Situated in Southern Colorado, the Great Sand Dunes National Park is an impressive sight. Shaped by winds blowing from and against the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the piles of sand climb to more than 750 feet (230 meters), making them the tallest dunes in North America. Sand-boarding, skiing and sledding on the dunes are the park’s most popular activities, and there are medium-size slopes to slide on located near the main parking area. A longer hike to the north brings thrill seekers to a 300-foot (90 meter) slope that tumbles onto into Medano Creek.
Rocky Mountain National Park is an American national park located approximately 76 mi (122 km) northwest of Denver International Airport[4] in north-central Colorado, within the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The park is situated between the towns of Estes Park to the east and Grand Lake to the west. The eastern and westerns slopes of the Continental Divide run directly through the center of the park with the headwaters of the Colorado River located in the park's northwestern region.[5] The main features of the park include mountains, alpine lakes and a wide variety of wildlife within various climates and environments, from wooded forests to mountain tundra.
Located in Lions Gate Drive in Winter Park, Winter Park Chateau is a boutique Victorian-style bed and breakfast ideally placed, as it allows visitors to easily explore the surrounding area. The Chateau offers well appointed, comfortable accommodation in the form of eight guest rooms, which feature king, queen, or double beds, designer décor, private bathrooms, and amenities such as flat-screen televisions and wireless Internet. Some of the rooms have fireplaces, jetted spa baths and private balconies with stunning views.
The Rockies are unbelievable. We explored the Niwot Ridge tundra plateau, speckled with wildflowers of every shape and color, looked down on the layered blue mountain ranges below, while snow-tipped peaks gazed at us from still-greater heights. I felt the elevation only in the difficulty breathing I experienced when walking from Point A to Point B - but we walked for more than three miles. Otherwise, it was the height itself that pulsed through my veins, truly on top of the world.
During the winter most of Trail Ridge Road is closed due to heavy snow, limiting motorized access to the edges of the park.[68] Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing which are possible from either the Estes Park or Grand Lake entrances. On the east side near Estes Park, skiing and snowshoeing trails are available off Bear Lake Road, such as the Bear Lake, Bierstadt Lake, and Sprague Lake trails and at Hidden Valley. Slopes for sledding are also available at Hidden Valley. The west side of the park near Grand Lake also has viable snowshoeing trails.[68][88] Backcountry skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed after climbing up one of the higher slopes, especially late in the snow season after avalanche danger has subsided[89], and technical climbing remains also a possibility, although typically differing in style from the summer months[90].

Early to mid-summer brings endless fields of wildflowers to the Rocky Mountains, and you'll find plenty of backroads throughout the state where you can take in the view. Take a four-day drive from Denver to Aspen. The route initially heads north through Boulder up to Rocky Mountain National Park. Visit the alpine town of Estes Park and stay in the Stanley Hotel, featured in the movie, "The Shining." You'll see long-forgotten ghost towns, the tallest mountain in the state and more than 200 species of flowers from mid-June through early August. You'll also find scenic backroads in the southern part of the state winding through the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
The ski resort town of Vail is one of the best places to visit in Colorado in winter but it's also a pleasant place to enjoy at any time of year. When it comes to skiing, this is one of the top ski resorts in Colorado, with seemingly endless runs for all levels of skiers. The town at the base of the ski hill is postcard cute, with chalet-style restaurants, shops, and hotels that make you feel like you are in the heart of the Alps. This is a high-end resort with luxury hotels, fine dining, and designer stores.
Garden of the Gods Park is a registered National Natural Landmark comprised of 1,300 acres of magnificent views and stunning red sandstone formations. TripAdvisor® users voted Garden of the Gods the #1 park in the U.S. and #2 park in the world. Make sure to snap some selfies of you and your partner smooching under Kissing Camels and holding up Balanced Rock.

Though the Airbnb cabin can accommodate up to 6 people, you can rent it just for the two of you. This vacation rental is located within walking distance to the historic town of Cripple Creek, Colorado. Surrounded by pine and aspen trees, this cabin makes a perfect option for couples who want a romantic getaway. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, allowing you to spend quality time together. There is a quite large kitchen for you and partner to prepare romantic dinners. At night, look up to the sky to see the beautiful starry night while holding each other’s hands!
Remnants of Breckenridge's history as a mining hub give the town an aesthetic that is simply darling. Couple that with the Rocky Mountains that serve as the town's backdrop and you've got a ski destination for the books. When the powder melts, the verdant vegetation that floods the trails make Breck (as locals call it) magical. What's more, the beer scene is an attraction in its own right. Read More »

Situated in Southern Colorado, the Great Sand Dunes National Park is an impressive sight. Shaped by winds blowing from and against the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the piles of sand climb to more than 750 feet (230 meters), making them the tallest dunes in North America. Sand-boarding, skiing and sledding on the dunes are the park’s most popular activities, and there are medium-size slopes to slide on located near the main parking area. A longer hike to the north brings thrill seekers to a 300-foot (90 meter) slope that tumbles onto into Medano Creek.

^ Jump up to: a b "Landscape Climate Change Vulnerability Project; Using NASA Resources to Inform Climate and Land Use Adaptation; Ecological Forecasting, Vulnerability Assessment, and Evaluation of Management Options Across Two US DOI Landscape Conservation Cooperatives" (PDF). montana.edu. Montana State University. August 2011. pp. 2, 5. Retrieved February 5, 2017.


Golden is less than an hour drive from Denver and you’ll love escaping to its stunning views and small-town feel. There are lots of amazing restaurants to check out, some fantastic theater to enjoy and a long street filled with tons of quaint shops, perfect for browsing. Book your room at the Dove Inn Bed and Breakfast and you’ll also have a romantic getaway retreat that is very affordable. You can even add in a special romance package which includes a dozen roses, a box of premium chocolates and sparkling cider for an additional $50. If you want to splurge a little, opt for the Serenity Suite, with an over-sized jet tub for two, cathedral ceilings and, of course, a delicious home-cooked breakfast.
Situated on Vail Square, The Arrabelle sets the standard for luxurious lodging, while its jaw-dropping setting reflects the romantic heritage and ambiance of the European Alps. Here you’ll find architectural touches of Salzburg, Innsbruck and Prague, along with high-end amenities such as personal butler service, ski valet and even grocery delivery. Look forward to heading to the rooftop for laps in the pool and soaking in the whirlpool together while taking in magnificent Rocky Mountain views. You can also relax and unwind together while indulging in treatments at the property’s RockResorts Spa, which offers even more stunning Rockies vistas. Each one of the spacious suites host impressive features like a living room area with a fireplace, ideal for toasting to your new life together while cuddling up next to its warmth.
A lot of people are down on the Flacco trade and I get it....but think of it this way. If it were one year ago and the Broncos announced a trade of Demaryus Thomas for Joe Flacco, how would Bronconation feel about that? Because that's basically what this is. We are trading the 4th round pick we got from Houston in the Thomas deal for Flacco. Thomas for Flacco.The Little Guy
SouthwestOuray has been a special destination of world travelers for more than 100 years. This small intimate community is nestled in some of the most rugged and towering peaks of the Rockies. Set at the narrow head of a valley at 7,792 feet and surrounded on three sides with 13,000 foot snowcapped peaks - Ouray has been eloquently nicknamed the "Switzerland of America."
Golden is less than an hour drive from Denver and you’ll love escaping to its stunning views and small-town feel. There are lots of amazing restaurants to check out, some fantastic theater to enjoy and a long street filled with tons of quaint shops, perfect for browsing. Book your room at the Dove Inn Bed and Breakfast and you’ll also have a romantic getaway retreat that is very affordable. You can even add in a special romance package which includes a dozen roses, a box of premium chocolates and sparkling cider for an additional $50. If you want to splurge a little, opt for the Serenity Suite, with an over-sized jet tub for two, cathedral ceilings and, of course, a delicious home-cooked breakfast.
With two bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen (complete with a coffee bean grinder, toaster, and crockpot) and one and a half updated bathrooms, the remote cabin provide luxury accommodations within walking distance of three picturesque mountain lakes. Guests enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, paddle boarding, fly fishing, or exploring the Alta Lakes Ghost Town, or sledding, tubing, ice skating, and more in the winter months.
Nothing is more quintessentially Colorado than the city of Golden, which is known for two things: outdoor activities and beer. Your travel plans practically write themselves—go to Lookout Mountain or White Ranch Park for hiking and biking, and then tour the Coors Brewery (the largest single-site brewery in the world) or grab craft beers along with the locals at Golden City Brewery.
It’s always “do not disturb” mode at this quaint adults-only hideaway in Crested Butte that’s strictly 16-plus. Just a few blocks from historic Elk Avenue, Purple Mountain Bed & Breakfast has six plush rooms, an onsite day spa and an outdoor hot tub. In the winter, a free shuttle whisks you to Mt. Crested Butte for some of Colorado’s best skiing; when you’re ready for après, retire back to the house for complimentary craft beer on tap and a Ghirardelli hot chocolate bar you won’t have to share with the kids. Happy hour, indeed. Find more B&Bs in Colorado >> 
The Oxford Club, Spa & Salon offers a full range of services, whether you are looking for a classical massage or a revitalizing facial. Head to the fitness center to work out with a Personal Trainer, practice yoga, take a spinning class or go indoor rowing. The salon at The Oxford is one of the best places in town for a haircut, blowout and highlights. The Urban Farmer Steakhouse by Sage Restaurant Group is scheduled to open in the summer of 2017. Before dinner, have drinks at the Cruise Room Martini Bar decorated in fun Art Deco style. Hotel guests receive complimentary Escalade car service within a two mile radius. Rooms start at USD $200 per night. Next read: 25 Best Things to Do in Denver and 15 Best Romantic Restaurants in Denver, one of the top Colorado destinations.
The Silk Pincushion is a lovely Victorian bed and breakfast in the heart of Golden that promises an unforgettable stay. Three beautifully decorated Victorian-style guest rooms exude luxury and charm with large beds dressed in homemade quilts, private bathrooms with showers, deluxe toiletries and soaps, and other modern amenities such as free wireless Internet throughout the house. Homemade breakfast is served each morning in the bright and sunny dining room, where you can relax over freshly brewed coffee and chat with the owners.
The St. Regis Resort offers castle-like grandeur and a staff that will treat you like royalty. It also has a menu of romantic vacation packages that are perfect for honeymooners, and all can be customized just for you and your new spouse. You can choose things like in-room dining, spa gift certificates for its decadent Remede Spa, as well as having flowers, chocolate-covered strawberries and sparkling wine delivered and waiting in your room upon your arrival. The property sits at the base of Aspen Mountain, just steps away to many of Aspen’s top restaurants and shops. The resort has its own eatery onsite too, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as hosting live music at night.
Take a 7.5 mile hike on the Yampa River Core Trail along this picturesque river, and then jump into one of the hot pools at the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Tread of Pioneers Museum tells the story of Steamboat Springs past and is located in a beautiful Queen Anne-style Victorian house. Take a ride with the Steamboat Scenic Gondola up the slopes of Mount Werner for some spectacular views of the area.
Most visitors to the park drive over the famous Trail Ridge Road, but other roads include Fall River Road and Bear Lake Road.[95] The park is open every day of the year, weather permitting.[96] Due to the extended winter season in higher elevations, Trail Ridge Road between Many Parks Curve and the Colorado River Trailhead is closed much of the year. The road is usually open again by Memorial Day and closes in mid-October, generally after Columbus Day.[93] Fall River Road does not open until about July 4 and closes by, or in, October for vehicular traffic.[97] Snow may also fall in sufficient quantities in higher elevations to require temporary closure of the roads into July,[49][93] which is reported on the road status site.[95]
Garden of the Gods, a registered National Natural Landmark, is a unique landscape of jagged stone towers and fins jutting up 300 feet from the earth, and giant balanced boulders and rock piles dotting the landscape, with distant mountains completing the scene. Fifteen miles of trails, most of which are short and easy, allow you to get up close to the dramatic rock formations and wander through the surreal scenery. The park is a popular area for rock climbing, but other activities in the park include road biking in designated biking lanes, mountain biking, horseback riding, and Jeep and Segway tours. 

At Brynwood on the River we are notorious for our cozy and relaxing cabins nestled on the charming Big Thompson River.  But did you know we also offer delightful motel rooms and spacious vacation homes?  Whether you are enjoying a weekend getaway or a family vacation, Brynwood on the River will make it special.  Book online today!  Brynwood on the River Details
The Experience: If Aspen isn't quite your mountain town scene, head to Vail instead. It's equally as idyllic (it was modeled after European mountain resorts), pedestrian-friendly, and lovely, but the town itself is more of a square in a village with a small collection of boutiques and restaurants for visitors. Ride up and down the gondolas for mountain views in every direction and ski the unique back bowls. It's also closer to Denver, making it easier to get to and, therefore, a little more crowded during peak seasons.
Breckenridge is one of the top names in Colorado getaways, but you have to see the quaint downtown surrounded by towering peaks to truly understand what makes this destination so great. Known for its premiere skiing and beautiful hiking—picture rocky trails and alpine lakes—it’s a Colorado weekend getaway that makes you want to get outside and explore. For those who are interested in cozying up while on vacation, a spa package or winery visit could do the trick.
One of the best properties situated in Manitou Springs is Cliff House at Pikes Peak, which is perfect for your romantic getaway. Why do we call it perfect? Other than the superb facilities, such as a fitness center and great restaurants, the hotel’s location near the beautiful downtown Manitou Springs is ideal for fun. In around a 5 minute walk, you and your partner can explore the city all day together.
Escape from the city with a romantic getaway just 30 minutes west of Denver to the Highland Haven Creekside Inn in Evergreen. This family-owned and operated Colorado Mountain B&B will charm you upon the moment of entering the wooded grounds. Their website describes it as an opportunity to create your own “Colorado Woodland Fairytale.” And it is that adorable.  Rustic. Quiet. Charming. And far enough away from it all to feel like a romantic getaway.
The Western Slope has plenty of charms, including being a dinosaur mecca with plenty of hands-on science, and is the heart of Colorado’s agricultural region. At the Museum of Western Colorado’s Dinosaur Journey, visitors can get up close and personal with dinosaur skeletons, a working paleontology lab and realistic robotic dinosaurs. Dedicated to “putting science in the hands of kids,” the Western Colorado Math and Science Center features interactive exhibits in biology, physics, earth and space science, and electronics. From June through October, orchards are laden with some of the sweetest harvests around: cherries, grapes, apples, plums, pears, apricots and peaches. Take an orchard tour or check out the myriad of roadside stands selling fresh produce, jams and ciders. For great biking or strolling, the Colorado Riverfront Trail winds for more than 18 miles through the city of Grand Junction’s picnic grounds, botanical garden, protected wetlands and fishing pier. Buy one/get one free passes are available for six major attractions from the Grand Junction Visitors Center. This “Map to Adventure” includes Dinosaur Journey, Museum of the West, Cross Orchards, the John McConnell Math & Science Center, The Art Center and the Western Colorado Botanical Gardens.
Located one mile from the main entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park and two miles from Estes Park, Rams Horn Village Resort offers 46 luxury cabins, a heated outdoor swimming pool in the summer, three outdoor, year-round hot tubs, a fitness center and a playground on over seven acres of landscaped grounds. Every amenity at Rams Horn is free to use with your reservation and every cabin will turn into a second home.
Nature lovers can go hiking, white water rafting, horseback riding or climbing in one of the surrounding national parks, or you could choose to explore historic archaeological sites such as Hovenweep, Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a highlight of any visit and you can combine various adventure sports packages with your scenic train ride. Keep reading for more Colorado points of interest. Things to Do in Durango
Morrison is not a very far drive from Denver, but you’ll still feel like you’ve escaped for a special weekend away for two. This bed and breakfast is a beautiful spot to celebrate Valentine’s Day, an anniversary or any special occasion. You’ll love the amazingly breathtaking views from the hot tub suites, with stunning panoramas of the Colorado evergreens covered in snow. Plus, Arrowhead Manor is just a short drive to The Fort restaurant for an incredibly romantic meal. There are also many other fun things to enjoy during your escape for the weekend, as you’ll be close enough to enjoy any of the entertainment options in Denver, or even catch a show at Red Rocks, depending on the season.
At Brynwood on the River we are notorious for our cozy and relaxing cabins nestled on the charming Big Thompson River.  But did you know we also offer delightful motel rooms and spacious vacation homes?  Whether you are enjoying a weekend getaway or a family vacation, Brynwood on the River will make it special.  Book online today!  Brynwood on the River Details

The ski resort town of Vail is one of the best places to visit in Colorado in winter but it's also a pleasant place to enjoy at any time of year. When it comes to skiing, this is one of the top ski resorts in Colorado, with seemingly endless runs for all levels of skiers. The town at the base of the ski hill is postcard cute, with chalet-style restaurants, shops, and hotels that make you feel like you are in the heart of the Alps. This is a high-end resort with luxury hotels, fine dining, and designer stores.
            “By 1900, the growing national conservation and preservation movement, led by Theodore Roosevelt, Gifford Pinchot, and John Muir, advocated an appreciation for nature. The Estes Park Protective and Improvement Association fostered local conservation efforts. "Those who pull flowers up by the roots will be condemned by all worthy people," they warned. In 1909, Enos Mills, a naturalist, nature guide, and lodge owner, championed the creation of the nation's tenth national park. He hoped that: "In years to come when I am asleep beneath the pines, thousands of families will find rest and hope in this park." Unleashing his diverse talents and inexhaustible energy, he spent several years lecturing across the nation, writing thousands of letters and articles, and lobbying Congress to create a new national park. Most civic leaders supported the idea, as did the Denver Chamber of Commerce and the Colorado Mountain Club. In general, mining, logging, and agricultural interests opposed it. On January 26, 1915, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Rocky Mountain National Park Act.”
Located in Lions Gate Drive in Winter Park, Winter Park Chateau is a boutique Victorian-style bed and breakfast ideally placed, as it allows visitors to easily explore the surrounding area. The Chateau offers well appointed, comfortable accommodation in the form of eight guest rooms, which feature king, queen, or double beds, designer décor, private bathrooms, and amenities such as flat-screen televisions and wireless Internet. Some of the rooms have fireplaces, jetted spa baths and private balconies with stunning views.
Quickly find vacation cabin rentals by state for vacations resorts, lake cottages, mountain cabins for rent, ocean homes rentals, lodges, dude ranches, villas, vacation listings and information, for your next family getaway. We have numerous cabins for rent in popular destinations such as Gatlinburg cabins, Pigeon Forge cabins, cabin rentals in the mountains, cabins on the lake, etc. We feature vacation cabins in Virginia, Missouri, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and more. Find cabins for rent in the Smoky Mountains, Rocky Mountains. Or search for cabins in popular ski destinations such as Park City cabin rentals or cabins in Boone or Banner Elk, NC. Frequently searched rentals:
Many visitors end up shopping or going to restaurants in Estes Park. Dickey said his sales are higher this week compared to a year ago. On Christmas Eve, he did twice as much business as he did on Christmas Eve 2017. Dickey, president of the Estes Valley Partners for Commerce board, said other store owners told him they had not noticed any downturns.
Beaver Mountain Loop, also used by horseback riders, passes through forests and meadows, crosses Beaver Brook and several aspen-filled drainages, and has a great view of Longs Peak.[42] Deer Mountain Trail gives a 360 degree view of eastern part of the park. The summit plateau of Deer Mountain offers expansive views of the Continental Divide. During the winter, the lower trail generally has little snow, though packed and drifted snow are to be expected on the switchbacks. Snow cover on the summit may be three to five feet deep, requiring the use of snowshoes or skis.[42]
If you were any closer to the national park, you'd be in it! No street lights, power lines or major roads. Just peace, wilderness & wildlife, and sounds of the river! Each of our 12 cabins is unique & comfy. Walk to Park trails, or fish the Big Thompson River.  Just 2.5 miles west of downtown Estes Park, dining & shopping options are never far away.  Aspen Brook Details.
Quickly find vacation cabin rentals by state for vacations resorts, lake cottages, mountain cabins for rent, ocean homes rentals, lodges, dude ranches, villas, vacation listings and information, for your next family getaway. We have numerous cabins for rent in popular destinations such as Gatlinburg cabins, Pigeon Forge cabins, cabin rentals in the mountains, cabins on the lake, etc. We feature vacation cabins in Virginia, Missouri, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and more. Find cabins for rent in the Smoky Mountains, Rocky Mountains. Or search for cabins in popular ski destinations such as Park City cabin rentals or cabins in Boone or Banner Elk, NC. Frequently searched rentals:
The Pierre Shale formation was deposited during the Paleogene and Cretaceous periods about 70 million years ago. The region was covered by a deep sea—the Cretaceous Western Interior Seaway—which deposited massive amounts of shale on the seabed. Both the thick stratum of shale and embedded marine life fossils—including ammonites and skeletons of fish and such marine reptiles as mosasaurs, plesiosaurs, and extinct species of sea turtles, along with rare dinosaur and bird remains—were created during this time period. The area now known as Colorado was eventually transformed from being at the bottom of an ocean to dry land again, giving yield to another fossiliferous rock layer known as the Denver Formation.[58]
Estes Park cabins, homes, rooms, and suites bordering Rocky Mountain National Park! Enjoy wood-burning fireplaces and fully-equipped kitchens with a hot tub on-site. Free Wi-Fi, dog friendly lodging (w/ conditions). Spectacular views and great wildlife watching! Easy access to hiking, snowshoeing, back-country skiing! The perfect place for your mountain getaway!  McGregor Mountain Lodge Details
The Mummy Range is a short mountain range in the north of the park. The Mummies tend to be gentler and more forested than the other peaks in the park, though some slopes are rugged and heavily glaciated, particularly around Ypsilon Mountain and Mummy Mountain. Bridal Veil Falls is a scenic point and trail accessible from the Cow Creek trailhead, at the Continental Divide Research Center.[41] West Creek Falls and Chasm Falls, near Old Fall River Road, are also in this region. The Alluvial Fan trail leads to a bridge over the river that had been the site of the Lawn Lake Flood.[42]

            “By 1900, the growing national conservation and preservation movement, led by Theodore Roosevelt, Gifford Pinchot, and John Muir, advocated an appreciation for nature. The Estes Park Protective and Improvement Association fostered local conservation efforts. "Those who pull flowers up by the roots will be condemned by all worthy people," they warned. In 1909, Enos Mills, a naturalist, nature guide, and lodge owner, championed the creation of the nation's tenth national park. He hoped that: "In years to come when I am asleep beneath the pines, thousands of families will find rest and hope in this park." Unleashing his diverse talents and inexhaustible energy, he spent several years lecturing across the nation, writing thousands of letters and articles, and lobbying Congress to create a new national park. Most civic leaders supported the idea, as did the Denver Chamber of Commerce and the Colorado Mountain Club. In general, mining, logging, and agricultural interests opposed it. On January 26, 1915, President Woodrow Wilson signed the Rocky Mountain National Park Act.”
The historic Brown Palace, located in downtown Denver first opened its doors in 1892. Since then, the hotel has accommodated celebrities, presidents and other dignitaries. If you are planning to do a lot of sightseeing on your trip, this unique property is conveniently located within walking distance of the pedestrian 16th Street Mall, the State Capitol, the Denver Center for Performing Arts and and Coors Field Baseball Park. The hotel is built around a central atrium; when in the lobby, you can enjoy soaring ceilings and when going to your room, you'll have a view of the classically furnished lobby below on your city vacation.
The Experience: Denver is the perfect urban adventure for anyone who likes midsize cities. It's easy to navigate and manage and doesn't feel at all claustrophobic, but offers endless cultural excursions, gourmet dining experiences, and a fun nightlife you'd expect from large cities. Make sure you visit the Denver Art Museum, check out the breweries in the RiNo neighborhood, and stay at the Crawford Hotel, which is in the old Denver Union Station. For a boutique hotel, stay at The Maven Hotel.
The park is home to some 2,000 to 3,000 elk in summer, and between 800 and 1,000 elk spend the winter within its boundaries. Because of lack of predation, the National Park Service culls around 50 elk each winter. Overgrazing by elk has become a major problem in the park's riparian areas, so much so that the NPS fences them out of many critical wetland habitats to let willows and aspens grow. The program seems to be working, as the deciduous wetland plants thrive within the fencing. Many people think the elk herd is too large, but are reluctant to reintroduce predators because of its proximity to large human populations and ranches.[76]
Colorado's biggest city is also its cultural hub. While you can go just about anywhere in Colorado to find outdoor adventures galore, in Denver you get the best of both worlds. The city is filled with top-notch museums, lively sports venues, prime shopping streets and an unmatched brewery scene. Meanwhile, just outside city limits, travelers have easy access to the Rockies as well as the photogenic Mount Evans Scenic Byway. Read More »
Offering visitors a myriad of outdoor activities to choose from, Steamboat Springs is a fun-filled vacation destination for all types of travelers. While skiing and snowboarding at Mount Werner are the city’s biggest draws, visitors can also explore its vibrant cultural scene at the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra or the Steamboat Art Museum. Take a day to soak in the hot mineral springs at Old Town Hot Springs or Strawberry Park Hot Springs, go for a 360-degree mountain view gondola ride to the top of Mount Werner, or soak in the breathtaking waterfall views at Fish Creek Falls. Summertime is perfect for tubing on the Yampa River, where visitors can hike to iconic landmarks like Rabbits Ears or try their hand at trout fishing along the river.
After your fireside meal, retreat to one of the private, wooden hot tubs tucked in the middle of the woods. A hand-held stroll along the forest path to a bubbling tub overlooking the city's lights will set the perfect mood. Take it to the next level and request a night's stay in the old firehouse on the tip-top of the mountain. There's no better view — maybe anywhere in the state.  
The Leland House and Rochester Hotel are family-owned historic hotels with an authentic Western theme. The 14 rooms at the Rochester Hotel are themed after Westerns that were filmed in the Durango area. Each of the 12 accommodations in the Leland House is named after a historic Durangoan and is decorated with that person’s memorabilia, biographies and photos. All rooms have Wi-Fi, cable, Aveda products, complimentary gourmet breakfast and free Cruiser bike rentals. Grab a drink at the Rochester Bar which serves the hotel’s signature Rochester wine.
Our warm and inviting Beaver Creek accommodations feature premium amenities that will make guests feel right at home, such as our Hyatt Grand Beds® with crisp linens, large flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and rich alpine views. Indulge in one of our luxury suites and enjoy extra perks, like a 500 sq. ft. terrace overlooking the entire valley, a kitchenette, and cozy fireplace for chilly nights.
Guests have the freedom to come and go via a keypad code to the house and can enjoy a number of things to see and do in Golden on their own. The Silk Pincushion is within easy walking distance of downtown Golden with a variety of museums, galleries, shops and restaurants to explore. The Golden Gate Canyon National Park and Red Rocks National Park are also close by.

If you didn’t think you could afford a weekend away at The Broadmoor, you may be surprised to learn how affordable off-season rates can be. Rooms at The Broadmoor often go for as much as $900 or $1,000 per night, but by visiting the hotel off-season and during the week, you will save a bundle. The Broadmoor is known as one of the finest hotel resorts in the state, with so many things to do and see that you’ll never want to leave the hotel grounds. Spring for the Romantic Getaway package and you’ll get a beautiful room with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries, free access to the Broadmoor movie theater, plus a $60 credit to use in the Lake Terrace dining room, the Ristorante Del Lago or even in-room dining, so you never have to get out of bed. To get the lowest prices, try to move your dates to a weeknight, as weekends and holidays can run a bit higher.


The town of Dolores may be small, but it’s well-worth spending some time in,  tucked in a magnificent canyon with the picturesque Dolores River cutting along one side and rock cliffs on the other. The second largest reservoir, McPhee Reservoir, can be found here, and  San Juan National Forest, just a mile from town, provides excellent opportunities for fly fishing, hiking, and biking. In addition to outdoor activities, the town boasts four parks, a brewpub and a unique mix of restaurants and shops.

From 9,000 ft (2,700 m) to 11,000 ft (3,400 m),[72] the montane forests give way to subalpine forests.[69] Forests of fir and Engelmann spruce cover the mountainsides in subalpine areas. Trees grow straight and tall in the lower subalpine forests, but become shorter and more deformed the nearer they are to the tree line.[72] At the tree line, seedlings may germinate on the lee side of rocks and grow only as high as the rock provides wind protection, with any further growth being more horizontal than vertical. The low growth of dense trees is called krummholz, which may become well-established and live for several hundred to a thousand years old.[72]
Old World meets ghostly charm at the 135-room Stanley Hotel in Estes Park,  just an hour from Denver, Colorado. Located six miles from the Rocky Mountain National Park in the shadow of Pikes Peak, the Stanley is a “shining” example of romantic, secluded and haunted. Make it a weekend getaway as there is so much to do and see in the surrounding area, from visiting Rocky Mountain National Park to exploring the beautiful downtown.
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