Colorado is known for its mountain vistas, national parks, and world-class ski resorts. But how much do you really know about this spectacular state’s history, geography, and people?
Keep reading for 5 weird, wonderful, and fascinating tidbits of Colorado trivia!
1. You Can Stand in Colorado (And Three Other States) at the Same Time
You’ve probably straddled a state line during a long road trip, but have you ever stood in four states at once?
Head down to the appropriately named Four Corners National Monument (in the southwest corner of Colorado) and you can do just that! It’s the meeting point of Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico.
2. Colorado’s Mountainous Area Is Six Times Larger Than Switzerland
It’s no mystery why the WWII troops of the 10th Mountain Division prepared for wintertime battles in the Alps in the mountains of Colorado. Check out these fun facts about Colorado’s amazing geography:
- Colorado contains over 9,600 miles of streams and 2,850 lakes
- Over 1,000 Colorado peaks are over two miles high and 56 peaks are over 14,000 feet high (known as “Fourteeners”)
- Colorado is home to the world’s largest hot springs pool (Glenwood Springs) and the world’s deepest hot springs (Pagosa Springs)
- One-third of the land in Colorado is publicly owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
History tells us that Colorado’s rugged beauty inspired Katherine Lee Bates to write “America the Beautiful” in 1893. We wholeheartedly agree!
3. Colorado Is the Only Place in History to Turn Down the Olympics
Is it ironic that the same state that hosts the US Olympic Committee and the Olympic Training Center actually turned down the chance to host the Games? After decades of attempts, Denver finally won the bid for the Winter Games in 1976.
However, its citizens voted against it, saying it would cost too much money and create too much pollution. This makes Denver the only American city in history to reject the privilege of hosting the Olympics.
4. The “Cheeseburger” Was Invented in Colorado
If you’ve always credited McDonald’s with inventing the beloved sandwich, it’s time to set the record straight. Our wackiest piece of Colorado trivia takes us back to 1935 Denver and a humble establishment called the Humpty-Dumpty Drive-In.
Its owner, Louis Ballast, was the first person to add a “cheeseburger” to his menu. Although some versions of the sandwich existed before then, Ballast was awarded the trademark for coining the now-famous name.
5. The Whole State Is (Literally) High
Colorado has the highest mean elevation of any state, but it also boasts several other “highest” awards. It’s home to the highest paved road in North America (the road to Mt. Evans), as well as the highest incorporated city in the US (Leadville).
On your drive from Denver to Vail, you’ll pass through Eisenhower Tunnel — the highest auto tunnel on earth. And across Royal Gorge, you’ll find the world’s highest suspension bridge.
Is it just a coincidence that Colorado was also the first state in the nation to legalize recreational marijuana? Probably not.
Colorado Trivia: Bonus Fact
So, how many of these fun Colorado trivia factoids were new to you? We hope you enjoyed learning more about our fascinating state!
Here’s one more tidbit of trivia for you: Colorado is home to some of the best day spas (and most talented massage therapists) in the nation. Whether you’re passing through on a cross-country drive or you’re visiting the Vail area to ski or hike, set aside an hour for some much-needed R&R.
Click here to view our menu of massages and signature body treatments, from CBD massage to oxygen therapy. Then give us a call at 970-445-2114 to book your session!