10 fun and interesting Colorado facts

1. Colorado, the Centennial State

Colorado, known as the "Centennial State", is home to the vibrant city of Denver, its capital. Founded in 1876, the year of the United States' centennial, Colorado is the only state to have been admitted to the Union during the centennial year. With its stunning mountain ranges, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Colorado is a state that has something for everyone.

Also → The Springs: A City of Charm and Adventure

2. Colorado Votes No on the Winter Olympics

In 1976, Colorado was invited to host the Winter Olympics, but the state's citizens voted against it due to the potential negative impacts it could have on the environment and local economy. The majority of the state's population was concerned about the environmental damage that could be caused by the influx of people and the construction of new facilities, as well as the financial burden that hosting the event would place on the state. Ultimately, the people of Colorado decided that the risks outweighed the potential benefits of hosting the Winter Olympics.

Also → Fort Collins, Colorado's Brewer's Festival

3. Home to the United States Air Force Academy

Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado is home to the United States Air Force Academy, a prestigious military academy that has been training the nation's future leaders since 1954. The Academy is located in Colorado Springs and is the only service academy to be located in the Rocky Mountain region. It is renowned for its rigorous academic and military training, and its graduates have gone on to serve in the highest levels of the United States Air Force.

Also → Aurora, Colorado: The City of Lights

4. In Colorado, it is illegal to throw missiles at cars

In Colorado, it is illegal for any person to throw a missile at a car, a law that would seem like common sense. This law is in place to protect drivers and passengers from the potential danger of a missile being thrown at their vehicle. The law applies to any type of missile, including rocks, sticks, and other objects that could be used as a projectile. It is important to remember that this law is in place to ensure the safety of all drivers and passengers on the roads of Colorado.

Also → Aurora, Colorado: The City of Lights

5. Grand Mesa, Colorado's Largest Flat-Top Mountain

Colorado is home to the world's largest flat-top mountain, Grand Mesa. Spanning over 500 square miles, the mesa is located in the Grand Mesa National Forest and rises to an elevation of 11,000 feet. It is home to over 200 lakes, 300 miles of trails, and an abundance of wildlife. Grand Mesa is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and fishermen, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Also → Denver Capitol: Stunning Structure of Rare Beauty

6. Colorado Wildlife Reserves: A Haven for Species

Colorado is home to an impressive number of wildlife reserves, with over 200 located across the state. These reserves provide a safe haven for a variety of species, from the majestic elk and bighorn sheep to the endangered black-footed ferret and the threatened boreal toad. With such a wide range of habitats, Colorado's wildlife reserves are a vital part of the state's natural heritage.

Also → Vincent Jackson Joins Northern Colorado

7. The Western Stock Show

Colorado is home to the world's largest and most revered rodeo, the Western Stock Show. This event has been taking place since 1869, when the first rodeo in the United States was held in the state on July 4th. It has since become a beloved tradition, drawing in thousands of spectators each year to witness the thrilling events and competitions. From bull riding to barrel racing, the Western Stock Show is a must-see event for any rodeo enthusiast.

Also → Montana: The Land of the Rocky Mountains

8. Colorado's Beer-Lover's Paradise

Colorado is a beer-lover's paradise, boasting more microbreweries than any other state in the US. With over 400 craft breweries, Colorado is home to some of the most innovative and delicious beers in the country. From the classic IPAs of Denver to the unique sours of Fort Collins, Colorado's microbreweries offer something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of light lagers or dark stouts, you're sure to find something to love in Colorado's craft beer scene.

Also → Vermont: A State of Natural Beauty

9. Colorado's Iconic Symbols

The beautiful state of Colorado is home to two iconic symbols - the Rocky Mountain Columbine, its state flower, and the Colorado Blue Spruce, its state tree. The Rocky Mountain Columbine is a delicate flower with five petals in shades of white, blue, and yellow, and is native to the Rocky Mountains. The Colorado Blue Spruce is a coniferous evergreen tree with a distinctive blue-green hue, and is a popular choice for landscaping and Christmas trees. Both of these symbols are beloved by Coloradans and serve as a reminder of the state's natural beauty.

10. 64 counties in Colorado

Colorado is a state with a total of 64 counties, the largest of which is El Paso. Spanning an area of 2,130 square miles, El Paso County is the most populous county in the state, with a population of 699,232 as of 2019. It is home to the city of Colorado Springs, the second most populous city in the state, as well as the United States Air Force Academy.