Whether you’re looking to float Boulder creek with a 12 pack or get serious with some real rapids at the Gunnison River Festival, the fact of the matter is summer in Colorado is just around the corner. Winter in Colorado is infamous for its sick skiing and boarding, but when summer comes around, there should be one thing on your mind: Local outdoor festivals and events. There are plenty around the state, but we at the Adventurous 500 have selected our top 10 favorites.

#1 Tough Mudder Beaver Creek (June 25th -June 26th) – Where Ironman meets Burning Man, this 10-12 mile obstacle course is designed by British Special Forces to test all around strength, stamina, mental grid, and camaraderie. Even Bear Grylls would pee his pants on this one…

#2 Fruita Fat Tire Festival (April 28-May 1st) – A great event that incorporates some serious single track downhill mountain biking and some serious beer tasting. The event is held every year at the end of April in beautiful Fruita, Colorado.

#3 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (June 26th) – This event takes place in Colorado Springs with Motorcycle jumpers, two beer gardens, chili cook off, and of course the epic climb towards the summit of Pikes Peak.

#4 Paddle Fest in Buena Vista (May 14th-15th) – A great way to welcome summer and introduce the kayaking season with paddlers of all ages competing and and trying new gear from a handful of sponsors.

#5 Denver’s Oyster Urban Adventure Race (August 15th) – An urban adventure race with the same idea as a wilderness eco challenge/Amazing Race, but set in a city and is conducted in one day. The race is conducted on a mystery course and provides multiple racing options to satisfy all endurance levels.

#6 Mountains of Races (August 1st-August 31st) – A 100 mile bike race,  a 100 mile foot race, and a 10 run all at the highest incorporated city in North America: Leadville, Colorado.

#7 Gunnison River Festival (June 24th-26th) – A down river race on the Upper Taylor with crowds and competitors alike who enjoy the new wave at the Gunnison White Water Park.

#8 Estes Park Roof Top Rodeo (July 12th-17th) – Whether you’re looking for some bareback bronco riding or some wild and crazy bull riding, the Roof Top Rodeo in Estes Park will keep you on the front of your toes!

#9 Grand Mesa Moose Day (July 30th) – The people of Grand Mesa dedicate this day to these big critters, with a festival showcasing this great animal throughout the town.

#10 Mike the Headless Chicken Festival (May 14th-15th) – The city of Fruita celebrates Mike the infamous Headless Chicken with a huge car show, music and entertainment, a chicken dance contest, 5k run, chicken eating contest, and many more silly chicken games. A great family Colorado event!