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
Category Archives: Explore Colorado
This is all about the great outdoors. As an expert on travel and adventure in the Centennial State, I share my experiences in “Explore Colorado.” Since I lived in San Antonio and Houston for a total of 11 years, and travel back frequently, I share my adventures in the Lone Star State in “Explore Texas.” The “Explore the Outdoors” section features a plethora of adventures from La Bufadora near Ensenada, Mexico to walking the Swamp Rabbit Trail in Greenville, South Carolina. In “Explore the Parks,” I shares my many adventures in national parks from the desert of Joshua Tree National Park to the snow covered peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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

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