If you are looking for a fun day trip on the outskirts of Denver, check out Echo Lake. This is one of my favorite day trips because it is near Mt. Evans and Idaho Springs--so many options for activities.
Trip Details:
From Denver, take I-70 west up toward Idaho Springs. Take the exit for Mt. Evans Scenic Byway and drive up the highest paved road in North America (14,130 feet) toward the Mt. Evans Wilderness Area. The road seems to twist and turn for awhile but eventually you'll see Echo Lake on the right. There are parking spots, restrooms, picnic tables, and grills next to the lake.
There are several trails in this area. I really enjoyed the Chicago Lakes Trail. It literally seems to be right on the face of the mountain for parts of the hike. The scenery is beautiful. The trail winds down into the valley and over a stream. The hike back up is a workout, atleast if you are a bit out of shape like myself. :) But if I can do it, you can do it!
Additional activities:
After you finish tromping up and down the trail, if you still have some time and energy you can drive up to the top of Mt. Evans since the entrance station is just up the road. Or, if you're a bit tired and hungry you can head back the way you came and grab a famous mountain pie (what Idaho Spring residents call pizza) at Beaujo's. Actually, I highly recommend a trip to Beaujo's just about any day of the week. They have really great pizza and they are located in the center of Idaho Springs, a cute and historic mountain town.
Then, when you are finished with dinner, you can drive two minutes to the Indian Springs Resort and soak in the hot springs. They have a huge hot spring pool, as well as, individual hot spring tubs, and hot spring caves....but you should know that if you choose the caves option, it is gender specific and your birthday suit is required. So, if you can get over being naked and aren't with anyone of a different gender, then try sitting in a hot spring in an actual geothermal cave.
Have fun!
links:
http://www.indianspringsresort.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echo_Lake
http://www.beaujos.com/
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