Colorado is a state in the western United States, in North America, and it is best known for its Rocky Mountain landscape. Travelers who come for big skies, high peaks and open country will find that the scenery is the main reason to visit, and it shapes most of what a trip here involves.
What the state is like
The state is often called the Centennial State, and you may also see it written as CO or referred to by the affectionate name Colorful Colorado. Its terrain changes a great deal from one region to another, moving from the plains in the east to the mountain ranges farther west, so a visit can feel quite different depending on where you spend your time.
Getting oriented
- Denver is the capital and the largest city, and it makes a practical starting point for most visitors.
- The Rocky Mountains run through much of the state and are the defining feature of its landscape.
- The surrounding region offers wide open country as well as mountain towns, so you can mix city time with time outdoors.
Planning your visit
Colorado suits travelers who enjoy being outside, whether that means looking at the mountains from a viewpoint, spending time in open landscapes, or simply taking in the views from the road. Because the state covers such varied ground, it is worth deciding early which part you most want to see, then building the rest of your route around that choice.
