Ryan Simonovich

Colorado is well known for the glitz of Aspen, the picturesque views of Telluride and the champagne powder snow of Steamboat, but popular resort destinations in the Centennial State can bring big crowds and big price tags. Luckily, Colorado is packed with lesser-known destinations that still boast a charming mountain lifestyle and plenty of activities for visitors, from the Front Range corridor to the Western Slope. Read on for our guide to escaping Colorado’s crowded resort towns. Photograph: Cavan-Images / Shutterstock.comDurango, Colorado Durango Best for trail access The rugged San Juan Mountains in Southwest Colorado are some of the most breathtaking in the state, but visitors don’t have to settle for Telluride prices. Durango is the perfect home base to explore the southwest corner of the state. The popular and scenic San Juan Skyway runs right through town, and communities like Ouray and Silverton are a short but stunning drive to the north. Durango offers hundreds of miles of mountain biking and hiking trails in close proximity to downtown, where you can find restaurants, shops and hotels, plus the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad depot. Mancos Best small town Another Southwest outpost is Mancos, just a short drive west of Mesa Verde National Park. Mancos is an agriculture community that packs an artsy punch. The small downtown is home to several galleries, and the regional favorite Fenceline Cider is right there to quench your thirst. Keeping with its ru