1. Cave of the Winds Manitou Springs is home to one of the greatest natural tours you can take. Discovered by two brothers in 1881, Cave of the Winds has multiple tour options depending on your level of adventurousness. Every tour is sure to show you some gorgeous rock formations. Hint: make sure you try the Bat-A-Pult for an extra thrill. (Mark Reis)
Gallery by: OutThere Colorado
When you have mountains, you have caves and all of the incredible formations that go with them. In Colorado, caves have led to scenic viewing and wealth by way of mining. Whether you’re seeking a gorgeous hike or a historical mining tour, you’ll find Colorado has a lot to offer you.See this gallery at OutThere Colorado
1. Cave of the Winds Manitou Springs is home to one of the greatest natural tours you can take. Discovered by two brothers in 1881, Cave of the Winds has multiple tour options depending on your level of adventurousness. Every tour is sure to show you some gorgeous rock formations. Hint: make sure you try the Bat-A-Pult for an extra thrill. (Mark Reis)2. Rifle Falls State Park Rifle Falls provide a gorgeous backdrop for just about any occasion, but tucked behind the waterfalls, you’ll find some awesome caves just begging to be explored. (iStock)3. Glenwood Caverns Journey to Glenwood Springs for the mineral hot springs then take a trek through the coolest – think 52 degrees year-round – geological sites. There are three awesome tours to choose from and depending which you take, you just might encounter the hot springs in a different way. Hint: Take the Fairy Cave Tour. (CHRISTIAN MURDOCK, THE GAZETTE)4. Phoenix Gold Mine This mine in Idaho Springs is a geologist’s dream. There are multiple tunnels including some you have to crawl through on your belly! Some of the minerals and ores you’ll be able to see include gold, silver, copper, iron pyrite, and Tellurium (used to make solar panels). (TripAdvisor)Spectacular look into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made it their home for over 700 years, from AD 600 to 1300.Location: Mesa Verde, CO (Courtesy Photo)7. Country Boy Mine Located in Breckenridge, this is one of the most famous gold mines in the area. Historically restored, the mine site is open for exploration and education with family-friendly tours. While you’re there, be sure to slide down the 55-foot ore chute and pan for gold! (outtherecolorado.com)6. Box Canyon Waterfall and Park Just south of Ouray, Canyon Creek spills over a cliff into Box Canyon, a narrow, quartzite canyon. The area is home to Black Swifts, a type of protected bird, meaning the geological formations and surrounding area have been well preserved and can be viewed from above and below the falls.
