^ Montana State University states in their profile of Rocky Mountain National Park that there has been an increase of 2.5 °F (1.4 °C) in the average park temperature over "the past century" (charts show the period from about 1895-2010).[48] The National Park Service site states that the increase has been 3.4 °F (1.9 °C) over "the last century" (chart shows the period from about 1905-2010).[52]
Considered the base camp for the Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is less than a 2-hour drive from Denver. Located near the east entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a quiet area surrounded by protected land. Here you’ll find pristine wilderness with a myriad of both indoor and outdoor activities, from scenic hikes and bike trails to wine tasting and spa treatments. Take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway to the top of a small peak and soak in breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and downtown area, take a walk along the Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park or take the kids to the Estes Park Ride-A-Kart & Cascade Creek Mini-Golf.
Located just a few miles to the northwest of Denver, Boulder is a college town nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Boulder’s inhabitants are best known for their healthy lifestyles, and outdoor activities are plentiful in and around the city. Boulder Creek cuts straight through the town and is lined with walking and biking trails. The four-block pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall features outdoor performers in all but the most inclement weather. A drive up Baseline Road on Flagstaff Mountains rewards visitors with spectacular views, and there are picnic areas and hiking trails to enjoy at the summit as well.
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]
Popular during both the winter and the summer, Crested Butte offers year-round activities that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Soak in the crisp mountain air after taking the Silver Queen lift up to 11,875 feet up to see Crested Butte from above, visit the pedestrian-friendly city center with its myriad of locally owned shops, or choose your pick between summer and fall mountain biking and the area’s numerous trails. Those with little ones can head to the Trailhead Children’s Museum, Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum or find swimming and hiking at Meridian Lake in the summer.
Located just 45 minutes west of Denver, historic Georgetown annually attracts hundreds of visitors who come to experience the history and pioneering spirit of this 1875 mining town. Absorb the atmosphere at museums like the Hamill House Museum, the Georgetown Heritage Center and the Hotel de Paris. Learn all about silver mining as you take a ride to Silver Plume on the historic Georgetown Loop Railway - you can tour the Lebanon Silver Mine en-route.
There’s plenty to do south of Denver on your Colorado vacation. Whether you’re into mountain biking, hiking, history, sight-seeing, or soaking in a hot springs pool, you can find a destination in Southern Colorado (especially near Colorado Springs) that will help you relax, recharge, and reinvigorate. Cañon City and Colorado Springs make the perfect jumping-off points for many of these beautiful, historic western locations. Before or after your rafting trip, try some of these great destinations to enhance your Colorado vacation!
You can get maps and info at the Estes Park Visitors Center and catch a free shuttle bus to most main attractions. Intrepid adventurers will find an almost endless list of outdoor activities to try, including mountaineering on Longs Peak, thrilling white water rafting, hiking, biking, backpacking, skiing and snowshoeing. Less daring visitors can enjoy the River Walk, take a scenic drive, play a round of golf, or do some wildlife watching. Things to Do in Estes Park
Rocky Mountain National Park’s 415 square miles encompass and protect spectacular mountain environments. Enjoy Trail Ridge Road – which crests at over 12,000 feet including many overlooks to experience the subalpine and alpine worlds – along with over 300 miles of hiking trails, wildflowers, wildlife, starry nights, and fun times. In a world of superlatives, Rocky is on top!
You have never seen a Y like this! We offer over 200 family cabins ranging from 2-4 bdrms, which can hold up to 10 people. Be close to the main campus & activities or far from it all, in secluded woods. Our cabins are fully furnished and include eating & cooking utensils, plus linens & towels. Many free activities are available - we offer more activities onsite than any other area property! YMCA of the Rockies - Estes Park Center Details
Not everyone wants a honeymoon on the beach or has the time to make it out to a tropical location. Colorado is an amazing destination for a honeymoon. Imagine dipping into a steaming outdoor hot tub right outside your honeymoon cabin, or spending time cuddling next to a cozy fireplace inside. Here are some inviting and romantic cabins all around Colorado that are perfect for a honeymoon.
Located in a quiet, residential alpine setting, guests can spread out and explore the surroundings. Numerous balconies and decks have unobstructed views of the Gore Mountain Range, and the large private back yard with charming stone patio and massive outdoor gas fire pit is perfect for Après-ski gatherings. During warmer months, revel in the beauty and tranquility of the fanciful waterfall feature and perennial gardens, and walk up the mountainside on the fantastic stone switchback trail leading to several stone belvederes, each with increasingly magnificent and unobstructed views of the Vail Valley.
The A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art and the many galleries in the creative district are bound to thrill art lovers, while the Southern Colorado Repertory Theater provides live entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts can go camping, fishing, hiking and boating in the Trinidad Lake State Park, seek dinosaur tracks in the Comanche National Grassland, or go trout fishing on the Purgatoire River.
If you and your partner are looking to get off the grid after months of wedding planning, then head to these cabins located on the banks of Bear Creek. Walk or relax near the creek and share the view with wildlife who live on the land. Have complimentary breakfast brought to you as you lounge in a comfy chair along the water, or spend some time in the hot tub right on the creek to unwind. For dinner, enjoy pizza from the brick oven on the patio and socialize with other couples.
Depending on when you choose to stay in an Estes Park vacation rental, you may be able to catch family-friendly events like the annual Teddy Bear Picnic or Longs Peak Scottish-Irish Highland Festival. If you aren't able to make it to those events, don't worry: you can always pick up some local history at the Lula W. Dorsey Museum or Stanley Steam Car Museum. Visit the local shops and galleries like the Wild Spirits Gallery or Alpenglow Images & Accents to see some local photography, woodworking, jewelry, and other crafts or pick up a souvenir or two for friends and family back home.
With over 1,800 acres of skiable terrain in Beaver Creek, it’s no wonder this resort town is a top choice for a weekend trip in Colorado. Beaver Creek is home to the Birds of Prey downhill course, too—a difficult run that’s often included in World Cup races in early December. Not up to the challenge? No worries. There’s plenty more to do like catching a show at the Vilar Performing Arts Center or hanging out at the Beaver Creek Resort. Swing by in the afternoon for a taste of their fresh-baked (and free) chocolate chip cookies.
There is a fitness area, complimentary wireless internet access in the lobby, 24-hour room service, a full-time concierge, twice-daily maid service and overnight valet parking. Choose from 241 guest rooms and suites, some furnished in Victorian style, while others reflect Art-Deco decor. There are five restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual fare. Room rates start at $ 152 per night on weekends.
The park contains a network of trails that range from easy, paved paths suitable for all visitors including those with disabilities, to strenuous mountain trails for experienced, conditioned hikers as well as off-trail routes for backcountry hikes. Most trails are for summer use only, since at other times of the year many trails are not safe due to weather conditions.[82] The park provides dozens of designated backcountry campsites and horseback riding is permitted on most trails.[83] Llamas and other pack animals are also allowed on most of the trails.[84]
Breckenridge CO Romantic Vacation Rental Condos, Villas & Cabins - check out some of the best deals in romantic Breckenridge CO lodging. Rates start as low as $69/night, and you can choose from locations in downtown Breckenridge or ski in/ski out slope side accommodation. Suites are roomy and many offer amenities like wireless internet, satellite TV, fireplace and even jetted tubs.
Crested Butte may be off the beaten path, but it’s worth the trip as one of the most stunning mountain towns in all of Colorado. The atmosphere is one that combines the charms of a historic mining town with hippy flair. Set at the base of the Rockies, it’s world-renowned for skiing, but in the warmer months, it becomes a top hiking and mountain biking destination, as well as drawing countless visitors for the chance to take once-in-a-lifetime whitewater rafting adventures through the Taylor Canyon. A true mecca for mountain bikers, there are hundreds of miles of trails linked together to create an endless day of touring from Gothic to Mt. Crested Butte, Irwin to Gunnison, or even from Crested Butte all the way to Aspen. If you don’t have a bike, stop by Big Al’s Bicycle Heaven and rent one for the day or for the length of your stay. In addition to riding the trails, you can ride around town and check out all the historic buildings and funky alleyways.
Loveland, dubbed as the ‘Sweetheart City’ and known nationwide for its Valentine’s Day Love Stamp Program, is near the college town of Fort Collins in northern Colorado. Rent a charmingly restored 1903 Victorian cottage for your love nest, or snuggle together in a neighborhood home just minutes from hiking in the Rocky Mountain National Park. A visit to the Sweetheart City Winery is a great opportunity to sample some local wines while checking out original oil paintings inspired by a trip to Tuscany. Voted by locals as one of the most romantic places in Loveland, South Shore Parkway is certain to aid in a stolen kiss or two. Sample small plates and incredible desserts at Door 222 Food and Drink, a downtown gem not to be missed.
Luxurious guest rooms feature king or queen sized beds dressed in plush linens, private bathrooms with showers and baths, working fireplaces and flat-screen televisions with cable TV, and special touches such as deluxe bath and spa amenities and Godiva bedside chocolates. Some rooms enjoy signature private whirlpool tubs for two and secluded balconies with stunning mountain views. A hearty breakfast is served each morning, and complimentary beverages, afternoon tea, and an assortment of homemade treats, sweets, and cakes are available throughout the day.
This opened the Loveland Valley Ski Area in 1961 as well as some south-facing slopes to the north of Chair 2 in 1965. During the 1980’s, Loveland upgraded the old Chair 2 with a high-capacity Yan triple chair. This provided better, more reliable access to beginner and intermediate terrain. In 1989, a new Valley lodge was constructed, allowing for better guest services at the beginner and racing hills.
A sanctuary just for mature audiences all year long, Stonebrook Resort on Fall River offers plenty of peaceful settings, from secluded outdoor hot tubs overlooking the river to private hiking trails that lead to Rocky Mountain National Park, just 2 miles away. Downtown Estes Park, with snug restaurants, breweries and wineries well-suited for a couples’ night out, is just 2 miles the other way.
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The rugged and elevated landscape and disused mining roads provide a challenging playground for mountain biking and off-road vehicles, while fishermen can head to Molas Lake to cast a line. You can go hiking in the San Juan National Forest, take a four wheel drive along the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, or savor a scenic ride on the Durango & Silverton Rail Road. Things to Do in Silverton
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.
Take advantage of The Mining Exchange MX Spa Couples Retreat massage, perfect for newly married couples celebrating wedded bliss, long-time couples enjoying their anniversary, or simply a needed romantic Colorado Springs getaway. This massage also offers special add-on features including a soak in one of their Kohler VibrAcoustic Bubble Massage Chromotherapy Tubs, chocolate covered strawberries and champagne.
Northern New MexicoRed River, New Mexico! A place where fresh powder winters meet refreshing summer days. Red River offers something for everyone with its convenient scenic location in the heart of Northern New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle. Red River is the place that awakens us each day by the soothing sound of a rushing river and then again each evening as the sun sets over main street. The mountain town of Red River is New Mexico True.
Dial (970) 586-1222 for a recorded message on the status of Trail Ridge Road. You may not know that our mountain makes its own weather, so it is not uncommon to have snow in July or August at the top of Trail Ridge Road. Such weather will only last for a few hours to a day, but if you are planning to cross over Trail Ridge Road, weather may hamper your travel. You also may find the road closed due to weather in early June and September/October.
The unspoiled beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park draws thousands of visitors every year. With over 50 placid lakes and babbling streams, this is a popular fishing destination for both locals and visitors alike. In order to fish within the park, please note that you will need a valid Colorado fishing license. You can trek through over 355 miles of hiking trails or stick to the park roads for a bicycle ride suitable for all ages. After exploring, head to the Visitor Center to learn about the animals and plants you encountered on your hike or bike ride. If someone in your group loves horses, consider visiting the Glacier Creek Stables for the opportunity to see the area on four legs rather than two.
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.
High on the mountain in a secluded small cove surrounded by aspen and spruce trees in Steamboat Springs, Chalet Val d'Isere is an esteemed, private bed and breakfast perfect for those romantic souls who like their peace and tranquility. The décor is elegant and comfortable, with shiny maple floors and soft oriental rugs, and rooms are full of small decorative pieces that have their own stories.
Get away for a weekend of pampering, relaxation and fun outdoor activities at one of these great hotels, inns and lodges near Denver, Colorado. Quick weekend trips from Denver include Estes Park, Evergreen, Minturn, Idaho Springs, Niwot and other beautiful Colorado towns. You may also like: Boulder, Crested Butte, Steamboat Springs, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins and Aspen, CO.
The park has a total of five visitor centers[9] with park headquarters located at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center—a National Historic Landmark designed by the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture at Taliesin West.[10] National Forest lands surround the park including Roosevelt National Forest to the north and east, Routt National Forest to the north and west, and Arapaho National Forest to the west and south, with the Indian Peaks Wilderness area located directly south of the park.[5]
Other interesting summer activities include guided tours of Chimney Rock National Monument, hot air balloon adventures and paddling, tubing or rafting along the San Juan River. In winter you can go dog-sledding, cross-country skiing, snow tubing and more at the Wolf Creek Ski Area, enjoy some brewery-hopping or simply relax in the natural Pagosa Hot Springs. Things to Do in Pagosa Springs
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]
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.
Sonnenalp Hotel is often named as Vail’s top hotel, in a place that’s already home to countless exceptional properties. A Bavarian-style lodge, it offers Old World Alpine traditions merged with the spirit of the west. All rooms offer views of either Gore Creek or Vail Village and boast impressive amenities like goose down comforters and handmade furniture, a fireplace, marble bathrooms with heated floors and an oversize tub. The impressive breakfast buffet is a great way to fuel up for activities, which includes spa services, a private 18-hole golf course, hotel ski guides, and more.
Overlooking the scenic Beaver Creek Mountain, Park Hyatt Beaver Creek is a luxury Colorado resort and spa where guests can experience the vacation of their dreams. From breathtaking mountain views to championship golf courses to exquisite cuisine, Hyatt’s Beaver Creek ski resort offers the perfect year-round Vail Valley mountain escape with premium amenities, such as ski in and ski out access, a year-round heated outdoor pool, and an outdoor fire pit for roasting s’mores.
Rooms enjoy large beds, plush décor, kitchenettes with microwaves and fridges, and cable TV and free wireless Internet, and guests have access to a year-round indoor heated swimming pool and an outdoor hot tub. Sip complimentary morning coffee accompanied by muffins in front a crackling fire in the inviting lobby before heading out to enjoy some of the many outdoor activities in the area.
My mind calm, the knitting absorbed any excess energy and left my senses free to absorb the stunning surroundings. Feeling no need to move, I watched the silhouettes of fish moving upstream, hummingbirds zip over my head, and a northern harrier cruise over the grassland, looking for prey. Months later, I can imagine every detail of that spot on the bank anytime I close my eyes.
Tucked deep in the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, this carefully restored 19th-century ghost town and natural spa is surprisingly well appointed. The rugged, old-timey building exteriors hide high-end features such as cathedral ceilings, air conditioning, and gas fireplaces. Dolores has four parks and a peaceful bike trail that takes peddlers along the tumultuous Dolores River. You can enjoy hands-on exhibits and a nature hike at the Anasazi Heritage Center, or explore an exact replica of the original narrow-gauge rail car, the Galloping Goose. Share a romantic meal with tasty cocktails at Sophia’s Bistro.
Estes Park is always a wonderful escape for anyone looking to get out of Denver for a day or two. There is a lot to do and see here, with plenty of wonderful restaurants, entertainment and shopping. Plus, off-season the rates are very affordable, and you’ll find the town less crowded and easier to explore. Stay at the Fall River Cabins, just two miles east of Rocky Mountain National Park. You’ll find the cozy, country-style wood cabins to be very romantic, with spa hot tubs and fireplaces in each unit. Everything has that rustic, woodsy feel, which adds to the mountain escape that you will enjoy all weekend long.
Buena Vista is an historic mining and railroad town that resoundingly lives up to its Spanish name meaning “good views” – you are surrounded by towering mountain peaks that provide a wonderful year-round playground for adventure seekers. The area boasts some of the best river rafting adventures in the country and you can also go hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing and zip-lining.
This three-story, immaculately furnished lodge can sleep up to 30 people and is located mere minutes from the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. It can be divided into two different suites for smaller groups. Overlooking the tranquil Trout Pond, the lodge has everything you need for a perfect family reunion, wedding, retreat or any large gathering.
Popular during both the winter and the summer, Crested Butte offers year-round activities that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Soak in the crisp mountain air after taking the Silver Queen lift up to 11,875 feet up to see Crested Butte from above, visit the pedestrian-friendly city center with its myriad of locally owned shops, or choose your pick between summer and fall mountain biking and the area’s numerous trails. Those with little ones can head to the Trailhead Children’s Museum, Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum or find swimming and hiking at Meridian Lake in the summer.
Endless mountain landscapes and sunny weather, Colorado is the perfect place to pack your backs and escape to for a few days. With an abundance of natural splendor, Colorado boasts a myriad of cities worthy of exploring. From luxury ski resorts to charming small towns and the world-famous Rocky Mountains, travelers are spoiled for choice with outdoor adventures. Get off the grid and soak in the crisp mountain air, where depending on the season, nature enthusiasts can hike through beautiful trails, go swimming in natural hot springs or hit the slopes. Cities filled with diverse wildlife and natural wonders, here are ten of the best weekend getaways in Colorado.
Rocky Mountain National Park’s 415 square miles encompass and protect spectacular mountain environments. Enjoy Trail Ridge Road – which crests at over 12,000 feet including many overlooks to experience the subalpine and alpine worlds – along with over 300 miles of hiking trails, wildflowers, wildlife, starry nights, and fun times. In a world of superlatives, Rocky is on top!
“This isn’t a furlough for us,” Oropeza said. “There are definitely folks who, if this continues into next week, they’ll have to forfeit their commitment. Some are exploring applying for other jobs. They have student loans, they have car payments and other bills. …There are ripple effects this is having down the road. Our seasonal contracts, we have to have our contracts for summer seasonal work signed soon. All these things are getting backlogged.”
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.
Catering to couples and perfect for honeymoons or weekend getaways, each cabin at Annie’s Mountain Retreat has its own private, outdoor hot tub. Just three miles from Estes Park, three of the buildings are located along the Big Thompson River with water access, and the fourth borders Rocky Mountain National Park with access to hiking trails just steps away!
The first week of the park shutdown brought little financial impact, said town manager Frank Lancaster, probably because most tourists had already booked their Christmas stays and couldn't cancel. Along the town's main street Wednesday, tourists peered in candy store windows, shopped for T-shirts and rented snowshoes, and there was little sign the nearby park is largely inaccessible.
While kids of all ages are welcome at this Ouray resort, you’ll will find multiple kid-free corners available around the clock. The adults-only indoor sanctuary is open 24 hours and filled with spa-like stonework, including a spring-fed tub built from river rocks. Outside, a 102-degree soaking tub implements adult time from 10pm to 8am, enough to make any couple starry-eyed under the night sky.
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.
