Take a dip in Lake Pueblo State Park’s cool reservoir, explore the Colorado State Fair, spot mule deer and bald eagles on a trek through Comanche National Grasslands, or witness the "purple mountain majesty" of legendary Pike’s Peak looming over lively Colorado Springs. From windswept plains and waving wheat fields to rolling grasslands and desert stretches, you’ll find plenty to discover in Colorado’s Southeast.

ALONG THE SANTA FE TRAIL: From the early 1820s until the late 1870s, the Santa Fe Trail cut across this Southeastern region of Colorado, linking Santa Fe, NM with Independence, MO. Today, you can still see the wagon ruts on the old trail and even feel like you’ve traveled back in time at Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site. Travelers of the early 19th century could find buffalo robes, gunpowder, wagon wheels and just about anything else they needed in this trading hub. Today, the meticulously reconstructed adobe complex about 8 miles east of La Junta features lively history programs for those interested in the settlement of the American West.

A TASTE OF THE PUEBLO: Up until the end of the Mexican War in the 1840s, the Arkansas River, which runs through Pueblo, served as the U.S.-Mexico border. Today this melting pot 110 miles south of Denver is home to a burgeoning historic district complete with antique shops and art galleries. Among the major attractions, Lake Pueblo State Park’s Reservoir is popular among windsurfers who enjoy the consistently strong winds, especially in springtime. If you visit during August, don’t miss the annual Colorado State Fair; and in mid-September, the Chile and Frijole Festival, celebrating Hispanic culture as well as the 10 million pounds of chilis grown here each year.

COLORADO SPRINGS, A SUMMERTIME FAVORITE: Snug up against the Rocky Mountains’ forested eastern slope, with Pikes Peak looming just a few miles to the west, Colorado Springs is a summertime favorite. Stroll Acacia Park, the lovely central park and plaza, or take a seat at one of the many outdoor cafes. Colorado Springs is home to the U.S. Air Force Academy, the Olympic Training Center and timeless natural wonders including the red sandstone towers of the Garden of the Gods. In addition to these evergreen attractions, you can also witness the Fourth of July Pike’s Peak International Hill Climb, the second-oldest auto race in the world; the Colorado Opera Festival; and the state’s largest outdoor rodeo.