Don’t Be Trashy: Care For Colorado

These seven principles will help you get Colo-Ready. Respect the place, leave no trace — it sure would help a lot!

Colorado is our beautiful state and we love to show it off but we also what to keep it as naturally pretty as possible. So, help us out and do good.

Know Before You Go

• This land really is your land. Our state and federal agencies manage 42 percent of Colorado’s majestic landscape, and our cities and counties maintain even more. Learn about and respect the spaces we all own, share and sing about.
• Stay back from the pack. Find your way to less-visited and off-peak destinations to minimize down time and maximize your connection with special places.
• Bring along reusable water bottles or hot drink tumblers to limit waste and stay hydrated in our dry climate.

Stick To Trails

• With 39,000 marked trails and 13,000 designated campsites, there’s no need to venture beyond. By sticking to these areas and camping at least 200 feet from lakes, rivers and streams, you’re helping natural areas stay natural.
• Even though shortcuts can be tempting, please don’t take them. A few extra strides on the path will protect plants and the homes of the true locals.

Trash the Trash

• Pack it in, pack it out. Or pick it up to leave a place better than you found it. Put litter, even crumbs, peels and cores in your nearest waste/recycling bin.
• Wash yourself, your dog or whatever else needs cleaning at least 200 feet from waterways, and use biodegradable soap. A bubble bath is no treat for fish.

Leave It As You Find It

• Leave plants, rocks and historical items as you find them so others experience the joy of discovery.
• Any of our 750 different species of wildflowers will live forever in a photo. Snap away, but only with a camera.
• Colorado is beautiful all on its own. Building structures or campsites on public land isn’t cool. Keep it pristine for everyone to enjoy.
• Treat all living things with respect. Carving or hacking plants and trees may kill or disfigure them.

Be Careful With Fire

• Colorado’s low humidity has perks, but can create dry, dangerous conditions. Keep campfires small and manageable to avoid sparking wildfires.
• When putting out a fire, water it until you can handle the embers. Never let a fire burn unattended.
• Use care when smoking in Colorado’s dry climate. Always put cigarettes out completely and don’t leave your butts behind
• Always check for local fire restrictions.

Keep Wildlife Wild

• Colorado is home to tens of thousands of furry, scaly and feathered creatures. To keep them – and you – safe, don’t approach them.
• It is not adorable to feed wild animals. You could alter natural behaviors, exposing them to predators or even euthanasia.
• Keep your furry buddies leashed when enjoying dog-friendly trails, and pack out their waste. All the way to a trashcan.

Share Our Trails & Parks

• Chances are you’re not out in nature to people watch, so try out the lesser-known paths and sites.
• Silence your cell phone before stepping into nature and speak softly without using the speaker function.
• Be considerate when passing others on the trails and yield to the uphill hiker and biker – they need the momentum.
• Listen to nature. Keep your voice and music soft so all can enjoy the peace of Colorado.

This message for Colorado travelers was developed in a partnership between the Colorado Tourism Office and Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.

GET YOUR 20/21 LIFT TICKETS AND SEASON PASSES

Ski season is approaching FAST and honestly, we can’t wait. There are so many pass products out there and we know it gets a little overwhelming. Okay, VERY overwhelming. That’s why we’ve simplified it for you.

Colorado Ski Country USA offers pass products that are perfect for families that don’t want to buy a season pass but are looking for discounts on daily lift tickets (the GEMs card). We also offer products for 5th and 6th graders to ski and ride for dollars per day. Seriously. (the 5th and 6th Grade Passport). And if you’re a hard-core skier or rider and want unlimited access to 21 ski areas in Colorado with no blackouts and that is transferrable to ANYONE – the GOLD Pass is for you.

GEMs – There are 11 GEMs ski areas in Colorado. With the GEMs card, you get two 30% off lift tickets OR you can get a buy one get one free lift ticket. You get to use this deal TWICE at EACH ski area. That means that you can use this card up to 22 times. And it’s only $35…so like, it’s a no brainer.

5th and 6th Grade Passport – This Passport is great for kids that love to ski and ride or for kids who want to learn more.

5th graders get 3 days of skiing at all 21 ski areas meaning that they can ski up to 63 days and the cost is only $40.

6th graders get 4 days of skiing at all 21 ski areas meaning that they can ski up to 84 days and the cost is only $99.

The GOLD Pass – if you want a season pass to 21 ski areas without buying a season pass to 21 ski areas. This pass is for you. There are NO blackout dates and this card is fully transferable so you can show Colorado off to anyone you want.

Also, if you’re looking for all the passes that are offered at individual ski areas, check here.