Colorado affords a various vary of climbing experiences, from mild trails winding by means of wildflower meadows to difficult ascents of fourteeners. These trails present entry to gorgeous alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking panoramic views. For instance, a hiker may select a leisurely stroll alongside a creek in a decrease elevation forest or an arduous climb to a high-altitude summit, relying on their expertise and choice.
Climbing in Colorado offers important advantages for bodily and psychological well-being. The state’s various terrain affords alternatives for cardiovascular train, muscle strengthening, and improved steadiness and coordination. Moreover, immersion in nature has been proven to cut back stress, enhance temper, and improve cognitive operate. Traditionally, trails in Colorado had been solid by Indigenous peoples and later expanded by miners and explorers. These routes now function an important hyperlink to the state’s wealthy pure and cultural heritage.
This text will discover particular areas and trails famend for his or her distinctive landscapes and challenges, providing detailed info on path problem, accessibility, and notable options. Steerage will even be supplied on crucial permits, security precautions, and greatest practices for accountable outside recreation in Colorado.
1. Elevation
Elevation performs an important position in defining the character of Colorado climbing experiences. The state’s numerous topography, starting from excessive plains to towering peaks, creates a large spectrum of climbing environments. Increased elevations current distinctive challenges and rewards, influencing temperature, vegetation, and general path problem. As an illustration, trails above 10,000 toes typically function dramatic alpine surroundings, thinner air, and unpredictable climate patterns. The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, with its peaks exceeding 14,000 toes, exemplifies the rugged magnificence and difficult circumstances related to high-elevation climbing.
Understanding the influence of elevation is important for secure and satisfying climbing in Colorado. Acclimatization to increased altitudes is essential to forestall altitude illness. Hikers ought to progressively enhance their elevation over a number of days, permitting their our bodies to regulate to the decrease oxygen ranges. Moreover, climate circumstances can change quickly at increased elevations. Hikers must be ready for sudden temperature drops, sturdy winds, and precipitation, even throughout summer season months. Carrying layers of clothes, enough water, and monitoring climate forecasts are important precautions. The favored Hanging Lake Path, located close to Glenwood Springs, demonstrates the importance of elevation achieve, as hikers ascend over 1,000 toes to achieve the gorgeous travertine lake and waterfalls.
Cautious consideration of elevation is paramount when deciding on a Colorado climbing vacation spot. Matching the chosen path’s elevation profile to 1’s bodily health and expertise stage ensures a constructive and secure outing. Consciousness of the potential challenges related to increased elevations, coupled with acceptable preparation, permits hikers to completely respect the distinctive magnificence and rewards of Colorado’s mountain landscapes.
2. Path Issue
Path problem considerably influences the accessibility and suitability of climbing locations in Colorado. Cautious consideration of path problem scores permits people to pick out routes aligned with their bodily capabilities and expertise ranges. These scores sometimes contemplate elements reminiscent of elevation achieve, path size, terrain, and potential hazards. A seemingly “cool” place to hike may show unsuitable if the path problem exceeds the hiker’s preparedness. As an illustration, the Manitou Incline, identified for its steep ascent and difficult terrain, may be thought of “cool” for knowledgeable hikers in search of a strenuous exercise, however unsuitable for newcomers or these with bodily limitations.
Understanding path problem contributes to security and delight. Selecting a path past one’s capabilities can result in exhaustion, damage, and even requiring rescue. Conversely, deciding on a path considerably under one’s skill stage can lead to a much less fulfilling expertise. Assets reminiscent of native guidebooks, on-line path databases, and park ranger workplaces present detailed info on path problem scores. Consulting these sources previous to embarking on a hike permits for knowledgeable decision-making and enhances the chance of a profitable and satisfying outing. The 4 Move Loop within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, for instance, presents a difficult multi-day trek appropriate for knowledgeable backpackers in search of a “cool” and immersive wilderness expertise.
Acceptable evaluation of path problem is important for accountable and satisfying climbing in Colorado. Matching private capabilities to path problem ensures a secure and rewarding expertise, permitting hikers to completely respect the various landscapes and challenges supplied by the state’s intensive path community. Ignoring path problem scores can compromise security and detract from the general climbing expertise. Due to this fact, cautious planning and knowledgeable choice, contemplating path problem as a main issue, are essential for profitable exploration of Colorado’s “cool” climbing locations.
3. Surroundings
Surroundings performs a pivotal position in defining the attraction of climbing locations in Colorado. The state’s numerous landscapes, starting from alpine tundra and dense forests to purple rock canyons and desert mesas, provide a wealthy tapestry of visible experiences. The aesthetic high quality of the surroundings considerably contributes to the general climbing expertise, influencing enjoyment, inspiration, and the perceived “coolness” of a location. Dramatic mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant wildflowers contribute to the attract of trails just like the Sky Pond Path in Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park, attracting hikers in search of breathtaking views.
The connection between surroundings and the desirability of a climbing vacation spot operates on a number of ranges. Visually stimulating environments can improve the psychological advantages of climbing, selling a way of awe, marvel, and reference to nature. The number of landscapes inside Colorado caters to numerous aesthetic preferences. Hikers in search of solitude and tranquility may be drawn to the serene alpine lakes of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, whereas these in search of dramatic contrasts may favor the purple rock formations of the McInnis Canyons Nationwide Conservation Space. The flexibility to decide on a hike based mostly on particular scenic pursuits contributes considerably to the general satisfaction and perceived worth of the expertise.
Understanding the affect of surroundings facilitates knowledgeable decision-making when deciding on a climbing vacation spot. Assets reminiscent of path guides, images, and on-line critiques present precious insights into the visible traits of various trails. Contemplating scenic preferences alongside elements like problem and accessibility permits hikers to determine areas aligned with their particular person needs. This understanding contributes to a extra fulfilling and enriching climbing expertise, maximizing the enjoyment derived from Colorado’s outstanding pure magnificence. Cautious consideration of surroundings ensures that the “cool” issue of a hike stems not solely from its bodily challenges but additionally from the aesthetic rewards it affords.
4. Accessibility
Accessibility performs an important position in figuring out which Colorado hikes are appropriate for various people. Path accessibility encompasses numerous elements, together with trailhead entry, parking availability, path floor circumstances, and the presence of facilities like restrooms and water sources. These elements considerably affect which trails are thought of “cool” and possible for hikers with various talents and desires. Restricted parking or a rugged, poorly maintained trailhead can deter potential hikers, even when the vacation spot itself is visually interesting or affords a difficult climb. As an illustration, the favored Hanging Lake Path requires reservations and a shuttle service attributable to restricted parking, impacting its accessibility regardless of its scenic magnificence.
The significance of accessibility as a part of a “cool” climbing expertise stems from its influence on inclusivity and delight. Accessible trails enable people with disabilities, households with younger youngsters, and older adults to expertise the fantastic thing about Colorado’s pure landscapes. Options like paved trails, mild slopes, and accessible restrooms broaden the attraction of climbing locations, making them “cool” for a wider vary of people. Conversely, trails with restricted accessibility can exclude important segments of the inhabitants, diminishing their general attraction. The supply of accessible trails close to city facilities, reminiscent of these present in Denver’s Crimson Rocks Amphitheatre park, enhances their “cool” issue by offering handy entry to nature for metropolis dwellers.
Understanding the sensible significance of accessibility requires contemplating the various wants and limitations of potential hikers. Evaluating accessibility elements alongside path problem and surroundings permits people to make knowledgeable selections about appropriate climbing locations. Assets like path guides, park web sites, and on-line boards typically present info on accessibility options. This information empowers hikers to pick out trails aligned with their particular wants and talents, making certain a secure and satisfying expertise. Moreover, advocating for improved accessibility in climbing areas advantages the broader group by selling inclusivity and increasing alternatives for outside recreation. Addressing accessibility challenges enhances the “cool” issue of Colorado climbing locations by making them welcoming and satisfying for everybody.
5. Crowds
Crowd ranges considerably affect the perceived desirability of climbing locations in Colorado. Whereas some hikers benefit from the social side of encountering others on the path, many search solitude and immersion in nature. The presence of enormous crowds can detract from the tranquility of the expertise, impacting the perceived “coolness” of a location. Balancing the need for fashionable, well-maintained trails with the need for a much less crowded expertise requires cautious consideration and planning.
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Path Reputation and Solitude
Common trails, typically featured in guidebooks and on-line platforms, have a tendency to draw bigger crowds, particularly throughout peak seasons. Areas like Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park, identified for his or her scenic magnificence and accessibility, typically expertise excessive customer site visitors. This may result in congestion on trails, restricted parking availability, and a diminished sense of solitude. Hikers in search of a extra secluded expertise may contemplate less-traveled trails or go to throughout off-peak seasons.
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Affect on Wildlife Viewing
Giant crowds can disrupt wildlife conduct and scale back alternatives for remark. Animals are likely to keep away from areas with excessive human exercise, making wildlife encounters much less seemingly. Selecting less-frequented trails or visiting throughout much less busy occasions can enhance the probabilities of observing wildlife of their pure habitat. As an illustration, climbing within the early morning or late night can present a higher probability of recognizing elusive animals whereas avoiding giant crowds.
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Noise Air pollution and Tranquility
Extreme noise from conversations, music, and different human actions can disrupt the peace and quiet of pure environments. This noise air pollution can detract from the immersive expertise sought by many hikers. Training Go away No Hint ideas, reminiscent of protecting voices low and avoiding loud music, contributes to sustaining the tranquility of the path for all customers. Respecting the pure soundscape enhances the general “coolness” of the expertise.
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Parking Availability and Entry
Restricted parking availability at fashionable trailheads can create logistical challenges and frustration. Arriving early or using different transportation strategies, reminiscent of shuttles or bicycles, can mitigate these points. Selecting less-popular trails typically affords simpler entry to trailheads and parking areas. This consideration contributes to a smoother and extra satisfying general climbing expertise.
Managing crowd ranges by means of strategic planning and consideration for others enhances the enjoyment of Colorado’s climbing trails. Searching for less-traveled routes, visiting throughout off-peak seasons, and practising accountable path etiquette contributes to preserving the pure surroundings and making certain a extra “cool” and fulfilling expertise for all. Balancing recognition with solitude is a key consider maximizing the enjoyment of Colorado’s numerous climbing alternatives.
6. Permits
Allow necessities typically accompany entry to a few of Colorado’s most sought-after climbing locations. These permits serve essential features, impacting each environmental safety and the general customer expertise. Understanding the connection between permits and these “cool” locations to hike is important for accountable enjoyment of the state’s pure sources. Permits can regulate customer numbers, limiting influence on fragile ecosystems, as seen within the Hanging Lake allow system carried out to guard the fragile travertine formations and surrounding surroundings. This technique immediately contributes to the preservation of what makes Hanging Lake a “cool” vacation spot: its distinctive and pristine magnificence.
A number of elements contribute to the implementation of allow techniques. Overcrowding, notably in fashionable areas, can result in path degradation, habitat disruption, and diminished customer enjoyment. Permits assist mitigate these impacts by controlling customer numbers and distributing use all year long or day. Wilderness areas, such because the Indian Peaks Wilderness, typically require permits for in a single day tenting to reduce human influence and protect the wilderness character. Moreover, permits could also be required for actions like backcountry tenting or climbing fourteeners, making certain that guests possess the mandatory expertise and data for these doubtlessly difficult endeavors. The Conundrum Scorching Springs allow system, for instance, manages entry to this fashionable vacation spot, limiting in a single day use and minimizing environmental influence.
Sensible utility of this understanding entails researching allow necessities effectively upfront of a deliberate hike. Many allow techniques function on a reservation foundation, typically requiring purposes weeks and even months forward of time. Understanding the particular rules related to completely different areas and trails permits hikers to safe crucial permits, avoiding potential disappointment and making certain authorized entry. Failure to acquire required permits can lead to fines or exclusion from the specified climbing vacation spot. Recognizing the position permits play in defending Colorado’s pure magnificence and enhancing the general climbing expertise underscores the significance of compliance and accountable recreation. Planning forward and acquiring crucial permits ensures continued entry to those “cool” locations for future generations to take pleasure in.
7. Wildlife
Wildlife encounters typically improve the attract of climbing in Colorado. These encounters, whereas doubtlessly thrilling, require consciousness and respect for animal conduct and habitat. Understanding the connection between wildlife and fascinating climbing locations entails recognizing potential dangers, practising accountable viewing etiquette, and appreciating the ecological position of animals inside these environments. A “cool” climbing expertise incorporates not solely scenic magnificence and bodily problem but additionally a accountable method to wildlife interactions.
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Range of Species
Colorado’s numerous ecosystems assist a big selection of wildlife species, from majestic elk and bighorn sheep to elusive mountain lions and black bears. The opportunity of observing these animals of their pure habitat contributes considerably to the attraction of climbing within the state. Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park, for instance, affords alternatives to view elk throughout their rutting season, a “cool” expertise for a lot of guests. Nevertheless, understanding the potential risks related to these encounters is essential. Sustaining a secure distance and avoiding any interplay that would provoke or habituate animals is important for each hiker security and wildlife well-being.
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Habitat Preservation and Conservation
Climbing trails typically traverse essential wildlife habitats. Accountable climbing practices, reminiscent of staying on designated trails and minimizing disturbance to vegetation, contribute to habitat preservation. Understanding the ecological position of wildlife inside these ecosystems enhances appreciation for the interconnectedness of the pure world. The presence of wholesome wildlife populations typically signifies a thriving ecosystem, including to the “cool” issue of a climbing vacation spot. Supporting conservation efforts and respecting wildlife habitats ensures these experiences stay obtainable for future generations.
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Security Precautions and Bear Consciousness
Climbing in bear nation necessitates particular security precautions. Carrying bear spray, storing meals correctly, and making noise whereas climbing can assist stop encounters and mitigate potential conflicts. Understanding bear conduct and recognizing indicators of their presence, reminiscent of tracks and scat, is essential for secure navigation of those areas. The “cool” side of climbing in bear nation lies within the thrill of potential sightings coupled with the data and preparedness to navigate these encounters safely and responsibly. Ignoring security pointers can endanger each hikers and wildlife.
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Affect of Human Exercise
Human actions can considerably influence wildlife conduct and habitat. Noise air pollution, path erosion, and improper disposal of waste can disrupt animal routines and degrade their surroundings. Training Go away No Hint ideas, reminiscent of packing out all trash and minimizing disturbance to pure environment, helps scale back the unfavourable influence of human presence. Recognizing the potential penalties of human actions underscores the significance of accountable recreation. The “coolness” of a climbing vacation spot relies upon not solely on its inherent pure magnificence but additionally on its preservation for future enjoyment.
Appreciating the presence of wildlife enhances the “cool” issue of Colorado climbing experiences. Accountable wildlife viewing practices, coupled with respect for animal habitats and adherence to security pointers, make sure that these encounters stay constructive and sustainable. Understanding the interconnectedness of wildlife, habitat, and human exercise contributes to a deeper appreciation for the pure world and a extra enriching climbing expertise.
8. Seasonality
Seasonality considerably impacts accessibility and circumstances on Colorado climbing trails, influencing which locations are thought of “cool” and possible at completely different occasions of the 12 months. Climate patterns, snowpack, and temperature fluctuations dictate path circumstances, accessibility, and the general climbing expertise. Recognizing the affect of seasonal adjustments permits for knowledgeable planning and choice of acceptable climbing locations.
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Snowpack and Path Situations
Winter snowfall transforms many Colorado trails into snow-covered landscapes, appropriate for snowshoeing or cross-country snowboarding. Increased elevation trails typically stay snow-packed effectively into spring and even early summer season. Understanding snowpack ranges and melt-out dates is essential for planning hikes throughout shoulder seasons. Entry to high-altitude lakes and passes may be restricted till later in the summertime attributable to lingering snow. As an illustration, the favored Sky Pond path in Rocky Mountain Nationwide Park sometimes turns into accessible in late June or early July after the snow melts.
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Temperature Fluctuations and Climate Patterns
Colorado experiences important temperature variations all year long, and even day by day fluctuations will be substantial, notably at increased elevations. Summer time months provide hotter temperatures appropriate for climbing in shorts and t-shirts, whereas spring and fall require layering to accommodate altering circumstances. Winter climbing necessitates specialised gear designed for chilly climate and doubtlessly hazardous circumstances. Climate patterns additionally affect path circumstances. Summer time thunderstorms can create flash flood dangers in canyons and drainages, whereas winter storms can convey heavy snow and excessive winds, making some trails impassable. Checking climate forecasts earlier than embarking on any hike is important.
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Wildflower Blooms and Fall Colours
Seasonality influences the visible attraction of climbing locations. Wildflower blooms in spring and summer season rework meadows and hillsides into vibrant shows of colour, enhancing the scenic fantastic thing about trails. Fall foliage brings a unique aesthetic attraction, as aspen groves flip golden, creating gorgeous contrasts in opposition to the evergreen forests. Planning hikes to coincide with these seasonal shows of colour enhances the general “cool” issue of the expertise. The Crested Butte space is famend for its wildflower shows in July and August, whereas Kebler Move close to Aspen affords spectacular views of fall foliage in September and October.
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Accessibility and Path Closures
Some trails are inaccessible throughout sure seasons attributable to snow, ice, or different hazards. Excessive-elevation passes typically shut throughout winter months attributable to heavy snow accumulation and avalanche danger. Seasonal closures additionally defend fragile ecosystems throughout weak durations, reminiscent of nesting season for birds. Checking path circumstances and closure info earlier than heading out is essential for avoiding disappointment and making certain security. Independence Move, a scenic high-altitude route, sometimes closes throughout winter and reopens in late spring, relying on snow circumstances.
Contemplating seasonality permits hikers to align their expectations with real looking path circumstances and accessibility. Planning hikes in keeping with seasonal differences ensures safer and extra satisfying experiences, optimizing the “cool” issue of Colorado’s numerous climbing locations all year long.
Steadily Requested Questions on Climbing in Colorado
This part addresses frequent inquiries relating to climbing in Colorado, offering concise and informative responses to help in planning and preparation.
Query 1: What’s the greatest time of 12 months to hike in Colorado?
The optimum climbing season depends upon elevation and desired expertise. Summer time (June-August) affords hotter temperatures and entry to increased elevation trails, but additionally coincides with peak season crowds. Spring and fall provide milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and alternatives to witness wildflowers or fall foliage, however some increased elevation trails should still be snow-covered. Winter offers alternatives for snowshoeing and cross-country snowboarding.
Query 2: How does one put together for high-altitude climbing?
Acclimatization is essential. Spend a number of days at a decrease elevation earlier than trying high-altitude hikes. Hydrate constantly, keep away from alcohol and caffeine, and ascend progressively. Pay attention to altitude illness signs and descend if crucial. Seek the advice of a doctor relating to acceptable drugs.
Query 3: Are reservations required for climbing trails?
Some fashionable trails and areas require reservations, notably throughout peak season. Verify particular path or park web sites for reservation insurance policies and procedures. Reservations typically open months upfront and fill shortly.
Query 4: What important gear must be carried on a hike?
Important gadgets embody navigation instruments (map, compass, GPS), enough water, snacks, acceptable clothes layers, solar safety (sunscreen, hat, sun shades), first-aid equipment, headlamp or flashlight, and a multi-tool or knife. Bear spray is really useful in bear nation.
Query 5: What security precautions must be taken whereas climbing?
Inform somebody of your climbing plans, together with route and anticipated return time. Keep on designated trails, pay attention to altering climate circumstances, and carry enough water. Preserve a secure distance from wildlife and make noise whereas climbing in bear nation. Be ready for potential hazards reminiscent of altitude illness, dehydration, and sudden climate adjustments.
Query 6: What are the ideas of Go away No Hint?
Go away No Hint ideas promote accountable outside recreation. These embody packing out all trash, minimizing campfire impacts, staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife, leaving what you discover, and being thoughtful of different guests. Adhering to those ideas helps protect the pure surroundings and ensures future enjoyment for all.
Cautious planning and preparation contribute considerably to a secure and satisfying climbing expertise in Colorado. Addressing these incessantly requested questions helps mitigate potential challenges and enhances the general journey.
For additional info on particular trails, rules, and security pointers, seek the advice of native ranger stations, guidebooks, and respected on-line sources.
Ideas for Climbing in Colorado
Cautious planning enhances the protection and delight of Colorado climbing adventures. The next suggestions provide steerage for navigating the various terrain and circumstances encountered on the state’s trails.
Tip 1: Acclimatize to Altitude: Gradual acclimatization is essential for stopping altitude illness. Spending a number of days at a decrease elevation earlier than trying high-altitude hikes permits the physique to regulate to decreased oxygen ranges. Ascending progressively throughout hikes additional aids acclimatization.
Tip 2: Pack Important Gear: Navigation instruments (map, compass, GPS), enough water, snacks, acceptable clothes layers, solar safety, a first-aid equipment, and a headlamp or flashlight are important. Bear spray is really useful in bear nation. Trekking poles can present added stability on difficult terrain.
Tip 3: Verify Path Situations and Closures: Climate circumstances, snowpack, and seasonal closures can influence path accessibility. Consulting native ranger stations, guidebooks, or on-line sources offers up-to-date info on path circumstances and any restrictions.
Tip 4: Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a secure distance, avoiding any interplay that would provoke or habituate animals. Retailer meals correctly and make noise whereas climbing in bear nation to forestall encounters. Be conscious of nesting birds and different delicate wildlife throughout breeding seasons.
Tip 5: Plan for Variable Climate: Colorado climate can change quickly, particularly at increased elevations. Carrying layers of clothes permits hikers to adapt to fluctuating temperatures and precipitation. Checking climate forecasts earlier than embarking on a hike helps anticipate potential adjustments.
Tip 6: Hydrate Constantly: Dehydration can exacerbate altitude illness and impair bodily efficiency. Ingesting water commonly all through a hike helps keep hydration ranges, particularly in dry climates and at increased elevations.
Tip 7: Go away No Hint: Training Go away No Hint ideas preserves the pure surroundings for future generations. Packing out all trash, minimizing campfire impacts, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife contributes to accountable outside recreation.
Tip 8: Acquire Essential Permits: Some fashionable trails and areas require permits, notably throughout peak season. Analysis allow necessities upfront and safe crucial permits to keep away from potential disappointment and guarantee authorized entry.
Adhering to those suggestions promotes a secure, satisfying, and sustainable method to exploring Colorados outstanding climbing trails.
The following pointers present a framework for planning profitable climbing adventures. Additional analysis and preparation, tailor-made to particular locations and particular person wants, enhances enjoyment and security on the path.
Cool Locations to Hike in Colorado
Colorado affords a wealth of climbing alternatives, catering to numerous pursuits and expertise ranges. Cautious consideration of things reminiscent of elevation, path problem, surroundings, accessibility, crowds, permits, wildlife, and seasonality permits for knowledgeable choice of acceptable locations. Understanding the interaction of those components contributes considerably to a secure, satisfying, and rewarding climbing expertise. Preparation, knowledgeable decision-making, and respect for the pure surroundings are essential elements of profitable exploration.
Colorado’s trails present entry to distinctive landscapes and alternatives for bodily and psychological rejuvenation. Accountable use of those sources ensures their preservation for future generations. Exploration of those trails fosters a deeper appreciation for the state’s pure heritage and encourages continued stewardship of those precious environments. The various vary of “cool locations to hike in Colorado” invitations exploration, promising enriching experiences for all who enterprise into the state’s outstanding landscapes.
