Zach Zehr, an avid backcountry adventurer, spends a lot of time in Rocky Mountain National Park, which is open but operating with a limited staff since Dec. 22, 2018, due to the federal government shutdown. Because of the shutdown, the roads aren’t being plowed so much of the park is not open to vehicle traffic. Fat bikes, however, work just fine. Zehr, who is also the manager at the Estes Park Mountain Shop, and some friends rode their fat bikes to the Bear Lake Trailhead and did a backcountry ski trip in the park on Jan. 6, 2019. (Provided by Zach Zehr)
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.
You can explore eight other designated Historic Neighborhoods before swapping history for nature as you hike or cycle the numerous scenic trails. Families can have fun at the Splash Water Park while adults can taste their way around small craft breweries and visit the largest American brewery on the Coors Tour. Keep reading for more Colorado points of interest. Things to Do in Golden
About 300 million years ago, the land was uplifted creating the ancestral Rocky Mountains.[55] Fountain Formation was deposited during the Pennsylvanian period of the Paleozoic era, 290–296 million years ago. Over the next 150 million years, the mountains uplifted, continued to erode, and covered themselves in their own sediment. Wind, gravity, rainwater, snow, and glacial ice eroded the granite mountains over geologic time scales.[56] The Ancestral Rockies were eventually buried under subsequent strata.[57]
A nature lover’s paradise, Colorado is filled to the brim with beautiful landscapes, offering travelers over 300 days of sunshine to come and explore its diverse areas. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to picturesque prairies and cosmopolitan cities, Colorado is surrounded by vibrant outdoor attractions, diverse wildlife and scenic byways just begging to be explored. Whether you hit the slopes at a luxury ski resort, hike the trails at a National Park or take a scenic drive through the countryside, Colorado has so many great things to see and do throughout the year. Perfect for families, couples and solo travelers who are looking for an outdoor adventure, read on to discover the best places to vacation in Colorado.
In 1941, the area was officially named The Loveland Ski Tow Inc. By 1948, four ski tows were in use and they were logically named A, B, C,and D. The next decade would bring big changes to the area. In 1955, the business was sold to group of stockholders who employed Pete Seibert (10th Mountain Division Member) as the general manager. Seibert would later build the Vail Ski Area in the early 1960’s.
Guest rooms at both lodge buildings are tastefully decorated and fully equipped with the necessary amenities for absolute comfort, including private bathrooms with showers and soaking tubs, stone fireplaces, and flat-screen televisions. The inn is situated within walking distance of the town’s restaurants, bars, and clubs, as well as other entertainment and events that happen on a regular basis. The Minturn Inn is located two hours from Denver.
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.
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.
In the winter, try the “Ski-In/Ski-Out” Treatment—the only one of its kind at a ski resort. In 30 minutes, professionals submerge your feet in a warm, exfoliating bath and go to work to increase circulation. They relieve the tension with a hot stone massage to get you back into action. This treatment is designed perfectly to soothe you after a day of adrenaline and activity, and vamp you back up for more.
Look no further for Estes Park cabins to put you at the foot of Rocky Mountain National Park! Whether you’re looking for a quiet and soothing River Cabin or an adventurous and nostalgic Theme Cabin, Brynwood on the River has an array of cabin rentals in Estes Park! Need something spacious yet comfortable or budget and family-friendly? Our Vacation Homes and Motel Rooms provide a great selection for you to choose from.
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.
An alluring destination to explore throughout the year, Durango offers a wealth of activities for every season. From white water rafting to horseback riding, fishing and snowboarding, outdoor enthusiasts will be in heaven at Durango. Popular for its Durango train ride day trip, the famous line runs from the old mining areas in Durango and Silverton, where visitors can soak in breathtaking views of the mountain vistas against its black steam-powered engines. Explore the archaeological sites in Mesa Verde National Park, visit Henry Strater Theatre, the oldest running theatre in Colorado, and explore the downtown area to discover an array of lovely shops, galleries and eateries.
In the shadow of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, the quirky town of Hooper sits atop a natural artesian hot spring, with water flowing year-round into the family-friendly Sand Dunes Pool. On the same property, The Greenhouse is an all-indoor, all-adult oasis with three small soaking tubs and a 10-by-75-foot zero-entry pool. The Greenhouse also has a 10-person sauna, indoor gardens and an onsite bar to help you stay even toastier.
Colorado Springs, nestled at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains, offers spectacular scenery and amazing opportunities for a private, quiet, and romantic getaway. Book a murder mystery or wine and dinner trip in the Scenic Vista dome car on the Royal Gorge Railroad. This glass-topped car skims along the base of the narrow canyon along the Arkansas River. For an intimate view of the astonishing grandeur of this area, spend some time at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park soaring in a gondola or on a zipline. For a bonus adrenaline rush, take a hand-in-hand stroll over the quarter-mile Bridge, suspended 955 feet over the tumbling river. Stop for breakfast or lunch at the French-inspired La Baguette Bakery and Cafe and enjoy a seasonally inspired menu. Share some sweet and savory fondue dipping sauces over an amorous dinner in the intimate interior of The Mona Lisa.
Dinosaur National Monument is so diverse that the possibilities here extend well beyond the archeological aspects, from a simple driving tour through the monument to hiking, fishing, rafting, and camping. A number of scenic drives run through the park on both paved and four-wheel drive roads. Hiking trails range from short nature walks of less than a half mile to eight-mile-long day hikes. Campgrounds, some of which are open to both tents and RVs and others open only to tents, are spread around the park. It's possible to spend a few days in this area if you are interested in exploring the park.
This 5-bedroom residence features a stunning family room with a massive gas fireplace and a professional chef’s kitchen with dining area and breakfast nook. No expense was spared on the multi-zone sound system and other electronics throughout the home. Guests can settle into the cozy library/TV room or be blown away by the mineshaft themed cinema with a state-of-the-art digital projector and 11.1-point channel sound and hundreds of first-run movies and TV – all complimentary!
There is a reason why this luxury resort is called Garden of the Gods: if the Gods lived in the resort, they would never want to leave because of its breathtaking beauty! This resort features a golf course and full spa. Spend a romantic day getting pampered or walking in the gardens. Later, you can treat yourselves to fine dining at Kissing Camels Grille, where you can enjoy fresh local ingredients used to prepare the superb meals.
Known as a world-class ski destination, Aspen is beautiful year around and offers activities and attractions for all ages. Skiers can challenge their skills on the magnificent steeps, slopes and glades of Aspen Mountain or Ajax, on rugged Aspen Highlands or enormous Snowmass. Take a 14 minute ride with the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Ajax Mountain for the spectacular views of the mountain peaks, the city below and tall evergreens all around you. There are bluegrass concerts on Sundays.
The highest you can hike is Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet, the highest in the Rockies. With so much great climbing opportunities, Colorado Springs is a great place to learn to rock climb. Front Range Climbing Company and First Ascent Mountain School offer classes for any skill level. Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site offers a glimpse into the past with the 1860 log cabin and the 1880 farm house. Western Museum of Mining & Industry tells the story of the mining in the area and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a home to more than 950 animals, 30 of them endangered.
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.
Nestling in the heart of a former volcanic caldera in the San Juan Mountains, the little Colorado town of Creede will blow you away with its amazing natural splendor and small-town atmosphere. You can learn about Creede’s mining history at the Creede Historical Museum and the Underground Mining Museum and enjoy the annual summer Creede Repertory Festival.
Brian and I descended back to ~7,000 feet for dinner in a small-town Indian restaurant in Nederland, Colorado, west of Boulder. By then, both our heads ached like a bad hangover, and my lungs literally burned when I tried to inhale anything but shallow breaths. Add generalized joint pain, and I had a full-blown case of altitude sickness. Given that I am a noted hypochondriac, I expected the worst.
The charming town of Boulder is surrounded by dramatic scenery, including the amazing Flatirons, acres of forest and snow-capped peaks – a perfect year-round playground. You can soak up the atmosphere on historic Pearl Street before hiking deep into Flatiron territory from the Open Space Mountain Park or meander through the town along Boulder Creek Path.
Unless you’re really into skiing or boarding, you probably haven’t considered a honeymoon in Colorado among your destinations, but you really should. While it is outstanding for those who like to glide down snowy slopes, the Rocky Mountain State offers a whole lot more for honeymooning couples. Not only is there over 300 days of sunshine a year to enjoy its dramatic mountain peaks, but it offers everything from hot springs, vineyards and countless microbreweries to a wide range of other outdoor adventures, like hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting and more. It also happens to be home to many fabulous resorts that are ideal for romance, including these.
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.
Our last (but definitely not least!) romantic hotel in Colorado is the Leroux Creek Inn & Vineyards. This secluded B&B is surrounded by vineyards and the valleys and mesas of the Grand Mesa located on 54 acres. Sip their wine while gazing from the Leroux Creek Inn’s flower-bedecked patio onto their vineyards. Near the small town of Hotchkiss, the acreage also includes a creek, dry arroyos, grass pastures, sagebrush, and trees.
Colorado is the perfect destination for an extra-special weekend getaway, especially since it’s home to numerous exciting cities and nature spots. Admire panoramic views of the sweeping, majestic Rocky Mountains, and plan an afternoon hike and picnic. Book a stay at a gorgeous Colorado vacation rental near a historic national park to conveniently enjoy the great outdoors. Here are eight of the most romantic weekend getaway locations in Colorado.
Just a 5-minute stroll from downtown Estes Park, Fall River Village offers 66 luxury accommodations, including 60 two bedroom and two bathroom condos, a honeymoon suite, four three bedroom and four bathroom townhomes and a four bedroom townhome with panoramic views of the Continental Divide. Property amenities include a heated, outdoor pool, year-round, outdoor hot tubs, a community room, fire pit and grill areas as well as an outdoor recreation area with yard games and a hammock.
Rocky Mountain National ParkAt the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is the deepest natural lake in Colorado, dipping to 265 feet. Fed by high mountain runoff, the lake is clear and pristine. In the summer, you can rent a boat, bring your own or simply enjoy the gentle lapping of the waves from the sandy shore. Grand Lake connects with Shadow Mountain Lake via a canal, and just down the road is Lake Granby, the second largest body of water in Colorado.
When it comes to the best weekend getaways in Colorado, Colorado Springs is a top choice with a little bit of everything—numerous hiking trails, interesting museums, an artsy historic district, and plenty of restaurants and breweries. It’s also home to Garden of the Gods, a National Natural Landmark featuring hiking, climbing, and stunning views at the foot of Pikes Peak.
Louisville is conveniently situated between Denver and Boulder, offering visitors an attractive weekend getaway destination with a distinctive American small-town feel. You can stroll through the historic Old Town, where several historic buildings now house modern shops, restaurants and businesses. Downtown is also home to the Louisville Art District, which is packed with galleries, studios and hosts a monthly First Friday Art Walk. Live music and theater is popular and you can catch a concert at the Center Stage Theatre Company or the Coal Creek Community Theater. Outdoor activities include walking, hiking, biking and ice skating, while nearby Boulder offers many additional cultural and outdoor attractions.
Relax to the sounds & beauty of Fall River. Our resort is perfectly located halfway between the Village of Estes Park & Rocky Mtn National Park (2.5 mi each way). Enjoy a furnished 1,2, or 3 bedroom mountain cabin/condo with a full kitchen, jacuzzi spa tub or hot tub, fireplace, & gas grill. Each bedroom has it's own bath! Save $'s - cook breakfast in, then grill dinner. Winter deals & packages available. River Stone Resorts & Bear Paw Suites Details
While January isn’t typically busy, Murdock said that in December 2017, the park had 112,000 visitors. Visitors have shown up every day since the shutdown began, even though recent snowstorms and unplowed roads have made the park essentially off limits to vehicles. Anyone can still walk in, though, and Murdock has seen proof that that’s happening.
Good morning, I am Judy Hall my family and I just stayed at Brynwood June 8th – 14th. We stayed in the Bunkhouse. We had a great time. Your place is absolutely wonderful. The grounds are beautiful. I will definitely recommend Brynwood to others. All of the employees were so friendly and kind. Took care of all of our needs. I wish I was still there!
Rising from 7,800 feet to 12,000 – even 14,000 feet in some places – RMNP is a high-elevation park and if you don't give yourself time to adjust to the thinner atmosphere and lower oxygen levels, you could run the risk of getting the headaches, nausea and disorientation characteristic of altitude sickness. Along with taking a day or so to acclimate to the high altitude, you should make sure to consume plenty of water and food to ward off symptoms.
Cripple Creek is best known as a historic mining and gambling town, but besides the fun and entertainment of its nine modern casinos, Cripple Creek offers diverse activities for all ages. You can satisfy your lust for adventure with white water rafting, river tubing, rock-climbing, mountain biking and off-road racing or explore the Trails of Gold network of hiking and biking trails through historic sites in the gold camp.
In the winter, try the “Ski-In/Ski-Out” Treatment—the only one of its kind at a ski resort. In 30 minutes, professionals submerge your feet in a warm, exfoliating bath and go to work to increase circulation. They relieve the tension with a hot stone massage to get you back into action. This treatment is designed perfectly to soothe you after a day of adrenaline and activity, and vamp you back up for more.
^ This article incorporates public domain material from the Library of Congress document: "Majestic view from the old, one-way, dirt Fall River Road in Rocky Mountain National Park in the Front Range of the spectacular and high Rockies in north-central Colorado". Library of Congress - Prints & Photographs Online Catalog. Retrieved October 28, 2016.
The Stanley Hotel is a luxurious hotel in the heart of Estes Park in Colorado that combines a particular style and sophistication with rich colonial charm. Featuring deluxe resort lodging, an exclusive day spa and wellness center, and an array of adventures and activities for the whole family, this hotel is the ideal place for a year-round mountain vacation. Guests can choose from deluxe rooms and suites at the main hotel or accommodations next door at the newly remodeled 40-room boutique hotel called The Lodge.
Nicknamed the “Mile High City,” Denver is a haven for outdoor-lovers year-round, making it one of the best weekend getaways in Colorado for any type of travelers. Bring your camera along to capture views of urban and natural scenery alike—Larimer Square and the 16th Street Mall are two essential sightseeing destinations for first-timers, and Mount Elbert is always looming large in the background. The real Denver attraction, though, is the culture, which you can discover on a walk through the city’s distinct neighborhoods, on a Denver sightseeing tour, or a bike and brewery tour (it doesn’t get more Denver than that).
