There are many reasons why Colorado is such a beautiful state. For one, it boasts an incredible variety of landscapes, from Rocky Mountain peaks to sprawling prairies. Whether you’re looking for a place to hike, bike, or simply take in the scenery and capture some photography, Colorado has something to offer. And of course, in the fall, as the leaves change color, the state becomes a veritable paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike. So whether you’re drawn to its majestic mountains or stunning fall colors, there’s no denying that Colorado is one of the most beautiful states in the country. To help you capture all of the beauty the state has to offer, here are the best photography spots in Colorado.
The photos are provided by a mix of Unsplash and the Wedding Maps list of the best wedding photographers in Colorado.
Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are a pair of mountain peaks in the Elk Mountains of Colorado. They are located in the Maroon Creek Valley, about 12 miles southwest of Aspen. The Bells are some of the most popular hiking and photography destinations in Colorado, due to their scenic beauty and accessibility. The Maroon Bells are named for their maroon-colored rock, which is composed of a type of sedimentary rock called shale. This rock is very soft and easily eroded by wind and water, giving the Bells their characteristic rounded shape. The Maroon Bells are also surrounded by a sea of green trees, which makes for a beautiful contrast with the reddish-brown rocks. In addition to being one of the best photography spots in Colorado, the Maroon Bells are also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and black bears.
Rocky Mountain National Park
There are many reasons why Rocky Mountain National Park is beautiful. First of all, it is home to some of the tallest mountains in North America. The peaks of the Rockies tower over the landscape, providing an incredible backdrop for any adventure. Secondly, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. Thirdly, the park is full of stunning wildflowers in the summertime. From delicate alpine bluebells to vibrant paintbrush, these flowers add a splash of color to the landscape. Lastly, Rocky Mountain National Park is simply a peaceful place to be. Whether you’re hiking through forests or relaxing by a lakeside, be sure to bring your camera to capture one of the best photography spots in Colorado.
Red Rocks Amphitheater and Surrounding Area
Red Rocks Amphitheater is a world-famous outdoor concert venue located in Colorado. The venue is nestled between two red rock formations and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Red Rocks Amphitheater has a long history as a concert venue, dating back to the early 20th century. In addition to concerts, Red Rocks Amphitheater also hosts a variety of other events, including movies, comedy shows, and dance performances. It’s also a park open to the public. Nearby, there are many hiking trails and the Red Rocks Trading Post, another great location for photos.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of the most unique places on earth and one of the best photography spots in Colorado. The park is home to the tallest dunes in North America, as well as a diverse array of plant and animal life. Visitors can explore the dunes by hiking, climbing, or even sledding down them. The park also has a number of scenic trails that wind through forests, meadows, and streams. In addition, the park is home to several historical sites, including an old stagecoach stop and a campsite used by Native Americans. Whether you’re looking for a place to hike, camp, or just take in the beauty of nature with your camera, the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is sure to please.
Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods is a must-see for anyone visiting Colorado Springs. This unique geological area features towering sandstone rock formations that have been shaped by centuries of wind and water erosion. The garden is also home to a variety of plant and animal life, including some rare species that can only be found in this part of the world. In addition to its natural beauty, the Garden of the Gods also has a rich history. Native Americans have long considered this place to be sacred, and early settlers used the sandstone rocks to build some of the first homes in Colorado Springs. Today, the Garden of the Gods is best photography spots in Colorado, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re looking to appreciate the natural beauty of the area or learn about its history, the Garden of the Gods is sure to impress.
San Juan Scenic Byway & the Million Dollar Highway
The San Juan Scenic Byway is a 127-mile stretch of road that winds through some of the most beautiful scenery in Colorado. The route takes drivers through the San Juan Mountains, past alpine lakes and towering peaks. Along the way, there are numerous pull-offs and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty. The Million Dollar Highway, which is a section of the San Juan Scenic Byway, gets its name from the cost of construction back in the 1920s. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Colorado. Every year, thousands of people come to experience the stunning views and unique history of this scenic byway. Just don’t forget our camera and plan for plenty of stops by the roadside.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to see first-hand the legacy of the Ancestral Pueblo people. The park is home to more than 4,000 archaeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. These dwellings provide a fascinating glimpse into the everyday lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people, who inhabited the Mesa Verde region from 600 to 1300 AD. In addition to the cliff dwellings, visitors can also explore Mesa Verde’s sprawling landscapes, which include canyons, forests, and mesas. Whether you’re interested in history or nature, Mesa Verde National Park is sure to offer an enjoyable and educational experience. The ruins also create interesting and unique photos, so plan ahead with a wide angle lens and hiking boots to find the best angles.
Vail
There are many reasons why Vail is such a beautiful place. The first reason is the landscape. Vail is located in the Rocky Mountains, and the mountains provide a stunning backdrop for the town. There are also many brooks and streams running through Vail, which add to the beauty of the area. In addition, Vail is home to numerous flowers and trees, which provide color and life to the town.
Another reason why Vail is so beautiful is its architecture. The buildings in Vail are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, and they are constructed from high-quality materials. As a result, the buildings add to the overall beauty of the town. Finally, Vail has a number of art galleries and museums, which showcase the work of local artists. These galleries and museums help to make Vail a truly unique and beautiful place.
Hanging Lake
Hanging Lake is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Colorado. The trail to the lake is surrounded by tall cliffs and stunning waterfalls, and the lake itself is a beautiful turquoise color. The tranquility of the lake is often broken by the sound of birds flying overhead or fish jumpin out of the water. Visitors can also enjoy a swim in the refreshing waters. In addition to its natural beauty, Hanging Lake is also a popular spot for photos and has been featured in many magazines and movies. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a peaceful place to relax, Hanging Lake is sure to exceed your expectations.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Nestled in the midst of the Rockies, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of the most scenic and beloved national parks in the United States. The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, as well as some of the most breathtaking vistas in North America. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, and even raft through the canyon. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a must-see for anyone who loves the outdoors and one of the best photography spots in Colorado.
Telluride
Telluride is a beautiful place to visit all year round. In the winter, the snow-capped mountains are perfect for skiing and snowboarding, and in the summer, the hiking trails offer incredible views of the surrounding valleys making it one of the best photography spots in Colorado. But Telluride is more than just a pretty face – it also has a rich history. The town was founded in 1887 as a mining camp, and at its peak, over 10,000 people lived and worked here. Today, many of the old mining buildings have been converted into shops and restaurants, giving visitors a taste of the past. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Telluride is sure to have something for you. Be sure to stay during sunset for the best photos.
Kenosha Pass
Kenosha Pass is a high mountain pass located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The pass is traversed by US Highway 285 and provides a scenic route between the towns of Fairplay and Lake George. Kenosha Pass is situated at an elevation of 10,839 feet (3,302 m) and is known for its dramatic views of the surrounding mountains. The pass is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, and deer. In addition to its natural beauty, Kenosha Pass also has a rich history. The pass was used by Native Americans for centuries before being discovered by European explorers in the early 1800s. Today, Kenosha Pass is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.
Loveland Pass
Loveland pass is a high mountain pass that provides a scenic route for drivers in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The pass is located along the Continental Divide, and it crosses the divide at an elevation of 11,990 feet. Loveland pass is one of the highest paved roads in Colorado, and it offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys below. The road is open year-round, but it can be treacherous in winter conditions. Drivers should use caution when crossing the pass, as snow and ice can make the road slick and dangerous. However, the risk is well worth it for the breathtaking scenery that Loveland pass has to offer.
Others
Colorado is a state of natural beauty. From the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In addition to the photo locations listed above, here are a few more photo spots to consider.
- South Mesa Trailhead
- Dallas Divide
- Pawnee Buttes
- Mount Evans
- Durango to Silverton
- Colorado National Monument
- Crested Butte
- Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
- Book Cliffs
To read more about our favorite photography locations, be sure to check out more articles in our series.
