Colorado Less Traveled

Author : Anthony Gubitoso
Publisher : Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
ISBN 13 : 9781523487387
Total Pages : 36 pages
Book Rating : 4.4/5 (873 download)

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Download or read book Colorado Travel Guide written by Anthony Gubitoso and published by Createspace Independent Publishing Platform. This book was released on 2016-01-19 with total page 36 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Colorado is a state of wild contrasts. From the flat plains of the eastern portion of the state to some of the Rocky Mountains' highest peaks to the high desert and red rock country of the western reaches of the state, the landscape is incredibly varied, home to many diverse ecosystems and natural marvels, and supports a thriving hunting and outdoors culture that draws people from around the world. And yet, the contrasts in the natural landscape are nothing compared to the political and social contrasts you will find here. Like much of the rest of the American West, Colorado is a traditionally rural state with a frontier heritage and a very pro-business attitude. But here you will also find fiercely liberal communities in the college and resort towns that have been home to hippies and major countercultural figures. There's a wide range of outlooks and attitudes here in a state that lives up to its nickname - "Colorful Colorado." Colorado is one of the world's top destinations for alpine skiing, snowboarding, and other winter mountain sports. Home to 26 ski areas and resorts, Colorado offers the perfect location to take a family or solo or couples vacation to. From beginners to expert mountains, these resorts are open to anyone. Even for the non skiers, the resorts and ski towns offer shopping, spas, tubing and any multiple other fun attractions to enjoy. Many of these resorts are only 1-2 hours outside of Denver. Colorado is split down the middle north to south by the Rocky Mountains. To the east is a region of high prairie, dry and wide open. To the west are rugged mountains arranged in various groups or ranges. (Interestingly, the largest single range in the state, the San Juan Mountains of the southwestern quarter, aren't technically part of the Rockies.) Meandering through the mountains is an imaginary line called the Continental Divide. This marks the flow of precipitation. Rain falling on the west of the Divide makes its way to the Pacific Ocean. Rain on the east makes its way to the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. What may be surprising to visitors, however, is that, despite stereotypes, comparatively little of the state is actually mountainous. Perhaps a third of it is covered by hills or mountains, and even less is actually home to the soaring, jagged peaks for which the state is known. Those who've never been to Colorado might imagine a frigid, snowy states. However, Denver's 300 sunny days a year and overall mild temperatures are a point of pride among Coloradoans. Due to the Rocky Mountains which split the state in half, climate differs greatly from east to west, low to high. The weather changes rapidly and unpredictably, so be prepared for anything if you're traveling in most seasons. Colorado is also an exceptionally dry state, and has suffered through several recent droughts. Drink lots of waters and watch for dehydration. Winter is generally cold, though the weather is drastically different depending on elevation. While the mountains are likely to experience frequent snow storms - guaranteeing lots of fresh powder for skiing - these become less and less frequent as one travels down on the Eastern slopes. Lower elevations to the east of the Rockies experience occasional snow storms and even huge blizzards, but low temperatures seldom last long, and the winter is frequently interrupted by warm days with temperatures in the 50s, 60s, or even higher. Bring warm snow clothes, but also a light jacket. While March is the snowiest month of the year, the warm days of spring are more frequent in this month, and even in the mountains it is not unusual for temperatures to rise to the 60s or above, making for some very interesting skiing. colorado travel guide colorado travel book travel guide colorado colorado guide book