When people think of Colorado they picture towering, snow-covered mountain peaks and magnificent winter ski runs. But what you may not know is that Colorado is a beautiful place to be in the spring.

It's a busy time when winter fun overlaps with warming days and the joys of a new season. Whether you like adventure or relaxation, there's something for everyone during spring in Colorado.

Adventures

Skiing

SKI BREATHE SKI

Early in the spring, the many gorgeous ski resorts are still in operation. Spring skiing is fantastic, with warmer temperatures and blue skies creating perfect runs. Everyone, from beginners to experts, loves skiing in the Colorado springtime.

If you head to Breckenridge in late March or early April you'll find both great skiing and a month filled with festivities. The celebration is called Spring Fever and it features everything from concerts to multi-sport races to brewery tours.

If you're looking for family fun, try the Keystone Resort. They offer all sorts of snow sports and activities. Go snow biking, take a sleigh ride, lace up your skates, or hit the slopes. Aspen and Vail are the places to head for luxury real estate, high-end shopping, and fine dining. Spring skiing has never been more elegant.

Hiking

If you're looking for breathtaking views, try a walk or hike in one of Colorado's four national parks. Representing the wide variety of terrain in the state, the parks are a haven for nature lovers.

The Colorado springtime looks and feels very different depending on which park you choose.

In Rocky Mountain National Park you'll still find a winter wonderland. In Mesa Verde National Park, you can glimpse the desert history of Puebloan cliff dwellings.

Head to Great Sand Dunes National Park to see enormous dunes, alpine lakes, and even venture onto the tundra. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park takes you into the heart of the mountains. Ancient rock and spectacular views set the stage for fishing, hiking, scenic drives, and much more.

There are beautiful areas all over Colorado to explore on foot. From a leisurely stroll to a hardcore mountain excursion, you'll find a Colorado park that fits the bill.

Rafting

Does it seem strange that you can ski and raft during the same season? Colorado is filled with surprises! As the weather warms, you can set out on one of Colorado's many rivers.

You'll find white water rafting challenges and scenic, relaxing floats. The Arkansas and Colorado Rivers offer some of the most exquisite canyon scenery in the state. Both rivers offer whitewater adventures and more leisurely experiences.

Try the Blue River or Eagle River for spring-exclusive rafting. These areas rely on snowmelt so are at their very best in the springtime..

If you're interested in a multi-day excursion, try the Yampa/Green River out of Steamboat Springs. You'll be treated to fossils, rock carvings, and other fascinating geological sights. Spend nights camping in sandy areas.

Destinations

Colorado Springs/Pike's Peak

Colorado Springs is home to the glorious Pike's Peak. This inspiration for the song America the Beautiful is a year-round favorite. Visiting in the spring showcases the fresh green of new leaves and the vibrant colors of fields of wildflowers.

While you're in Colorado Springs, don't miss a visit to Garden of the Gods. This state park sits near Pike's Peak and offers hiking, horseback riding, biking, and jeep tours. The grasslands, woodlands, and mountain forests are a birder's heaven. The geologic history on display is beyond compare.

Other attractions in Colorado Springs include a Ghost Town Museum, the lovely Broadmoor Seven Falls waterfalls, and some excellent craft breweries.

Crested Butte

Quiet and peaceful, Crested Butte is an excellent choice for a spring getaway. You can ski in the early spring, and the area is beautiful. Nestled into the heart of the Rocky Mountains, you'll find lakes, streams, and rivers with incredible mountain views.

This hidden gem is perfect for low-stress, low-key relaxation. Try your hand at fly-fishing during your visit.

Boulder

Boulder takes spring seriously, with festivals and events galore. In April visit Boulder Arts Week, a large celebration of local art and artists. The Tulip Fairy & Elf Festival celebrates spring's iconic flowers.

In May, enjoy the Boulder Creek Festival. You'll find live music, local artisans, beer tasting, and more.

Vail

If you're looking for luxe in your springtime getaway, head to Vail. Stay at one of the many upscale resorts and enjoy the celebrations of the season. Check out the Taste of Vail, with delicious treats and informative seminars.

Catch a new movie at the Vail Film Festival. Get a glimpse of couture at the Spring Fashion Show.

Ski events include Pink Vail, complete with parties and concerts, all benefiting cancer survivors. The Spring Fest at Beaver Creek features live music along with premiere skiing and snowboarding.

As spring colors emerge, Vail's scenery comes alive. Visitors enjoy wildlife sightings on the area's many trails.

Relaxation

Hot Springs

Colorado's famed hot springs do not disappoint as winter melts into spring. Heated by natural geothermal activity, these warm mineral pools are perfect for spring relaxation.

Beat the chill of an early spring day or soak away the sore muscles of a Colorado adventure in one of these natural wonders. There are many hot springs across the state. Some are rustic and undeveloped and others are part of luxurious spas.

If you're looking for a luxe experience, try Dunton Hot Springs. Located near Telluride, this upscale spot sits on the site of a mining camp from the 1800s. It has restored cabins, extensive concierge service, and seven springs for soaking.

Right outside of Steamboat Springs you'll find Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Its selection of accommodations runs the gamut from camp sites to covered wagons and even a train caboose.

Strawberry Park is open to the public. This remote, quiet location sits in a valley surrounded by a spectacular Colorado forest. These natural springs are built into the bed of Hot Spring Creek.

Foodie Heaven

Cities all over Colorado offer excellent local cuisine. Look for restaurant tours and tasting events in the spring as warmer weather invites strolls through scenic towns.

Check out some Colorado specialties. Lamb, bison, and trout are all sourced locally. Try an iconic Denver omelet, some Olathe sweet corn, or a thick and cheesy Colorado-style pizza.

Experience these Colorado dishes in fine dining restaurants, for a quick casual lunch, or even at an outdoor festival.

Wine Country

Colorado has over 140 wine producers. Vineyards dot the state, with clusters near Colorado Springs and Denver. The gorgeous scenery across the state offers a beautiful backdrop to any tour or tasting.

Head over to the northwestern corner of the state for some excellent tasting rooms. These desert mountain vineyards, clustered near Grand Junction and Palisade, offer a wine experience unique to Colorado.

Springtime in wine country brings outdoor events and tours. Enjoy a glass of your favorite Colorado wine on an outdoor terrace with a mountain view.

Visiting Colorado in the spring offers the best of two worlds. Catch the glorious end of the ski season. Enjoy the spring temperatures as flowers bloom and trees begin to bud. The scenery is stunning and there are activities for everyone.