I am fairly new to Colorful Colorado and my spring break is quickly approaching. Instead of traversing to the beach or home, I decided to thoroughly explore all of the places and adventures avaiable here in my new state. After talking to some awesome co-workers and friends and consulting various websites, I've created a top 10 list of things I would like to do. Consider taking a different approach to spring break this year with one of the following Colorado experiences: 

1. Climb a 14er

If you love hiking and feel up to the challenge, why not tackle some of the state's biggest mountains? The website 14ers.com lists all of the 14er hikes in Colorado. Not feeling up to that tall of a challenge? Check out some easier hikes around Colorado with Hiking Colorado: A Guide to the State’s Greatest Hiking Adventures.

2. Go to Boulder 

Boulder is fun-filled with actives for almost any person. Go for a hike, hang out in a park, shop Pearl Street and eat awesome food. For a full list of things to do, check out Frommer’s Denver, Boulder & Colorado Springs.

3. Go to Denver

Denver offers travelers and natives a variety of things to do. You can go shopping, catch a movie and get some good eats at 16^th Street Mall. Visit The Denver Mint, The Colorado History Museum or the Colorado Capitol for some local history. Feeling more scenic? Try out the Denver Botanic Gardens, the Denver Zoo or some of the various parks around the city. Also, the Denver Art Museum & Denver Museum of Nature & Science are fun destinations for everyone. You can always get in the Denver music mood with John Denver’s Greatest Hits.

4. Skiing/Snowboarding

Although hanging out a beach for week is not a bad way to spend spring break, March is prime time for skiing and snowboarding. So, why not travel to some of the greatest ski slopes in the country? Some of the top ski resorts are Vail, Aspen, Breckenridge, Winter Park, Arapahoe Basin, Steamboat and Keystone. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so make sure and do your homework to see which resort fits you best.

5. Glenwood Springs/Aspen

If you do find your way up into the mountains for skiing or snowboarding, and you happen to find yourself in Aspen, you may want to check out the little town of Glenwood Springs. Located about an hour southwest of Aspen, Glenwood Springs is a cute little mountain town that houses hot springs. After a long day of skiing, a dip in these waters will warm you right up. For an insider’s view and list of things to do in Glenwood Springs take a look at Glenwood Springs: Spa in the Mountain.

6. Red Rocks

Everyone, and I mean everyone, should experience Red Rocks at least once in their life. If you can’t find a concert to attend, go hiking, do some sunrise yoga, or pack a picnic and just hang out! For a list of concerts and activities check out the Red Rocks website.

7. Estes Park

Estes Park is a Colorado native spring break favorite. With breathtaking views and family-friendly activities, you can't go wrong with spending your break here. 

8. Rocky Mountain National Park

If Estes Park sounds tempting to you, also be aware that the Rocky Mountain National Park is located just west, and makes for a perfect for a day trip. With more than 300 miles of hiking trails, wildflowers and spectacular views, it offers the great outdoors to everyone. Want to see some wildlife? Check out Nature Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park: A Pocket Field Guide. 

9. Royal Gorge 

Although last summer's massive fires did some serious damage to the Royal Gorge, it's reopened just in time for spring break! Guided tours started March 15, but the full park will not be open until August. For more information visit the Royal Gorge website. 

10. Tiny Town

Tiny Town is exactly what it sounds like – a miniature town! Fun for kids and adults, this town offers a day’s worth of adventure and is located just west of Denver in the foothills. Get away from the city for a day, pack a picnic and enjoy the views – tiny and large. Get some great picnic ideas with the cookbook Country Living, Eating Outdoors–Sensational Recipes for Cookouts, Picnics and Take-along Food.

No matter what you decided to do in Colorado, it is sure to be beautiful and fun! What did you do or would you do for spring break in the big Colorado?