Colorado State Parks: Where Parking Turns Into Picture-Perfect Panoramas

Let’s face it, driving through Colorado is a treat in itself. Winding mountain roads, vibrant wildflowers, and breathtaking vistas all conspire to make you forget about the miles you’re racking up. But what if you could park your car and really soak it all in? Colorado State Parks are brimming with parking areas that offer not just a place to rest your weary bones but also a front-row seat to some of the state’s most stunning scenery.

Imagine this: you pull into a parking lot, hop out of your car, and are instantly greeted by a panorama that takes your breath away. Maybe it’s a towering mountain range reflecting in a crystal-clear lake, or a lush valley carpeted with wildflowers, or a dramatic canyon carved by ancient rivers. These aren’t just parking spots; they’re portals to some of Colorado’s most cherished natural wonders.

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This article is your guide to finding those hidden gems, those parking areas that offer more than just a place to park. We’ll explore some of the best spots to pull over and experience the magic of Colorado’s state parks, from the iconic to the lesser-known. So, buckle up, grab your camera, and get ready to discover parking areas that are anything but ordinary.

A Scenic Road Trip Through Colorado’s State Parks

1. Maroon Bells Scenic Area, Aspen

Let’s start with the big guns. Maroon Bells, those iconic twin peaks that grace countless postcards, are a must-see for any visitor to Colorado. And the best part? You can park right near them! The Maroon Bells Scenic Area offers several parking areas, each with its own unique vantage point.

The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop: This paved loop takes you right to the base of the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the Bells reflected in the crystal-clear waters of Maroon Lake.
The Maroon Bells Trailhead Parking: If you’re feeling adventurous, this parking area is your starting point for hiking up to the Bells.
The Maroon Bells Overlook: For a truly panoramic perspective, head to the Overlook, where you can soak in the grandeur of the Bells and the surrounding peaks.

Colorado State Parks: Where Parking Turns Into Picture-Perfect Panoramas

Pro Tip: Get there early to snag a parking spot, especially during peak season.

2. Trail Ridge Road, Rocky Mountain National Park

There’s a reason why Trail Ridge Road is known as the "Highest Continuous Paved Road in the United States." It winds its way through the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, offering unparalleled views of alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and sprawling forests.

Colorado State Parks: Where Parking Turns Into Picture-Perfect Panoramas

Alpine Visitor Center Parking: This parking lot offers access to the visitor center and some of the most spectacular views of the park’s alpine tundra.
Many Parks Curve Parking: Known for its dramatic switchbacks and stunning views, this parking area is a photographer’s paradise.
Pull-offs along Trail Ridge Road: Don’t forget about the numerous pull-offs along the road. These offer opportunities to stop, stretch your legs, and capture the beauty of the park from different angles.

Pro Tip: Check the weather conditions before heading up, as Trail Ridge Road can be closed due to snow or ice.

3. Mesa Verde National Park, Mesa Verde

Step back in time at Mesa Verde National Park, home to the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans. While the park is famous for its archaeological sites, it also boasts breathtaking views of the mesa and surrounding canyons.

Mesa Top Loop Road: This scenic drive offers numerous pull-offs with panoramic views of the mesa and the surrounding landscape.
Park Point Trailhead Parking: This parking area is your starting point for the Park Point Trail, which leads to a lookout point with stunning views of the mesa and the Montezuma Valley.
Wetherill Mesa Parking: This parking area provides access to the Wetherill Mesa archaeological sites, including the famous Cliff Palace.

Pro Tip: Book your tour of the cliff dwellings in advance, as they are often booked solid.

4. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Alamosa

Think of the Great Sand Dunes as a giant playground for nature lovers. The park boasts towering sand dunes that rise as high as 750 feet, creating an otherworldly landscape that’s both mesmerizing and awe-inspiring.

Dune Parking Lot: This parking lot is your gateway to the dunes. From here, you can hike, sled, or simply marvel at the vast expanse of sand.
Medano Creek Parking: This parking area provides access to Medano Creek, a shallow, meandering stream that flows through the sand dunes. The creek is perfect for wading, splashing, and cooling off on hot days.
High Dune Trailhead Parking: For a challenging but rewarding hike, head to the High Dune Trailhead Parking. This is your starting point for the High Dune Trail, which leads to the summit of the tallest dune in the park.

Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, as the sand can be quite soft and challenging to walk on.

5. Dinosaur National Monument, Jensen

Journey back to the age of dinosaurs at Dinosaur National Monument, where you can see actual dinosaur bones embedded in the rock face. But the park isn’t just about fossils. It also offers stunning scenery, including towering red cliffs, lush canyons, and the meandering Yampa River.

Quarry Visitor Center Parking: This parking lot provides access to the Quarry Exhibit Hall, where you can see the dinosaur bones up close.
Harpers Corner Road: This scenic drive offers spectacular views of the Yampa River and the surrounding canyons. Look for pull-offs along the road to stop and enjoy the scenery.
Echo Park Parking: This parking area provides access to the Yampa River and Echo Park, a beautiful oasis in the desert.

Pro Tip: Bring your binoculars to spot wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, deer, and eagles.

6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Gunnison

Prepare to be humbled by the sheer scale of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The canyon is known for its dramatic cliffs, deep depths, and stunning views of the Gunnison River.

South Rim Parking: This parking lot offers access to the South Rim Trail, which provides panoramic views of the canyon.
Painted Wall Trailhead Parking: This parking area is your starting point for the Painted Wall Trail, a challenging but rewarding hike to the base of the Painted Wall, a towering rock formation that rises over 2,000 feet.
North Rim Parking: For a different perspective of the canyon, head to the North Rim Parking. This parking lot offers access to the North Rim Trail, which provides stunning views of the canyon from a different angle.

Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water, as it can get hot and dry in the canyon.

7. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

The Garden of the Gods is a geological wonderland, with towering red rock formations that seem to reach for the sky. This park is a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and photography.

Main Parking Lot: This parking lot is your gateway to the park’s main trails and attractions.
Perkins Central Garden Parking: This parking area provides access to the Perkins Central Garden, a beautiful area with a variety of trails and scenic overlooks.
Palmer Park Parking: For a more extensive hike, head to the Palmer Park Parking. This parking area is your starting point for the Palmer Park Trails, which wind through the park’s forests and meadows.

Pro Tip: Bring your camera, as the scenery is breathtaking.

8. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison

Known for its iconic amphitheater carved into the red rocks, Red Rocks is a cultural landmark and a must-visit for music lovers. But even if you’re not attending a concert, the park offers stunning views of the red rocks and the surrounding mountains.

Main Parking Lot: This parking lot provides access to the amphitheater and the park’s trails.
Red Rocks Trading Post Parking: This parking area is a good option if you’re looking for a shorter walk to the amphitheater.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre Trailhead Parking: For a more scenic route, head to the Red Rocks Amphitheatre Trailhead Parking. This parking area is your starting point for the Red Rocks Trail, which leads to the top of the amphitheater.

Pro Tip: Check the Red Rocks Amphitheatre website for concert schedules and events.

9. Mount Evans Scenic Byway, Idaho Springs

Prepare for a high-altitude adventure on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. This winding road climbs to the summit of Mount Evans, the highest paved road in North America, offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

Summit Lake Parking: This parking lot is located at the summit of Mount Evans, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Echo Lake Parking: This parking area is located at Echo Lake, a beautiful alpine lake with stunning views of the mountains.
Pull-offs along the Byway: Don’t forget about the numerous pull-offs along the Byway. These offer opportunities to stop, stretch your legs, and capture the beauty of the mountains from different angles.

Pro Tip: Dress warmly, as the weather can be unpredictable at high altitudes.

10. Ouray Ice Park, Ouray

Ouray is known as the "Switzerland of America" for its stunning mountain scenery and charming Victorian architecture. But the town also boasts a world-renowned ice climbing park, which attracts climbers from all over the world.

Ouray Ice Park Parking: This parking lot provides access to the ice park and the numerous ice climbing routes.
Ouray Downtown Parking: If you’re not interested in ice climbing, you can still enjoy the stunning scenery of Ouray by parking downtown and exploring the town’s shops and restaurants.
Ouray Hot Springs Pool Parking: After a day of exploring, relax and rejuvenate at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Pro Tip: The ice park is only open during the winter months, when the weather is cold enough for the ice to form.

Beyond the Parking Lot: Tips for Making the Most of Your Scenic Stop

Pack a picnic: Enjoy a meal with a view! Bring a picnic basket and find a scenic spot to enjoy your lunch.
Bring a camera: You’ll want to capture the beauty of these parking areas. Bring a camera and be ready to snap some stunning photos.
Be prepared for the weather: Colorado weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything. Pack layers of clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a rain jacket.
Stay on designated trails: Help protect the environment by staying on designated trails and avoiding sensitive areas.
Pack out what you pack in: Leave no trace of your visit. Pack out all of your trash and dispose of it properly.
Respect wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid feeding them.

FAQs about Parking Areas with Scenic Views in Colorado State Parks

Q: Are there fees to park in these areas?

A: Most state parks have an entrance fee, which often includes parking. However, some parking areas may have additional fees, especially during peak season. Check the park website or contact the park ranger for more information.

Q: Are there restrooms available at these parking areas?

A: Many parking areas have restrooms, but not all of them do. Check the park website or contact the park ranger for more information.

Q: Are there any restrictions on camping near these parking areas?

A: Most state parks have designated campgrounds, and camping is typically not allowed outside of these designated areas. Check the park website or contact the park ranger for more information.

Q: How can I find more information about specific parking areas?

A: The best way to find more information about specific parking areas is to visit the website of the Colorado State Parks system. You can also contact the park ranger for more information.

Q: Are there any other tips for finding scenic parking areas in Colorado?

A: Keep an eye out for signs that indicate scenic overlooks, pull-offs, or trailheads. You can also ask local residents for recommendations.

Conclusion

Parking areas in Colorado State Parks are more than just places to park your car. They are gateways to some of the state’s most stunning scenery. So next time you’re planning a trip to Colorado, be sure to add these parking areas to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed! And remember, it’s not just about the destination, it’s about the journey. So take your time, enjoy the scenery, and make some memories that will last a lifetime.

Closure

Thus, we hope this article has provided valuable insights into Colorado State Parks: Where Parking Turns Into Picture-Perfect Panoramas. We thank you for taking the time to read this article. See you in our next article!