Fact: Colorado brewers make good beer.

We all know it's true. But just outside our state borders are several breweries that aren't to be missed. Next time you're road-tripping or out-of-town for business, stop by these breweries and celebrate Western expanision (of craft beer, that is). 

To the North, The Library (Laramie, Wyoming): Head just over the border from Fort Collins into Laramie, Wyoming for suds. Their motto for University of Wyoming students is that if your mom calls while you're at the bar, "Don't lie to your mom, just tell her you are at the Library." Sample favorites like Keller Kolsch, Devil's Tower Honey Ale, and Steamboat Oatmeal Stout. (Bonus: The Library recently opened a second location in Winter Park.) 1622 E. Grand Ave., 307-742-0500

To the South, Second Street Brewery (Santa Fe, New Mexico): Tucked just outside the bustling tourist district, this neighborhood spot has sold more than three million pints since opening in 1996. Try standards like the Brown Ale, a "gentle" beer with chocolate malt flavors, or Simcoe Pale Ale. 1814 Second St., 505-982-3030

To the East, Free State Brewing Company (Lawrence, Kansas): Take I-70 east and just keep going. If you get to Missouri, you've gone too far. For years after Prohibition's repeal, Kansas' count of breweries was dismal. Not anymore. Sample Copperhead Pale Ale, Oatmeal Stout, Ad Astra Ale, and Wheat State Golden. 636 Massachusetts St., 785-843-4555 

To the West, The Moab Brewery (Moab, Utah): Hard work deserves a beer. In Moab, that means a hard day of mountain biking, climbing, running rapids, or hiking arch to arch. The Moab Brewery is the adventure town's one and only beer maker. Stop in for an award-winning Scorpion Pale Ale. 686 S. Main, 435-259-6333 

—Image courtesy of Shutterstock.

Follow editorial assistant Lindsey R. McKissick on Twitter at @LindseyRMcK.