Hike to Ice Caves, Waterfall and Erratics on Grottos Trail Near Aspen, Colorado
Explore Colorado / Explore The Outdoors

Hike to Ice Caves, Waterfall and Erratics on Grottos Trail Near Aspen, Colorado

This is a short hike with a huge wow factor. The Grottos Trail off of Independence Pass near Aspen, Colorado, has geological wonders including unusual boulders, an ice cave and cascading waterfall. Grottos Trail is very popular. To be the crowds, do what my friend Lisa and I did. Get to the trailhead before 7 … Continue reading

A Peaceful “Rocky Mountain High” in the John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen
Explore America / Explore Colorado

A Peaceful “Rocky Mountain High” in the John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen

The scenic open space of John Denver Sanctuary is a fitting tribute to the singer famous for “Rocky Mountain High” and other songs written about the allure of the Rocky Mountains.  Prior to his death in a private plane crash in 1997, Aspen was his home for many years.  “Starwood in Aspen” showcases his love … Continue reading

Want to See a Moose? Explore the West Side of Rocky Mountain National Park
Explore America / Explore Colorado / Explore The Parks / U.S. National Parks

Want to See a Moose? Explore the West Side of Rocky Mountain National Park

The west side of Rocky Mountain National Park is the wetter side. The Grand Lake side is also the less traveled side. Your odds of seeing a moose are much higher on the west side. I was spending one night at Grand Lake Lodge because I was doing some live and taped television segments from … Continue reading

Hike to Mad Creek Barn in Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Explore America / Explore Colorado / Explore The Outdoors

Hike to Mad Creek Barn in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Barns are an iconic symbol of the ranching lifestyle in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.  One of my favorite historic barns is Mad Creek Barn.  The hike is four miles round trip in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area north of Steamboat. The first ten minutes of the hike are a gradual incline with no shade.  Make sure … Continue reading

Outdoor Adventure, Culinary Capers and Free Fun in Vail, Colorado During COVID-19 Summer
Explore America / Explore Colorado

Outdoor Adventure, Culinary Capers and Free Fun in Vail, Colorado During COVID-19 Summer

A two night stay in Vail, Colorado, is just an appetizer to its outdoor adventure and amazing culinary scene. If you think it’s just a ritzy resort town, you’re wrong. There’s actually a lot of free fun you can have in this mountain town. I road tripped to Vail to see how this popular tourist … Continue reading

Waterfall Hike at Piney River Ranch Near Vail, Colorado
Explore America / Explore Colorado

Waterfall Hike at Piney River Ranch Near Vail, Colorado

Piney River Ranch sits at 9,350 feet at the foot of the Gore Range. Part of the fun is getting there as you drive Red Sandstone Road. It’s 12 miles up a twisty dirt road. The 40-acre Rocky Mountain Retreat is picturesque. You can stay overnight in a cabin or glamping tent, or just go … Continue reading

Three Nights in Telluride: Waterfalls, Al Fresco Dining and Hiking Fun
3 Day Getaways / Explore America / Explore Colorado

Three Nights in Telluride: Waterfalls, Al Fresco Dining and Hiking Fun

Telluride, Colorado, is one of my favorite places on earth. I get drawn into the Victorian architecture of the historic downtown. Its mining history is fascinating. Telluride is an outdoor adventure playground for weekend warriors to extreme athletes. My friends, the Thomas family, from Texas were originally going to spend two nights as part of … Continue reading

History and Outdoor Adventure During a One Night Stay in Ouray, Colorado
3 Day Getaways / Explore Colorado

History and Outdoor Adventure During a One Night Stay in Ouray, Colorado

With its rugged surroundings in a canyon at the base of the San Juan Mountains, Ouray is called “the Switzerland of America.” The town has had the nickname since the late 1800s. Its downtown has been designated as a National Historical District. It’s where natural wonders like sulfur-free hot springs blend with the historic mining … Continue reading