In Japan, “forest bathing” is the concept of immersing one’s soul in nature. Coloradans have embraced this notion, taking advantage of everything Colorado has to offer. Whether you’re taking in the sights from your porch, hiking 14ers, or enjoying happy hour at one of our local breweries – there is something for everyone in our state to leave an indelible mark on your soul and make you feel at home.
Colorado Day is on August 1st and marks the 145th anniversary of the founding of our great state. We’re proud to be celebrating this milestone with you! As a Colorado-founded company, Kentwood has been serving our extraordinary community for 40 years.
Below are a few facts and tidbits about our beautiful home in honor of Coloradans everywhere. These are our ideas on what makes Colorado the finest state in the nation. Many locals may have different thoughts and suggestions. It can be hard to narrow down the list in a state like Colorado.
Brief History of Colorado
The United States acquired the Colorado Territory in 1803 through the Louisiana Purchase and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. In 1861, outgoing President James Buchanan established the Colorado Territory with the same borders the state currently has.
On August 1st, 1876, Ulysses S Grant signed a proclamation admitting what was then known as ‘Colorado’ to become the 38th state in America’s Union, officially becoming the Centennial State in honor of the nation’s 100th anniversary.
Interesting Facts about Colorado
- Colorado has multiple nicknames, including the Centennial State, the Lead State, the Buffalo Plains State, and the Switzerland of America.
- Colorado is home to the largest hot springs pool in the world.
- On Mt. Evans is the highest paved highway in the country.
- On average, Colorado receives 300 days of sunshine a year, which is more than San Diego or Miami.
- Colorado has 75% of the land with an elevation over 10,000 feet in the country.
- Colorado has 56 mountains over 14,000 feet.
- Colfax Avenue is the longest street in America.
- The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the US.
- The largest indoor rodeo takes place every year in Denver at The National Western Stockshow.
- The Great Sand Dunes National Park has the highest sand dune in the country.
- Colorado is the only place ever to turn down the Olympics.
Literary Luminaries
Colorado has a fascinating literary history and has been home to some incredible writers. Hunter S. Thompson lived at his Owl Farm compound in Woody Creek, outside of Aspen, where he wrote some of his best works. Phillip K. Dick, who wrote dozens of classic science fiction novels, was born in Colorado, and is buried here. Robert Heinlein, author of Starship Troopers, called Colorado Springs home. Jon Krakauer, who wrote the mountaineering classic Into Thin Air, lives in Boulder.
Also, horror master Stephen King is a big fan of our state and has set many of his books here, including The Shining. You can even stay in the hotel where King’s classic takes place if you dare. If you want to learn more about Colorado writers, past and present, stop by the Tattered Cover Bookstore, one of the best independent bookstores in the country.
Top Quintessentially Colorado Things to Do
Hot Springs
Colorado has over 200 natural thermal pools that are waiting for your visit! There are countless options, from remote to convenience, and each one offers its own set of benefits. For those looking for an easy access hot spring with therapeutic properties on the side, we recommend Strawberry Hot Springs in Steamboat – this is a perfect mountain town opportunity if you’re interested in soaking without too much hassle!
Local Breweries
In the past decade, the popularity of the craft beer movement has helped boost the demand for local breweries. Today, breweries are popping up all over the state, with at least 150 throughout Colorado.
New Belgium Brewing Company, based out of Fort Collins, Colorado, has been at the forefront of some of the most innovative changes to the industry in recent years. Jeff Lebesch and Kim Jordan founded New Belgium back in 1991 and have watched their small brewery grow into a national powerhouse.
Live Music
The live music scene in Colorado features variety and depth. You’ll find some of the best jazz in the country at Denver’s prestigious Dazzle Club, Boulder’s Jazz on Pearl Street, or Sunday evening’s Jazz in City Park. You’ll also find your favorite bands and artists at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, perhaps the most gorgeous place in the nation to see an outdoor concert.
Originally built in 1906 by John Brisben Walker and his business partner Charles Lippincott, Red Rocks Amphitheater covers 9 acres with natural red sandstone rocks providing a stunning backdrop for the performances. Red Rocks has been a go-to destination for many artists, including Bob Dylan, David Bowie, Neil Young, U2, and the Grateful Dead.
Ghost Towns
The history of ghost towns in Colorado began with gold seekers who discovered gold in 1859, bringing people worldwide to Colorado. As the population grew from 584 settlers at that time, they found themselves faced with difficult conditions and harsh terrain. To this day, you can find a reminder of these struggles all over our beautiful state: Ghost Towns!
One such town is St. Elmo, founded by prospectors looking for silver during the 1880s mining boom near Nathrop (on Highway 50 between Buena Vista and Salida). From its humble beginnings as an ore-processing camp to being abandoned due to flooding issues, visit today for a glimpse into early pioneer life or just stop off on your next road trip.
Hiking
Colorado is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in North America. Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park has endless hikes for all skill levels. There are also numerous hiking trails near Boulder, perfect for families with kids, such as Chautauqua Park. Garden of the Gods is a great place to explore if you are looking for a beautiful and relaxing mountain stroll. Near Durango lies one of Colorado’s most scenic routes – the Continental Divide Trail, which stretches from Mexico to Canada!
One of the most well-known attractions in Colorado is the 14ers – mountains with summits that are above 14,000 feet high. There are fifty-eight total fourteeners in Colorado, and below you’ll find just a few to get started on your adventure!
Mount Elbert – Located in central Colorado and was once thought to be the tallest mountain in America. Standing at 14,440 feet high, it’s no wonder Mount Elbert is one of the most famous mountains for hikers and climbers to explore.
Mount Massive – Three other peaks surround this mountain over 14,000 feet high: Mount Princeton (14,197), Mount Shavano (14,227), and Mt. Antero (14,197).
Skiing
Colorado has arguably the best skiing in the world, offering residents and visitors the chance to ski or snowboard in diverse terrain, from challenging steeps to wide-open bowls. There are 26 resorts total, providing Colorado skiing with its unique charm.
For example, Vail Ski Resort has more than 100 runs spanning four mountain peaks, while Winter Park Resort has six mountain peaks that are all expertly groomed daily by their team of snow-makers. Breckenridge Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, with an average annual snowfall of 200 inches per year. The resort features 92 runs that are perfect for all levels – beginner to expert!
Kayaking
Colorado is a fantastic place for kayakers to get their paddle wet. The Arkansas River offers both fast water and slow-paced paddling trips, which means it’s up to you what kind of experience you want! Whether looking for remote wilderness or picturesque scenery, the Arkansas River has something in store. It’s an adventure not to be missed by any avid kayaker—so grab your gear and head out on this beautiful river today!
Golf
Colorado offers a premier golfing experience with dozens of low-land courses in the Denver metro area to high altitude courses throughout the mountains. The Rockies are the perfect backdrop for an afternoon on the tee boxes. The cool mountain air is refreshing and invigorating and will allow you to enjoy your game even more. Some of our favorite courses in Colorado include Denver Country Club, The Broadmoor, The Ridge at Castle Pines North, Four Mile Ranch Golf Club, and Grand Elk Golf Course.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is a sport that’s been increasing in popularity over the years with new technologies and features like suspension or disc brakes on mountain bike tires. Colorado has some of the best trails for this activity, offering natural settings and breathtaking views! There are two main categories of trails you can go down: downhill (faster speeds) or cross country (less steep slopes). But if you’re looking to go fast while going on obstacles-filled courses, then downhill might be your choice!”
Kentwood is proud to be a Colorado company, and we want you to have fun exploring the state as much as we do. Get out and enjoy your day; after all, the mountains aren’t going anywhere anytime soon!
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