DENVER (CBS4) – With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, you may be thinking about a last-minute escape for two. If you don’t have a lot of money to spend, you need not worry, as there are plenty of amazing destinations just a short drive from home that will still feel like you are getting away from town for a few days. The trick to saving money this time of year is to avoid the busy ski resort towns, where the room rates get very high and the towns can be very crowded. Instead opt for off-season at one of the other beautiful summer destinations in Colorado. You’ll find you can get an amazing room with lots of amenities for a much better rate.
Dinosaur National Monument, in northwest Colorado, combines dramatic scenery with natural and cultural history to create one of Colorado's most interesting sites. Dinosaur remains embedded in exposed rock walls reveal evidence of the giants that once roamed these areas. Petroglyphs offer insight into the cultures and people that lived here long ago, and surrounding it all are cliff walls and the Green and Yampa Rivers snaking through the otherwise dry landscape.
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 »

Explore the nearby great outdoors at the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space or get your adrenaline pumping by rafting on Cache La Poudre River with the Mountain Whitewater Descents Company. Visit Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures to learn about folk art from all over the world. Take the kids to the Farm at Lee Martinez Park to learn about the farm life and play with baby farm animals.


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.
Owners Wendye Sykes and Shelley Powers came to Estes Park from San Francisco looking for an escape from the grind of everyday city life — and that’s exactly what they’ve created at River Spruce. Offering nine different cabins, you’ll find lodgings suitable for couples and families all nestled amidst the scenic Rocky Mountain wilderness and along the Big Thompson River.
Non-flowering lichens cling to rocks and soil. Their enclosed algal cells can photosynthesize at any temperature above 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 °C), and the outer fungal layers can absorb more than their own weight in water. Adaptations for survival amidst drying winds and cold temperatures may make tundra vegetation seem very hardy, but in some respects it remains very fragile. Footsteps can destroy tundra plants and it may take hundreds of years to recover.[73] Mammals that live on the alpine tundra, or visit during the summer season, include bighorn sheep, elk, badgers, pikas, yellow-bellied marmots, and snowshoe hares. Birds include prairie falcons, white-tailed ptarmigans, and common ravens. Flowering plants include mertensia, sky pilot, alpine sunflowers, alpine dwarf columbine, and alpine forget-me-not. Grasses include kobresia, spike trisetum, spreading wheatgrass, and tufted hairgrass.[73]

A popular high-altitude town with a bustling downtown scene and a diverse array of activities to choose from, Boulder is a fun place for everyone. It has many great restaurant offerings, in addition to outdoor sports, and is home to the University of Colorado at Boulder. It also has a thriving nightlife, as well as numerous art galleries, shopping, breweries and so much more.


The Red Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast is a lovely country-style guesthouse nestled amongst five acres of ponderosa pines in East Parker. Located just a few minutes from Southlands and downtown Parker, the bed and breakfast features comfortable guest rooms with private bathrooms, amenities such as flat-screen televisions and wireless Internet, and an inviting lobby for relaxing and socializing with other guests.
There are four ecosystems, or zones, in Rocky Mountain National Park: montane, subalpine, alpine tundra, and riparian. The riparian zone occurs throughout all of the three other zones. Each individual ecosystem is composed of organisms interacting with one other and with their surrounding environment. Living organisms (biotic), along with the dead organic matter they produce, and the abiotic (non-living) environment that impacts those living organisms (water, weather, rocks, and landscape) are all members of an ecosystem.[66]
Stay up past your (kids’) bedtime at this grown-ups-only urban retreat that fuses art and sustainability. Side-by-side Victorian homes sit on the edge of downtown Denver, putting you close to the city’s vibrant dining and nightlife. Many rooms feature murals or paintings by local artists, so you can soak up some culture from your in-room whirlpool tub. There are eco-friendly perks throughout, like organic toiletries and gardens where the onsite chef grows herbs and veggies for your complimentary breakfast.
Stay in 1 of our 5 renovated riverfront cabins for a romantic atmosphere away from daily routine.  With a private hot tub overlooking Fall River & a jetted spa tub for 2 in the living area, fireplace, full kitchen & gas grill on the deck, you can rest & reconnect.  Nestled among tall Ponderosa pines just 1 mi. west of downtown, with easy access to RMNP.  Fall River Cabins Details
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.
There are multiple scenic trails to hike and challenging cycling paths to discover as well as many more activities like zip-lining and horseback riding. You can explore the history and architecture of historic sites like Miramont Castle and Manitou Cliff Dwellings, visit the Manitou Springs Heritage Center, or enjoy some pampering at a day spa before catching a show at the Iron Springs Chateau Melodrama Theatre.
At 265,000 acres, Rocky Mountain National Park isn't the country's largest national park, nor is it the most-frequented with about 4 million annual visitors (compared to Great Smoky Mountains National Park's more than 11 million visitors). But there is something definitively magical about RMNP, which rises 12,183 feet into the Colorado sky. The main attraction is hiking its 350-some miles of trails that wind through pine and spruce forests, glittering alpine lakes, swaths of wildflowers and if you're lucky, some elk or bighorn sheep. And maybe it's the thinner atmosphere that goes to visitors' heads, but even the most jaded report feelings of awe and wonder after a day or two of breathing in that refreshing mountain air. 
This southwestern mountain town is ideal for multi-sport adventurers who want to have access to activities on land and in the water. The Animas River snakes right through Durango and is famous for providing some of the best kayaking and rafting in the state. Head just uphill, and you can be surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Rockies, hiking in out-of-this-world alpine terrain, while the lowlands offer outstanding mountain biking on over 1,000 miles of trails in the Durango area alone. One of the must-dos, no matter when you’re here, is to hop aboard the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a narrow gauge steam train built specifically built to handle the narrow mountain routes, chugging along at 18 miles per hour as it climbs the steep and magnificent mountain passes between Durango and Silverton. Much of its downtown area is a designated National Historic District and offers a number of interesting places to visit, like the San Juan County Historical Society, housed in the old county jail, as well as the Mayflower Gold Mill National Historic Site and the Old Hundred Gold Mine.
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.

Settle into a cozy log cabin on Chicago Creek in Idaho Springs. An iconic historical marker, a water wheel that powered a stamp mill, is visible from US 6 and US 40. Idaho Springs abounds with places to hike, ride, view wildlife, or do some birding. In the winter, take some easy ski runs at the Echo Mountain Resort. Drive up the 14-mile-long Mount Evans road, the highest paved road in America, and enjoy the surrounding landscapes from 14,200 feet above sea level. When it’s time to relax, head over to the geothermal springs and caves at Indian Springs Resort.
Estes Park vacation rentals are always worth considering, but be sure to check the calendar before you book and you could enjoy something even more special. Estes Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, any of which would make a great addition to your vacation itinerary. For example, in early June, the Estes Park Jazz Fest takes place and features jazz musicians from across the country and beyond.
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
In winter you can try cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails and after an energetic day out there is nothing better than a soak in one of the natural thermal springs. You can visit the Buena Vista Heritage Museum or go on a Ghost Town adventure, visit several working art studios and galleries, or quench your thirst at a local brewery. Things to Do in Buena Vista
There are 14 individually decorated guestrooms, each furnished with rustic décor and modern amenities. Floor-to-ceiling natural stone fireplaces create a cozy ambiance, and handcrafted beds and lush linens beckon you to try them. Relax in the comfort of your room or enjoy a pampering in-house massage before heading out into town to enjoy an exceptional dining experience at one of the many local restaurants.

The Experience: Everywhere you look in Aspen, the views will take your breath away, especially if you stay at the historic Hotel Jerome. It's the ultimate mountain resort town every time of year, with world-class shopping, delicious food spots, and, as we mentioned, gorgeous scenery. Ski in Snowmass or Highland Bowl. In the summer, try to plan your trip to attend the wine and food festival or the annual jazz festival. Catch a show at Belly Up, party on the mountain at Cloud Nine, eat at Matsuhisa, or cross-country ski to dinner at the remote Pine Creek Lodge.
Nestled just one mile from the south entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park and two miles from downtown Estes Park, Rockmount Cottages is a 20 cabin resort covering 15 acres of wilderness. On the grounds, you’ll have access to a half mile of the Big Thompson River available for fishing and riverside picnics. To fit the lodge lifestyle, each cabin is constructed of knotty pine and most include cozy, stone fireplaces as well as furnished kitchens, a 40-inch flatscreen and DirecTV, wireless internet, and outdoor charcoal grills and picnic areas.
An excellent weekend destination, Telluride is a beautiful town wedged in a picturesque glacial canyon. Located at the base of the beautiful San Juan Mountains, this former mining area has become a mecca for an array of travelers. From artists to skiers, celebrities and hippies, travelers flock to the area to explore its restored Victorian main street and nearby attractions. A delightful shopping area, visitors can peruse the local history at the Telluride Historical Museum, browse artwork at the Telluride Arts District or indulge in its many outdoor adventures. Bear Creek Falls is a great hiking destination, while visitors can also find an array of family-friendly swimming and fishing spots throughout the area.

A popular high-altitude town with a bustling downtown scene and a diverse array of activities to choose from, Boulder is a fun place for everyone. It has many great restaurant offerings, in addition to outdoor sports, and is home to the University of Colorado at Boulder. It also has a thriving nightlife, as well as numerous art galleries, shopping, breweries and so much more.
“Everybody comes into our store looking for things to do, asking where do we go? We’ve had to be creative as a store because the last thing we want is to give people disappointing news,” Zehr said. The shop is offering more accessible options for backcountry skiing, like trails still in the park that can be reached from Colorado 7. But he said places that are typical destinations for his backcountry-ski renters, such as Hidden Valley, are “closed to 95 percent of the population because you have to be willing to hike out there.”

A small mining camp not so long ago, Boulder is a modern, sophisticated town at the base of the Flatirons, popular among extreme sports folks and lovers of magnificent nature of all ages. Stroll through the charming downtown with the popular Pearl Street Mall. Discover Boulder’s past at the Boulder History Museum located in the beautiful historic Harbeck-Bergheim House. Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art not only has a range of permanent and temporary exhibits, but also popular educational programs.
For ice cream and milkshakes, try Flavors of the Rockies, Hayley's or Laura's – all on Elkhorn Avenue and all recommended by recent travelers. To get your caffeine fix, check out Elkhorn Avenue's Kind Coffee and Inkwell & Brew, or Coffee on the Rocks on Moraine Avenue. And to sample a major Colorado food group, travelers can head to Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. or Estes Park Brewery for a craft beer. 
Marriott Courtyard Colorado Springs - we were very impressed with this Marriott, which we highly recommend for romantic & inexpensive accommodation in Central Colorado. The King Rooms with JACUZZI® tub are ideal for honeymoons, and the pool and on-site Bistro & Cocktail Bar are great. 2017 ERV Rating* for Couples - Colorado Springs Romantic Hotels: 77% - Good. (2570 Tenderfoot Hill St, Colorado Springs, CO  719-226-5006). See More of This Romantic Colorado Springs Jetted Tub Suite Here
The nearest airport is Denver International Airport[91] and the closest train station is the Denver Union Station. Estes Park may be reached by rental car, shuttle or RTD bus.[91][98] During peak tourist season, there is free shuttle service within the park and the town of Estes Park provides shuttle service to Estes Park Visitor Center, surrounding campgrounds, and the Rocky Mountain National Park's shuttles.[91]
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].
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.
There’s no need to travel far from Denver unless you really want to. Boulder is less than an hour’s drive away and is home to the luxurious St. Julien Hotel and Spa. One of the state’s most romantic properties, by booking the St. Julien Suite you’ll enjoy an opulent two-room suite with a balcony, deep soaking tub and plenty of room and relax, unwind and enjoy your time together. You can even order up an in-room couples’ massage. When you do want to venture outside of your room, you’ll find lots to do in town and nearby. Hike the scenic trails that skirt its famous Flatirons Mountains, stroll through legendary open-air mall on Pearl Street, and dine at some fabulous restaurants like The Med, with its Greek Island-themed interior, fine wine and sumptuous Mediterranean small plates.
There are several Front Range towns that have fun winter attractions that are worth experiencing. Next time you’re passing through Idaho Springs, relax at Indian Hot Springs or go snowshoeing in the Arapaho National Forest. Georgetown hosts ice races on its frozen lake. While in Evergreen, make use of the giant frozen lake by ice skating or fishing.

The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park is from June to September when the snow is (mostly) melted and the hiking trails and attractions are accessible. Still, these four months are also the most popular times to visit, so if you'd rather experience RMNP in relative isolation and while wearing snowshoes or cross-country skis, visit between the months of October and May. Whether snow or sunshine, the park is open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, though some parts may be inaccessible. 
A romantic weekend at the Castle Marne Bed and Breakfast on Capitol Hill in Denver will transport you to more elegant and romantic times with its nine magnificent rooms accented by antique Victorian furniture, fine décor, canopy beds, and fluttering curtains. Of course, they all have modern bathrooms with whirlpool or claw foot bathtubs and other contemporary amenities you simply cannot do without.
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]
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