13 Most Underrated Destinations In Colorado
Colorado is packed with famous destinations like Aspen, Breckenridge, and Rocky Mountain National Park. And don’t get me wrong, I love all of thos places.
But if you’ve ever felt like they are a little too crowded, a little too polished, or just a little too done, you’re not alone.
The good news is there are plenty of spots across Colorado that offer just as much beauty, adventure, and charm without the tourist overload.
From remote mountain towns to national parks that somehow still fly under the radar, these destinations give you all the best parts of Colorado without the long lift lines, overpriced meals, and shoulder-to-shoulder hiking trails.
If you’re looking for breathtaking views, incredible outdoor experiences, and fewer crowds, these 13 underrated destinations in Colorado need to be on your list for this summer:
1. Lake City
Colorado is full of mountain towns, but every once in a while, you stumble upon one that makes you wonder how it’s still a secret. That’s exactly how I felt the first time I set foot in Lake City.
Tucked deep in the San Juan Mountains, this tiny town feels untouched, like stepping back in time to a wilder version of Colorado. No traffic, no crowds, just towering peaks, endless trails, and the kind of solitude that makes you stop and breathe it all in.
Even the roads, many of them still dirt, add to the feeling that you’ve discovered a place where time moves a little slower.
It’s also the kind of place where adventure is the main attraction. Hiking, off-roading, fly fishing, mountain biking, and camping, all with a fraction of the crowds you’d find in nearby Telluride.
And then there’s Lake San Cristobal, a massive, glassy alpine lake perfect for fishing, kayaking, or just sitting on the shore wondering why you didn’t come here sooner.
Things to Do in Lake City
- Explore the Alpine Loop – A rugged 4WD-only backcountry road winding through ghost towns, alpine tundra, and some of the most remote terrain in Colorado.
- Hike a section of the Continental Divide Trail – Because nothing beats high-altitude ridgelines and complete silence.
- Grab a pint at Lake City Brewing Company – A laid-back local brewery where the beer is cold and the views are even better.
- Stargaze like never before – With zero light pollution, Lake City is one of the best places in Colorado to see the Milky Way.
- Go snowmobiling in winter – When the town is blanketed in snow, Lake City becomes a winter playground for backcountry riders. Of course, ride with caution.
Where to Stay in Lake City
For a true mountain escape, The North Face Lodge was an easy favorite for us.
The rooms were cozy, but the real highlight was the deck. Sitting out there with a blanket by the fire pits, watching the mountains glow at sunset, was pure magic. With heaters to keep you warm and one of the best views in town (or in the state), it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
>> Click here to book your stay at The North Face Lodge.
2. Meeker
If you love the Colorado outdoors without the crowds, put Meeker on your list.
This small town in northwestern Colorado is surrounded by hundreds of miles of public land, which makes it a prime spot for hiking, mountain biking, and some of the best big-game hunting in the state.
But even if hunting isn’t your thing, Meeker is all about wide-open spaces, rugged landscapes, and a pace that lets you actually enjoy it all.
The backcountry here feels untouched, with hidden lakes, wildlife roaming freely, and trails that stretch for miles without another soul in sight. If you’re looking for adventure and solitude, you’ll find both here.
Things to Do in Meeker
- Explore the Flat Tops Wilderness – One of Colorado’s most underrated wilderness areas (truly), with high-alpine lakes, stunning meadows, and hardly any people. Be sure to hike to Devil’s Causeway; a classic in this part of the state.
- Mountain bike the Meeker Trail System – Ride through rolling hills, aspen groves, and wide-open views with miles of singletrack to explore.
- Go off-roading on Wagon Wheel OHV Trails – Nearly 250 miles of trails through thick forests, rocky terrain, and remote backcountry.
- Fish the White River – A gold-medal trout fishing destination with plenty of secluded spots to cast a line.
Where to Stay in Meeker
If you’re up for a remote experience, camping in the Flat Tops is always an awesome choice!
3. Crested Butte
If you want Aspen without Aspen (if you know you know), Crested Butte is your spot.
This tiny town tucked into the Elk Mountains has everything you could want from a Colorado mountain getaway: epic hiking, world-class skiing, vibrant wildflowers in summer, and a downtown that feels straight out of a hippie mountain fairytale.
What makes Crested Butte stand out isn’t just its scenery (which is unreal). It’s the vibe.
While other ski towns have been overrun by luxury developments and crowds, Crested Butte has managed to keep its laid-back, local feel. You won’t find designer stores or massive hotel chains here, just a tight-knit community, colorful Victorian buildings, and people who are here for the adventure, not the status.
Things to Do in Crested Butte
- Hike to high-alpine lakes and panoramic summits – Trails like East Maroon Pass, Copper Lake, and Scarp Ridge offer some of the most rewarding hikes in Colorado (and they are a few of our favorites, too).
- See the wildflowers – Crested Butte isn’t called the Wildflower Capital of Colorado for nothing. Summer here is an explosion of color.
- Ski Crested Butte Mountain Resort – Known for steep terrain and legendary backcountry access, it’s a dream for advanced skiers, but there’s plenty of beginner-friendly terrain too.
- Bike some of the best trails in the Rockies – From Snodgrass Mountain Trail to the Lower Loop, Crested Butte is a mountain biker’s paradise.
- Stroll downtown and grab a bite – Don’t leave without a slice from Secret Stash Pizza or a local brew from The Eldo.
Where to Stay in Crested Butte
For a cozy, historic stay, Elk Mountain Lodge is a solid choice. This is where we stay every time we’re in town. It’s got charm, comfort, and a prime location near downtown.
>> Click here to book your stay at Elk Mountain Lodge.
4. Kremmling
Kremmling might not be on every Colorado traveler’s radar, but if you’re looking for scenic beauty, great hiking, and an affordable base near some of the state’s top outdoor destinations, this little town delivers.
Sitting between Silverthorne and Steamboat Springs, Kremmling is surrounded by stunning backcountry trails, wide-open spaces, and one of the most underrated reservoirs in the state, Green Mountain Reservoir near Heeney.
The reservoir is seriously gorgeous, with turquoise-blue water and mountain views, and it’s perfect for boating, paddleboarding, or just hanging out on the shore.
And unlike nearby Steamboat, where prices can skyrocket, Kremmling is way more affordable while still keeping you close to world-class skiing, hiking, and scenic drives.
But what really makes Kremmling stand out is that it’s a snowmobiling paradise. Some of the best riders in the world train here, thanks to the town’s easy access to deep powder, wide-open meadows, and challenging backcountry terrain.
If you’re into snowmobiling, or want to try it for the first time, this is one of the best places in Colorado to do it.
Things to Do in Kremmling
- Explore Green Mountain Reservoir – A hidden gem for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding with incredible views. Put this on your Colorado bucket list; you won’t regret it!
- Hike Rabbit Ears Pass – A mix of forested trails and jaw-dropping overlooks just a short drive away. Windy Ridge is one of our favorite trails.
- Go snowmobiling in deep backcountry terrain – With miles of untouched powder, this is one of the best spots in the country for serious riders.
- Take a day trip to Steamboat Springs – Just an hour away, you can hit the slopes, soak in the hot springs, or explore the town, then return to Kremmling’s quiet, budget-friendly charm.
Keep in mind, to get from Kremmling to Steamboat Springs, you will need to venture over Rabbit Ears Pass, which can be a dangerous road during winter conditions.
Where to Stay in Kremmling
If you’re traveling with an RV or enjoy camping, there are plenty of campsites near Green Mountain Reservoir, where you’ll get prime lakefront views without the resort prices.
5. McCoy
If you’ve ever dreamed of floating down a river with nothing but blue skies, towering canyon walls, and pure mountain air, McCoy is the kind of place that should be on your list.
This tiny town (and I do mean tiny) sits along the Colorado River, which makes it one of the best spots in the state for tubing, rafting, and kayaking. Whether you’re looking for a lazy float on a hot summer day or an adrenaline-pumping whitewater trip, McCoy can deliver.
And because McCoy is completely off the tourist trail, it’s quiet, peaceful, and feels like an escape from the rest of the world. No crowds, no overpriced attractions, just endless sky, winding river bends, and the kind of relaxation you can only find in a place this remote.
Things to Do in McCoy
- Go tubing or rafting on the Colorado River – The river runs right through town, offering everything from calm, scenic floats to thrilling rapids.
- Camp by the river – There’s no better way to experience McCoy than sleeping under the stars with the sound of the river in the background.
- Take a scenic drive through the countryside – The rolling hills, ranchlands, and dramatic cliffs make for one of the prettiest drives in Colorado.
Where to Stay in McCoy
There aren’t many hotels here (which is kind of the point), so your best bet is camping near the river or renting a cabin in the surrounding area.
6. Silverton
If you want a true Colorado mountain experience, Silverton is it. This tiny town is one of my all-time favorites, and it sits deep in the San Juan Mountains. It truly feels like a place lost in time with historic buildings, no stoplights, and some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the entire state.
What sets Silverton apart? Well.. camping, hiking, and off-roading that’s on another level.
Whether you’re pitching a tent at Molas Lake (arguably one of the best campgrounds in Colorado… trust me), hiking to Columbine Lake or Ice Lake Basin, or taking on some of the gnarliest off-road trails in the region, this town is pure adventure.
Oh, and if you visit in winter, Silverton transforms into an off-the-grid backcountry skiing paradise, where powder hounds come for untouched runs and extreme terrain at Silverton Mountain (ski at your own risk).
Things to Do in Silverton
- Camp at Molas Lake – A stunning high-alpine campground with insane views and easy access to hiking trails.
- Hike to Columbine Lake or Ice Lake Basin – Two of Colorado’s most unreal alpine lakes, with electric-blue water and epic mountain backdrops.
- Take on the off-roading trails – Silverton is a bucket-list destination for off-roaders, with rugged routes like Black Bear Pass, Engineer Pass, and Ophir Pass.
- Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – One of the most scenic train rides in the U.S., running through the remote San Juan wilderness.
- Hit the backcountry at Silverton Mountain – If you’re a serious skier or snowboarder, this is one of the wildest and most legendary spots in Colorado.
Where to Stay in Silverton
Check out the newly remodeled The Wyman Hotel, a boutique stay in a historic downtown building. If you’re all about the outdoors, Molas Lake Campground is one of the most scenic camping spots in the state.
7. Trinidad
Trinidad is one of those towns that people drive right past without realizing what they’re missing.
Sitting near the New Mexico border, this historic town is packed with outdoor adventure, quirky history, and a location that makes it the perfect base for exploring some of Colorado’s most underrated spots.
It’s just two hours from Great Sand Dunes National Park, which means you can spend the day sandboarding down the tallest dunes in North America and be back in Trinidad by sunset.
But even if you stay local, there’s plenty to explore, including hiking and mountain biking in Trinidad Lake State Park, scenic drives through the Spanish Peaks Wilderness, and stargazing that’s unreal thanks to no real light pollution.
And unlike some of Colorado’s pricier mountain towns, Trinidad is still affordable, making it a great stop for budget-conscious travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path escape.
Things to Do in Trinidad
- Visit Great Sand Dunes National Park – Just a two-hour drive away, it’s an easy day trip to one of the most unique landscapes in the U.S.
- Hike or bike in Trinidad Lake State Park – A hidden gem with lake views, scenic trails, and plenty of space to explore.
- Drive the Highway of Legends – This stunning scenic byway winds through the Spanish Peaks, old mining towns, and dramatic rock formations.
- Check out the quirky art scene – Trinidad is home to The Art Cartopia Museum, a collection of wild, decorated cars that you have to see to believe.
- Go stargazing – Thanks to minimal light pollution, the night skies here are gorgeous.
Where to Stay in Trinidad
Since Hilton is our go-to hotel chain, we recommend the Hilton Garden Inn in Trinidad. Trinidad isn’t overrun with tourists, which means you can score great hotel deals without sacrificing comfort.
8. Ouray
Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is one of the most scenic mountain towns in Colorado, yet somehow, it still feels like a hidden gem compared to places like Telluride or Aspen.
Nestled deep in the San Juan Mountains, this town is surrounded by towering peaks, waterfalls, and some of the most dramatic landscapes in the state.
But Ouray isn’t just about the views. It’s an adventure hub with incredible hiking, world-class off-roading, and some of the best hot springs in Colorado.
Whether you’re soaking in the Ouray Hot Springs, hiking to a high-alpine lake, or tackling the legendary Imogene Pass in a 4×4, this town has something for every kind of explorer.
And if you visit in the winter, Ouray is home to one of the most famous ice climbing destinations in the world, the Ouray Ice Park, where climbers scale frozen waterfalls in a stunning box canyon.
Things to Do in Ouray
- Soak in the Ouray Hot Springs – A natural hot spring pool with mountain views in every direction.
- Hike to Blue Lakes or Yankee Boy Basin – Two of the most breathtaking alpine hikes in Colorado.
- Take on the Jeep trails – Ouray is an off-roading paradise, with famous 4×4 routes like Imogene Pass, Black Bear Pass, and Engineer Pass.
- Ice climb in the Ouray Ice Park – If you’re here in winter, watching climbers tackle massive frozen waterfalls is an experience in itself.
- Stroll historic downtown – Ouray’s Victorian-era buildings, local shops, and old-school saloons make it feel like a town from another time.
Where to Stay in Ouray
For a boutique stay, check out the Imogene Hotel, a stylish, beautifully restored historic hotel in the heart of Ouray.
Connected to the hotel is the Imogene Rooftop, where you can sip a drink while taking in unreal mountain views. If you’re looking for the perfect mix of charm, comfort, and scenery, this is the spot.
9. Black Canyon of the Gunnison / Olathe
If you think the Grand Canyon is the only jaw-dropping canyon in the U.S., you haven’t been to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
This massive, sheer-walled gorge drops over 2,000 feet straight down to the Gunnison River, making it one of the steepest and most dramatic canyons in North America, yet somehow, it’s still one of the least-visited national parks in Colorado.
And that’s exactly what makes it special. No crowds. No traffic. Just pure, rugged, untouched wilderness.
Whether you’re hiking along the rim for insane canyon views, descending into the depths of the Inner Canyon, or rock climbing one of the park’s legendary walls, Black Canyon is one of those places that makes you feel small in the best way possible.
Just outside the park, Olathe offers a totally different vibe. This tiny farming town is best known for Olathe Sweet Corn, which locals swear is the best corn you’ll ever eat (and we can certainly agree!).
If you’re visiting in late summer, stop by for the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival, a small-town celebration of food, music, and agriculture that’s worth the detour.
Things to Do in Black Canyon of the Gunnison / Olathe
- Drive the South Rim Road – A scenic route with multiple overlooks that each offer breathtaking views straight into the canyon.
- Hike the Warner Point Trail – A short but epic hike with panoramic views of the canyon, the Gunnison River, and the surrounding mountains.
- Go stargazing – Black Canyon is a Dark Sky Park, meaning the night skies here are some of the clearest in Colorado.
- Fish or raft the Gunnison River – One of the best trout fishing spots in the state, plus sections of river perfect for whitewater rafting.
- Eat fresh Olathe Sweet Corn – If you’re here in late summer, don’t leave without trying Colorado’s most famous corn straight from the source.
Where to Stay Near Black Canyon of the Gunnison / Olathe
For a stay close to the park, check out The Rathbone Hotel & Parlor Bar in Montrose.
This historic boutique hotel combines vintage charm with modern comfort, and the on-site Parlor Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
If you’d rather sleep under the stars, camping inside Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers some of the best stargazing in Colorado.
10. Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde is one of the most fascinating national parks in the U.S., yet it remains surprisingly underrated.
Unlike Colorado’s other parks, which are all about mountain views and outdoor adventure, Mesa Verde is a portal to the past, home to some of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America.
Built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago, these ancient stone villages are carved directly into the canyon walls, which creates an almost surreal sight.
Walking through sites like Cliff Palace and Balcony House feels like stepping back in time. It offers a rare glimpse into the lives of the people who once thrived in this rugged landscape.
One reason Mesa Verde doesn’t see as many visitors as other national parks is it’s not the easiest place to get to. Located in the far southwestern corner of Colorado, it’s a bit of a drive from major cities, which keeps the crowds down and the experience more immersive.
Things to Do in Mesa Verde National Park
- Tour Cliff Palace – The largest cliff dwelling in North America, with towering stone structures built directly into the rock face.
- Explore Balcony House – A more adventurous tour that requires climbing ladders and crawling through tunnels to reach the ruins.
- Drive the Mesa Top Loop – A scenic drive with multiple overlooks and stops at ancient dwellings.
- Hike the Petroglyph Point Trail – A 3-mile hike offering great views and a chance to see centuries-old rock carvings.
- Stargaze from the high desert – With minimal light pollution, Mesa Verde is one of the best places in Colorado for clear, brilliant night skies.
11. Buena Vista
We stumbled upon Buena Vista by chance, planning to just pass through, but within hours, we knew we had to stay for a few nights.
The adorable downtown has that perfect mix of small-town charm and outdoor energy, with local shops, friendly faces, and cafés that serve up some seriously good coffee.
And while the town itself is worth the visit, the real adventure lies in what’s just beyond it.
Buena Vista sits in the Arkansas River Valley, surrounded by towering 14,000-foot peaks, whitewater rapids, and natural hot springs. Whether you’re rafting through Browns Canyon, hiking one of the Collegiate Peaks, or soaking in Mount Princeton Hot Springs, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside and experience the best of Colorado.
Things to Do in Buena Vista
- Raft the Arkansas River – This is one of the top whitewater rafting spots in the U.S., with options for both thrill-seekers and first-time paddlers.
- Soak in Mount Princeton Hot Springs – A stunning natural hot spring resort with soaking pools and a lazy river, all set against a mountain backdrop.
- Hike a 14er – If you’re up for the challenge, Buena Vista is surrounded by some of the most accessible 14,000-foot peaks in the state, including Mount Princeton and Mount Harvard.
- Explore Cottonwood Pass – A gorgeous high-elevation drive with unreal views and plenty of hiking trails along the way.
- Stroll downtown – Buena Vista’s small but lively downtown is home to local breweries, cafes, and cool little shops with a true mountain-town feel.
Where to Stay in Buena Vista
For a cozy, rustic stay, check out Surf Hotel & Chateau, a boutique hotel on the river that blends mountain charm with modern design.
12. Pagosa Springs
Some places just have that “I could stay here forever” kind of feel (kind of how we’ve always felt about Steamboat Springs 😏), and Pagosa Springs is one of them.
We rolled in expecting a quick stop, but between the geothermal hot springs, stunning mountain scenery, and endless outdoor adventure, we found ourselves wishing we had more time.
The hot springs here are incredible, and we know our hot springs. We make it a point to visit them every chance we get, from Steamboat Springs to the Azores in Portugal to Iceland to hidden spots all over Oregon.
But Pagosa Springs is something special. We’re talking some of the hottest geothermal waters in the world, bubbling up right in the middle of town. Whether you opt for the relaxing pools at The Springs Resort or find a free natural soak along the San Juan River, this is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.
And trust me, there’s plenty to explore. From hiking to waterfalls, skiing at Wolf Creek, and kayaking on the San Juan River, Pagosa Springs is an outdoor paradise that somehow still flies under the radar compared to other Colorado destinations.
Things to Do in Pagosa Springs
- Soak in the Pagosa Hot Springs – Home to the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, with multiple soaking pools right on the river.
- Hike to Treasure Falls – A short but rewarding hike to a stunning 100-foot waterfall.
- Ski or snowboard at Wolf Creek – This ski resort gets some of the most snow in Colorado, which makes it a dream for powder lovers.
- Paddle or float down the San Juan River – Grab a kayak or tube and drift through town with mountain views all around.
- Explore the Weminuche Wilderness – One of Colorado’s most rugged and remote wilderness areas, packed with alpine lakes and epic trails.
Where to Stay in Pagosa Springs
If you want to soak in hot springs from the moment you wake up, The Springs Resort & Spa is the best choice.
13. Craig
Craig might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Colorado travel destinations. In fact, if you know about Craig, you probably think I’m crazy for this one.
But trust me.. if you’re into wide-open landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a true off-the-grid experience, this small town in northwestern Colorado is worth a stop.
Known as the “Elk Hunting Capital of the World,” Craig attracts hunters from all over, thanks to its massive herds of elk and endless stretches of public land.
But even if you’re not into hunting, the surrounding area offers fantastic hiking, fishing, and some of the best stargazing you’ll find anywhere in the state; seriously, the night skies here are unreal.
Craig also serves as a great base for exploring remote parts of Colorado that most people never see.. even Coloradans! It’s close to Dinosaur National Monument, a hidden gem packed with ancient petroglyphs, deep canyons, and, you guessed it, real dinosaur fossils.
Things to Do in Craig
- Explore Dinosaur National Monument – See towering canyon walls, Native American rock art, and real dinosaur fossils just over an hour away.
- Go wildlife spotting at Yampa River State Park – This area is home to bald eagles, elk, mule deer, and tons of other wildlife.
- Fish the Yampa River – One of Colorado’s best fly-fishing rivers, with huge trout and peaceful, crowd-free spots.
- Hike or camp in Routt National Forest – Just outside of town, this huge stretch of public land offers endless trails and backcountry camping.
- See the stars like never before – With nearly no light pollution, Craig is one of the best places in Colorado for stargazing.
Where to Stay in Craig
If you prefer something a little more rustic, consider camping along the Yampa River or staying in a cabin near Routt National Forest.
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