13 Fabrications About Colorado Most People Think Are True
Colorado is a state of snow covered peaks, charming mountain towns and ever blue skies. Beyond its stunning beauty, it’s a place that’s woefully misunderstood. Myths and fabrications about the Centennial State have taken root over the years, and the picture painted isn’t always reality.
These misconceptions are as endless as the state’s weather pattern variants. There are some common falsehoods that we need to set the record straight on. If you’re a Coloradan, a curious traveler, or someone who’s just heard a lot of chatter about the state, this list will give you the real scoop.
Everyone Is an Extreme Outdoor Enthusiast
Colorado is a hiker and climber and skier’s paradise, but not everyone here spends their weekends climbing 14,000 foot peaks. Quite a few locals are happy to just come for the views and a cold craft beer from the patio. Sure, outdoor recreation is a big deal, but I mean, there isn’t some statewide requirement of membership for being hardcore about it.
It Is Just Denver and the Mountains
Despite Denver and the Rockies being the name of the game, Colorado has more. Vast grasslands and small farming communities make up nearly half the state on the Eastern Plains. Grand Junction is west, and there are desert landscapes. This is anything but a one note state.
Most People Are Not Affected by Altitude
In Colorado, ‘thin air’ isn’t just a phrase. Even seasoned athletes will find themselves short of breath from climbing stairs to 5,280 feet above sea level. Most people need a few days to adjust, and altitude sickness can affect newcomers and visitors alike, says the Cleveland Clinic. So drink plenty of water and don’t over do it on day one!
Tourism Is Colorado’s Economy
It’s not the whole story, but tourism plays a big part. Major contributors are industries like aerospace, technology and agriculture. Colorado is one of leading states for aerospace employment with more than 30,000 jobs in aerospace in Colorado according to the Colorado Office of Economic Development.
The Ski Resorts Are Expensive
Skiing in Aspen or Vail is no doubt pricey, but not all Colorado ski resorts are pricey. For families or those just starting out, affordable places like Loveland and Monarch Mountain are good places to be. Plus, locals can score deals on season passes that make the sport much more affordable.
The State’s Main Attraction Is Marijuana
Colorado was one of the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, but it isn’t the only reason people come here to visit or live. Hiking trails, national parks, world class skiing, and the Telluride Film Festival are still attractive. It’s just one part of the picture.
Wildlife Sightings Are Guaranteed
People think of Colorado as a land where elk roam the streets and bears wave hello. Wildlife sightings are common, but not guaranteed. They avoid human interaction as much as possible, and you’ll have to have patience and maybe a little luck to spot them in their natural habitat.
Snow Covers Colorado All the Time
Colorado is not buried in snow year round as the postcard perfect image would have you believe. Although the Rocky Mountains remain snowy at high elevations, Denver sees nearly 300 days of sunshine a year. Temperatures often reach into the 90s here in the summers. So you don’t need snowshoes to visit in July!
Colorado Is Only for Young People
Millennials love Denver, but Colorado has something for everyone. Between the tranquility of mountain towns and the bustling cultural scene in Boulder, retirees and families alike have discovered the state is no less attractive. Recent surveys show more and more older Americans moving here for the lifestyle and healthcare.
Denver Is in the Mountains
Denver is not in the mountains, but right next to them. The Rockies loom just to the west, but the city sits on the plains. That’s why the Denver skyline is so striking against the backdrop of towering peaks.
It’s Always Dry
Colorado is known for its dry climate, but the weather changes. Afternoon thunderstorms sweep across the Front Range in spring, and monsoon like rains can hit the western slopes in late summer. Many think it is parched, but it’s not.
It’s All Natural Here
While Colorado likes to pride itself on sustainability and organic living, that doesn’t mean everything you purchase here is straight from the farm. The grocery stores still stock processed snacks, fast food chains are still thriving, and convenience still trumps the organic label, like everywhere else.
The Air Is Perfectly Clean
Colorado’s air quality is mostly good, but not perfect. Along the Front Range, hazy skies and health advisories caused by wildfires and ozone levels are common in summer. The American Lung Association says some areas, like Denver, have trouble with air pollution during peak seasons.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
