Colorado
Nature|National & State Parks

Mesa Verde National Park Was Named The Fourth International Dark Sky Park In Colorado

Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park due to its clear, light-pollution-free skies and historical significance.

Published May 17, 2021

Written by 

Annie

It's stargazing season again, as temperatures are heating up and the skies are getting clearer with each passing night. Are you excited? We sure are, which is why we are spreading the good news that Colorado is home to yet another International Dark Sky Park (our fourth, to be exact!) via the clear and beautiful Mesa Verde National Park, one of the most beautiful places in the U.S.

Located in southwest Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is arguably one of the most fascinating places in the state, as it houses an 800-year-old+ Ancestral Puebloan village as well as some of the most well-preserved ruins in the region.

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Flickr/Scrubhiker (USCdyer)

Thanks to its secluded location in both the middle of nowhere and away from any towns or cities, Mesa Verde also boasts some of the clearest skies in Colorado, making it a no-brainer as to the state's newest International Dark Sky Park!

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Flickr/David Welch

What is an International Dark Sky Park? As the name implies, it is a recognized area where nighttime skies are dark and have virtually no light pollution, which was created by the aptly-named International Dark-Sky Association.

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Flickr/Michael McDonough

According to a press release by the International Dark-Sky Association, Mesa Verde was a no-brainer, as the skies are not only incredibly clear and have virtually no light pollution, but also "offers public night sky programs throughout the year and is an excellent place to learn about and enjoy the wonders of the night sky."

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Flickr/Heath Harrelson

In addition to Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado is home to 3 other International Dark Sky Parks, including the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Jackson Lake State Park, and 5 additional monuments and communities.

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Flickr/Wienot Films

To learn more about the International Dark-Sky Association and other International Dark Sky Parks and Communities, please visit the IDA's website.

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Flickr/Wienot Films

For another must-visit Dark Sky Park, check out This International Dark Sky Park In Colorado Will Take You A Million Miles Away From It All.

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Nature|National & State Parks

The Breathtaking Small Town State Park in Colorado That We Can’t Stop Thinking About

For a peaceful nature escape, spend an afternoon at Alvarado Open Space Park in Georgetown, Colorado.

Published Oct 15, 2024

Written by 

Melissa Mahoney

There are certain places that we will return to again and again, and this includes popular Colorado state parks like Eldorado Canyon, Navajo, and State Forest State Parks. The most wonderful aspect of our state parks is that each offers its own unique landscape, recreational opportunities, and hiking trails. However, there's one small-town state park in Colorado that we can't stop thinking about, and it's one you may not have even heard of or planned to visit. And once you learn about Alvarado Open Space Park, I have a feeling you'll want to plan an adventure here as soon as possible!

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Sarah Ray/AllTrails

Once upon a time, this area was known as Shadows Ranch which was a resort community. Today, 60 acres of the former resort are a part of Alvarado Open Space Park. For an escape into nature, some fresh air, and maybe even a bit of exercise, this park seems to have it all.

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Sarah Ray/AllTrails

For you hikers out there, AllTrails lists two distinct trails. The first one is the Moose and Lake Loop, a 0.5-mile easy flat dirt trail. The second trail is called the Alvarado Lake Loop. This route is 0.3 miles and also considered easy. Each trail is kid-friendly and you'll be able to spot several old abandoned buildings along the way. Birds and wildlife are also abundant here so be on the lookout and see what you can spot!

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Sarah Ray/AllTrails

You'll find serenity by the water at this beautiful park. While it's a small pond, it's a lovely spot to go fishing or even have a picnic. Speaking of, there are designated areas in the for you to enjoy a picnic by yourself or with loved ones. Wouldn't you love to dine al fresco with a view?

Alvarado Open Space Park is a quiet place to spend an afternoon. If you're in need of a nature escape, do yourself a favor and set aside a few hours to enjoy all that this park has to offer.

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Clear Creek County Colorado/AllTrails

So, are you excited to visit Alvarado Open Space Park, a small-town state park in Colorado? I have a feeling it will become your new favorite park, especially if you have kids. Head to the Clear Creek County website to learn more about Alvarado Open Space Park. For hiking information, head to AllTrails.

Are you Planning a getaway to Georgetown and need a hotel suggestion? I'm here to help! Book a stay at Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Georgetown Lake on Hotels.com.

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Nature|National & State Parks

Tiny But Mighty, The Smallest State Park In Colorado Is A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring

Rifle Falls State Park in Colorado is a small but stunning park known for its 70-foot triple waterfall and diverse outdoor activities.

Updated Aug 7, 2024

Written by 

Annie

Colorado is one of my favorite states to visit! And if you have ever stepped foot outside here, you know that our landscapes are amazing, making it THE best place for outdoor recreation! All of this said it should come as no surprise that even our state parks are also some of the best in the country, including the small but mighty Rifle Falls State Park.

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Wondering about some of the smallest state parks in Colorado? Welcome to the unforgettable Rifle Falls State Park!

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TripAdvisor/Travljunky2017

Tucked away near Rifle, Rifle Falls State Park encompasses a mere 48 acres, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for with its incredible landscape, the most notable of which is the picturesque triple waterfall.

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TripAdvisor/KLisenbee

Standing at an impressive 70 feet tall, the triple waterfall may just be the crown jewel of Western Colorado, thanks to not only the water itself but the travertine dam and nearby limestone caves. That's right, one of the smallest state parks in Colorado is also one of the most majestic.

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TripAdvisor/Deerarat1

Like all great Colorado state parks, Rifle Falls State Park also boasts incredible hiking opportunities, plus fishing, wildlife sightings, and camping.

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Who says that bigger is always better?

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We sure don't!

There is an admission fee to Rifle Falls State Park as well as a fee for overnight campsites.

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TripAdvisor/Management

Be sure to give one of the smallest state parks in Colorado a visit. You certainly will not be disappointed.

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Rifle Falls State Park is open year-round.

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Learn more about visiting Rifle Falls State Park.

What are some of your favorite Colorado State Parks? Tell us in the comments!

Need some new hiking gear? Check out what LL Bean has!

Now that you have visited the smallest state park in Colorado, consider checking out this other gem, Stagecoach State Park.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/colorado/little-known-park-to-yourself-co/

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