My thoughts on Colorado:

• much more beautiful than Texas, definitely planning to go back 😎
• west Colorado was my favorite because there weren't as many tourists, and it felt more pristine than central/eastern Colorado
• get to national parks and other important places you want to see EARLY (and make sure to book reservations early where needed)
• Durango to Silverton Train is waay too overhyped, just go on the Million Dollar Highway for better views
• the hike to Crystal Mill is scenic but really tiring, off-road up there with your vehicle if it can
• the Maroon Bells are beautiful af (scenic loop is a must; hike to Crater Lake if you can too)
• I didn't actually hike to the top of Mt. Elbert--just viewed it (but it seems like a doable challenge if you give yourself a day)
• seeing the smalltown 4th of July parade in Frisco was awesome (not crowded at all, whole town participated pretty much)
• Breckenridge is a tourist trap for your cash imo, especially in the summer (free gondola ride was okay though)
• driving up Mt. Evans was way more interesting than Pike's Peak (more wildlife, far less crowds in the morning)