If you’re looking for the top 10 cannabis strains in Colorado, then look no further, because we’ve curated a list of the most popular weed strains in the Centennial State. Colorado was of course one of the very first states to legalise recreational marijuana, and ever since, the market has exploded with strains galore.

Although cannabis sales might have slowed down slightly over the past couple years, December of 2024 saw nearly $100 million in sales, illustrating just how much Coloradans love their weed. So let’s get to it and discuss the best weed strains in Colorado.

Is Cannabis Legal in Colorado?

Yes, cannabis is legal in Colorado. The state first legalized it in 2014, making it one of the initial states alongside Washington to officially legalise cannabis for recreational use in the U.S. In 2023, the Colorado legal cannabis market was worth an estimated $2.23 billion.

Top 10 Cannabis Strains in Colorado

Here are the most popular weed strains enjoyed by those residing in the Centennial State. 

1. Black Maple

A product of Bloom Seed Co., this hybrid brings a complex mix of flavours, an eye-catching appearance, and a high that’s as engaging as it is relaxing. Whether you’re looking for a strain to pair with a laid-back afternoon or one that can hold its own in a social setting, Black Maple gets the job done.

Genetics

Black Maple is the product of Dulce De Uva and Sherbanger, two strains known for their potency and distinct flavour profiles. Dulce De Uva, which translates to “Grape Candy” in Spanish, brings its signature fruity sweetness to the mix, while Sherbanger, descended from Sunset Sherbet and Headbanger, adds a funky, gassy kick with a dash of diesel. The result is a well-balanced hybrid.

Potency – THC Content

Packing anywhere from 25% to 30% THC, this is a heavyweight strain that is great for seasoned smokers. While it won’t knock you out immediately, its creeping effects can catch you off guard. If you’re new to high-THC strains, maybe start slow.

Appearance

The buds are dense, chunky, and elongated, often stretching a bit more than your average hybrid. Expect deep forest green hues with splashes of purple, sometimes so dark they almost look black under the right light. Orange-yellow-coloured pistils weave through the bud, while a thick frost of crystal trichomes coats the buds.

Flavour and Aroma

Crack open a jar of Black Maple, and you’re greeted by a bold mix of white grapes, black pepper, and sandalwood. There’s a subtle gas-like undertone, giving it a funky depth, while hints of vanilla round it all out. When smoked, the taste is a full-bodied fusion of fruit, wood, and spice, with the grape and pepper notes leading the charge.

Effects

The high from Black Maple starts off smooth and balanced, hitting both the mind and body. The initial rush brings a wave of euphoria and mental clarity.

Colours seem brighter, conversations flow effortlessly, and creative ideas pop up out of nowhere. It’s the kind of strain that keeps you engaged without overwhelming your senses, making it perfect for social settings, creative projects, or just kicking back and enjoying some music.

As the high settles in, the physical relaxation starts to take hold. There’s a noticeable lightness in the limbs, followed by a warmth that spreads throughout the body, melting away any lingering tension. It’s not a full-on couch-lock strain, but it definitely leans into its indica side the longer you ride the high.

2. Flo

If you’re after a strain that’ll have you floating through your day with a clear head and a spring in your step, Flo might just be your new best friend. This award-winning hybrid has been winning over cannabis enthusiasts since the ‘90s, and for good reason.

Genetics

Flo was made by crossing Purple Thai and Afghani, resulting in a 60% sativa, 40% indica hybrid that manages to bring the best of both worlds. The Thai influence shines through with an uplifting cerebral buzz, while the Afghani heritage keeps things grounded with a mellow body high. It was originally bred by DJ Short, a legendary cannabis geneticist.

Potency – THC Content

With THC levels ranging between 14% and 17%, this is a moderate-strength strain that’s great for daytime use. If you’re someone who likes to smoke without being glued to the couch or questioning all your life choices, this is your kind of bud. It’s strong enough to get you where you need to be, but gentle enough that you won’t accidentally spend the next three hours staring at a wall.

Appearance

Flo’s buds are pear-shaped, dense, and covered in a thick layer of purple calyxes. The colours range from deep green to vibrant purple, making it one of those strains that’s almost too pretty to smoke. A generous dusting of frosty trichomes means that every nug is packed with potency.

Flavour and Aroma

Crack open a bud and you’ll be hit with a wave of citrus, pine, and spice. The dominant terpenes in this strain include myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene, which give it that lemony, herbal, slightly peppery kick. On the inhale, you’ll get hints of menthol and fresh-cut herbs, while the exhale leaves a lingering sweet-yet-spicy aftertaste.

Effects

The high from Flo is light, energetic, and clear-headed. From the first hit, you’ll feel a gentle buzz spread through your brain, lifting your mood and sharpening your focus.

However, Flo isn’t just about mental stimulation. While the sativa side keeps you feeling alert and engaged, the indica influence sneaks in to relax your muscles and ease any lingering tension. It’s not heavy enough to make you sluggish, but it does keep the experience smooth and balanced. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to stay productive without feeling wired.

That said, don’t be surprised if you find yourself grinning at absolutely nothing. Flo is known for inducing a case of the giggles, making it a great social strain.

3. Cherry Pie

If you’ve ever thought, “I wish my weed tasted like dessert,” Cherry Pie is here to grant your wish. This sweet, smooth-hitting indica-dominant hybrid is like biting into a freshly baked cherry pie. While it won’t put you in a food coma like actual pie, it does come with a relaxing, euphoric high that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket.

Genetics

Granddaddy Purple and Durban Poison are the parent strains. This 80% indica-dominant hybrid manages to balance both worlds. The Granddaddy Purple side brings relaxation and a slightly sedative effect, while Durban Poison adds a touch of sativa-driven euphoria and mental clarity.

Potency – THC Content

With a THC level ranging from 16% to 24%, Cherry Pie packs enough punch to be felt but won’t necessarily send you into orbit. That said, if you get a batch that’s closer to that 24% mark, you might find yourself glued to the couch binge-watching cooking shows, suddenly convinced you can be the next MasterChef.

Appearance

Cherry Pie’s buds are dense, compact, and covered in fiery orange hairs. The nugs themselves are usually deep green with streaks of purple, thanks to their Granddaddy Purple lineage. Let’s not forget about the frosty layer of trichomes that gives each bud a sugar-dusted look.

Flavour and Aroma

Cherry Pie smells and tastes exactly like its namesake. The aroma is a mix of sweet cherries, berries, and a hint of earthiness, thanks to terpenes like myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene. When you light it up, the flavour is a perfect blend of tart cherries, creamy vanilla, and a touch of spice on the exhale.

Effects

Cherry Pie’s high hits fast and smooth, wrapping around you like a cosy hug from an old friend. You’ll feel an immediate rush of happiness and euphoria, thanks to its Durban Poison roots. This is the kind of weed that melts away stress, replacing it with the overwhelming urge to smile at absolutely nothing.

It’s uplifting but not overly energetic, making it perfect for chilling with friends, watching a nostalgic movie, or vibing to some lo-fi beats.

However, all that being said, this is still an indica-dominant strain, so after the initial burst of happiness, expect a slow, creeping body high that relaxes your muscles and eases tension. It won’t necessarily knock you out, but if you’re already lounging, don’t be surprised if you wake up two hours later with an empty bag of chips in your lap.

4. Golden Goat

This sativa-dominant hybrid was a happy little accident born in Kansas when a male Hawaiian-Romulan plant pollinated a female Island Sweet Skunk. Talk about a lucky mix-up.

That said, don’t let its sweet and citrusy charm fool you because Golden Goat packs a punch, and you’ll feel it from head to toe.

Genetics

Golden Goat is a 70% sativa, 30% indica hybrid that came to life by chance. Hawaiian-Romulan brings the relaxation, slightly spacey effects. Meanwhile, Island Sweet Skunk throws in an energising, mood-boosting buzz.

Potency – THC Content

Golden Goat is no lightweight when it comes to THC content, ranging from 16% to 23%. That’s a respectable punch, enough to launch you into a creative, euphoric headspace but not so overwhelming that you’re glued to the couch questioning the nature of reality.

Appearance

The buds are bright green with golden hues. Sometimes, hints of pink or red peek through, giving it an even more unique, eye-catching appeal. The dense, crystal-coated nugs are sticky to the touch.

Flavour and Aroma

The first whiff of Golden Goat is an explosion of citrus, tropical fruit, and a touch of spicy earthiness. The dominant terpenes, limonene, caryophyllene, and pinene, bring out those sweet, sour, and spicy notes, making each hit feel like a sip of zesty lemonade with a punch of skunky diesel on the exhale.

Effects

From the first puff, Golden Goat sends an energetic wave through your body, making you feel like you just chugged an espresso, but a lot smoother and less jittery.

The cerebral high is euphoric, giggly, and stimulating, making it a fantastic strain for social settings and deep conversations. However, about an hour in, a gentle body relaxation kicks in, smoothing out any tension without knocking you out. It’s the perfect balance between energy and chill, meaning you won’t be left bouncing off the walls or melting into the couch.

Golden Goat is ideal for daytime use, creative projects, and social hangouts. If you need a pick-me-up that also keeps you grounded just enough to function, this is one strain that absolutely deserves its legendary status.

5. Sour Apple

Sour Apple is like biting into a perfectly ripe Granny Smith apple, except instead of a tangy crunch, you get a slow-building high that starts in your head and works its way down.

That said, Sour Apple isn’t just about kicking back and zoning out. It brings a mix of cerebral stimulation and body relaxation, making it a perfect choice for lazy days, movie marathons, or just vibing with good company.

Genetics

Sour Apple is a 60% indica, 40% sativa hybrid, born from the legendary Sour Diesel and Cinderella 99. Sour Diesel brings that classic diesel fuel funk and an uplifting head high, while Cinderella 99 adds a sweet, fruity twist and a dreamy, euphoric vibe.

Potency – THC Content

With a THC range of 14% to 17%, Sour Apple sits comfortably in the mid-potency category. That makes it a solid choice for both casual and experienced smokers.

Appearance

Sour Apple buds are long, pepper-shaped, and fluffy, with neon green hues mixed with deep olive undertones. The amber hairs twist through the buds, while a thick layer of milky white trichomes gives it a frosted, almost sugary appearance.

Flavour and Aroma

Sour Apple really does taste like a dessert. The first hit brings a sharp, sour apple tang, followed by a sweet citrus undertone that lingers on the tongue. Thanks to terpenes like limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene, you get a mix of tart fruit, skunky diesel, and a touch of spice on the exhale.

Effects

Sour Apple plays the long game. At first, it hits you with a smooth, happy euphoria that makes everything seem slightly funnier than usual. Suddenly, you’re reminiscing about that one embarrassing moment from five years ago and laughing like it just happened yesterday.

However, once that giggly high settles in, the indica side kicks in hard. Your limbs start to feel heavy, warm, and delightfully numb, and before you know it, you’re locked to your couch with zero motivation to move. This is the kind of strain that turns casual plans into “let’s just order food and chill” plans.

That said, Sour Apple isn’t a total knockout unless you overdo it. In smaller doses, it keeps you sociable, talkative, and relaxed, but if you go overboard, you might find yourself completely couch-locked and contemplating the mysteries of the universe.

6. Strawberry Diesel

Strawberry Diesel is the perfect mix of fruity goodness and gassy power, kind of like if your morning smoothie had a splash of high-octane rocket fuel. This balanced hybrid delivers a smooth and uplifting high, followed by a gentle body relaxation that never fully glues you to the couch.

Genetics

Strawberry Diesel is a 50/50 hybrid, the kind that hits both mind and body in the best way possible. It’s the product of Strawberry Cough and NYC Diesel, two powerhouse strains known for their cerebral buzz and fuel-heavy aroma.

Potency – THC Content

Strawberry Diesel boasts THC levels between 20% and 24%, meaning it’s not for the faint of heart (or lungs). If you’re new to cannabis, proceed with caution, or you might find yourself calling a friend just to ask if time is moving slower than usual.

Appearance

Strawberry Diesel features a lush green colour with streaks of pinkish-red hairs (a subtle nod to its strawberry lineage). Dense and slightly sticky, these nugs glisten under the light thanks to their thick coating of frosty white trichomes.

Flavour and Aroma

This smells like a wild mix of fresh strawberries and gas. Imagine a strawberry smoothie spilled on a garage floor, and that’s pretty much what you’re in for. The dominant terpenes include myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene, giving it a sweet, fruity inhale with a gassy, earthy exhale.

Effects

Strawberry Diesel is a bit of a trickster because it starts with an uplifting, happy buzz that makes you want to chat, create, or maybe even reorganise your fridge just for fun. It’s the kind of high that gets you moving, so if you’ve been putting off that deep clean of your room, this might be the motivation you need.

However, once the initial energy surge settles down, you’ll feel a relaxing body high creep in. It won’t knock you out, but it might convince you that a quick sit-down is a great idea.

7. Gastro Pop

If you thought Gastro Pop sounded like some kind of fancy European soda, you’re not entirely wrong, except instead of quenching your thirst, this indica-heavy hybrid quenches your need to chill out. However, don’t let the candy-like aroma fool you; this bud hits hard, fast, and straight to the head.

Genetics

Gastro Pop is a cross of Apples & Bananas and Grape Gas, two strains known for their fruity punch and potent effects. It is 70% indica and 30% sativa, making it the perfect friend for winding down, getting cosy, and diving headfirst into an existential conversation about why dogs tilt their heads when you talk to them.

Potency – THC Content

This strain packs a serious punch with THC levels ranging from 27% to 29%. That’s borderline intergalactic, so if you’re a newbie, maybe take it slow unless you want to experience your couch as a black hole that swallows all time and space.

Appearance

The nugs are small, dense, and grape-shaped, rocking a vibrant green with deep purple undertones. They’re also coated in a layer of frosty white trichomes, making them look like they were dipped in sugar.

Flavour and Aroma

If grape-flavoured sherbet met a can of diesel and had a baby, it would smell exactly like Gastro Pop. The dominant terpenes myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene work together to create a sweet, gassy, and spicy profile that hits your nose like a fruit stand on fire.

Effects

The high from Gastro Pop hits in waves, starting with an uplifting cerebral buzz that makes everything seem just a little funnier. Expect a giddy euphoria, some deep introspective thoughts, and a case of the munchies that could rival an all-you-can-eat buffet trip.

However, don’t get too comfortable in that uplifted state because before long, the indica side will sneak up on you like a ninja, wrapping you in a warm, relaxing hug. This strain is perfect for unwinding after a long day, getting into a deep YouTube rabbit hole, or knocking out early for a solid night’s sleep.

8. Headband

Ever put on a headband so tight you felt like it was squeezing your brain just a little? Well, this strain is named after exactly that sensation, except instead of discomfort, it comes with a euphoric, floaty head high that wraps around your skull like a warm beanie on a winter day.

Genetics

This strain features some of the biggest names in cannabis history, as it’s a cross between OG Kush and Sour Diesel, two absolute heavyweights. That 60% indica, 40% sativa split means you get the best of both worlds, with a strong cerebral buzz followed by a body-melting relaxation.

Potency – THC Content

With THC levels floating between 17% and 24%, Headband is deceptively strong. It might not hit like a freight train at first, but give it ten to fifteen minutes and suddenly you’ll realise your entire body feels light, floaty, and euphoric.

Because of its creeping effects, many underestimate this strain and end up higher than expected. So, word of advice: take it slow, because this is a strain that sneaks up on you like that one mate who always photobombs your selfies.

Appearance

Headband’s buds are chunky and dense, often taking on a spade-like shape with a deep olive-green colour. It’s covered in amber hairs and when you look closer, you’ll notice the frosty layer of milky-white trichomes, like powdered sugar.

Flavour and Aroma

If lemon-scented petrol were a thing, it would smell exactly like this strain. Headband is dominated by limonene, myrcene, and caryophyllene, giving it a zesty, citrus-forward aroma with a strong diesel kick.

The inhale is smooth and creamy, with a taste of sweet lemons and a slight earthiness. The exhale brings out that classic diesel funk, leaving a peppery aftertaste on the tongue that sticks around for a while.

Effects

At first, you’ll feel a gentle cerebral buzz, which then spreads through your entire body like a warm, relaxing wave. This strain is ideal for creativity, light socialising, and deep conversations, as it keeps your mind active while keeping your body mellow.

However, take a little too much, and you might find yourself couch-locked with a goofy grin, completely lost in your own thoughts. That said, it’s a great strain for unwinding without completely melting into your sofa.

9. Chocolate Diesel

If Willy Wonka had a cannabis farm, Chocolate Diesel would absolutely be one of his golden-ticket strains.

However, don’t be fooled by its dessert-like name because this strain packs a serious punch with THC levels soaring up to 30%.

Genetics

Chocolate Diesel is a cross of two iconic parents, Sour Diesel and Chocolate Thai. This combination results in a 60% sativa, 40% indica hybrid that delivers a strong cerebral rush with just enough body relaxation to keep you from bouncing off the walls.

Potency – THC Content

Chocolate Diesel clocks in at a whopping 25% to 30% THC. That means even seasoned cannabis consumers should tread lightly.

Newcomers to high-THC strains should start small with this one. It can quickly tip over into paranoia if you’re not used to it.

Appearance

Chocolate Diesel’s buds are compact, fluffy, and covered in resin, with so many crystally trichomes that it looks like a disco ball.

The deep olive-green nugs are covered with burnt-orange pistils, and when you crack them open, you’ll notice a layer of fine golden crystals.

Flavour and Aroma

The dominant terpenes in this strain include limonene, caryophyllene, and myrcene, giving it a complex mix of sweet chocolate, spicy diesel, and a hint of pine and earthiness.

On the inhale, you’ll get a deep, rich cocoa taste, while the exhale is all gas and spice, lingering in the air like an old-school muscle car just peeled out of a parking lot.

If you enjoy dessert-like strains with a bit of grit, Chocolate Diesel is a wild ride you’ll want to take again and again.

Effects

The effects of Chocolate Diesel hit fast and don’t slow down. This is not the strain for a lazy afternoon nap or a Netflix binge. Instead, it’s perfect for daytime use, creativity, and productivity.

Expect an initial rush of euphoria and energy, followed by laser-sharp focus and a buzzing sense of motivation. You might find yourself suddenly inspired to deep-clean your entire kitchen, start a new project, or write that novel you’ve been putting off.

However, if you overdo it, the high can turn hazy and spacey, making you feel like you just got lost in the Matrix with no way out.

10. Nightshifter

If Batman had a favourite strain, Colorado Nightshifter would be it; mysterious, powerful, and always ready to swoop in with an electrifying high. This slightly sativa-dominant hybrid will take you on a wild ride from sunset to sunrise.

Genetics

Colorado Nightshifter was created by Relentless Genetics, who took Trop Cherry (aka Trop Cherry #8 breeder’s cut) and reversed it with their ultra-exclusive Frozay #94 pheno. The result is a strain with insane bag appeal, deep colours, and a terpene profile that will have you questioning your loyalty to all other strains.

Potency – THC Content

Colorado Nightshifter packs a decent punch, clocking in at 21% THC on average. While that’s not in the “rocket-launcher” range of some newer strains, don’t underestimate it, as the sativa side of this hybrid means the high kicks in fast and doesn’t mess around.

Appearance

The buds are dense, chunky, and often sport a kaleidoscope of colours. Expect to see deep purples, pinks, and fiery reds bursting through the rich green nugs. The trichome coverage is very heavy as well.

Flavour and Aroma

Colorado Nightshifter’s flavour profile is characterized by limonene, caryophyllene, and myrcene, creating a mix of sweet cream, cherry citrus, and a hint of berry fruit roll-up.

On the inhale, you get a bright burst of citrus and cherry, and on the exhale, a smooth, creamy finish that lingers on your tongue like a fancy dessert at a high-end restaurant. 

Meanwhile, when you crack open a nug, the aroma hits you like a wave of tart cherries, creamy gelato, and a little bit of pine and earth.

Effects

If you’ve ever needed a strain that could carry you through a late-night creative session, a deep philosophical discussion, or a midnight snack run, Colorado Nightshifter is the one. The first ten minutes bring a euphoric rush that clears your mind faster than a morning coffee.

You might feel chatty, focused, or suddenly inspired to start that creative project you’ve been putting off.

About half an hour in, the body high sneaks up, not couch-lock heavy, but just enough to melt away tension and leave you feeling balanced. As the high progresses, you’ll start feeling floaty and introspective, but not necessarily sleepy, more like that perfect wind-down state where you could either chill out with a movie or philosophise about space travel with your mates.

Choosing the Right Cannabis Strains for You

If you’re looking for the perfect weed strain for your needs, some of the most important things to consider are potency, flavour, effects, and the strain type. For more information, take a look at our guide on how to choose the best cannabis strain for you.

Final Thoughts

Those residing in the Centennial state undoubtedly love their legal weed. With such great strains being bred and grown right in the state, it’s not hard to see why it’s one of the most popular cannabis destinations in the country. That said, if you happen to be visiting a neighbouring state, you might be interested in finding out what the most popular weed strains in Nevada and Arizona are.