National Park Journal

Get the digital version of the National Park Journal with its four separate park editions (Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone and Yosemite) to discover all-time favorite road trips to the national parks. From Utah’s dazzling deserts, the adobe-lined streets of New Mexico’s charming towns, Wyoming’s authentic outposts, California’s stunning coastline and Colorado’s mountain towns, we feature all the amazing places to explore en route to the parks, no matter where you begin your adventure. Plus , our insider’s guide includes our top things to do in each national park in 48 hours. Discover the best hiking trails, campsites and attractions in our magazine. Our illustrated wildlife guide will help you discover the best of the park's wild animals, including tips on where to find them, and our packing list ensures you don’t leave anything at home.

FOUR EPIC ROAD TRIPS • Here are four fabulous road trips to Colorado's national parks, originating in cities like Denver and Salt Lake City. Turn to our Road Trips section, starting on page 20, for insider details and itineraries.

Editor’s Note

National Park Journal - Colorado

WELCOME TO PARADISE • Ready for your ultimate Colorado vacation? Our insider's guide to Rocky Mountain National Park, plus Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes and Mesa Verde national parks, will lead you to the best hiking trails, fun adventures and scenic drives.

COLORADO'S BIG FOUR • In Colorado, four national parks showcase some of the country's most varied and scenic terrain from the nation's tallest sand dune to alpine lakes, ancient ruins and a sheer canyon.

MESA VERDE'S TOP SIX • Here are our favorite things to do in Mesa Verde National Park.

BEST RV CAMPGROUNDS • Visiting Colorado by RV this year? We've rounded up the most RV-friendly campground for the summer season in all four of Colorado's national parks, plus two national monuments, to help you plan an epic road trip.

CLIFFSIDE FUN • With incredible sheer black cliffs and a history-filled past, Black Canyon of the Gunnison is one of Colorado's most underrated destinations. Here are our top 4 things to do.

THE FOUR WAYS INTO ROCKY MOUNTAIN • Spanning the Continental Divide, Rocky Mountain National Park has four entrances, three on the park's east side and one on the west.

ROCKY’S TOP SIX • Here are some of our favorite things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park.

WHAT TO PACK • After many trips to Colorado's parks, we've created the ultimate packing list. Use it to spend more time outside and less time shopping for items you forgot.

MORE TO EXPLORE • While Colorado's national parks might steal the spotlight, its 42 state parks shouldn't be overlooked. These beautiful public lands are often less crowded and just as beautiful. Here are four of our favorite picks.

TOP 6 AT GREAT SAND DUNES • From sledding down dunes to watching the sunset, here are the best things to do.

LAND OF ENCHANTMENT • Stunning landscapes, culture and adobe villages await on this 2,121-mile trip.

SAND AND SUN • Play in the giant sandbox of White Sands National Park.

Explore the Inside of the Earth

BEST OF SANTA FE • Santa Fe is a world-class destination, but there are fascinating sights dotting the stunning landscape around it. Lose the crowds and enjoy breathtaking outdoor activities with these top six things to do in Santa Fe County.

OUT OF THIS WORLD • You'll find amazing high-desert adventures around every corner in Farmington, N.M.

MESA VERDE TOURS

A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME • Ride the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for unparalleled Colorado history and views.

Explore Creede

SAND-FILLED STAY • Base in Alamosa, Colo., to lose the crowds and see the best of Great Sand...