Colorado is a state that boasts a vast, stunning range of landscapes, making it one of the most sought after destinations for nature photography enthusiasts. From the San Juan Mountains to Mesa Verde National Park, the state offers an array of beautiful scenic spots that provide perfect opportunities for capturing incredible shots. Let’s take a look at the best places to visit in Colorado for nature photography.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-known photography destination for its rocky peaks, soaring trees and exquisite wildlife. The Park covers an altitude of 12,183 feet and is a haven for landscape photographers, especially in the fall, which provides the perfect opportunity to capture the amazing colours of the snow-capped mountains and changing foliage. The well-known road, Trail Ridge, is an ideal spot to capture the sunrise over the mountains and to sit back and appreciate the beauty of the panoramic views.
Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells, located in Aspen, is yet another must-visit spot for nature photography enthusiasts. It offers awe-inspiring views of the Maroon Bells peaks, which are highlighted by a beautiful natural lake. Head to the location early to take advantage of the initial light of the day which creates magical reflections of the peaks on the serene surroundings of Maroon Lake. The scenic spot also offers several hiking trails, which makes it a perfect choice for hikers who wish to capture stunning shots of the surrounding nature.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, located in the San Luis Valley, is a top pick for those who like to combine adventure and photography. It’s the perfect spot to take remarkable nature shots, thanks to the towering dunes that create a unique contrast with the surrounding mountains. It’s a must-visit spot during the evening when the sunlight enhances the colours of the dunes and creates fantastic shades that make for an ideal photo opportunity.
Garden of the Gods
Located in Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods is one of the state’s top-rated tourist attractions, and a beautiful spot for photography enthusiasts. The park offers fantastic views of stunning rock formations, surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna. There are several hiking trails to choose from, and photographers can choose the perfect spot to capture the spectacular views of the rock formations that contrast with the Colorado blue sky.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park, situated in Southwestern Colorado, is a world heritage site and a photographer’s paradise. It’s known for preserving the homes and structures of the ancient Pueblo culture, and offers great opportunities for nature photography, especially shots of the ancient structures against the beautiful surrounding landscapes. The place provides stunning views of the sunrise and sunset, and also offers several adventure activities, which makes it a great fixed spot for photography and hiking enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Colorado has an impressive variety of stunning natural locations that are perfect for nature photography. From the rocky peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park to the towering dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, each location provides fantastic opportunities to capture the most fabulous shots. Make sure to plan the visit ahead and capture the stunning moments during the early morning and evening hours when the light conditions are optimal for photography. Happy Shooting!