Tag: summer
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Explore some of Colorado’s geologic wonders at these 5 state parks
Reservoirs are synonymous with Colorado’s state parks. It’s no wonder the government would seek to preserve those precious waters. But not to be overlooked are the geologic wonders at the center of some parks. Eldorado Canyon John Schroyer and Helen Davis begin their hike to the base of the Yellow Spur route Friday, April 18,…
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Sand dunes, swamps and seas: A prehistoric timeline of Garden of the Gods
One pivotal year in the history of Garden of the Gods: 1909. That’s when Charles Elliott Perkins, through his children, donated the property to the city of Colorado Springs on the premise that it “be kept forever free to the public.” Now it is a postcard destination, a wondrous domain of red rocks. It would…
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Relive the gold rush at these mine tours in Colorado
They once made millionaires. Now they make tourists happy. Take a step back in time at these mines: Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, Cripple Creek The mine’s website recalls the story of Mollie Kathleen, who one day in 1891 “noticed an interesting rock formation that winked back at her.” The history goes: “With her heart racing,…
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Enjoy this epic summer road trip through Colorado
From downtown Denver, the trip to Colorado’s western border along Interstate 70 takes 4 hours, 30 minutes, traveling roughly 280 miles of scenic mountain highway. One of the more trafficked thoroughfares in the state, there are plenty of worthwhile stops for tourists. 1. Coors, The Brewery Located in Golden just west of the Mile High…
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Nothing says Colorado summer like this mountain town
They call it “the last great ski town.” They, being the outsiders. It’s a popular tag for Crested Butte, where the resort frills are far enough away for the town down the road to maintain its charm and grit. The insiders, meanwhile, might tell you they came for winter but stayed for summer. Some other…
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Overlooked beauty, history and eats: Trinidad is a Colorado town to love in summer
It is an easy town to locate, impossible to miss at the southernmost end of Interstate 25 in Colorado. Trinidad’s identity, however, is much harder to pinpoint. Look around and you’ll see plenty of symbols of industries past and present. Walk up and down the red-brick Main Street, and you’ll come to understand a town…
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Colorado’s greatest rock wonderlands
It’s true what they say about a rock: Just because it’s one of a kind doesn’t mean it’s valuable. Not true for some formations in Colorado. Here’s a look at some of the state’s finest: Black Canyon of the Gunnison The national park brochure details the Song of the Gunnison: the water and wind rushing…
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A brief history of 5 iconic Colorado mining towns
Colorado was built on gold and silver, as showcased by towns all around the state more than a century after the mines went silent. The prospector spirits are particularly felt at a few destinations: Breckenridge Among the ski shops and designer names, Breckenridge still maintains its mining heritage. Just look at the Pollock House, Chinese…
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12 Colorado trails to appreciate stunning rocks
We all remember the tweet. In 2020, San Miguel Sheriff’s Office reported a “large boulder the size of a small boulder” blocking a highway — a viral post that made us laugh and reflect on our Colorado life. Yes, rocks are common obstructions. Also, they can be the main attractions. As they are on these…
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Despite inherent danger, rock climbing in Colorado brings peace
Rock climbing is different from most other outdoor recreation activities in that gear failure or misuse can lead to death. If the rope breaks, if the harness is put on wrong or if an anchor pops out of the rock face, you could die. There’s not much margin for error. Despite this, rock climbing tends…