By Michael Baginski/ Colorado is set to double down on the festivities this year: not only is the Rocky Mountain state celebrating America 250, the country’s 250th anniversary, but the state has its own 150th birthday on the calendar.
Naturally, the concurrent milestones were top of mind at a Colorado Tourism reception in Toronto last week, but so was the upcoming Canada-Colorado Friendship Day next month (March 15), a rather newer celebration in just its second year.
The now annual event is designed to “remind people of the ties that are more important than ever” between the state and this country, says US Consul Baxter Hunt.
Indeed, Colorado Tourism Office director Tim Wolfe promised the reception audience, “No matter what’s happening, we’ll be here.”
At the same time Wolfe noted that Colorado is still riding high with Canadians with seven direct flights from this country and air capacity up 2% in 2025 over the previous year.
“Canada remains Colorado’s largest international partner in all ways, including travel. And for that, we want to thank you; our governor’s vision is welcome for all” he said.
With the help of some inspiring travelogue videos, the well-practiced Wolfe easily highlighted Colorado’s many draws for Canadians, among them being a four-season destination brightened by 300 days of sunshine annually.
And while summer travel leads the way (marginally), Wolfe touts the fall as a spectacular time to visit, not least as crowds are fewer at the state’s four national parks, hot springs, dark sky preserves, on its renowned heritage trains, dude ranches, and Michelin-rated restaurants.
Of course, the state also rates highly for its 30-plus ski resorts, ranging across the state from Aspen to Steamboat. So ubiquitous is schussing in Colorado that visitors can even do it on sand dunes in summer.
“We have,” understated Wolfe, “so many things to offer.”
Eager to add to Wolfe’s list, several Colorado trade partners were also on hand, offering the following dispatches:
Fort Collins: A “best-kept secret,” and adventure capital, the destination – just an hour due north from Denver – offers “culture without the crowds” and is known for its Rocky Mountain scenery, and as home to Colorado’s only “wild and scenic river,” vibrant culinary scene and strong value offer. It has been named the most peaceful place in the U.S. two year’s running.
Estes Park: Located 90 minutes northwest from Denver at the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, visitors will discover amazing hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing, and impossibly scenic self-drive itineraries. Annual festivals and events also bring the town alive, and visitors can choose to stay at the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King to write “The Shining,” amongst a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from camping and rustic mountain cabins to upscale resorts.
Canyon Spirit: Rebranded in 2026 for the U.S. market, Canyon Spirt is better known by Canadians as Rocky Mountaineer, which launched its “Rockies to the Red Rocks,” itinerary in 2021. The journey connects Denver and Salt Lake City, Utah, through “unparalleled scenery and stunning deep canyons” with overnight stops in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, and Moab, Utah.
Air Canada: Operating year-round from Toronto with two daily flights, “Denver remains a really strong and strategic market for us,” says the airline. Daily winter and double daily summer service also operates from Montreal and Vancouver received a second daily flight this winter.
SKI
In 2026, here’s what’s trending at Colorado Ski Country USA resorts:
Steamboat: Known as “Ski Town, USA,” Steamboat has produced more winter Olympians than any other town in the U.S. The Olympic spirit runs deep in Steamboat, with one out of every 136 locals an Olympian, making the Colorado resort the place you’re most likely to run into one, whether it’s sharing a gondola or buying groceries at the supermarket. To date, Steamboat has produced 100 Olympians with 19 medals won in total.
This year, a new program, “Ski With an Olympian” provides a rare opportunity to spend the day on the slopes with a homegrown Steamboat Olympic athlete. Participants will hear their stories, gain expert insight and explore terrain together. Ski sessions can be booked as individual experiences or in groups of up to five participants. For more, visit https://www.steamboat.com/explore/olympic-heritage
Monarch: With its 80-plus year history, laid-back vibe and incredible ski terrain – including the new No Name Basin expansion this season, Monarch is a resort popular with skiers seeking an authentic mountain experience in Colorado. With its commitment to 100% natural snow (i.e. no snow making), Monarch is all about no-frills skiing. Independently owned and boasting a “Mom & Pop” vibe, Monarch is a place where the bartender remembers your name and ski bums buckle up with duct-taped gear.
Ski Cooper: Another Colorado resort that focuses on all-natural snow and a family friendly vibe. A historic ski area where the U.S. Army’s Mountain Division trained for alpine warfare before deploying to World War II, Cooper boasts a laid-back vibe, affordable skiing and a rich heritage.
Sunlight Mountain: Embodies the expression “skiing the way it should be.” With its big mountain skiing and small mountain vibes, Sunlight is another off-the-radar resort providing the independent ski charm of yesteryear. Offering free parking, short lift lines and a community feel, Sunlight says it prides itself on providing an experience that is consistent with what skiing “used to be”.
Other popular Colorado Ski Country USA resorts prized for their old-school vibes and historic roots include Loveland Ski Area, Arapahoe Basin, Purgatory Resort and Howelsen Hill (Steamboat Springs).
“With its worldwide reputation as the best place to ski, Colorado Ski Country USA offers endless opportunities to connect with friends, family, and the outdoors, both on the mountain and après ski,” says Melanie Mills, president and CEO of Colorado Ski Country USA. “In 2026, our resorts are sharing the Olympic Winter Games moment, celebrating vintage vibes and leading the pack with the variety of on mountain and après ski options, helping to deliver an exceptional experience for every visitor.”
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