Best of Colorado 2026 Award Badge
Colorado PeakPlan · 2026 Edition

The Best of Colorado
Outdoor Destinations

Handpicked hot springs, outfitters, lodges, and guides — rigorously vetted by our editorial team. These are the places worth the drive.

Plan a Trip Here Get Your Business Featured
9 Featured Partners
6 Categories
2026 Award Year
Colorado Only State
Filter:
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Steamboat Springs, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Hot Springs

One of Colorado's most iconic natural hot springs, nestled in a red rock canyon 7 miles north of Steamboat Springs. Clothing-optional after dark, fed by natural geothermal springs, and surrounded by mature cottonwoods. Worth every mile of the dirt road.

Ark Anglers Outfitters
Salida, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Outfitter

Award-winning fly fishing guide service on the Arkansas River Gold Medal fishery. Expert Orvis-endorsed guides, wade and float trips, half- and full-day options. From beginners to seasoned anglers — they'll put you on fish.

The Independence Guest Ranch
Aspen area, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Lodge

Historic ranch lodge in the Roaring Fork Valley with 360° mountain views, horseback riding, and genuine ranch hospitality. Family-friendly, pet-welcoming, and a world away from the Aspen crowds. Where Colorado still feels like Colorado.

Orvis Hot Springs
Ridgway, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Hot Springs

Small, secluded clothing-optional hot springs in the Uncompahgre Valley with stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. Multiple pools at varying temperatures, quiet atmosphere, and overnight lodging available. A true Colorado gem near Telluride.

Taylor Canyon Fly Shop
Almont, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Fishing

Legendary tailwater fly fishing on the Taylor River below Taylor Park Reservoir — consistently ranked among Colorado's top trout fisheries. Trophy brown and rainbow trout in a stunning canyon setting. Guided wade trips and full retail shop on-site.

Palisade Reservoir Campground
Creede area, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Camping

Remote, uncrowded camping on the edge of the Rio Grande National Forest. Electric hookups available, direct trail access, and some of Colorado's darkest night skies for stargazing. The kind of campsite you tell your friends about — but maybe not too many friends.

Colorado Whitewater Expeditions
Buena Vista, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Adventure

Class III–V whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River through Royal Gorge and Browns Canyon. Family-friendly half-day floats to full-throttle Class V runs — they have the right trip for your skill level. One of the most experienced guide operations in the state.

Dunton Hot Springs Resort
Dolores, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Lodge

A restored ghost town turned all-inclusive hot springs resort in the San Juan Mountains near Telluride. Cabins from the 1800s, geothermal pools, gourmet dining, and complete wilderness access. Exclusively private — the whole place is yours when you book.

San Juan Backcountry
Silverton, CO
Best of Colorado 2026
Outfitter

4WD jeep tours, ATV rentals, and off-road adventure in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Access mines, ghost towns, and alpine passes at 13,000+ feet that most visitors never reach. The most scenic square mile in Colorado, unlocked.

Partnership Program
How the Award Works
Colorado PeakPlan's Best of Colorado award recognizes outstanding outdoor businesses that deliver exceptional experiences.
1
Editorial Selection
Our team evaluates hundreds of Colorado businesses based on guest reviews, guides' endorsements, and local expertise.
2
Award Notification
Selected businesses receive an official award email with their featured listing and downloadable badge assets.
3
Display Your Badge
Embed the award badge on your website — three sizes, copy-paste HTML. Links back to your listing page.
4
Drive Bookings
Colorado PeakPlan users plan trips around featured partners. Your listing appears in AI-generated itineraries.