Getting high on Colorado: Why people move to the Centennial State

Ouray, Colorado is an attraction for tourists and Colorado locals alike due to the breathtaking sights and the extraordinary outdoors. In winter, Ouray has toasty-warm hot springs, ice climbing, and great food. In summer, Ouray hosts beautiful hiking trails and mountain views.

Even on simple drives, Colorado has some of the most beautiful views, like this mountain just outside of Vail, Colorado. Interstate 70 sees 183,000 vehicles per day, on average.

The small town of Parachute, Colorado is home to three marijuana stores, one of them being The Green Joint. Since recreational marijuana was legalized in 2012, 15,470 more people moved to Colorado per year.

Jacob Hancock and his dad Cody Hancock had a full day of fishing on Blue Mesa. Among other winter sports, ice fishing is one of the many recreational activities available in Colorado. “I like the hunting and fishing you can do in Colorado,” said Hancock.

Emma Roithmayr and a group of other teens went downhill skiing at Powderhorn. Powderhorn is a popular ski spot among many, locals and non. “Colorado, especially the western slope, is very unique. The environment is very diverse and offers basically any outdoor sport you can think of like climbing, rafting, fishing, mountain climbing, and hiking,” said Roithmayr.