• Very hot and dry ahead
• Fire weather highlights issued
• Fire danger continues into Independence Day

TUESDAY NIGHT: Winds will slow down a little bit into the overnight hours letting elevated fire conditions ease slightly. Overnight lows will be in the 50s and 60s.

WEDNESDAY: The morning will be less hazy, but that will quickly change with more smoke being dragged across the I-25 corridor with gusts up the 45 MPH. Hot temperatures in the 80s and 90s are expected with very low humidity too. Red flag warnings are active from 10 AM until 10 PM.

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THURSDAY: Fire weather watches are active for now, but I think those will be upgraded to red flag warnings. Gusty winds, low humidity and temperatures in the 90s and triple digits are expected for some.

FRIDAY: Very similar conditions are expected for Friday compared to Thursday. Very hot temperatures still stick around with gusty winds and low humidity.

THE WEEKEND: The Fourth of July will be hot, windy and dry. Sunday will be the first day that southern Colorado sees any sort of chance for moisture on the horizon.

Colorado’s Top State Parks

Colorado is a top state for parks because of outdoor engagement. Many host programming, including guided wildflower hikes, yoga classes, wildlife talks and stargazing events. The state park system also showcases the beauty of Colorado, introducing travelers to lesser-known canyons, grasslands, reservoirs, rivers and prairies that often get overshadowed by the state’s famous mountain destinations.

Colorado’s largest state park is State Forest State Park, which encompasses 71,000 acres of rugged mountains, alpine lakes, wildflower-filled meadows and dense forests in the northern part of the state near the Wyoming border. Nicknamed the “Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado,” the park is home to an estimated 600 moose, making wildlife watching one of its most enticing draws. Meanwhile, the smallest park is Rifle Falls, which is just 48 acres and is the closest thing you’ll get to the tropics in this landlocked state. The park’s main draw is a triple waterfall, with the falls each cascading 60 feet.

For this list, parks were selected based on scenic value, recreation opportunities, accessibility, my experience as a long-time parks pass holder, uniqueness and their ability to appeal to different types of travelers.

1. Golden Gate State Park

Thirty miles west of Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers travelers an easy mountain escape without a long drive. Spanning more than 12,000 acres of forests, meadows and rocky peaks, the park is best known for its Panorama Point Scenic Overlook, where visitors can see the Continental Divide.

Established in 1960, the park offers more than 35 miles of hiking trails, including routes that wind through aspen groves, wildflower-filled meadows and dense pine forests.

Summer and fall are especially popular, with colorful wildflowers and autumn turns the Aspens a brilliant gold, drawing visitors and showing off why the state is nicknamed “Colorful Colorado.” Winter brings opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding and hunting for the perfect Christmas tree.

The park’s proximity to Denver makes it ideal for day-trippers, while cabins, yurts, campgrounds, and backcountry campsites invite longer stays. Nearby, visitors can explore the historic mountain towns of Black Hawk, a casino destination, or check out Golden, which has shops, restaurants, Coors Brewery tours, and kayaking at the Clear Creek Whitewater Park. This is my go-to park that I take out-of-town friends and family members to because it gives them a nice snapshot of Colorado’s scenery, and we can take a quick day hike, ending in downtown Golden with happy hour or an early dinner.

2. State Forest State Park

Located northwest of Fort Collins near Walden and close to the Wyoming border, State Forest State Park is Colorado’s largest state park, spanning more than 70,000 acres. Nicknamed the “Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado,” it’s one of the best places in the state to spot wildlife, with an estimated 600 moose calling the area home.

Established in 1938 through a land exchange between the state of Colorado and the U.S. Forest Service, the park remains a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking wide-open spaces and fewer crowds. Visitors can hike to alpine lakes, drive scenic mountain roads, fish, camp, horseback ride and watch for moose, elk, black bears, river otters and bald eagles.

Summer and early fall are ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, while winter brings snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Campgrounds, cabins, yurts, and nearby lodging in Walden make it easy to extend a stay. The park also pairs well with a trip to nearby Rocky Mountain National Park, offering a quieter and more remote complement to one of Colorado’s most visited destinations.

3. Ridgway State Park

Travelers looking to combine lake recreation with mountain adventures will find plenty to love here. In southwestern Colorado, Ridgway State Park pairs the dramatic peaks of the San Juan Mountains with one of the state’s top recreation reservoirs. Opened to the public in 1989, the park is known for boating, paddling, fishing and camping.

Centered around Ridgway Reservoir, the park offers swimming, paddleboarding, sailing, water skiing and excellent fishing for trout. Or, fly fish along the Uncompahgre River in the fall for a chance to catch Kokanee Salmon.

More than 14 miles of trails wind through the park, while wildlife watchers may spot elk, deer, foxes, osprey, bald eagles and other bird species. Summer is the busiest season, but the park serves as a year-round base camp for exploring nearby Ouray (15 miles away), famous for its hot springs, ice climbing and via ferrata routes and nicknamed “Switzerland of America.” Park visitors can camp in tent and RV sites, stay in one of the park’s heated yurts or book a hotel in Ouray.

4. Chatfield State Park

One of Colorado’s most popular state parks, Chatfield State Park sits just 20 miles south of Denver, where a sprawling reservoir draws boaters, water skiers, paddlers and anglers. Its easy access and wide range of outdoor activities make it a favorite escape for both locals and visitors seeking nature close to the city.

Established in 1975, the park sits where the South Platte River emerges from the foothills at the mouth of Waterton Canyon. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the dam after a flood 10 years earlier. Today, the mix of prairie, wetlands and reservoir habitat makes Chatfield a standout for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, with more than 345 documented bird species, including bald eagles, American white pelicans and burrowing owls. Visitors can enjoy 26 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, and a large off-leash dog park, boat rentals, a marina and campgrounds.

With a sandy beach, Chatfield is a popular spot to cool down in the warmer months. Summer is by far the busiest season for water recreation, with paddleboarding available at both the reservoir and a nearby “Gravel Pond,” which is my favorite spot in the park. I love bringing my dog here, putting a life jacket on him, and renting a dog-friendly paddleboard that he can captain. I suggest going on a weekday summer evenings when the crowds thin out.

5. Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park is best known for its towering red-rock formations that rival those at nearby Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Its dramatic sandstone fins, abundant wildlife and scenic trail network make it one of Colorado’s premier day-trip destinations for hikers, birdwatchers and photographers.

Established as a state park in 1975, Roxborough protects nearly 4,000 acres where the Great Plains meet the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. That unique landscape supports a rich diversity of plant and animal life, including mule deer, foxes and more than 140 bird species.

Hiking is the main draw, with trails ranging from easy nature walks to the 6.2-mile round-trip climb to Carpenter Peak, which rewards visitors with sweeping Front Range views. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while fall offers crisp temperatures and golden grasslands that beautifully complement the park’s red-rock scenery.

To protect its fragile ecosystem, Roxborough limits recreation more than many Colorado parks. Pets are not allowed on trails, rock climbing is prohibited and bicycles are restricted to designated routes. The result is a remarkably peaceful natural setting that feels far removed from the city, despite being less than an hour from downtown Denver.

6. Eldorado Canyon State Park

Eldorado Canyon State Park is best known for its world-class rock climbing, with more than 500 routes scaling the park’s steep sandstone walls. Just nine miles south of Boulder (the new home of the Sundance Film Festival) the dramatic canyon also attracts hikers, photographers and wildlife watchers drawn to its towering cliffs and scenic beauty.

The state park is in the same area as one of my favorite swimming spots in Colorado: The historic Eldorado Springs Pool. If you’re visiting between Memorial Day and Labor Day, I recommend an afternoon at the pool after a morning in the park. The swimming destination, which first opened in 1905, is spring-fed and has gorgeous mountain views.

Established as a state park in 1978, Eldorado Canyon protects a landscape shaped by more than 1.6 billion years of geologic history. While climbers come from around the world to tackle iconic formations like the Bastille, Wind Tower and Whale’s Tail, the park’s 17 miles of trails offer plenty for non-climbers, too. Visitors can hike among soaring sandstone cliffs, fish in South Boulder Creek, spot mule deer and golden eagles or enjoy a picnic beside the water. Summer is the busiest season, particularly on weekends, while spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures for hiking and climbing.

Because of its popularity and limited capacity, timed-entry reservations are required on weekends and select holidays from May through September. The park is day-use only, but if you’re looking to camp you could do so in metro area parks such as Golden Gate Canyon State Park or St. Vrain State Park.

Tips For Visiting Colorado And Its State Parks

Ready to visit a state park in Colorado? Plan ahead for reservations, be ready for the state’s high altitude and changing weather, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect Colorado’s landscapes for future visitors.

Here are some tips for making the most of your visit:

1. Give yourself time to adjust to the altitude: Many visitors arrive from lower elevations and are surprised by how quickly Colorado’s high altitude can affect them. To adjust to the altitude, drink plenty of water, take it easy on your first day and limit alcohol.

2. Pack for changing weather: It’s not uncommon to experience sunshine, wind, rain and even snow (well into late spring!) on the same day, especially in the mountains. Layers are a good idea year round.

3. Reserve campsites early: Popular parks such as Chatfield, Ridgway and Golden Gate Canyon can book up far in advance during the busy summer and fall months. Colorado’s state parks let you book campsites up to six months in advance.

4. Pack your sunscreen: Colorado’s high elevation means stronger UV exposure. Sunscreen and sunglasses are must-haves when you’re venturing into the parks. Consider a wide-brimmed hat, too.

5. Respect wildlife: Watch animals from a safe distance, and never feed or touch them. Here’s some more tips for what you should do if you encounter wildlife while in the parks.

6. Stay on designated trails: Many parks protect fragile ecosystems and remaining on designated trails helps preserve the landscape.

7. Check conditions before you go. Weather, wildfire activity, seasonal road closures and trail conditions can prompt closures or affect your travel plans.

8. Consider a state park pass. If you’re planning to visit multiple parks, an annual park pass can save money on entrance fees.

9. Pair parks with nearby destinations: Many state parks are close to mountain towns, hot springs, scenic byways and national parks, making them easy additions to a larger Colorado road trip.

10. Know the pet rules: Policies vary by park. While many parks welcome dogs on trails others like Roxborough prohibit them to protect sensitive wildlife habitat.

Whether you’re looking for a wildflower-filled hike, a red-rock adventure, world-class rock climbing, a chance to spot wildlife or a reservoir packed with water sports, Colorado’s state parks offer an impressive variety of outdoor experiences. Better yet, they often deliver the same scenery and recreation as national parks, but with fewer crowds.

Colorado’s Democratic primaries on Tuesday will help answer a question the party has increasingly faced nationally: Are voters gravitating toward a younger, more progressive generation of leaders or sticking with established veterans?

That choice is starkly reflected in the fight to represent the state’s 1st Congressional District, where incumbent Rep. Diana DeGette has been in office for as long as her challenger, a 29-year-old democratic socialist named Melat Kiros, has been alive. Likewise in the U.S. Senate race, Sen. John Hickenlooper has spent nearly three times as many years in public office as his challenger, state Sen. Julie Gonzales, who fashions herself as an “insurgent progressive.”

And a similar, if smaller, divide separates the two Democrats competing for the U.S. House in the state’s lone swing district, a seat that will be one of the keys to controlling the chamber in President Donald Trump’s final two years in office.

In the Democratic primary for governor, however, the opposite is the case: Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser and U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet have struggled to meaningfully distinguish their agendas. Instead, the two Democrats have accused each other of pulling punches against Trump.

Democratic socialists have another shot in Denver

DeGette has comfortably controlled her House seat in Denver for nearly 30 years, then came Melat Kiros.

In a March Democratic assembly, a process to decide which candidates get on the primary ballot, DeGette barely qualified as Kiros, a first-time candidate, blew past her with more than double the votes.

While the assembly process is far from determinative of who will win Tuesday, it was a jolt for the Democratic establishment and DeGette, who’s been a progressive lawmaker herself.

Then, in New York last week, two democratic socialists and a progressive beat out establishment-backed candidates — two of whom were incumbents — in Democratic primaries for U.S. House, energizing a movement that’s just finding some political purchase.

Similar to the New York races, Kiros has the endorsement of Sen. Bernie Sanders, while DeGette is backed by Colorado’s established Democratic House delegation.

A victory by Kiros in Colorado, while far from guaranteed, would work toward cementing the nascent but clear uprising of democratic socialist candidates, which has filled some Democratic leaders with anxiety.

DeGette argues that experience in Congress is needed right now to combat Trump, while Kiros, a former attorney, accuses DeGette of ineffectiveness. Also running is University of Colorado Regent Wanda James, who may split the anti-DeGette vote.

The ‘insurgent progressive’ versus the political veteran

Gonzales, the state senator and self-fashioned “insurgent progressive,” is trying to kick Hickenlooper, the more centrist former governor of Colorado, out of his U.S. Senate seat.

She’s leaning into the same arguments that others used in challenging establishment incumbents, including that Hickenlooper is an “incrementalist.”

Gonzales has said she previously joined the Democratic Socialists of America in 2018, but that her membership has lapsed.

Hickenlooper is favored in the statewide race.

A swing district may help decide control of the House

Colorado’s 8th Congressional District is a relatively new district that stretches from the northern suburbs of Denver up through farming country.

Since its creation in 2021, it’s swung from Democratic to GOP control and is held now by Republican Rep. Gabe Evans. With Democrats aiming to take back control of the House and obstruct Trump’s agenda, the race is closely watched.

Party leaders thought a moderate like state Rep. Shannon Bird was best equipped to challenge Evans, but the district is also heavily Hispanic and poorer than much of the rest of the state.

That’s where Bird’s Democratic primary opponent state Rep. Manny Rutinel, who is Latino, has planted a flag, arguing his personal story and more aggressive economic agenda will be more potent against Evans.

Who has hit Trump harder?

Weiser and Bennet are slugging that question out in the governor’s race after struggling to show major differences in their political agendas.

Weiser attacked Bennet for voting for Trump nominees and Bennet lambasted Weiser for not joining state lawsuits against first Trump administration.

“The attorney general says he’s really tough but was completely missing in action in Donald Trump’s first term,” Bennet said in a recent debate.

Weiser accused Bennet of a weak response to the president. But he also says Bennet should remain in the Senate instead of running for governor.

“You’ve made some mistakes; you didn’t stand up the way you should. I know you can shape up, use your seniority,” Weiser told Bennet during a debate. “With all that experience, to throw it away, would be such a waste for Colorado.”

With Colorado a blue state, Tuesday’s Democratic winner will be seen as the favorite to defeat the winner of the GOP primary and take over from term-limited Gov. Jared Polis.

The three main candidates seeking the Republican nomination include state Rep. Scott Bottoms, a farther right state lawmaker. State Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer is considered the more conventional Republican, while Victor Marx is something of a wild card candidate with an eclectic past.

Candidate vying for Tina Peters’ old seat echoes her conspiracy theories

Peters was the Mesa County clerk who was convinced by Trump’s debunked claims of mass fraud in the 2020 election and eventually convicted in a scheme to make a copy of the county’s election computer system.

Candidate Abby Silzell is vying for Peters’ old job and repeating similar claims as she challenges incumbent Bobbie Gross.

Both are Republicans, and Silzell told CPR News that she believes Peter’s conviction was a “miscarriage of justice” and that in the 2020 election there was enough fraud to “affect the outcome.”