6 Incredible Natural Areas to visit in Northern Colorado that Need to be Protected and Respected
The natural areas of Northern Colorado are prominent, outstanding and welcoming to visitors. Though, in recent years, vandalism, litter, and graffiti rates have tragically increased in some of these areas, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesman Jason Clay. Thrill seekers, tourists and Instagrammers alike flock to these locations, and what is most loved about them is risking being lost. To change this epidemic, travelers must do their part to respect the beauty of the environment while holding regard to rules set to preserve nature and the resident critters that reside there.
- Rocky Mountain National Park
Starting off strong with Rocky Mountain National Forest of Estes Park, Colorado, this national park is the 5th most visited in the United States and consists of a whopping 265,769 acres. The land is filled with cascading waterfalls, pine forests and Alpine tundras. Rocky Mountain is one of Colorado’s most premiere wildlife locations and is home to 150 lakes, 450 miles of streams and 160 trails. Concerning wildlife, the park hosts black bears, bobcats, bighorn sheep, elk, hawks, moose and many other amazing creatures. Along with the animals mentioned, there are four threatened species that call the national park their home: the Canada lynx, the Greenback Cutthroat Trout, the Mexican Spotted Owl and the North American Wolverine. In order to keep this spectacular natural area, visitors need to remember to keep to the rules that have been implemented to keep this area preserved. When traveling, remember to stay on the trails when hiking or driving, not take anything from the park and respect the camping and fire rules! Leave No Trace!
2. Garden of the Gods
Within the city of Colorado Springs, Colorado, lies the Garden of the Gods, home to a plethora of geographical and environmental anomalies, making it a prime location for visitors. The natural area sits at the end of Pike’s Peak and hosts gigantic rocks emerging out of the ground. Wildlife. Bighorn sheep are a large populace in the area, and the center consists of 5 ecosystems that make up the cottonwood-willow, ponderosa pine, pinyon-juniper, mountain shrub and prairie-grassland, where the Bighorn sheep enjoy their time. Despite the area being free and open to the public, visitors should remember to stay off of “off-limit” climbing zones and stay on the trails provided throughout the park.
3. Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir is one of Northern Colorado’s most popular areas for the active population as well as those who just enjoy the scenery. In Fort Collins, Colorado, a college town and growing tourist destination, Horsetooth is a main act. During the warmer months, people flock to enjoy the reservoir and dip their toes in the refreshing water. Boaters, boulderers, climbers, hikers, swimmers, cliff jumpers, paddle boarders and scenic enjoyers come from around the globe to experience what the natural area has to offer. Six and a half miles and 1,900 acres of public land draw tourists, but in order to keep the area healthy, we must make a conscious effort to leave the glass bottles at home and clean up the shoreline that greets us at the edge of the reservoir as well as beyond.
4. Hot Springs of Glenwood Springs
Nestled in Northwest Colorado, Glenwood Springs is home to a year-long oasis that is arguably the best hot springs in the state. There, tourists can experience the geothermal amenities as well as rafting, biking and hiking. Full of steam from the springs, the Vapor Caves are a popular attraction for those who want a mineral-rich vapor sauna in the natural underground caves. The Hanging Lake, pictured above, is a short hike away from the springs hosting crystal clear water next to a cascading waterfall near the side of a cliff. Soaking in 100% pure geothermal water, the Hot Springs themselves provide ancient healing properties from over 15 different minerals, rejuvenation and relaxation. In order to minimize the flow of people to this spectacular area, reservations are required to visit some of the amenities and remember to not bring in any outside food, drink, or cigarettes.
5. Red Rocks Amphitheater
Red Rocks Amphitheater is one of the most popular concert venues internationally. The Amphitheater has become an iconic American concert destination as well as home to other sources of entertainment, such as sunrise yoga. Opening in 1941, world-famous musicians such as The Beatles and Stevie Nicks have performed, and continue to perform, at this amazing location. Millions of years ago, the rocks were carved, giving it a unique look and ability to effectively amp music from the stage using incredible acoustics. Despite the theater serving food and drinks, visitors must remember to pick up all the left trash in order to keep the venue as spectacular as it can be. The wildlife in the area are used to visitors and don’t seem to be on the shyer side. Some may get close, though tourists, as well as locals, should make sure not to feed any wildlife to preserve their longevity; they are happy with the grass!
6. Paint Mines Interpretive Park
The Paint Mines Interpretive Park, sitting just inside El Paso County, is named for its colorful clay features that tourists globally travel to see. The hike to the area is not too long, and travelers should keep their eyes peeled for hidden caves, caverns and hoodoos. Hoodoos are column or pillar-shaped rocks that have been weathered and can be found throughout the park. The park has a multitude of colorful wildflowers, fragile ecological properties and significant artifacts, animals and plants. The site is protected by law to preserve the area, and visitors should remember to follow the rules of the park and respect the 4 miles long landscape when visiting.
In closing, these areas are filled with wonder and beauty. In order to continue to enjoy the natural areas that have been preserved for human and ecosystem enjoyment, everybody must do their part while visiting. One of the most important rules is to Leave No Trace, which follows 7 simples principles to minimize human environmental impacts:
- Plan ahead and prepare.
- Travel and camp of durable surfaces.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Leave what you find.
- Minimize campfire impacts (and follow fire laws).
- Respect the wildlife.
- Be considerate of other visitors.
Happy traveling!
References
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