Deep beneath the earth, in the dim, cool tunnels of The Phoenix Gold Mine, you can still see veins of gold-streaked ore, bright metallic flecks that speckle the rock. One of the veins shimmers bright blue and green — the colors come from oxidized copper — and the bold streak across the walls of the … Read more
For nearly a century, travelers have admired the Peak to Peak Highway’s forested slopes, snow-dusted mountains and sweeping vistas. In 1918, the state named the route its first scenic byway. When the Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways program was created in 1989, the highway was selected as one of the five initial designated routes. The … 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
For a first-hand look at Wild West history, check out the Blake Street Vault in downtown Denver. The restaurant’s original 19th-century architectural details and collection of Old West relics are something to see. But our favorite lure to this locale is the guided tour where guests learn the story of Lydia, a saloon girl who … Read more
Keystone’s reputation as an outstanding skiing and mountain biking region often overshadows other fun things to do in Summit County, but whether you visit during winter or summer, you’ll find plenty of recreation options besides these two popular activities. If you’re looking for a family-friendly entertainment option, exploring nearby ghost towns can be a fascinating … Read more
Leadville, at nearly 2 miles above sea level, is one of Colorado’s loftiest living mineral towns. The community of 2,800 sits at an elevation of more than 10,000 feet and lies near the headwaters of the Arkansas River. Opulent Aspen rises 29 Learjet miles to the west. Trendy Breckenridge sits even closer toward the northeast. … Read more
If the Mobil Travel Guides rated wilderness, Chicago Basin would certainly garner five stars. It is nestled high in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, one of the most rugged and seductive alpine regions to be found in the 48 contiguous states. At 11,000 feet above sea level, its long, terraced valley is filled … Read more
Most people plan travel to Breckenridge, Colorado to enjoy the thrill of the ski slopes, but the summer is also an excellent time to visit this mountain community. Once the snow melts, the natural wonders of the mountain come to life, offering numerous opportunities for recreation. As the ice clears from the rivers and lakes, … Read more
Central City, 35 miles west of Denver, may be known best to outsiders as a gambling town, but the casinos aren’t the only attractions. The Central City Opera House, built in 1878, offers a historic and cultural experience. Welsh and Cornish miners, who brought cultural heritages to the gold-mining town from their homelands, built the … Read more
It can be expensive for a family to go skiing, especially in resort-rich Colorado. Kim and Ben Amiot know that all too well. Every winter the Columbia, Mo., couple journeys to the Colorado Rockies for a week of slopes and snow. Along with their two school-age daughters, they invite parents, step-parents, siblings, nieces, nephews and … Read more