Best known of the Rocky Mountain states, Colorado is essentially an outdoor paradise and owes its recognition to the majestic mountains that create spectacular scenery, panoramic vistas and an abundance of recreational possibilities. For many, nature forms the essence of Colorado.

The Rocky Mountains is a year-round destination that boasts national parks and forests, canyons, lakes, rivers and peaks that provide opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing and horse riding. Numerous winter resorts nestled in the mountains offer unrivalled skiing and snowboarding amid beautiful alpine scenery. The resort of Vail is considered to be one of the top ski destinations in the Americas and is the most popular, while Aspen is best known for its celebrities and glamorous après-ski scene.

The state capital, Denver, is the obvious starting point for a vacation and is the gateway to the mountains, ski resorts and spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park to the north. Home to many museums, parks, gardens and a lively downtown area, the city offers the comfort and culture of bigger cities like Los Angeles or New York, but at a more relaxed pace. Pikes Peak looms over the popular city of Colorado Springs, famous for its breathtaking views that was the inspiration for the lyrics of 'America the Beautiful' by Katherine Lee Bates. Just outside the city are the fantastic red sandstone formations of the Garden of the Gods.

The western part of the state comprises beautiful remote desert canyons and the archaeological remnants of the cliff cities left by an ancient civilisation at Mesa Verde National Park, a stark contrast to the alpine wonders that attract most visitors to Colorado.

Colorado History Museum

Address: 1300 Broadway

Admission: $7 (adults). $5 (children 6-12). Children under six years are free. Student, children and senior concessions available Daily Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sunday 12pm to 5pm

Telephone: (303) 866 3682

Denver Art Museum

Address: 100 W 14th Avenue Parkway

Admission: $13 (adults), $5 (children 6-18); under 5's are free. Student, senior and resident concessions available. It is recommended that tickets are ordered in advance Closed on Mondays. Tuesday and Thursday 10am to 5pm, Wednesday and Friday 10am to 9pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 5pm

Telephone: (720) 865 5000

Rocky Mountain National Park

Admission: $20 per vehicle, or $10 per individual hiker, cyclist or motorcyclist, valid for seven days The park is open 24 hours a day year round; see website for different Visitor Center opening hours

Telephone: (970) 586 1206, or 586 1333 (recorded information)

Colorado Springs

Ski resorts