There are simply too many breath-taking sights, parks and monuments in Colorado. It is exhausting to attempt to be thankful for all of them, but that won’t stop us from trying. This year check out these stunning national parks, vistas and monuments and be oh so thankful that you get to live in the best state in the nation, Colorado.

1. Aspen Groves

Photo courtesy of Enhancedbuzz.com

Photo courtesy of Enhancedbuzz.com

Aspen trees are one of the largest and heaviest living organisms on our big blue planet. While above the surface the aspen trees appear to be individual, underground the intricate root system is in an interwoven organism of clones that sprout from the mother tree. Each tree lives around 100-150 years, and they are all clones of one another.

 

2. Ghost Towns

Photo courtesy of Guiddoo.com

Photo courtesy of Guiddoo.com

Colorado was a verifiable gold mine during the 1800’s. As the gold rush ended and time charged on, many towns and dried up mines were abounded. Today many towns such as Carson and St. Elmo are well preserved and offer a glimpse into old mining life with a side of ghostly energy.

 

3. National Parks

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

The National Park Service is celebrating the 100th Anniversary in 2016, there is no better time to explore our magnificent national parks. Colorado is home to four national parks, Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes and the Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park.

 

4. Raging Rivers

Photo courtesy of Mowryjournal.com

Photo courtesy of Mowryjournal.com

Colorado is where it all begins. The river that shaped the Grand Canyon, the Colorado River, along with the Rio Grande River, the Platte Rivers and the Arkansas River start their journey nestled high in the Rocky Mountains. The Colorado River alone provides fresh water to over 30 million people.

 

5. Time Travelling Train Rides

Photo courtesy of Durangotrain.com

Photo courtesy of Durangotrain.com

The Narrow Gauge Railroad has been operating out of the original depot since 1882. Take a step back in time and ride this historic train that connects the towns of Durango and Silverton, Colorado through the spectacular San Juan Nation Forest and witness untouched wilderness from a coal-fired, steam powered locomotive.

6. Natural Hot Springs

Photo courtesy of Colorado.com

Photo courtesy of Colorado.com

From small hidden pools, like Conundrum Hot Springs, tucked high in the hills to the expansive and family friendly pools of Glenwood Hot Springs, Colorado has over 27 hot springs to choose from this year. Soaking in mineral hot springs has many health benefits including increased circulation, nourishing skin and helping your body get rid of toxins.

7. Garden of the Gods

Photo courtesy of Fascinating-places.blogspot.com

Photo courtesy of Fascinating-places.blogspot.com

Home to some of the most unique and extraordinary rock formations, the Garden of the Gods is located just outside of Colorado Springs. Given to the city in 1909 by Charles Elliot Perkins, his lifelong wish was fulfilled and the Garden of the Gods will forever be kept free and open to the public to marvel at the natural sandstone formations.