Rocky Adventures in Colorado

Contributor: Laquita Collins. Lesson ID: 14226

Get ready for an adventure through Colorado! Explore its stunning mountains, rich history, and fun culture with exciting activities and cool facts.

30To1Hour
categories

People and Their Environment, World Cultures

subject
Social Studies
learning style
Kinesthetic, Visual
personality style
Beaver, Golden Retriever
Grade Level
Intermediate (3-5)
Lesson Type
Quick Query

Lesson Plan - Get It!

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Pack Your Virtual Bags!

Get ready to hit the road! You're going on a virtual road trip to Colorado, where tall mountains, epic adventures, and fun surprises await.

Before hitting the road, solve this riddle.

  • I’m tall and rocky. I touch the sky.
  • Rivers and lakes flow nearby.
  • My trails are for hikers; my slopes for skis.
  • I’m home to rivers, lakes, and tall trees.
  • What am I?

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Welcome to Colorado!

Hold on tight; the journey through Colorado's stunning landscapes and rich history is about to begin! From snowy peaks to wild adventures, this state is full of surprises.

  • Ready to explore?

Maroon Bells sunrise with sunlight on the peak in Aspen, Colorado

  • Did you know Colorado gets over 300 days of sunshine each year!

That's a lot of time to explore the great outdoors!

Explore Colorado's Coolest Landmarks

The Rocky Mountains

Head to the heart of Colorado and hike through the Rocky Mountains. Whether you're spotting elk or mountain goats, the views here are breathtaking!

Beautiful sunny day at Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado

Pikes Peak

You're not going to want to miss this!

Hike to the top of Pikes Peak for views that feel like you're on top of the world. Or take a scenic train ride and enjoy the beauty from the comfort of your seat.

Hiker on Devil's Playground at Pikes Peak

Great Sand Dunes National Park

These towering sand dunes look like golden mountains. You can climb, sled down the slopes, or stay late for a sky full of stars.

Sand boarding in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Garden of the Gods

  • Ready to rock climb?

The huge red rock formations here are so impressive; they look like sculptures made by nature!

Scenic View of the Garden of the Gods National Park in Colorado Springs

  • How many faces or shapes can you spot in the rocks?

Denver Union Station

Visit this historic landmark for a snack, a souvenir, or a chance to check out the beauty of this amazing train station.

Union Station in Denver, Colorado, at night as the sign is illuminated in orange and pierces the dark sky

Culture: Fun and Festivities

Colorado isn't just about cool landmarks; the fun doesn't stop there!

Colorado is all about good times, whether snowy slopes or fantastic festivals.

Winter Wonderland

It's time to grab those skis and snowboard through Colorado's winter wonderland. After all that action, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa—it feels like living in a snow globe!

Aspen, Colorado: Experiencing the Ultimate Winter Wonderland with Skiing, Snowboarding, Scenic Views, and Vibrant Alpine Culture

Eat Up!

When hunger strikes, dive into some delicious Colorado flavors. Try a spicy green chile, a juicy bison burger, or gooey s'mores for dessert.

Homemade Colorado Pork Green Chili Hamburger

  • What's your favorite treat?

Festival Fun!

Imagine the sky filled with colorful hot air balloons or the excitement of a rodeo. Colorado festivals are packed with energy and excitement.

several hot air balloons being set up for flight in the mountains, Steamboat, Colorado

History: From Ancient Homes to Gold Rush Dreams

Step back in time to uncover Colorado's fascinating history. From ancient cliff dwellings to the Gold Rush, this state has a story to tell!

Circa 1200 AD

The ancestral Native Americans built Ancient Cliff Dwellings into the cliffs at Mesa Verde. These homes still stand today!

The iconic Cliff Palace in Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, USA

1859 – The Gold Rush

People flocked to Colorado for gold, helping create cities and railroads that still shape the state today.

1876 – Statehood

Colorado became the 38th state 100 years after the U.S. was founded. That's why it's called the Centennial State!

1880s—The Railroad

Railroads were built, connecting Colorado to the rest of the country and making it easier for people and goods to travel in and out of the state.

Check Your Knowledge!

Think it through before you flip each card. See how much you remember!

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Great job!

Colorado is a state like no other. From its tall mountains to its exciting festivals and rich history, it’s a place full of adventure and fun! 

Now, head to the Got It? section to show off your skills!

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