Colorado is a year-round destination that offers something for every family. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to vibrant cities, the state boasts a diverse landscape and a wealth of activities to captivate both kids and adults. However, choosing the right time to visit can make all the difference in maximizing your family’s enjoyment and minimizing stress.
Colorado with Kids: A Year-Round Adventure
Colorado’s diverse landscape and varied activities make it a perfect destination for families seeking adventure and relaxation. The state boasts numerous national parks, vibrant cities, and charming mountain towns, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Summer in Colorado: Sunny Days and Family Fun
Summer in Colorado is nothing short of spectacular. The average high temperature in Denver during July and August is around 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius), making it ideal for swimming, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. Families can enjoy the abundance of sunshine and long daylight hours, allowing for extended adventures and evening activities.
Pros:
- Extended daylight hours perfect for family adventures
- Abundant sunshine allows for a range of outdoor activities
- Numerous family-friendly attractions, including theme parks and zoos, are in full swing
- A variety of festivals cater to families, enhancing your vacation experience
Cons:
- Peak season prices can put a dent in your budget
- Expect larger crowds in popular destinations
- Higher elevations can experience heat waves that may impact your plans
- Wildfires: Colorado’s dry climate and hot summers can increase the risk of wildfires, which can impact travel plans and air quality
- Altitude Sickness: The high altitude can cause some individuals to experience altitude sickness, characterized by headaches, nausea, and fatigue. It’s essential to acclimate gradually and stay hydrated.
Examples:
- Mesa Verde National Park: Explore ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and learn about their fascinating history.
- Royal Gorge Bridge & Park: Experience the thrill of the world’s highest suspension bridge and enjoy thrilling rides and activities.
- Garden of the Gods: Hike through this awe-inspiring natural wonder and marvel at the towering red rock formations.
Fall in Colorado: A Spectacular Show of Colors
As summer fades, Colorado transforms into an autumnal wonderland. The iconic aspen trees burst into vibrant hues of gold, orange, and red, creating breathtaking landscapes perfect for scenic drives and hikes.
Pros:
- Fewer crowds compared to the summer months, allowing for a more peaceful experience
- Stunning fall foliage provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures
- Cooler temperatures make it ideal for hiking and exploring
- Enjoy seasonal activities like pumpkin patches and apple orchards
Cons:
- Shorter daylight hours may limit your outdoor plans
- Higher elevations may experience early snowfall
- Some attractions may close for the season
- Early Snow: Higher elevations can experience early snowfall, potentially disrupting travel plans and outdoor activities.
- Limited Activities: Some attractions and outdoor activities may close for the season as temperatures drop.
Examples:
- Aspen: Known as the “Silver Queen City,” Aspen offers stunning fall foliage, world-class skiing, and a vibrant art scene.
- Telluride: This historic mining town boasts breathtaking scenery and a lively arts and culture scene.
- Ouray: Explore the “Switzerland of America” with its stunning mountain views and hot springs.
Winter in Colorado: A Snowy Wonderland
If your family craves a winter wonderland, Colorado is the place to be. The state’s world-class ski resorts, like Vail, Breckenridge, and Aspen, offer exceptional skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels.
Pros:
- Access to world-class ski resorts and winter sports
- Opportunities for ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledding
- A festive atmosphere with holiday markets and events
- Charming mountain towns provide cozy accommodations
- Winter Festivals: Colorado’s charming mountain towns host festive winter festivals with ice sculptures, holiday markets, and special events.
- Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the snowy landscapes on snowshoes or cross-country skis for a unique outdoor adventure.
Cons:
- Cold temperatures and potential snowstorms can affect travel plans
- Limited outdoor activities outside of snow sports
- Higher accommodation prices due to peak season demand
- Crowds: Popular ski resorts can be crowded during peak season, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Cost: Accommodation and ski resort prices can be significantly higher during the winter season.
Examples:
- Vail: Ski down the slopes of Vail Mountain, one of Colorado’s most renowned ski resorts.
- Keystone: Enjoy family-friendly activities like snow tubing, ice skating, and a holiday ice village.
Spring in Colorado: A Time for Renewal
As the snow melts away, Colorado’s spring season brings a refreshing change. Wildflowers begin to bloom, and milder temperatures make it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.
Pros:
- Gorgeous wildflowers add color to the landscape
- Milder temperatures provide comfortable conditions for hiking and exploring
- Fewer crowds compared to summer, making for a more relaxed visit
- More affordable accommodation rates make it budget-friendly
- Wildlife Viewing: Spring is an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals emerge from hibernation and young animals are born.
- Wildflower Hikes: Colorado’s wildflowers bloom in abundance during the spring, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors across the landscape.
Cons:
- Spring weather can be unpredictable, with potential late-season snowstorms
- Some attractions may not be fully operational yet
- Cold water temperatures can limit water sports activities
- Unpredictable Weather: Spring weather can be unpredictable, with potential late-season snowstorms and cold temperatures.
- Limited Activities: Some outdoor activities may be limited due to cold water temperatures or snow lingering in higher elevations.
Examples:
- Denver Botanic Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens, including the Children’s Garden, and enjoy outdoor events and activities.
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Attend a concert or enjoy a picnic at this iconic venue, surrounded by stunning rock formations.
Best Time to Travel to Colorado with Kids: A Month-by-Month Guide
When planning a family trip to Colorado, the best time to visit depends on your family’s interests and preferred activities. This guide provides a general overview of the best time to travel to Colorado based on average weather conditions and typical activities. However, it’s essential to check specific weather forecasts and attraction schedules before planning your trip.
May: A Breath of Fresh Air
May is an excellent time to visit Colorado as the snow melts and temperatures rise. With highs in the 60s and 70s, this month offers milder weather and fewer crowds, making it perfect for exploring outdoor attractions.
Examples:
- Denver Botanic Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens, including the Children’s Garden, and enjoy outdoor events and activities.
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Attend a concert or enjoy a picnic at this iconic venue, surrounded by stunning rock formations.
June: Summer Begins in Earnest
June marks the official start of summer in Colorado, bringing warm, sunny days and longer daylight hours. Families can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from swimming to rafting.
Examples:
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in this stunning national park.
- Great Sand Dunes National Park: Explore the towering sand dunes and try sandboarding or sledding down the slopes.
July and August: Peak Season Fun
The summer months of July and August are the height of family fun in Colorado. With the warmest temperatures and a plethora of activities, families can enjoy everything from festivals to water sports.
Examples:
- Colorado State Fair: This annual event features livestock shows, concerts, carnival rides, and a variety of family-friendly activities.
- Telluride Bluegrass Festival: A world-renowned music festival featuring bluegrass, folk, and Americana music.
September: Fall Foliage and Cooler Temps
September is a fantastic time to visit Colorado as the summer heat subsides. The fall foliage begins to emerge, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Families can enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for hikes and visits to charming mountain towns.
Examples:
- Kebler Pass: A scenic drive renowned for its aspen trees, offering breathtaking views of the fall foliage.
- Maroon Bells: Hike to the iconic Maroon Bells, two of Colorado’s most photographed peaks, and capture the stunning fall colors.
October: Peak Leaf Peeping
October is the prime time for leaf peeping in Colorado. The aspen trees reach their peak, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking display of colors.
Examples:
- Aspen: Enjoy the annual Aspen Oktoberfest, a celebration of German heritage with music, food, and beer.
- Crested Butte: Explore the charming mountain town and enjoy the vibrant fall foliage in the surrounding mountains.
November: Holiday Magic and Early Snow
As winter approaches, November offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and holiday cheer. Families can enjoy the first snowfall and cozy mountain town festivities.
Examples:
- Breckenridge: Enjoy the annual Breckenridge International Snow Sculpture Championships, featuring intricate ice sculptures.
- Durango: Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through the breathtaking scenery of the San Juan Mountains.
December: Winter Wonderland
December is a magical time to experience Colorado’s winter wonderland. Families can immerse themselves in snow sports and enjoy holiday markets and events.
Examples:
- Vail: Ski down the slopes of Vail Mountain, one of Colorado’s most renowned ski resorts.
- Keystone: Enjoy family-friendly activities like snow tubing, ice skating, and a holiday ice village.
January and February: Prime Ski Season
January and February are the heart of Colorado’s ski season. Families can take advantage of excellent snow conditions and a wide range of winter activities.
Examples:
- Aspen: Experience the luxurious atmosphere of Aspen and enjoy world-class skiing.
- Beaver Creek: A family-friendly ski resort with a variety of terrain and activities.
March and April: Spring Thaw and Ski Season Finale
March and April mark a transitional period in Colorado. Families can still enjoy skiing while also witnessing the blooming of spring wildflowers.
Examples:
- Mesa Verde National Park: Explore the ancient cliff dwellings and learn about the Ancestral Puebloan people.
- Ouray: Enjoy the natural hot springs and explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Family-Friendly Destinations in Colorado
No matter the season, Colorado has a wealth of family-friendly destinations to explore. Here are some top spots to consider:
Summer Destinations
- Denver: Experience the city’s museums, parks, and outdoor concerts.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
- Great Sand Dunes National Park: Explore towering sand dunes and try sandboarding.
- Steamboat Springs: Enjoy tubing on the Yampa River and visit the Strawberry Park Hot Springs.
Fall Destinations
- Aspen: Marvel at the vibrant fall foliage and enjoy the charming mountain town atmosphere.
- Crested Butte: Hike through fields of wildflowers and explore the Gunnison National Forest.
- Estes Park: Discover the stunning scenery of Rocky Mountain National Park and the historic Stanley Hotel.
Winter Destinations
- Breckenridge: Hit the slopes and enjoy festive holiday celebrations.
- Keystone: A family-friendly ski resort offering snow tubing and ice skating.
- Durango: Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and explore the historic downtown.
Spring Destinations
- Colorado Springs: Discover the Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.
- Mesa Verde National Park: Explore ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings.
- Ouray: Hike through wildflowers and visit the town’s natural hot springs.
Tips for Planning a Family Trip to Colorado
Planning a family vacation to Colorado? Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth trip:
- Choose the Right Accommodation: Consider the age of your children, your budget, and your desired amenities. Family-friendly hotels often offer amenities like swimming pools, play areas, and babysitting services.
- Plan Activities for Different Age Groups: Ensure there are engaging experiences for both kids and adults.
- Pack for Varying Weather Conditions: Pack layers of clothing, sun protection, and rain gear. Colorado’s weather can be unpredictable.
- Budget for the Trip: Consider the cost of transportation, accommodation, activities, and meals. Look for deals and discounts, especially during the shoulder seasons.
- Consider Traveling with Infants and Toddlers: Research accessibility, childcare options, and family-friendly amenities. Many attractions offer stroller rentals and changing tables.
- Ensure Accessibility for Families with Special Needs: Research wheelchair-friendly trails, sensory-friendly attractions, and other accommodations. Many attractions and parks are committed to providing accessible experiences for all visitors.
FAQ
Q: What are some good family-friendly restaurants in Colorado?
A: Colorado boasts a diverse culinary scene with options for every taste. Popular family-friendly restaurants include Root Down in Denver, Buckhorn Exchange in Denver, and The Fort in Morrison.
Q: What are some good kid-friendly activities in Denver?
A: Denver offers attractions such as the Denver Zoo, the Children’s Museum of Denver, and the Denver Botanic Gardens.
Q: What are the best times to visit Colorado for specific activities, like hiking or skiing?
A: For hiking, late spring through early fall is ideal. For skiing and snowboarding, the prime time is mid-December through March. Always check the weather and conditions before planning.
Q: How can I save money on a family trip to Colorado?
A: Look for deals and discounts, especially during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Consider traveling during these times to take advantage of more affordable accommodation rates and fewer crowds.
Conclusion
Colorado offers a unique and unforgettable family vacation experience, with something to offer every season. From the majestic mountains to the vibrant cities, there’s a world of adventure waiting to be explored. Start planning your Colorado family vacation today and create memories that will last a lifetime.