Colorado for a newbie

Hey Guys,
So I've only been in CO for about 8 months and now that I'm starting to enjoy things properly work is calling me away again.
A quick history: I'm an Alaskan that drove down with a buddy to try something new and after loving my time here, a new opportunity is calling me back.
My question for you guys is how to enjoy my last few weeks here. I'm up in Ft Collins, so I feel like I may know this area alright but if you have any sweet spots throw them out, but I've got a buddy visiting from Alaska until the 9th and we are trying to maximize his(my) time in CO.
I haven't traveled too far south so that's the direction we are hoping to head. Mesa Verde and the Sand Dunes? are a couple of our priorities. We aren't afraid of camping in the truck or off the trail, or snagging a hotel if it's cheap and nearby.
What sites to see do you guys think best show off or represent Colorado?
Let me know!
We're hoping to get on the road in the next few days, probably after a Red Rocks show thursday night.
Thanks!
-Sam

 

San Juan Mtns, Lake City, Ouray, Silverton, Telluride.

 

Perfect. Thanks, guys.

 

Just spent a week out here f'ing around and hiking. Great suggestion!

Medano pass into the sand dunes is great! I also love the sangre de cristos. South colony lakes near westcliffe is freaking beautiful. Great fishing over music pass.

If you're looking for off roading head up Mt Antero to 13,000ft or Castle Creek road near Aspen to 12,800ft.

Lots of cool roads near Ouray/Telluride/Silverton too. Watch out for Texans everywhere though!