Colorado
The Centennial State
Quick Stats
Map
Seal & Motto
"Nil Sine Numine"
Latin for "Nothing Without Providence" — a humble acknowledgment that Colorado's breathtaking natural bounty, from its gold-rich mountains to its fertile plains, is a divine gift. Adopted 1861.
Flag Meaning
Three horizontal stripes (blue/white/blue) = sky and snow-capped mountains; bold red "C" with gold disc = state name, sunshine, and red rock landscape.
- Blue stripes — clear Colorado skies
- White stripe — snowfields & mountains
- Red "C" — state name & red rock landscape
- Gold disc — sunshine & mineral wealth
State Symbols
Overview
Colorado, the "Centennial State," is a majestic Western U.S. state defined by the soaring peaks of the Rocky Mountains and the expansive high plains. Renowned globally for its world-class skiing, mountain biking, and vibrant outdoor culture, it is a leading center for aerospace technology, renewable energy, and craft brewing today.
Geographically, it shares borders with Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Utah, forming a closely connected regional network.
Historical Significance
Colorado officially joined the Union on August 1, 1876, exactly 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Its early historical era was defined by the drama of the Pike's Peak Gold Rush and the subsequent rise of massive mining empires, which transformed the region from a rugged frontier into a pivotal industrial and transport hub.
Famous Natives
Top Cities & Hubs
Denver
Population: ~715,000The "Mile High City," a booming metropolitan hub and state capital located exactly one mile above sea level, famed for its mountain views and world-class museum and dining sectors.
Colorado Springs
Population: ~485,000Located at the base of Pikes Peak, it is a premier center for the U.S. military and aerospace research, home to the Air Force Academy and the iconic Garden of the Gods park.
Aurora
Population: ~395,000A diverse and rapidly growing city adjacent to Denver, known for its extensive public park systems and the massive Anschutz Medical Campus research facility.
Fort Collins
Population: ~170,000Home to Colorado State University, this thriving northern city is a world-renowned leader in the craft brewing industry and is frequently ranked as one of the best places to live.
Lakewood
Population: ~160,000A significant gateway to the Rocky Mountains, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and immediate access to massive mountain parks and the Red Rocks Amphitheatre area.
How Colorado Ranks
Key Landmarks & Economy
Did You Know?
- Colorado has more than 50 mountain peaks that exceed 14,000 feet in elevation, famously known by locals as "Fourteeners."
- Denver receives over 300 days of sunshine per year, more annual sunshine than even Miami or San Diego.
- The cheeseburger was reportedly trademarked in Denver in 1935 by Louis Ballast at his Humpty Dumpty Drive-In.
Additional Information
80001 (Arvada) → 81658 (Vail area)
~592 ZIP codes
Demographics
Population Growth
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Colorado Trivia Quiz
Test your knowledge — 5 questions about the Centennial State
What is Colorado's official nickname?
Denver sits at exactly what elevation?
What year did Colorado join the Union (earning its "Centennial State" nickname)?
Which famous ski town is located in Eagle County?
What are Colorado's 14,000+ ft peaks called?