Dog friendly Colorado has a new law allowing your furry friend to go with you to a restaurant. You can sit with your favorite pet outside on the deck or patio. You can even take your dog to some breweries and enjoy a cool one. There are other places, such as lakes or mountains where … Read more
Mount Evans Scenic Byway Is Just 2 Hours From Denver Chilling winds whistle as byway travelers leave the comfort of their cars to scale the final 130 vertical feet to the summit of Mount Evans. The trail zigs and zags upward. Although the distance is only a quarter-mile, muscles burn and lungs crave oxygen. Within … Read more
If you enjoy visiting smaller towns, Salida, Colorado, might be the perfect spot for you to enjoy a vacation. The area offers beautiful scenery while you are bordered on all sides by mountains. In 2017 Salida was named the “Best Unsung Mountain Town” by Outside Magazine. Despite its small population of fewer than 6,000 people, … Read more
Colorado, known for its outdoor lifestyle, has an extensive trail system, not the least of which includes the Colorado Trail, which ranks as one of the state’s top treks. This nearly-500-mile path winds from Durango to Denver, intermingling through valleys, fields and peaks in the Colorado Rockies. The Colorado Trail was the brainchild of Bill … Read more
Soaring mountain peaks, fathomless canyons, vast forests, crystalline reservoirs, verdant river valleys, teeming fruit orchards — these diverse sights and more beautify the West Elk Loop. Shaped like a rope with a lasso at its end, the route stretches south from Carbondale for 50 miles and then circles around the West Elk Mountains. Those who … Read more
Ouray may not have its own ski area, but when it comes to winter sports, there is plenty to keep you busy. This hamlet in southwestern Colorado enjoys an envious location in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. The town sits at 7,700 feet, and is surrounded by peaks that soar another 5,000 feet. … Read more
Denver’s foothills offer families a variety of great areas to hike with kids. For those who want to have an outdoor adventure without traveling far from home, check out these local day hikes. Apex Park, part of Jefferson County Open Space, is a local’s favorite for running, hiking, mountain biking and walking the dog. Gorgeous … Read more
Castlewood Canyon State Park is a little-known spot that is sure to please any wildlife and nature enthusiast. This Douglas County state park, located south of Parker off Colorado Highway 83, is home to not only some of Colorado’s most magnificent plants and wildlife, but provides families with recreational opportunities. Among activities to be enjoyed … Read more
Historic Chautauqua Park, once part of a vast circuit of summer educational retreats across America, offers hiking, dining, lodging and cultural events. The Colorado landmark has transformed itself into a Boulder hangout at the base of the dramatic foothills known as the Flatirons. When songsters aren’t strumming their guitars and filling the park with … Read more
With the abundance of mountains and variety of terrain that Colorado offers, there are places close to home that shouldn’t be overlooked when planning your next family expedition. If you’re seeking intricate geological features, trickling streams or great views above the city, consider the numerous trails and parks Jefferson County Open Space offers in the … Read more