50 Colleges That Rival Ivy League Campuses in Beauty

25. Colorado College – Where the Mountains Meet Academia

Few campuses in the world can boast the kind of breathtaking natural scenery that surrounds Colorado College. Located in Colorado Springs, the campus sits in the shadow of the towering Rocky Mountains, offering students jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, rugged cliffs, and endless hiking trails right at their doorstep. The historic red-brick buildings, which date back to the 19th century, provide a striking contrast against the natural landscape, blending traditional collegiate architecture with the untamed beauty of the West. Beyond its stunning aesthetics, Colorado College is known for its unique academic structure—the Block Plan—which allows students to take one intensive course at a time for three and a half weeks before moving on to the next. This immersive learning experience fosters deep intellectual engagement and encourages students to take full advantage of the outdoor classroom that surrounds them. Whether climbing Pikes Peak, skiing in the nearby mountains, or engaging in environmental research in the Great Sand Dunes, students at Colorado College enjoy an education that seamlessly integrates adventure with academia.