A Colorado family vacation is often considered a “dream vacation” for many families, usually because the idea conjures up images of expensive resorts and pricey excursions with outfitters.
But in reality, there are plenty of inexpensive ways to get the most out of Colorado. And considering the biggest draw is “the great outdoors,” let’s start there.
Go Hiking. Hiking trails in Colorado are almost always free, and there are hundreds to choose from all over the state. They offer the best views of the Rocky Mountains, give you as much exercise as you can want, and many are pet-friendly.
The opportunities for family photos are rich as well. Pine forests, mountain streams, and gigantic boulders offer fantastic backdrops for great memories. You will very likely see some wildlife as well, from chipmunks to mule deer to bighorn sheep.
One of our favorite things to do (for free) is take a hiking trail above tree-line to an alpine lake. The view and serenity up above the clouds is breathtaking, and won’t soon be forgotten.
Try snowshoeing. If it’s winter, try those same hiking trails with snowshoes strapped to your feet. Rentals are very reasonable, and you’ll get the full Colorado wilderness experience stomping through the snow. Throw a few snowballs along the way, and keep your eyes open for animal tracks.
Visit a State or National Park. Fees are generally low at all of Colorado’s 42 State Parks. Less than $10/day per car. Depending on which park you choose, you can find camping, fishing, hiking, even sailing.
The National Parks can be a little more per day, but usually offer something worth the extra dollars. Rocky Mountain National Park has unbelievable mountain views. The Great Sand Dunes National Park has sand dunes over 700 feet tall. You get a lot of “bang for your buck” at these parks.
Ski and Snowboard at the smaller ski areas. If you want to take a winter Colorado family vacation, try the smaller ski areas. The locals refer to great skiing away from tourist crowds as the “gems” of Colorado.
They are much less expensive–up to 50% less for lift tickets compared to the super-resorts like Aspen and Vail. Some of these gems include Arapahoe Basin, Eldora, Loveland Basin, Monarch, Powderhorn, Ski Cooper, Sunlight, SolVista and Wolf Creek.
You’ll find their menus to be more affordable as well, and you are welcome to “brown bag” it, which could add to your savings.
Because these ski areas are focused mostly on skiing and snowboarding, you don’t pay for extravagances like heated gondolas, fancy boutiques, and slope-side condos. But they definitely deliver when it comes to snow. The acreage tends to be smaller, but you don’t have nearly as many people, which often makes it seem like you have the whole place to yourselves.
You won’t see any fur coats or celebrities at these ski areas, but the mountains are still in Colorado, the snow is still amazing, and best of all, the smaller ski areas tend to be family-friendly, with a laid-back feel that isn’t so crowded and rushed.
Because there are no overnight accommodations on-site, you can also choose your own lodging relative to your budget.
Visit the big ski resorts in the summertime. Because summer is considered off-season, big resorts like Breckenridge, Keystone, and Beaver Creek are always offering package deals for the summer. Bring your mountain bikes and take the ski lifts up to wildflower-covered trails. Take a day trip and go whitewater rafting. There is lots of fun to be had for much less.
Search internet auctions and online classifieds. Sites like eBay and Craigslist offer a huge amount of inexpensive choices. Make it a habit to do a search once or twice a week to see if anyone has a condo or vacation package listed for dramatically less.
Oftentimes, people will book a hotel or condo for a week, only to find out their plans have unexpectedly changed. If you happen to be available that same week, you might get an amazing deal.
The same thing goes for people who have time-shares but are unable to use them for their allotted week. We have had great luck with internet auctions, and have never paid full price for a week’s stay.
In truth, a Colorado family vacation doesn’t have to be a dream. With the right plan, it’s a great way to get outdoors, bond with your family, and most importantly, have a lot of fun. We hope these tips will help you save some money and get you into those beautiful Rocky Mountains.
KK Farber publishes the website “Colorado Springs Vacation Insider,” an independent travel guide focused on Colorado’s Pikes Peak region. Features reviews and information on local attractions, lodging, outdoor recreation, restaurants, and fun things to do. See more at: http://www.colorado-springs-vacation.com