of Colorado. Can you guess why? Featuring impressive twin peaks, a pristine sky, and a crystal-clear lake, the Maroon Bells are a must-see any time of year! Speaking of a popular spot to photograph...
2. Hanging Lake (Glenwood Springs)
...I give you the Hanging Lake, which is comprised of strikingly turquoise water that is the result of a travertine deposition created by dissolved limestone via the Mississippian Period Leadville Formation. In addition to the travertine water, the area boasts a steep 1.2-mile backcountry hike that is almost as beautiful as the lake itself.
3. Paint Mines (Calhan)
No need to adjust your screen, folks, as the Paint Mines really are these vibrant colors! Spanning 750 acres, the Paint Mines are said to be this colorful thanks to the early Native Americans who painted the spires some 9,000 years ago!
4. Million Dollar Highway (Silverton and Ouray)
Have you ever wondered why the Million Dollar Highway is continuously named one of the most beautiful drives in America? See for yourself when you take a cruise along this 25-mile stretch of U.S. 550.
5. Great Sand Dunes National Park (Mosca)
Do you think the desert is reserved only for the southwest? Think again! Home to an incredible 5 billion cubic meters of soft sand, the Great Sand Dunes are a fantastic place to both explore and photograph. (By the way, if you think this picture looks impressive, wait until you see the area with your own eyes.)
6. Crystal Mill (Carbondale)
What was once a circa-1892 wooden powerhouse is now both a deserted mill as well as one of the best hikes in Colorado. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Crystal Mill sits pretty along an 8.2-mile out-and-back trail that can be accessed via foot, four-wheel-drive vehicle, bike, or horseback.
7. Red Rocks (Morrison)
Whether you walk around the premises, see a concert, or take an exercise class, you will never forget your visit to what is arguably the most unique entertainment venue in America.
8. Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs)
Established in 1909 and designated a National Natural Landmark in 1971, the Garden of the Gods is a 1,335-acre outdoor paradise that houses 300-million-year-old red rock formations. Whether you are a hiker, biker, or photographer, you are guaranteed to find something to love about this Colorado icon!
9. Wheeler Geologic Area (Creede)
You know that the Centennial State is home to 300-million-year-old red rock formations, gigantic hills of sand, and 9,000-year-old Native American paintings, but did you know that we once even had volcanoes? It's true, and you can see their 25-million-year-old remains at the Wheeler Geologic Area near Creede.
10. Picket Wire Canyon (La Junta)
Last but certainly not least on our list of beautiful places that aren't going anywhere is the Picket Wire Canyon, which is located in southeastern Colorado. Billed as one of the largest dinosaur track sites in America, Picket Wire Canyon boasts 100 trackways and more than 1,500 individual footprints, making for one of the most unique and historical sights in the state.