Colorado’s high country offers a wealth of stunning views, ranging from alpine lakes to rugged peaks to meadows covered in wildflowers. Wrap up the day by enjoying a sunset from one of these locations in the mountains.
Breckenridge / Keystone
Located between Breckenridge and Keystone off of Swan Mountain Road, Sapphire Point Overlook provides breathtaking venues to watch the sunset. After a brief hike, you’ll be rewarded with a sunset vista that includes the Tenmile Range’s towering peaks reflected in the waters of the Dillon Reservoir.
Crested Butte
Just outside Crested Butte in the West Elk Mountains, Kebler Pass offers expansive areas for camping, biking trails, and some of the area’s best sunset views. Home to the largest aspen grove in Colorado spread across 106 acres, Kebler Pass is an ideal place to enjoy the setting sun framed by aspen trees. Take your time on this unpaved road and keep in mind that this route is typically closed from early November through May.
Dillon / Frisco
For a sunset over the water, there’s no need to travel to the coast. Lake Dillon and the surrounding mountains provide a spectacular backdrop from the Dillon Marina, located between the towns of Frisco and Dillon. Another beautiful spot is the Dillon Amphitheater, where on select summer evenings you can see a concert with the sunset framed by the stage along the shores of the lake.
Grand Lake
If you prefer hiking to a scenic spot, Adams Falls Trail offers a stunning locale to view a sunset and a waterfall. Enter from the East Inlet Trailhead on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park and enjoy the sound of falling water with a colorful background.
Telluride
Southwestern Colorado boasts a myriad of exquisite views, and San Sophia Overlook might be one of the top options for sunset. After a gondola ride that’s scenic in its own right, take in the majestic sight of Bridal Veil Falls and the neighboring mountains for an unforgettable experience.
Vail
Ask a Vail Valley local for their favorite sunset spot, and Piney Lake is sure to be a recommendation. Located at an elevation of 9,350 feet near the town of Vail, Piney Lake is accessible by car but feels secluded and remote. Bring a picnic and relax with views of the Gore Range’s rugged peaks and the lake along with a mountain sunset.
Winter Park
For dinner and drinks with a view, ride the Winter Park gondola to The Lodge at Sunspot. Panoramic perspectives await you at this lodge atop the mountains, where you can savor dinner and drinks while alpenglow illuminates the peaks.