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"Top of the Nation" aptly describes Colorado. 75 percent of all the area in the contiguous United States over 10,000 feet can be found here. Many days of radiant sunshine highlight year-round recreation here. Colorado is big country, a land lifted in white-robed peaks and plunged in flower-carpeted valleys, where some of the world's most spectacular natural wonders are conserved for all to enjoy. Within this Rocky Mountain playground are two national parks, seven national monuments, two national recreation areas, eleven national forests, 36 state parks and recreation areas, and hundreds of campgrounds and historical sites. Backpacking, hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, boating, jeeping, skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, rafting, hot-air ballooning, and sightseeing are just some of the Colorado's widely diversified recreational opportunities. If you're a camera buff, any season offers superb opportunities. However, Colorado's most spectacular photographic season is the Colorfest from mid-September to mid-October when the mountainsides are ablaze with fabulous autumn colors. More than 27 well-developed ski areas with a unique blend of dry powder snow have given Colorado recognition as a skiing mecca. Ski season normally runs from Thanksgiving through Easter or later. Ski touring, snowmobiling, and ice fishing are becoming increasingly popular wintertime activities. The Centennial State's historical background is multifaceted. Unique museums and attractions throughout Colorado bring into focus the dramatic contributions made by the explorers, trappers, traders, Indians, soldiers, miners, railroaders, and other hardy pioneers. Scores of rodeos, fairs, barbecues, historical pageants and celebrations, mining events, and boating competitions are held throughout the state. Cultural events include a wide variety of music festivals, summer stock theater, and period festivals. Some of Colorado's winter celebrations have been held annually for more than 60 years. While the Colorado Rockies are awesomely scenic, the prairies, plains, and plateaus also have much to offer. These are the wide open spaces, the home of the cowboys, ranchers, and swift bands of antelope. This is also the land of historic old trails--the Smoky Hill, the Santa Fe, and the route of the Pony Express.
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