Top Five Unusual Things You Didn’t Know About Colorado

When most people think of Colorado, images of snow-capped mountains, ski resorts, and Denver’s bustling city life probably come to mind. But beyond its iconic landscapes and outdoor adventures, Colorado is packed with quirky, unexpected, and downright unusual facts that many people have never heard of. From secret tunnels to UFO sightings, this Centennial State has a playful, mysterious side that deserves a closer look. Here are the top five unusual things you didn’t know about Colorado.

1. Colorado is Home to the World’s Largest Natural Hot Springs Pool

Yes, we all know about the hot springs in Glenwood Springs, but did you know that the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is actually the largest natural hot springs pool in the world? Stretching over two football fields in length and fed by naturally heated mineral water, this iconic pool has been a Colorado attraction since 1888.

What makes it unusual isn’t just its size—it’s also the water temperature and mineral content. The pool maintains a perfect therapeutic temperature of 104–108°F, and its mineral-rich waters are said to soothe muscles and rejuvenate the skin. Locals and tourists alike flock to the springs, but it’s one of those quirky gems that often flies under the radar compared to other attractions like Pikes Peak or Garden of the Gods.

For anyone planning a trip to Colorado, taking a dip in the world’s largest natural hot springs pool isn’t just relaxing—it’s a story you’ll want to tell.

2. Colorado’s UFO Capital – Have You Visited the San Luis Valley?

Most people don’t associate Colorado with UFOs, but the San Luis Valley is often called the UFO capital of the state. The valley’s high desert plains, open skies, and low light pollution make it an ideal place for spotting unusual lights and unexplained aerial phenomena.

Residents have reported UFO sightings for decades, and enthusiasts gather here for events like the Annual UFO Festival in nearby Crestone, where speakers, alien theorists, and curious travelers meet to discuss everything extraterrestrial. Some locals claim the valley has been a hotspot for alien encounters for centuries, and while skeptics may scoff, UFO enthusiasts consider the area a must-visit.

Whether you’re a believer or just curious, exploring the San Luis Valley offers a peek into Colorado’s stranger side, far from the ski lifts and craft breweries.

3. Colorado Has a Ghost Town That “Moves”

You’ve probably seen ghost towns in movies or traveled to places like Central City or Leadville, but St. Elmo is a ghost town with a quirky twist. Located along the Chalk Creek Valley, St. Elmo was founded during Colorado’s gold rush era and was once a bustling mining town. Today, it’s mostly abandoned, but what makes it unusual is its annual “moving ghost town” phenomenon.

Every year, the town hosts events where volunteers and reenactors set up original cabins and mining equipment, essentially “bringing the town back to life.” Visitors can walk through these temporary setups and experience life as it was over a century ago, with living history demonstrations, old-fashioned games, and storytelling sessions.

It’s a rare example of a ghost town that doesn’t just sit in silence—it moves, breathes, and tells stories. St. Elmo perfectly blends Colorado history with a touch of eccentricity.

4. Colorado Has an Underwater Mystery – The Great Sand Dunes Fossil Find

Most people visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park for hiking, sandboarding, or stargazing. But beneath the shifting sands lies a secret: prehistoric fossils and ancient animal remains. Researchers have discovered fossils dating back thousands of years, including giant mammoths, camels, and saber-toothed cats.

What’s unusual is how these fossils survive in such a dynamic environment. The sand dunes constantly shift due to wind and weather, yet fossils occasionally emerge, offering glimpses into a Colorado that existed long before human settlement. Scientists continue to study these finds, and amateur paleontologists sometimes stumble across significant discoveries.

For visitors, it’s fascinating to think that beneath the soft dunes you’re climbing, remnants of a prehistoric world are waiting to be uncovered.

5. Colorado’s Secret Tunnels Under Denver

Denver is famous for its mile-high altitude and vibrant downtown, but few know about the secret network of tunnels beneath the city. Originally built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these tunnels served multiple purposes: underground delivery routes for goods, connections between breweries, speakeasies during Prohibition, and even rumored smuggling routes.

Today, most of the tunnels are closed off to the public, but some guided tours reveal a fascinating subterranean world. From brick-lined passages to hidden rooms once used for illegal gambling, the tunnels tell a story of Denver’s more mysterious and mischievous past. Exploring these hidden spaces is like stepping into a real-life adventure novel—one that many residents don’t even realize exists beneath their feet.

Colorado isn’t just about skiing, hiking, or craft beer (though those are great, too!). The state is full of unusual, little-known attractions and stories that reveal a quirky, mysterious, and surprising side. From UFO sightings in the San Luis Valley to underground tunnels in Denver, these facts remind us that every corner of Colorado has its own story to tell.

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado—or even if you’ve lived here for years—venturing off the beaten path can uncover some truly memorable experiences. Instead of just sticking to tourist-heavy destinations, seek out the unusual. Your Instagram, and your sense of adventure, will thank you.

Colorado Travel Tips for the Unusual Explorer

1. Plan Ahead: Some of the more unusual locations, like St. Elmo or certain parts of the San Luis Valley, are remote. Map your route and check opening times for events.

2. Talk to Locals: Residents often know the hidden gems and secret spots that aren’t in guidebooks.

3. Pack for the Unexpected: Weather in Colorado can be unpredictable. Even if you’re heading to the desert, bring layers—you might encounter snow in the mountains just a few hours away.

4. Respect History and Nature: Fossils, ghost towns, and hot springs are treasures. Leave them as you found them. This information is provided by Fireplace and Grill Experts for entertainment purposes only. Fireplace and Grill Experts is a locally owned Colorado business with over 30 years in the hearth industry. We service and install gas fireplaces, gas and propane grills, fire pits, gas patio heaters and anything gas line related. Please feel free to call with questions or to schedule a free estimate.