Tag: summer

Rock climbing has become a talent honed inside a gym. But it’s the outdoor walls for which Colorado is known. Near Cañon City, Shelf Road is but one of the state’s premier areas. Here’s a look at others: Black Canyon of the Gunnison “The Black” is an ominous, fitting title for a guidebook to this…

Every child must grow up. Sandra Gonzales grew up to be a mother, to work in the healthcare industry for 25 years. But she never grew out of her childhood passion. “We went camping every weekend,” she recalls of her Denver upbringing. “We were in the mountains every weekend. And I would be looking around…

For the miners who sought to tame Colorado’s mountains, the road wasn’t easy. As is evident from some of the wicked paths blazed in those days, riddled with boulders, creek crossings, narrow passages and steep drop-offs. These are the hair-raising, bone-rattling trails attempted today by brave souls in Jeeps and ATVs. Alpine Loop A Jeep…

It’s important to be thoughtful when visiting natural spaces in order to protect the area for generations to come. Help preserve Colorado’s outdoors by adopting the seven principles provided by the Leave No Trace organization. 1. Be prepared: Always check the forecast, plan your route and be ready for emergencies before exploring natural areas. This…

“Now THIS is Colorado,” reads the highway sign welcoming visitors to Chaffee County. And it’s easy to see why. With the Arkansas River connecting the idyllic, artsy towns of Buena Vista and Salida, this is a mecca for whitewater rafting and fishing. With an impressive cluster of 14,000-foot peaks, it’s a land that calls also…

Not all whitewater in Colorado is created equal. There is, for one, the whims of Mother Nature — the snowpack and runoff that determine flows and rapids. Then there’s Mother Nature’s artistry, her landscapes that rise to the level of legendary. Add these to your rafting bucket list: Rafters float toward rapids on the Colorado…

Mark your summer calendar for these races happening around the state

Built between 1873 and 1918, these seven hotels in Colorado offer visitors a piece of history alongside modern amenities. Step back in time to the Old West in Durango, enjoy traditional afternoon tea in Denver and more.  Strater Hotel, Durango Since 1887, the Strater has been a sight to behold on the outside with those…

Mining might have settled Colorado, but a curious cast of characters helped define it. Here are some: Chief Ouray: He came to Colorado at a young age from his native Taos, N.M., where the U.S. Army laid siege during the Mexican-American War. As leader of the Ute Tabeguache band, he was equally respected by his…