Compact Trucks for Colorado Adventures: Small Size, Big Capability

The Chevrolet Colorado is a top contender for drivers who want serious truck performance in a more agile package. With muscular styling and a variety of trim levels — including the rugged Z71 and the trail-dominating ZR2 — the Colorado is purpose-built for tackling Colorado’s diverse terrain. From forest roads in the San Isabel National Forest to steep switchbacks near Cripple Creek, the Colorado handles it all with ease.

Performance-wise, the Colorado offers multiple engine options to match your driving style. The available 2.8L Duramax® Turbo-Diesel stands out for its torque-rich output and towing capacity of up to 7,700 lbs — perfect for hauling a camper, ATV, or trailer full of toys into the mountains. Meanwhile, the optional 3.6L V6 offers a great balance of power and fuel economy, making it an excellent daily driver that doesn’t shy away from weekend exploration.

Inside, the Colorado impresses with a well-appointed cabin, user-friendly infotainment system, and available creature comforts like heated seats and wireless phone charging. Whether you’re headed to camp under the stars or just commuting to downtown Colorado Springs, the Colorado offers the comfort, capability, and confidence you need.

Known for its legendary reliability and off-road prowess, the Toyota Tacoma is a Colorado staple. It’s no surprise you’ll find Tacomas parked at trailheads, ski lodges, and climbing crags across the state. The truck’s elevated ride height, available TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims, and robust aftermarket support make it a favorite for adventurers who like to build out their rigs.

The Tacoma’s 3.5L V6 engine delivers strong performance both on and off pavement, with smooth acceleration and plenty of low-end grunt for climbing grades or navigating loose terrain. Equipped with features like Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and a locking rear differential, the Tacoma TRD models are built to thrive where the pavement ends.

But the Tacoma isn’t just a rock crawler — it’s also a practical daily driver. The interior offers intuitive controls, durable materials, and modern tech like Apple CarPlay and a multi-angle backup camera. And thanks to Toyota’s reputation for longevity, many drivers see their Tacomas well past the 200,000-mile mark. For anyone seeking a truck that can handle Denver's rush hour and the rugged trails near Leadville, the Tacoma delivers on all fronts.

The Ford Ranger has made a strong comeback in recent years, and it’s earning a reputation as a do-it-all compact truck that balances efficiency, strength, and smart technology. Its turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost® engine delivers an impressive 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, giving it plenty of muscle for mountain passes and highway cruising alike.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Ranger offers a Tremor Off-Road Package that includes off-road-tuned suspension, skid plates, upgraded shocks, and terrain management systems. These features make it a great option for exploring Colorado’s back roads, from the sandy washes of Pueblo to the rocky trails near Red Feather Lakes. With a 7,500-lb towing capacity and high payload rating, it also serves as a dependable workhorse for weekend gear, trailers, or small campers.

Inside, the Ranger features a straightforward, comfortable cabin with intuitive tech like Ford’s SYNC® 3 infotainment system and optional driver-assist features such as blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Its compact size makes it easier to maneuver through tight parking areas or narrow trailheads, making the Ranger an ideal fit for both city living and wild getaways.

The Honda Ridgeline is the wildcard of the compact truck world — and in Colorado, it just might be your secret weapon. Built with a unibody frame (more SUV than traditional body-on-frame truck), the Ridgeline offers a remarkably smooth ride and quiet cabin. If your idea of adventure includes long highway stretches followed by forest roads and campground pullouts, the Ridgeline offers the perfect blend of comfort and utility.

Where the Ridgeline shines is in smart design. The dual-action tailgate swings down or to the side for easy loading, and the in-bed trunk adds lockable, weatherproof storage — perfect for stowing fishing gear, recovery tools, or cold drinks. With standard all-wheel drive and 5,000 lbs of towing capacity, it’s no slouch when it comes to light off-roading or hauling toys.

Inside, the Ridgeline feels more like a well-appointed SUV than a pickup, with supportive seats, lots of rear legroom, and premium tech like an 8-inch touchscreen, tri-zone climate control, and Honda Sensing® safety features. It’s an excellent choice for adventurers who value versatility and daily drivability over aggressive off-road performance.