Summer Starts Now: Western Colorado Bucket List

The season of sunshine and exploration is here—get ready to make it memorable

June 20, 2025

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Today marks the first official day of summer, and there’s no better place to soak it all in than Western Colorado. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or something in between, here are a few essential experiences to check off your list this season.

Photo Courtesy of Colorado Department of Transportation

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Step back in time on this legendary train ride that winds through the San Juan Mountains. Choose a classic trip to Silverton or opt for a shorter ride into Cascade Canyon for equally stunning views.

Float the Gunnison River
Summer means river season. Rent a tube, book a guided raft trip, or grab your fly rod. From lazy floats near Delta to whitewater near Gunnison, the water’s fine.

Watch Fireworks Over the Mountains
Head to a small-town celebration like Ouray or Crested Butte for a Fourth of July that feels like a movie scene—complete with parades, pie contests, and fireworks echoing off the peaks.

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Spend the Day at a County Fair
The Delta County Fair, Montrose County Fair & Rodeo, and others are packed with rodeo action, funnel cake, 4-H showings, and live music. Bring cash, sunscreen, and a sense of fun.

Pick Your Own Fruit in Palisade
Peach season arrives in late July, but cherries and apricots come sooner. Walk the orchards, taste as you go, and grab a bottle of wine or cider on your way out.

Photo Courtesy of Visit Palisade

Camp on the Rim of Black Canyon
Spend a night under the stars at one of the park’s campgrounds. The South Rim Campground offers incredible sunset views, easy access to hikes, and some of the darkest skies in the region.

Drive the Alpine Loop
This rugged scenic byway connects Lake City, Ouray, and Silverton through high alpine passes. You'll need a high-clearance 4x4, but the views of ghost towns and wildflower-filled meadows are worth it.

Photo Courtesy of Montrose County Fair and Rodeo

Western Colorado doesn’t wait around—summer is here, and so are the stories waiting to be made. Wherever the road takes you, take the long way, pack a snack, and don’t forget to look up.