Is Colorado Digital Detox Day the break we didn’t know we needed? On April 30, 2025, Governor Jared Polis signed an executive order establishing this groundbreaking initiative, set to launch on June 21, 2025. With a $3.8 million state investment, Colorado is pushing residents to unplug and reconnect with nature. From free park admissions to ranger-led hikes and business incentives, the state is making a bold statement about the importance of stepping away from screens. This first-of-its-kind effort aims to combat digital overload in a tangible way.
A Governor’s Vision for Unplugging
In a move to address the growing stress of constant connectivity, Governor Jared Polis signed Executive Order 2025-06, officially creating Colorado Digital Detox Day. Announced in Denver, this initiative targets June 21, 2025, as the inaugural date for residents to log off and step outside. Polis’s order reflects a broader concern about mental health in an era dominated by smartphones and social media, positioning Colorado as a pioneer in state-supported wellness programs focused on digital breaks.
Free Access to Colorado’s Natural Wonders
As part of the $3.8 million allocation, Colorado Parks will waive all admission fees for a full 24 hours on June 21, 2025. This means anyone can explore the state’s stunning landscapes—from Rocky Mountain National Park to Mesa Verde—without cost. The goal is clear: remove financial barriers and encourage as many people as possible to trade screen time for green time. This unprecedented access aims to make nature the centerpiece of the detox experience.
Ranger-Led Hikes to Ease the Ego
The state is also funding 120 ranger-led “EgoEase” hikes across various parks on Digital Detox Day. These guided excursions are designed to help participants let go of digital distractions and focus on mindfulness in nature. Rangers will lead groups through scenic trails, emphasizing the mental reset that comes from unplugging. This initiative underscores Colorado’s commitment to not just providing access, but actively facilitating meaningful outdoor experiences for its residents.
Small Business Incentives to Disconnect
Colorado is going beyond individual participation by incentivizing small businesses to join the movement. Under the executive order, businesses that close for the day or lock away employee phones for at least four hours on June 21, 2025, will be eligible for reimbursement. This financial support aims to ease the burden on small enterprises while promoting a collective effort to disconnect. It’s a unique approach, blending economic assistance with a push for societal well-being.
Tech Partners Push for a Blackout
To amplify the message, partner apps across the state will display a statewide blackout banner on June 21, 2025. This digital prompt will urge users to log off and join the detox effort. By leveraging technology to encourage a break from it, Colorado is creating a unified front against screen dependency. This collaboration with tech platforms shows an innovative way to reach users directly, meeting them where they are—online—before nudging them offline.
Measuring the Impact on Stress Levels
To gauge the effectiveness of Colorado Digital Detox Day, a research team from the University of Colorado Boulder will conduct a study involving 300 volunteers. The team will track cortisol levels—a key indicator of stress—through samples collected during the event. Results, expected in January 2026, will provide hard data on whether a day away from devices can measurably reduce stress. This scientific component adds credibility to the initiative, grounding it in evidence-based outcomes.
Why This Matters in 2025
In an age where digital burnout is increasingly common, Colorado’s state-funded push for a tech-free day is a timely experiment. With mental health concerns on the rise—evidenced by studies like those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention —initiatives like this could set a precedent for other states. The intersection of public funding and wellness also aligns with growing national conversations about screen time, as highlighted by research from Pew Research Center.
A Model for National Change?
Colorado’s investment in a day of digital detox raises questions about scalability. If the CU-Boulder study shows significant stress reduction, could other states adopt similar programs? The combination of free public access, guided activities, and business support creates a comprehensive framework that others might replicate. For now, Colorado is leading the charge, offering a blueprint for balancing technology and mental health in a hyper-connected world.