Experiencing Colorado’s Wild History

Denver is many things: hip, green, popular and steeped in history. Situated at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, it is one of America’s trendiest cities – thanks to a sunny climate and myriad opportunities for outdoor leisure activities.

Denver, the capital of the US state of Colorado, is also fondly referred to as the “Mile High City”. This nickname reflects its location at one mile above sea level, which seems very fitting for a city that is truly flying high. Denver has, for years, been one of the fastest growing cities in North America. The modern metropolis situated at the edge of the Great Plains was initially founded as a goldmining town.

Delving into the Wild West

Those who associate the term “gold diggers” with images of cowboys, Native Americans and tepees, will love to explore Denver. The Mile High City cleverly combines history with modernity. The lower downtown area is characterised by stately Victorian houses that rub shoulders with ultramodern glass skyscrapers.

Those interested in the Native American heritage will find an excellent collection of Western and American Indian Art on display in the Denver Art Museum. The façade of the museum is, in itself, a sight to behold. Set in the great outdoors, the Mesa Verde National Park is home to fascinating cliff dwellings and is one of the most significant historico-cultural parks in the US.

Nature, nature, nature

But Colorado’s most important feature is, in one word, nature. Denver is the ideal starting point for day trips and hikes. Pikes Peak, one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the Rocky Mountains, can be reached from Colorado Springs (Colorado’s second-largest city after Denver). Rising to 14,115 feet (4301 m), passengers can journey to the mountain summit via the world’s highest cog railway. The City of Boulder is also well worth a visit: featuring hiking paths, climbing routes and mountain bike trails in abundance, and boasting a car-free city centre, Boulder could well be the sportiest city in the US.