7 Must-Try Outdoor Adventures

1. The Vail Mountain Resort

Vail’s 3,500 feet of mountain slopes receive an annual 350-inches of snowfall each year, making it one of the top skiing spots across the globe. Over 30 ski lifts transport visitors to 5,000 acres of rideable terrain. The experience offers everything from simple slopes to expert runs and powder-filled black bowls.

Once you’ve had your fill of the slopes, stop in to any of the Vail’s bars for delicious eats and warming spirits. The George is a popular pick thanks to its dirt cheap hour specials, but you can find dozens of top-quality pubs within walking distance from the 5-star rated Vail Four Seasons.

2. The Colorado River

Whitewater rafting and Colorado have a beautiful relationship. It’s one of the top-rated activities suggested for anyone visiting the state, and the Colorado River offers the best rafting around. You can sign up with Geo Tours from May to September for an adventurous journey down Class IV rapids.

The company provides patrons with gear and guides ready to provide the thrills and scenes you’re looking for. If you want an all-day excursion, they’ll even extend the rafting session to the Arkansas River and Clear Creek. Multi-day excursions complete with overnight camping are also available.

3. Rocky Mountain National Park

From November to April, you can grab a pair of snow shoes and walk through the snowy tundra at Rocky Mountain National Park. R.E.I. in downtown Denver provides everything you need for the chilly hike. After picking up your supplies, head to the park entrance and choose from dozens of trailheads that all offer stellar views.

Bear Lake is a popular hike if you want to really experience the mountain. This trail travels across a number of smaller lakes, winds through various cliff faces, then opens up at 10,000 feet to overlook the rest of the mountain range.

4. Buffalo Creek

For the mountain biker, there’s nothing like the trails at Buffalo Creek. This 23.6-mile trail system rests less than hour outside of Denver, featuring rolling single-track trails that climb to a 3,000-foot elevation. As you ride through the winding pathways, a scenic backdrop of massive rock formations creates a gorgeous view.

The trail system features multiple intersecting loops, giving bikers the opportunity to tailor their ride by adding as much distance as they would like. On the way back down, numerous dips and buttery smooth turns allow you to freely soar to the bottom for a rollercoaster-like experience.

5. Estes Park

For the more adventurous skier, Estes Park offers a backcountry experience featuring the most dramatic mountain terrain in the states. There are no manicured runs or resorts in the park, placing thrill-seekers alone with the natural twists and turns of the mountain.

ClimbingLife offers guided expeditions from beginner to advanced levels. From November to July, their tours offer runs with summit peaks of up 14,200 feet. It is highly recommended that you use a guide in Estes Park to ensure your safety.

6. A&A Stables

If you’re looking to experience what life in Denver was like back when the then town was founded, A&A Stables provides the ultimate horseback riding experience in the Rockies. Their unique packages allow you branch out from the traditional out-and-back rides, offering overnight camping and even fireworks shows.

The Full Moon Ride is the quintessential “wild west” experience. The six-hour tour starts at daylight, winding through valleys and old mines to reach Central City. Once there, enjoy the area’s local wine options alongside traditional dining options and a little gambling. That evening, you ride your horses back to A&A Stables under the moonlight.

7. The Flatirons

The Rocky Front Range’s most recognizable and popular formation is the Flatirons. This sandstone rock offers the best short technical climbs in the entire area surrounding Denver. The face of the formation features a challenging series of open ledges, tiny crevices, and deep fissures.

Beginners can take advantage of steeper slants for a fun climb, while the more adventurous will find themselves dangling from 90-degree angles. Regardless of your experience level, each climb is accompanied by breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain range.

Denver Apartments

Whichever of these seven destinations you choose, your adventure begins here at COLAB. This brand new, campus adjacent urban basecamp is thoroughly equipped to satisfy everyday needs while fueling your endless mountain spirit. We’re upping the game on student apartments in Denver’s downtown area.

The living is good at COLAB. In-unit amenities provide a modern home with envious appeal. Smart and stylish furnished interiors feature dedicated bedrooms with full-sized beds, study desks, and wood-style flooring. All units feature kitchens with quartz countertops accentuated by tile backsplash and stainless-steel appliances. All-inclusive utilities, G2B high-speed internet, and a 55” flat screen smart TV sweeten the deal.

With thoughtfully curated amenities, residents can play and relax in style. Tackle projects in the Thinkspace conference rooms and tech room, stay active in the fitness and yoga rooms, then kick back by the resort-style pool or rooftop deck. Mingle in outdoor lounge or catch a film in the movie lounge. Pet-friendly with on-site parking, everything you need is right outside your front door.

Located right in the heart of downtown Denver, your home at COLAB is campus-close and mountain adjacent. Take advantage of the city’s exceptional public transportation to whisk yourself away to fine dining, premier shopping, and a vibrant nightlife experience anytime you desire. Local craft coffee shops and fine arts are in abundance here, as are various outdoor excursions from parks in the city to mountainous adventures in the Rockies and beyond.

Welcome to COLAB. Your adventure begins here.