Winter is approaching and the weekends can drag on. Many of us may be sitting around at home pondering what to do and sitting on the couch all day. If this sounds like you, I’d encourage you to get out there and explore something new. Northern Colorado is a beautiful place with many sights to see. Check out these five places.

1. Stanley Hotel (Estes Park, CO)

The Stanley Hotel lies at the base of The Rocky Mountains, just six miles away from Rocky Mountain National Park. Located right in the heart of Estes Park, this beautiful hotel is the perfect getaway for you. If you don’t want to stay overnight you can take a 75-min tour of the Stanley. The tour uncovers all the spooky secrets within the hotel and all that has happened there. This tour is $23 for adults and $17 for kids under 17.     

2. Horsetooth Falls Loop Trail (Fort Collins, CO)

The Horsetooth Falls trail is a 2.9 mile loop near Fort Collins. This spectacular trail features a stunning waterfall and is also a great spot for birding. If you are looking for a short day trip where you can experience some clean, fresh air this is the activity for you. The trail is only 28-mins away from downtown Fort Collins.

3. Greyrock Trail (Laporte, CO)

Greyrock trail is a 7.1 mile loop just outside of Laporte. This mountainous trail is difficult but will reward with a spectacular view of the foothills from above. This trail runs by a lake and is another great spot for birding. If you want a good workout and fantastic views of Colorado nature this is for you.

4. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery (Fort Collins, CO) Weekend Hours: 10:00-5:00 p.m. Entrance fee: $7.00 for student with (ID) $9.50 for adults.

The Museum of Discovery is a fantastic museum right in town. This is the biggest museum in Fort Collins with many installations. It is most popular for its nature installations and different hands on activities they feature throughout. If you are interested in film, they also have an illustrious Digital Dome Theater with showings all day. The theater features astronomy installations and different films. If you are interested in discovering and exploring Northern Colorado and its past, this is the activity for you.

5. Coyote Ridge Trail (Fort Collins, CO)

Coyote Ridge trail is a 4.1 mile trail featuring open prairie where you begin to hike towards the foothills. Although the trail may be not that difficult, it rewards you with an amazing eastern view of Colorado’s expansive open spaces. The trail is only 24-mins from downtown Fort Collins.

Colorado is one of the most active states in America. Don’t sit around this year; get out and get some fresh air!