At 7,700 feet of altitude and inside a river basin, Gunnison, Colorado is a well-endowed setting for summer fun and high adventure. Check out Gunnison for iconic outdoor Rocky Mountain activities like rafting and fly fishing, or try something new and brave the rapids by surf board, “duckie,” or stand-up paddle.

Gunnison is so into its river sports that it holds a yearly Gunnison River Festival, “an annual river event that embraces river and stream activities, education and the celebration of the Gunnison River Basin.” Catch this year’s festivities on June 22-23, 2012. Or jump into Gunnison river fun all summer long with some of these top activities:

If you love rafting, a trip to the Taylor River (pictured here) or the Gunnison is a must.

1) Rafting

A chat about rafting in Colorado with those who know will almost inevitably include mention of Gunnison. It’s right up there with the Yampa River, the Green River, and the Arkansas River among the best rafting destinations in the State, and for that matter, the country.

First timers, families, experts, adrenaline junkies, and everyone in between will find a rafting route to cool them down and shake them up in Gunnison. Waters rate from class I-VI in intensity. The most popular pick is a half day trip along the Taylor River or the Gunnison River, with waters in the class II – class III range.

2) Fly Fishing

The Gunnison Gorge has world class fly fishing conditions, with its stocks of rainbow brown, brook, and cutthroat trout that earn the area awards and gold medal distinction among enthusiasts from far and wide.

For newcomers to the sport, go with a guided expedition and learn the ropes from seasoned experts. Outfitters like Gunnison River Expeditions and Dvorak Expeditions can get you set up with the gear and guidance to make it a trip of a lifetime. Both exhilarating and peaceful, the only thing to regret about fly fishing is not having tried it sooner.

If you’re just learning to kayak, try practicing at the Gunnison Whitewater Park before heading out on the river.

3) Kayaking

A near cousin to rafting, kayaking is an action-packed, but more autonomous, way to ride the caps and rapids of Gunnison’s rivers. For those who are just getting their feet wet, try out a “ducky,” which is a personal inflatable kayak that doesn’t overturn.

Tip for learners: Gunnison has the perfect spot for practice and improvement in kayaking. At the Gunnison Whitewater Park, the Todd Crane Center for Outdoor Leadership and the Recreation Department have built a playground for whitewater sports practice. The rock structures along and in the water help you stay in the same stretch of river to master new tricks and techniques.

4) Canoe trips

Trade intensity and adrenaline for tranquility and length with a canoe trip through the canyons of Gunnison. A popular route starts in Delta, Colorado and takes out at Whitewater. Covering a distance of 42 miles in gentle class I-II waters, and taking a full day and a half, a canoe trip like this is about peace, rhythm, endurance, and absorbing the scenic passage of time.

5) Surfing

Once you’ve spent enough time in Whitewater Park and mastered your kayaking and rafting skills, don’t take off the wetsuit quite yet. You may spot an adventurous few who have brought their surfboards to the river. Join the fun! Inside the park’s controlled conditions, it’s the closest you’ll get to riding waves in Colorado.

If You Go

For more information about visiting Gunnison, head to www.cityofgunnison-co.gov/

Gunnison River Festival: http://www.gunnisonriverfestival.com/

Rafting resource: http://www.gunnisoncrestedbutte.com/colorado-rafting

Fly Fishing: Guided expeditions
Gunnison River Expeditions: http://www.gunnisonriverexpeditions.com/fly-fishing

Gunnison Whitewater Park http://www.gunnisoncrestedbutte.com/whitewater-park

Cynthia Ord is a freelance writer based in her hometown of Denver CO, a contributing editor at The Travel Word (http://www.thetravelword.com/), and a Latin America addict.

Special thanks to Gunnison-Crested Butte for providing the photos featured in this article!
Fly fishing photo by Jim Church.
Taylor River rafting photo by Three Rivers Resort.
Kayaking Blue Mesa photo by John Dobert.

School is out and the weather is warming up, that means one thing: Summer is coming.  As with every summer that rolls around, people are looking to get outdoors and enjoy the sun and some fun.  Being a college town, Fort Collins doesn’t disappoint.  Whether you’re a resident or visiting on your Colorado vacation there is plenty to do in “Fort Fun.”

For Adults

Fort Collins has more than a few nicknames and when it comes to the end of June, there is only really one, that being “The Napa Valley of Beer.”  Home to such notable brewers as Anheuser-Busch, New Belgium Brewery, Odell Brewing Company, Fort Collins Brewery, CB & Pott’s Restaurant and Brewery, and CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing, it should come as no surprise that every year at the end of June, FoCo hosts their annual Colorado Brewers Festival.

The Colorado Brewers Festival draws not only the local Fort Collins breweries, but over 40 breweries from around the state.

This year, 40+ breweries from around the state will be serving up over 70 beers, offering visitors the opportunity to sample some of the finest brews in all of Colorado.  Here, those on their Colorado vacation can sample not only the local brews but the local cuisine and music as well.

The festival features local bands such as 12 Cents for Marvin and Fierce Bad Rabbit as well as food from some of the more prominent restaurants in the area.  Proceeds go to help other events held in the city such as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Santa Claus, the holidays downtown, free summer concerts, and the 4th of July Downtown.

For All Ages

Unfortunately for those who are under the age of 21, the Colorado Brewers Festival can’t be fully enjoyed.  Luckily, there are other events that are open to people of all ages, like the Taste of Fort Collins.  Hailed as a Northern Colorado tradition, this two-day festival takes a page from Chicago with their annual food festival, to which the proceeds go to support causes such as the Special Olympics Larimer County and Kiwanis Club International.

You can enjoy dishes from local restaurants as well as musical performances at the Taste of Fort Collins.

At this event, visitors can enjoy dishes and cuisine from 43 local restaurants and beverages, of the adult variety, from Wilbur’s Wine Pavilion and beer provided by Coors and Odell Brewing Co.

Also during this time, there are a number of competitions with awards being presented for areas such as Best American Cuisine, Best Vegetarian Option, Most Creative Presentation, Most People Friendly, and others.

The Taste of Fort Collins also hosts a number of musical performances, ranging from big name bands to more popular local talents.  This includes Everclear, Mat Kearny, Air Dubai, Post Paradise, Eldren, Bonnie and the Beard, and many more!

Notable Mentions

Not to be overshadowed by the likes of the Colorado Brewers Festival and the Taste of Fort Collins, there are other annual events for those on their Colorado vacation to check out.  One such event is the Goodguys 15th Colorado Nationals Car Show.  Here visitors can check out 1,500+ different hot rods, muscle cars, trucks, and other classic works of the automotive persuasion.

There is also the Annual Terrace and Garden Tour.  This tour leads visitors through some of Fort Collins most beautiful landscapes while being educated on the local flora.

If You Go

For a full listing of breweries and ticket prices for the Colorado Brewers Festival, as well as dates for this year’s event, visit: http://www.downtownfortcollins.com

For more information about the Taste of Fort Collins, visit their site: http://tasteoffortcollins.com/

Info on the Terrace and Garden Tour, visit: https://secure.closerware.com/fortcollins/npo.jsp?pg=fundraiser&article=508

Evan Witt is an Illinois native with a degree in English Literature from Lake Forest College, and as a frequent visitor to Colorado, he enjoys fishing, camping, hiking, and photography.

Header photo by Joe Wolf.
Photo of the Fort Collins Brewfest crowd (2004 event) courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Special thanks to the Taste of Fort Collins for providing photos for this article!

At 5 in the morning, the Colorado mountain resort of Beaver Creek is eerily still. Windows remain dark, shops are still closed and only starry reflections dance on the skating rink ice. Even Starbucks is padlocked shut, much to the disappointment of those gathered at the Hiking Center. Four vacationing souls have cut short their sweet dreams to pursue another sort of dream. They are off to climb a “fourteener.”

“We’ll stop for coffee at a bakery in Leadville,” promises trip leader Nate Goldberg.

Nate runs the hiking program at Beaver Creek, the upscale ski resort a dozen miles west of Vail. To provide residents and guests with summertime activities, he and his crew lead hikes ranging from one-hour strolls to all-day mountain climbs.

Wednesday is Fourteener Adventure Day, and this week’s objective is Mount Elbert. Peaking 14,433 feet above sea level, it stands as the loftiest summit in Colorado and second highest in the Lower 48. Only California’s Mount Whitney at 14,494 feet tops it.

The trail to the top starts from a gravel parking lot at 10,060 feet. There, Nate opens a cooler filled with granola bars, bottled water and Gatorade. He invites everyone to dig in.

Nate and his assistant, Matthew Cull, distribute metal hiking poles and help each participant adjust them to the appropriate length. At 7:15 a.m. the climbers, who range in age from 19 to 54, hoist their packs.

“Head ‘em up! Move ‘em out!” shouts Matthew.

The rounded hulk of Mount Elbert looms over the parking lot, seemingly close yet far away. The route to its summit is not difficult, but it does require negotiating 4.5 miles of trail with a 4,400 vertical-foot climb. That’s more than the summit day on Everest.

“On the trail, pay attention to your feet,” warns Nate. “If you start to feel a hot spot or burning sensation, let us know and we’ll either duct tape it or apply Compeed, which goes right over blisters.”

No one reports any problems with footwear, much of which was provided by the Hiking Center. The fee covers guides and transportation plus loaner boots, packs, poles and parkas.

The first part of the trip heads through the forest, passing the remains of a miner’s cabin and sluice ditch. The trail is wide and, while not too steep, it progresses steadily upward. Because afternoon thunderstorms are the norm, Nate figures the climbers need to ascend 1,000 feet of altitude per hour.

“I pretty much tell people we have a turn-around time of high noon, give or take 30 minutes.”

Whether for the accomplishment or the view, summiting a fourteener is a goal of many hiking enthusiasts.

Timberline arrives with the suddenness of a clear-cut. First there is forest and then there is none. The summit, still a vertical half-mile above, shines bald as a rapper’s pate. It’s 8:55 in the morning and the group stops to hit the bars – granola and energy bars, that is.

“As we start to get up in altitude, you might feel like your respiration is picking up,” says Nate. “The key is deep, diaphragmatic breathing. Draw breaths in and slowly exhale.”

He explains the importance of pacing oneself in the thin air of altitude. Like the tortoise and the hare, some folks go out fast and become too exhausted to make the summit. Wiser climbers start slowly and keep a steady pace, taking only short, standup breathers.

“I see my body as a symphony orchestra with my brain serving as conductor,” says Jim. “Right now it’s playing a Strauss waltz. On the summit, I suspect we’re going to have the ‘William Tell Overture.’”

The path to Colorado’s high point ascends the mountain’s broad northeast ridge in a steady, unrelenting grind. Up here, the higher one gets, the slower one goes. At 14,000 feet, the air pressure and its available oxygen has dropped to nearly half that of sea level.

Like diesel trucks in low gear, the climbers grunt up the final slopes. The slow pace allows ample time for enjoying the yellow alpine sunflowers and purple sky pilots that bloom between the rocks. At 12:11 p.m., the climb ends. There is no more uphill to be found.

“Way to go! Good job! Outstanding!” Nate and Matthew congratulate everyone. “Now, we’ve got to feel the love of the mountain.” The group forms a circle, and with poles pointed toward the center, they start tapping the metal shafts together. It sounds like a hail storm pounding a tin roof. Everyone then finds a soft rock to sit on. Boots are loosened, water gulped and lunches devoured. It’s past noon and nary a cloud can be seen.

“Normally we would leave by now,” says Nate, “but because of the good weather, I’ll give us some flexi-time today.”

The added minutes allow more time to savor the setting. Snow-streaked mountains appear to stretch in every direction, their gray and white summits springing from a blanket of forest-green. Ridges fall to valleys and creeks tumble to lakes. Scanning the far horizon, Matthew and Nate identify at least 30 of the state’s 54 fourteeners.

For many, the value of the view is worth the cost of the climb. For others, it’s the satisfaction of the accomplishment. One could have stayed in Beaver Creek, quaffing brews and whacking golf balls. Instead, these folks chose to challenge themselves with a muscle-tiring slog.

Half the journey is the way down. In preparation, Nate suggests everyone remove boots, pull socks snug and tighten lower laces to keep the front of the foot from slipping. He shows how to lengthen hiking poles and use them for the descent. At 1 p.m., it’s time to depart. “Head ‘em up! Move ‘em out!” shouts Matthew.

For many, the value of the view is worth the cost of the climb. For others, it’s the satisfaction of the accomplishment. One could have stayed in Beaver Creek, quaffing brews and whacking golf balls. Instead, these folks chose to challenge themselves with a muscle-tiring slog.

If You Go

When to go: Although intrepid climbers will tackle the fourteeners year-round, most ascents take place during the summer season, which begins in late June and extends into late September. The Beaver Creek Hiking Center generally schedules climbs from around Independence Day through Labor Day, with private trips available through the third week in September.

The Fourteener climbs: The Beaver Creek Hiking Center typically offers guided climbs of a number of different fourteeners in the Sawatch Range. All are technically easy climbs of varying lengths. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance, and a minimum of two sign-ups are required. Climbs are normally held on Wednesdays. The Hiking Center offers daily hikes ranging from one-hour loops to challenging ascents.

For more information, call (970) 754-4636 or go to wwww.beavercreek.com

Dan Leeth is a freelance writer who lives in Aurora. Visit his website, www.LookingForTheWorld.com.

Are you planning to visit Denver, Colorado at the beginning of the summer? If you are, you may want to check out some of the festivals and events that occur in June in the Mile High City. From events highlighting the culture of the people who make up Denver’s diverse population to celebrations of art and music, you will find plenty of entertainment in the city in June. Adding a few of these to your itinerary, or even planning your travel dates around one, can add a unique experience to your next vacation.

Celebrate Greek heritage at the Greek Festival in Denver with food, music, dance, and more.

Denver Summer Events Focus on Culture, Art, and History

While Denver may be known for its ties to Mexican culture and food with its strong Latin American population, it also has some Greek heritage. Every June towards the middle of the month, the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Denver hosts the Greek Festival on the grounds of their cathedral. Greek food, live music, dance and activities make this a family friendly event that adds some culture to your summer.

Denver also has a Juneteenth festival that falls on the weekend closest to June 19th, African American Emancipation Day. This festival, designed to celebrate the end of slavery in the United States, is a time for the African American community to look at its culture, heritage, and history. The festival is held in Denver’s Historic Five Points neighborhood, where food, live performances, and artwork, all surrounding the African American community, are available.

Come together for World Music Day at Make Music Denver with a free, daylong celebration on the first day of summer.

If you love live music, be sure to plan to attend Make Music Denver, the city’s contribution to World Music Day. This annual daylong celebration on June 21, the first day of summer, invites musicians of all types to the downtown region to welcome summer in song. The event is completely free and ends with free concerts from popular local artists.

If you wish to sample Asian culture and cuisine, head to the Denver Buddhist Temple towards the end of the month for the Cherry Blossom Festival. This annual event features Obon folk dance, food, martial arts performances, and dance demonstrations highlighting the culture of Japan. Admission is free, but bring money for food because you will not be able to pass up the tantalizing smells on the grounds.

If you love art, then plan to visit Denver the first weekend in June to see some of the world’s best chalk artists literally take to the streets. The Denver Chalk Art Festival on Larimer Square makes the sidewalk come alive with the work of skilled artists. You can watch over 200 artists create their works in front of your eyes. Live music and vendor booths make this a festival well worth attending, but the crowds can be thick with over 100,000 attendees daily, so get your spot early if you want to hear a particular band perform.

If You Go

Dates and times for Denver’s June events can change, so before you plan your Denver, Colorado vacation, visit www.denver.org to check the latest information about locations, dates, and times.

Nicole Harms has been writing professionally since 2006, specializing in travel and finance writing, with work having been published on USA Today, the New York Stock Exchange and Hotels.com in addition to here on Go Colorado!

Chalk art Festival leopard photo by Flickr user messycupcakes (messycupcakes.com).
Photo of Greek dancing courtesy of the Denver Greek Festival.
David Booker photo courtesy of Make Music Denver.
Chalk Art Festival ram photo by Flickr user UCFFool.

Traveling is often hectic. That’s one of the reasons why I always try to give myself a special treat when I’m traveling. Recently I was treated better than I expected when I first started looking for lodging in Idaho Springs.

Sometimes you get an urge to just get away and relax, and although there is a lot to do in the area around Idaho Springs, you can have a pleasant stay at Baxter’s on the Creek Bed and Breakfast and never leave the grounds until it’s time for dinner.

If you have the urge to get away and relax, consider a stay at Baxter’s on the Creek.

Baxter’s on the Creek is more than just lodging in Idaho Springs

Baxter’s on the Creek provides serene surroundings and the hosts, Linda and Craig Wendling, promote the friendly atmosphere that makes the stay so enjoyable. It’s almost as comfortable as being at home, except that, in my case, the food is better.

It’s also nice to be in a clean room that someone else has tended. No, I can’t say that it is as comfortable as being at home–it’s more comfortable than being at home.

The serenity is brought to an even higher level because of the sounds of the water on the creek. Even though the B&B is close to the downtown area, it’s remote enough to be able to relax and watch the wildlife. You can even fish in the creek or pan for gold. Ask Craig where his favorite fishing spots are and he’ll happily share the information.

Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors at Baxter’s and relax on the patio.

The breakfast part of the B&B is just as good as the relaxation part of it, making Baxter’s on the Creek an all around good choice for lodging in Idaho Springs. The beautiful homemade breakfast is served at 9 every morning, but you can make other arrangements in advance if you want an earlier start to the day or like to sleep in.

There are only four guest rooms at the bed and breakfast. That’s probably one of the reasons that Linda and Craig are able to give all of their guests such wonderful service. It also means that you should make your reservation early, because people are quick to recommend it and they are a very popular destination.

If You Go

Check out the website for Baxter’s on the Creek, http://www.baxtersonthecrk.com/index.html, for photos of the comfortable and cozy guest rooms and the beautiful and relaxing outdoor areas. Two of the guest rooms share a bath, but the Cascade Creek Room and Clear Creek Room each have private baths and an electric fireplace.

If you decide to stay at Baxter’s on the Creek don’t worry about getting lost because they are right on Highway 103. Don’t let that fact throw you—once you get there you’ll think you have arrived in a remote location because there is no sign of traffic.

Linda and Craig Wendling
Baxter’s on the Creek
796 Highway 103
PO Box 1709
Idaho Springs, Colorado 80452

Book your reservation at Baxter’s on the Creek B&B by phone by calling 877-330-2164. The local phone number is 303-567-2164. Reservations can also be made through email at cjsnick@hotmail.com.

Photos courtesy of Baxter’s on the Creek.

Boulder’s first luxury hotel survives today on a steadfast foundation of service and luxury that is over 100 years in the making. Located in the heart of Boulder, steps from the famous Pearl St. Mall, history and luxury intertwine in this shining star of Boulder at Hotel Boulderado.

A stained glass atrium with period furniture, rich dark woods, and late 18th century Grandfather clock greet guests to the stunning property in the main lobby of Hotel Boulderado. From the tiered central Cherry wood staircase to the welcoming fireplace with cozy lounge areas and the Arapahoe Glacier-fed marble drinking fountain, guests feel as they’ve stepped back in time to a lavish experience in Boulder.

A stained glass atrium with period furniture and rich dark wood greets guests at the Boulderado.

The 160 guest rooms of today include renovated suites, a North Wing constructed in the 80s, and uniquely decorated rooms in the Historic Section. A staple of Boulder’s history, the community of Boulder erected the hotel by purchasing $100 shares in stock, accumulating $172,000 (in today’s dollars over $3 million) to build what was to become Boulder’s first luxury hotel.

Made into a landmark in 1977 and joining the National Historic Registry in 1995, the meld of Italian Renaissance and Spanish Revival architecture provides a hotel haven for guests that is steeped in history and reflects a true affection from the residents of Boulder.

Off the main lobby area, Q’s Restaurant is a bustling culinary destination. Steps from the busy Pearl Street Mall, business lunches and family celebrations alike are at home in this chef-owned and operated establishment.

Opened in the late 90s, Q’s utilizes in-season, fresh produce for their outstanding meals. Brining varieties of fresh vegetables and herbs from his own at-home garden, Chef John Platt is no stranger to accolades, receiving the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence with consistent culinary brilliance.

Off the main lobby seen here, you’ll find Q’s Restaurant, a bustling culinary destination.

1911 marked the first wedding at Hotel Boulderado. Steeped in decades of tradition, the ceremony is only conducted at one location—on the steps of the beautiful central stair. Bridal parties only have 20 minutes to say their vows before heading to the reception, as the entire lobby is shut down for the event.

“You’re not just getting married here,” explains Sales and Marketing Coordinator Lynn Brewer, “You become a Boulderado Bride.”

Built by the community, Hotel Boulderado fosters a unique atmosphere of camaraderie and partnership, a place to do business and celebrate in Boulder. A self-proclaimed “lifer,” Brewer is just as taken by the hotel as an employee as she was when she first stepped on property—not an uncommon feeling within the prized luxury hotel for both guests and personnel, the General Manager himself having worked at the hotel since 1978.

Whether taking a ride in the 1906 Otis Elevator or enjoying a cup of tea on the veranda, the historic experiences and stunning views of Downtown Boulder and Flatiron Mountains are just as beautiful as they were when the hotel opened.

Built by the community, Hotel Boulderado fosters a unique atmosphere of camaraderie and partnership in Boulder.

Large suites, converted from two guest rooms into one larger space, are complete with antiques in the Historic Section and reproductions in the North Wing. Complimentary Wi-Fi may not have been around when the property made its debut, but modern guests enjoy flat screen TVs, mini-fridges and contemporary luxury services in the historic space.

Reminders of guests from years gone by line a few of the hallways, with steamer trunks, a fan collection and vintage photos lining the walls, providing an interesting tour in and of itself. Details like the original tile floor in Q’s and the coal room-turned-nightspot Catacombs which provided hot water and electricity to guests  24/7 are reminders of history and a love of providing guests with an amazing experience—a sentiment that can be felt throughout the property.

The centrally located Boulderado in Boulder, Colorado is an excellent stay for those seeking a modern twist on a legendary Colorado Hotel. Elegant touches, convenient location, and fine dining options land this spectacular property squarely in the luxury category for those seeking time-tested character and dedication to excellence.

If You Go

Hotel Boulderado is located in Downtown Boulder, Colorado.  Located just under an hour from Denver International Airport and 45 minutes from Downtown Denver, Hotel Boulderado is a convenient stay along the Front Range.

Hotel Boulderado
2115 13th Street
Boulder, CO 80302
303.442.4344
www.boulderado.com

Chad Chisholm (www.creationize.com) is a Denver-based travel writer and photographer, his work is featured in AAA EnCompass, JustLuxe, Denver Life Magazine, Colorado Expression, Denver Post and various other outlets.

Photos courtesy of Alison M. Fleetwood Jr. Photography.

There was a movie about the things you can do in Denver when you’re dead but a better question would be what can you do when you’re alive in Aurora?  Nestled in between Denver and Buckley Air Force Base and just south of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, this city offers a number of different culture and recreational activities that are sure to fit almost any person interested in visiting Colorado.  Ranging from fishing competitions to art exhibitions the events cover everything from exciting to intellectual.

For those who enjoy the natural beauty of when visiting Colorado venturing to Aurora can be worthwhile, especially if you happen to be an avid fisherman and angler.  One of the larger events that take place annually is the $10,000 trout catching competition at the Aurora Reservoir which awards, as the name implies, a whopping $10,000 to the winner!  This is not the only fishing competition that takes place in Aurora though, in addition to the $10,000 competition Aurora holds a Fall Fishing Competition in October with the largest fish earning a $3,000 prize and an additional $300 award for the largest in each species!  I doubt there is a better way to spend your Colorado vacation than relaxing and winning some prize money!  To help round out the competitions there is also the Night of Fishing event where anglers can enjoy a relaxing evening of fishing.

Another fun event to look forward to in October is the Colorado Punkin Chunkin Contest!  This is an event that is partnered with the World Championship Punkin Chunkin Association (WCPCA).  This includes event categories for mechanical, torsion, and youth contestants.  If you’re the engineering type and looking for things to do in Colorado you can take part in the competition or just sit back and watch the big orange squashes fall from the sky in a frenzy of explosions.

Aurora will also be sponsoring a Trails Day on June 4^th in which visitors can participate in a 5k run/walk as well as take part in a bike exploration of all the trails that the city has to offer.   These trails are comprised of more than 1,800 acres of develop park lands and over 6,000 acres of undeveloped natural areas!  This city also boasts 7 award winning municipal golf courses for the avid golfer visiting Colorado.

If getting down and dirty with nature isn’t your cup of tea, Aurora also offers a number of intellectual pursuits as well.  Beginning on November 15^th and ending on December 18^th the Aurora History Museum is holding their Gateway to the Rockies Art Exhibit which features a wide array of different art forms including paintings, photography, and miniature pieces that show off the natural beauty of Colorado.  This event is admission free with a wine and cheese reception event on November 18^th and showcases a number of different local, regional, and national artists.  The pieces that are presented for the show are also available to purchase should one catch your eye!

Aurora is also home to the 22 different historical landmarks, one of which is the Aurora Fox Arts Center which was built shortly after the Second World War.  The theater is located in the downtown art district.  Also on July 4^th they will be holding their 11^th annual Light Up the Night Fourth of July Spectacular which boasts the largest display of fireworks in the entire metro area!  This not only includes a stellar fireworks presentation but also live music and other festivities.

If You Go

Aurora is located 9.2 miles down Highway 287 heading east from Denver.

Want to learn more about the parks and recreation areas? Contact 303-739-7160 or fax 303-739-7143 or email parks@auroragov.org or recreation@auroragov.org.

For more information on Trails Day contact Crystal Yusten @ 303-416-0936 or contact via email at cyusten@auroragov.org.

To learn more about Aurora’s art district email any questions to eeadaurora@gmail.com or visit their site http://auroraartsdistrict.com

Evan Witt is an Illinois native with a degree in English Literature from Lake Forest College, and as a frequent visitor to Colorado, he enjoys fishing, camping, hiking, and photography.

There are a ton of reasons why people go to bars.  Some go to meet new people while others go to unwind with friends and listen to live music.  Whatever your reasons are for frequenting bars, there are more than a few reasons that should bring you to Morrison Holiday Bar during your Colorado vacation.

While Morrison may be a small town, the Holiday Bar provides big nightly entertainment on a weekly basis.  You may go for the drinks, but you should stay for the food and the excitement.

With 38 different beers, both domestic and import, there is plenty of liquid goodness to go around for the night.

The Night Life

There is a certain mixture required for a perfect night out, whether you’re on your Colorado vacation or not.  When boiled down, this equation includes good drinks, great friends, and lively entertainment.  The Morrison Holiday Bar can help with two of the three variables of this equation.

With 38 different beers, both domestic and import, there is plenty of liquid goodness to go around for the night.  Not only does the Holiday bar offer a wide selection of potent potables, they have daily specials with their 12oz Draft Dazes.  On Mondays its Batch 19, a product of Coors brewed from a recently discovered pre-prohibition recipe, Tuesday is George Killian’s Irish Red, Wednesday is Blue Moon night, Thursdays and Friday are Coors night and Saturday and Sunday are reserved for Budweiser.

The bar provides patrons with live music on a weekly basis, with local Morrison artists performing, and then offering karaoke every Sunday.

The second part of the equation that the Holiday Bar provides is the entertainment.  Holiday does this in a number of different ways.  First, the bar provides patrons with live music on a weekly basis, with local Morrison artists performing, and then offering karaoke every Sunday.

If live music isn’t your thing, the bar has other weekly activities for bargoers to take part in.  On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the bar sets up Texas Hold ‘Em nights, and on Wednesdays there is the variety show, which includes karaoke, stand-up comedy performances, and open mic.

The Menu

There is nothing worse than drinking on an empty stomach, and often times, it leads to unsightly consequences.  Luckily for visitors to Morrison, the Holiday Bar has a nice selection of appetizers, sandwiches, and specialty burgers for Morrison vacationers to sample from.

While BLTs and hotdogs are good, it is with the specialty burgers that the Holiday shines.  When visiting on your Colorado vacation you’ll have the Deluxe, Mount Morrison, Hogback, Lookout Mountain, Bear Creek, and Highway 8 burgers to choose from, each with own unique twist and taste to them.  You may come for other reasons, but you should stay for the food and friendly atmosphere.

If You Go

For more information on the Morrison Holiday Bar visit their website: http://www.morrisonholidaybar.com or call (303) 697-5658.  Morrison Holiday Bar is located at 403 Bear Creek Ave., Morrison, Colorado.

Evan Witt is an Illinois native with a degree in English Literature from Lake Forest College, and as a frequent visitor to Colorado, he enjoys fishing, camping, hiking, and photography.

Photos of the Morrison Holiday Bar courtesy of the bar.

Colorado was built for people who love the outdoors. And what’s not to like? With almost 300 sunny days a year and some of the best scenery in the country, it’s the perfect place for adventure lovers.

But there are some of us, dare I admit it, who aren’t always out there climbing fourteeners, mountain biking or hiking national parks. Some of us prefer to leave the “adventuring” to others.

Having spent most of my life in this select group of “watchers” rather than “doers”, I decided it was high-time to take advantage of what this lovely spot of earth had to offer. I wanted to see the Colorado that few have seen; experience the mountains from a completely different point of view.

A canoe seemed to provide the answer.

Traveling with a guide means having inside knowledge of the best beaches and shadiest lunch spots.

You don’t have to brave Class 4 rapids to see some of our region’s most remote river country. The 31-mile stretch of the Colorado River between Fruita, Colorado, and Westwater, Utah, runs through steep-walled canyons, sandstone cliffs, and past ancient petroglyphs.

While recent droughts have lowered water levels in the river, the mighty Colorado flows on. And unlike river rafts, a canoe needs only six inches of water to maneuver, so canoeing is possible when other water sports are not.

The best way to kick-start my canoeing career, it seemed, was to learn from the professionals. Centennial Canoe Outfitters have been guiding trips down Colorado rivers since 1985.

Even better, they provide all the canoe equipment, as well as gourmet cookouts along the way. Their three-day canoe/camping trip seemed perfect for someone who wanted adventure, but wasn’t sure how to do it.

What did I have to lose?

The sun was just peaking over the horizon when we put in our canoes from Rim Rock Ranch in Fruita. Mike Wymore, our fearless river guide, gave a demonstration and then our group of 11 canoes floated free in the water.

Many of the others – a diverse group of Coloradans from all walks of life – had canoed for years. Huge grins covered their faces as they soared down the river, not even looking back.

Although it took a bit of practice to get the rhythm of paddling down, canoeing is easy to learn. Within minutes we had floated away from society and into the natural wonders of western Colorado.

Wild turkeys cavorted in the nearby river grasses, while bald eagles soared overhead. The only sounds were the soft lullaby of the river, the dipping paddles pushing the canoes ahead, and the occasional gut-wrenching scream of a group member being blasted by a water gun.

No furniture necessary: Upside down canoes make perfect dinner tables.

All the gear we needed, including the super-duper water shooter hidden beneath the seat, was carried in our canoe. Our tent, clothes and sleeping bags were bundled tightly in waterproof bags, while water jugs sat up front.

One of the river guides carried the group’s food, wine and portable kitchen; the other carried the highly-coveted “tented groover,” the latest in portable camping toilets, and other necessary gear.

One benefit of canoeing with a guide is that they know the best spots to stop along the river. Shade trees are a rarity here, but they are worth gold during a hot Colorado summer.

Within minutes of pulling up for lunch at one such shaded area, our trusty guides had river fare on the grill, while the rest of us sat around and talked.

“It’s good to go with a guide like this,” Chris Christian of Franktown noted. “It gives you a chance to learn how to paddle and read the river, then you can come back later on your own.”

“I’m here for the cooking,” a man from Littleton added. “My own river fare isn’t edible!”

Guide Dave Sigrist offered a different viewpoint: “I enjoy the people, and the river – the sounds, the smells. You bring your worries with you, but you soon forget them.”

Back on the water that afternoon, we paddled at a leisurely pace; just enough to push ourselves, but not too fast to enjoy the views.

We made camp early, providing plenty of time for hiking or reading before dinner. Then after a hearty meal, we headed down to the river banks.

Centennial offers “theme” trips, like “women only”, “wine tasting”, or geology trips. This was the “star-gazing” trip, and astronomer Tito Salas had joined us. Lying on the river banks beneath a canopy of stars, we gazed into the dark heavens as Tito pointed out constellations and told us stories of a world beyond our own.

The next day’s hiking expedition was even better. After paddling all morning, we pulled up onshore and hiked into McDonald Canyon. The narrow trail meandered through red-walled passages, opening up into a natural amphitheater.

A hike through McDonald Canyon opens up to a natural ampitheater where guides show their musical abilities.

Small pictographs covered the walls, left behind by early Native American visitors, and the acoustics of the place meant that even a whisper could be heard.

Our guides pulled out a guitar and an Indian flute. The soft strains of their ethereal music floated up and out of the canyon.

The rhythm of paddling seemed natural now, as we continued down the river that next afternoon. The heat was our only enemy, but there were remedies for that.

“Just point your feet downstream, and let yourself go,” our guide said, demonstrating his “river-style” surfing technique. Sporting a life vest, he went to the middle of the river, found a rippling current and let go.

The ride bounced him up and over the waves like a roller coaster, and the grin on his face convinced others to follow.

“So THIS is the Colorado that I’ve been missing all these years,” I thought as I bounced along the river swells, peering up into a deep blue sky. “Well, better late than never,” I decided, swimming back to shore, ready to try the adventure again.

If You Go:

Check with the Bureau of Land Management for camping and river care instructions.
www.co.blm.gov/recweb

Centennial Canoe Outfitters
Trips range from $75-$695.
(877) 353-1850
www.centennialcanoe.com

Janna Graber is the founder and executive director at Go World Publishing & Productions. A journalist for more than a decade, she has written for national publications like Redbook, Reader’s Digest, Parade and The Chicago Tribune.

From the Editors: We spent a heap of time making sure this story was accurate when it was published, but of course, things can change. Please confirm the details before setting out in our great Centennial State.

Beaver Creek, Colorado may be one of your favorite destinations for skiing, but as spring turns to summer, other family activities are being planned. As luck would have it, activities in Beaver Creek have something to offer the entire family throughout the year, from cultural events to the physically challenging experience that will keep you in shape until the next winter wonderland season.

If you haven’t visited Beaver Creek before, what are you waiting for? Fly into the Eagle County Airport (EGE) that is just 20 minutes away. A scenic 100 mile trip from Denver International Airport (DEN) offers many opportunities to stop along Highway 70 to enjoy the beautiful views in summer, fall, winter or in time to catch spring’s final skiing opportunities. Take the Avon exit #167, heading south under I-70. Once you get to Beaver Creek, take advantage of the Complimentary Shuttle Services to get around.

Enjoy microbrews and barbecue while you listen to live entertainment at the Blues, Brews, and BBQ festival in Beaver Creek.

Family Fun: Activities in Beaver Creek

Say goodbye to winter and welcome spring and summer in the Colorado Mountains. As the ski season winds down, your favorite areas transform into fun venues for Beaver Creek activities.

Mark your calendar for the weekend of May 26-27 for Blues, Brews and BBQ. Microbrews from across the US can be sampled as visitors satisfy their longing for delicious barbeque prepared by pit masters and chefs. To accompany the delightful tastes of food and drink, live entertainment will make the weekend one of the highlights of your early summer.

If more physical activities are needed to keep you pumped up when the ski season is over, The Tough Mudder may be for you. An obstacle course covering ten to twelve miles and touted as the toughest event on the planet will be going on the weekend of June 9th and 10th. If you think that you have the personal stamina to attempt the challenge, be sure to register early at www.toughmudder.com.

Get some sun and family fun at the Summer Solstice Trail Run.

Not everyone has the need for a hardcore event like Tough Mudder. The following Saturday, June 16th, The Kids Fun Run and the Summer Solstice Trail Run will be held at Creekside Park in Beaver Creek.  The 5 or 10k races will benefit the Vail Valley Charitable Fund. Make a family day of it and plan on enjoying the BBQ and live entertainment. The Vail Recreation Center website has more information.

You can register early for the Run for $35, but if you wait until race day, the fee is $45. This includes food and registration. The kids will run for free, starting at 10:30 am. The 5K and 10K event starts at 11 and the BBQ opens at 11:30.

Get more information on the Summer Solstice Trail Run and register online at the Vail Recreation District Website (http://www.vailrec.com/summersolstice.cfm?cmpid=PPC120728700).

If You Go

Activities at Beaver Creek are scheduled throughout the year. If you are planning a non skiing vacation, your favorite Colorado destinations in the winter can soon become your favorite locations to enjoy all year round. Find the best food, the best entertainment, and the best family sporting activities in Beaver Creek.

Tough Mudder photo at top by Flickr user wratha.
Photo of the Blues, Brews, and BBQ courtesy of the Charter at Beaver Creek.
Photo of the Summer Solstice Trail Run by Tamara Donelson.