It's That Time Again; Aspen Leaf Viewing!

Upon moving to Colorado I began to experience life amidst four seasons (although I will admit the Fall season is seemingly quite short here compared to the other three). There is something about the changing of the seasons that speaks to the soul. Obviously change is a natural part of life. But the way we are able to enter into each season.... and then to see it fade away....and the process in between...there is something about those transition points where you start to notice, for instance, the nights becoming cooler....or the sun going down earlier....the wildlife changing their routines...or the leaves changing their colors....perhaps it makes me feel a part of something greater than myself...and encourages me to be conscious of the world around me...in any case, I have come to love the four seasons (though I still am making peace with winter driving).

 My favorite season, that of fall, encourages me to look for the glorious beauty all around...to enjoy the moment for soon it will pass....as the golden, quaking aspen trees do their annual turning....in this often times dry, arid climate the splash of yellow, orange and lime are not unlike masterpieces to behold. Soon winter will be here...and the colors more monotonous...but for about 5 weeks in September/October we have the chance to witness nature at its peak color spectrum.


So, get out and let nature brighten up your soul!

I have posted before on popular places and sites: here and here.


And I will also list more of the same below:


(in no particular order...most of the locals know of these.....and basically if you notice that most of them are pass roads...therefore, if you basically just drive in the freakin' mountains right now you're going to see some awesome colors....)


1) Guanella Pass
2)Kenosha Pass
3) Kebler Pass
4) Boreas Pass
5) Peak to Peak Highway
6) Maroon Bells
7) Rocky Mountain National Park
8) Independence Pass
and many others....these are just my favorites but also popular one's

Denver Biscuit Company; So Good You'll Think They Stole Your Granny's Recipe!

 

The Denver Biscuit Company takes the Southern, backwoods breakfast biscuit and introduces it to the neon lights of the urban city! Mmmmm...mmm...mmm...you wont believe you're not in the south as the fresh, hearty biscuit flakes off into your mouth...only to make way for the juicy goodness that is to come; whether it be sausage, fried chicken or catfish!

I sampled the Dahlia; according to their menu it consists of: housemade sausage patty, apple butter, fried egg, and maple syrup (the only thing I would have added was a slice of cheddar cheese). It was almost as if I was sitting in my Granny's kitchen. It doesn't get any better than that folks.

Website:
http://www.denbisco.com/

Locations:

E. COLFAX
3237 E. Colfax
Denver, CO 80206

S. BROADWAY
141 S. Broadway
Denver, CO 80209

Walking in the Footsteps of the Ute at 11,000 feet

I have long been fascinated with the various Native American tribes that first inhabited the Colorado territory. Upon learning that the Ute tribe frequented the area now known as Rocky Mountain National Park, I have been fascinated to retrace their steps and to try to see through their eyes. Just this week I finally got the chance to walk along the Ute Trail, which traverses heights of  over 11,000 feet. I pondered the view as if I lived in the 1800's (or beyond) and marveled that I was seeing the very same view that the Ute's saw as they hunted in this area during summer time. The hike was more of a stroll and at times I was actually being pushed along by the forceful winds that frequently blow through the high elevations. Situated off of Trail Ridge Road, the views are astounding! I will always remember this hike as I felt connected to nature and to history.

Gunnison KOA

Are you looking for a family-friendly place to camp or lodge while in the Gunnison area? Then look no further than KOA Gunnison.

With clean restrooms, hot showers, pool tables, shuffleboard and paddle boats this place makes for a great family getaway.

I will say that it did look crowded in the RV area and several of the deluxe cabins face the RV area....so I would definitely recommend the A-frame cabins as they are on the other side of the lake and all to themselves. They are small; comfortable enough for two and very basic. I found it very peaceful and cozy.

**Do bring bug spray as the mosquitoes have been active

(The A-frame cabins)

The atmosphere was one of a satisfying summer evening...as folks grilled out, children rode their bikes, others lounged in their camp chairs, and I stared at the reflection of the sky splashed across the pond....

I would definitely recommend this place for families, couples or individuals who want a few amenities while enjoying an outdoorsy getaway.

**There is also a fenced dog-off-leash area where you can play fetch with your canine family member. Also, the staff were very friendly and the property was clean and well-maintained.

(View from inside A-frame cabin looking across the pond)

There are several places to visit nearby (of which I have written about previously). Click on the links for more information.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Curecanti National Recreation Area

Crested Butte, CO

KOA Gunnison information:

click here for their website

105 County Road 50
Gunnison, CO 81230

Reserve: 800-562-1248
Info: 970-641-1358

Curecanti National Recreation Area

In the heart of Colorado, along the edges of ruggedly beautiful mesas and where the Gunnison River once flowed freely, sits the Curecanti National Recreation Area.  Now three dams (Blue Mesa, Morrow Point and Crystal) form a more tame waterway and beckon outdoorsy folk to come and play. This area is perfect for all kinds of water sports (motorboats, kayaks, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing,etc.), fishing, hiking, camping, picnicking and best of all--nurturing your wild spirit. 

 

Managed by the National Park Service, there are a couple of NPS staffed visitor centers where you can learn more about the landscape and context of the region....or where you can simply stop for refreshments or to check your map. The Elk Creek Visitor Center is along Hwy 50, about 16 miles outside of Gunnison. The Cimarron Visitor Center is along Hwy 50 near the town of Cimarron. Stop in for more information. You can also sign up for a National Park Service guided pontoon boat tour!

 

Recreational Activities Abound!

There are several marinas in the area where you can rent pontoon boats, kayaks and fishing gear. I stopped at the Elk Creek Marina (pictured below) and rented a kayak for a half day. They also have paddleboards available for rent.

There are ten official campgrounds in the Curecanti Recreation Area. Several of them are available by reservation while others are not. Also, due to the arid climate many of the campsites do not provide shade. However, the Dry Gulch Campground (9 sites), Red Creek Campground (group site), East Elk Creek Campground (group site) do have some shade available. For sites that take reservations, you may book online here.

The view as you drive along hwy 50 is refreshing; nothing but mesas, vistas and buttes almost as far as you can see.

Should you decide to get out of your car and hike or picnic, there are many trails and resting points nearby. 

For a list of hiking trails click here.

Also, if you have time remaining, be sure to check out the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park just a few miles to the west.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your friends and go for a float, a swim, a boat ride, a hike, a picnic....or just a good ol' fashioned drive! 

Denver Places to Swim and Cool Off

With the steady sizzling heat here in Denver, I thought a list of swimming holes might be appropriate...most of these places require a fee but to beat the heat...why not? Also, you can check out Denver Parks and Recreation for a list of local rec center pools.

(Disclaimer: Please always use caution and awareness when swimming in rivers/creeks; check that it is safe)

Apex Park and Recreation Facilities

Aurora Reservoir

Bear Creek Lake Park

Boulder Reservoir

Boulder Creek(you can tube down this section also...but beware of unpleasant butt bruises! A lot of rocks. :)

Cherry Creek State Park

Chatfield State Park

Confluence Park
(this seems to be more of an unofficial swimming hole but there are usually people kayaking and playing in the water here, behind REI. However, I don't know how clean the water is here....)

Elitch Gardens

Pirates Cove

Water World

Your local Recreation Center!







(original post: 8/1/08; updated on 7/5/14)

Banjo Billy's Bus Tours

For my 34th birthday I went on a fun, historical tour of Denver. It was a lot of fun learning about the history surrounding me! And Banjo Billy's Bus Tour was not disappointing! The tour guy was very knowledgeable and witty. The bus was decked out like a gypsy's home on wheels as we traveled back in time to the 1800's and the founding of Denver. We learned of gold prospectors, Molly Brown's home (whom apparently would not be too thrilled that everyone these days calls her Molly), brothels across from the Brown Palace, sacred Native American burial sites, and various other tidbits. It was a very interesting and fun time! Also, I highly recommend reservations if you are going in the summer.

For more information:

Banjo Billy Bus Tour

They also do tours in Boulder, as well as, Brewery and private tours.

My Favorite Colorado Hot Springs

Colorado is fortunate to have at least about a dozen popular hot springs...as well as some that are off the beaten path. I thought I would list my favorites for you and also a few that I am hoping to check out in the near future.

Favorite Colorado Hot Springs:
(Click on the underlined title's for links to the websites)

1. Strawberry Hot Springs
(Located in Steamboat Springs)
This place is awesome! I love the way they have kept the natural look and feel. They also have several small but cozy and rustic camping concoctions. Also, be advised that after dark is "clothing optional" soaking.

2. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs
(Located in Nathrop...between Salida and Buena Vista)
I enjoy these springs because they are in one of my favorite areas in Colorado. After a fun day of camping, hiking, rafting, or four-wheeling this is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. Also, they have a couple of big pools but the coolest part is being able to find a few of the completely natural hot spots on the bank of the river (when the water is not too high0--right next to the commercialized pools.As of 2013, Mt. Princeton Hot Springs is now more of a resort-with an additional lodging facility and private pool for those staying in the lodge.

3. Hot Sulphur Springs
(Located near Granby)
What I like about this place is that there are around a dozen individual pools...some smaller and bigger than others. This can make for a cozy atmosphere if there aren't that many other guests. However, if the place is packed...then it could feel like alot of sardines in a can....but usually you can find a nice little pool for yourself and friends.

4. Indian Hot Springs
(Located in Idaho Springs)
This is probably the closest hot springs from Denver. It is a quick relaxing getaway located in the old mining town of Idaho Springs. One of the cool features of this resort is their Geothermal Caves. Guests can sit in an actual pool inside of a cave. However, one thing to know is that the caves are divided among genders...so...husbands and wives would not be able to go into the caves together...and note that bathing suits are optional (it used to be mandatory NO bathing suits; glad that has changed).. There are private pools and there is also a main pool.


5. Glenwood Springs Hot Springs
(Located in Glenwood Springs)
This resort is one of the main attractions to the town of Glenwood Springs. It lies right in the heart of town and can often be seen full of happy guests and swimmers. This is one HUGE hot spring pool! This offers more of a communal and open space for children and swimmers.There are actually two large pools that from a distance look like one large pool; one averages around 90 degrees (more of the swimming/active pool) and the other is around 102 degrees. Also, nearby is the Yampah Vapor Caves where you can also spend a day relaxing and steaming.

6. Cottonwood Hot Springs
This is a small but cute commercial hot spring with a handful of pools. A nice quaint oasis near Buena Vista and Cottonwood Pass. As of 2014, they have added some additional lodging facilities.


A few that I want to eventually check out:

7. Pagosa Hot Springs
(Pagosa Springs)

8. Orvis Hot Springs
(Ridgeway)

9. Conundrum Natural Hot Spring
(off the beaten path hike near Aspen)


For some other hot springs that I have not mentioned, check out the Colorado Hot Springs Enthusiast Blog here.

Palisade; Colorado's Wine Country

When you think of Colorado you probably don't immediately envision images of grapes on the vine or peach orchards. But in Palisade, Colorado that is exactly what you can find. Although there are small vineyards sprinkled throughout Colorado, the major concentration are in the sun-kissed valley of Palisade. Surrounded by mesas, in what is known as Grand Valley, Palisade is a quaint and savory experience.

Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply want something to do this weekend, there is pleasure for all in this valley of produce. Palisade, is home to many annual festivals: music festivals, bike tours, and of course their famous peach festival.

A sample of  Palisade wineries:

Maison La Belle Vie

Garfield Estates Vineyards

Canyon Wind Cellars

Meadery of the Rockies

Palisade Brewery Company

Grand River Vineyards

Colorado Cellars Vineyards

DeBeque Canyon

There are a few places to lodge in the area but even more lodging options about ten minutes away in Grand Junction. For nearby lodging:

Wine Country Inn

A Divine Thyme Bed and Breakfast

Vistas and Vineyards Bed and Breakfast

I loved the Vin De Peche sampling at this lovely French winery. 

It was like drinking a refreshing taste of summer.

Palisade; a beautiful outdoor experience.

Enjoyed the V2 sampling at Garfield Estates.

How to dispose of your camping propane bottles; recycle!

With as much camping as Coloradoans enjoy, I could probably start my own propane bottle recycle program. But I'd rather spend my time outdoors! So, if you are like me and have a multitude of empty camping propane bottles lying around, here are some ideas as to where to properly dispose of them:

**Many places will gladly recycle them for you but for a small fee (like $5/bottle).

1) AAA Propane
Last year, after camping season, I found this place and have been forever grateful! It is a small, no frills, propane company located in Lakewood and Wheatridge. The manager at the Lakewood facility was super friendly and very glad to see people recycling. He told me that there is NO CHARGE to drop off my tanks whenever I want. Needless to say, I'll be seeing him again at the end of this camping season.
***Updated 7/19/17--just found out the location at 2651 W. Hampden has closed. I will call the one in Wheat Ridge and see if they are as friendly and helpful.

2) Your local waste disposal service--Check and see if your city/county has a hazardous waste disposal service. For Lakewood (Jefferson County) they prefer you take your propane bottles to Rooney Road Recycle Center (there is a small fee).

3) **Updated on 6/24/16: I just read that if you camp at Moraine Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park that they have a small propane tank recycle bin near the entrance.

Before finding AAA Propane, I called several other propane rental companies and like I said earlier, they would gladly take my camping bottles off my hands but for a small fee.

People used to tell me that I could drop my propane tanks off at the local fire department but this really isn't true.

So, if you have a collection of small camper propane bottles around--take them to AAA Propane!

Enjoy camping season!

Colorado Historical Sites

Denver was founded amidst the backdrop of the Old West. If you are fascinated with Native American culture, pioneer and mountainman stories, 1800's architecture, gold mining folklore or many other facets of what we have come to call the American West then gallop on over to many of the Denver/front range historical sites and museums. Here is only a sample:

 Historic Houses or Lodges:

  The Four Mile House or The Seventeen Mile House
Discover a couple of special "mile" houses that dotted the dusty trails like that of the Cherokee Trail or Smoky Hill Trail in what is now Denver and Aurora. I have written previously about Denver's oldest house; the Four Mile House. But Seventeen Mile is also now open to the public. Each of these houses served as pit stops for those traveling west toward Denver City in the mid 1800's.

Astor House Museum
The Astor House, built in 1867, was used as a boarding house for miner's and later legislators.

Molly Brown House
 Visit the home of the "unsinkable" Margaret "Molly" Brown

Byer's-Evans House Museum
 Built in 1883, housed prominent Denver family.

Healy House Museum and Dexter Cabin
 A Victorian home and cabin in the historic mining town of Leadville, CO.

 The Stanley Hotel
Built in 1909, Freelan Stanley was one of the main financial contributors to the development of Estes Park. His hotel is now famous for ghost activity and a couple of movie productions.

Hiwan Homestead Museum
 A beautiful log lodge built in 1893.

Trujillo Homestead
One of the first permanent Latino settlements in Colorado, built in the mid 1800's.

Historic Forts:

Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
Bent's fort was at the epicenter of trade along the Sante Fe Trail. Charles Bent acted as a middleman between many Native American tribes and mountainmen/trappers during the early to mid 1800's. Many councils took place at Bent's fort.

Fort Vasquez Museum
A former fur trading post north of Denver.

Ft. Garland Museum and Pike's Stockade
An 1858 fort supervised by Kit Carson.

Regional/Local History Museums:

History Colorado Center

Denver Art Museum
(They have an amazing section on early Native American life, as well as, an intriguing  American West art exhibit).
Lakewood Heritage Center

Littleton History Museum

El Pueblo History Museum

Ute Indian Museum

 Historic Sites:

Sand Creek Massacre Site
A horrific site where hundreds of Native Americans were caught off guard and slaughtered. (No other way to say it). 
Amache Internment Camp
During WW2, many Japanese-Americans were relocated to internment camps to be sure they would not retaliate against the American government during the war. 

 Historic Mining Sites:

 Mollie Kathleen Mine
Argo Mine
Country Boy Mine

 National Parks
 (Remnants of early Native American and/or Ancestral Puebloan life can be seen at many of Colorado's National Parks...here are my favorite in the history category)

Mesa Verde National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park
Dinosaur National Monument

Historic Towns:
(Most of Colorado's towns are themselves historic sites  but here are some examples)
Black Hawk and Central City
Leadville
Georgetown
Glenwood Springs
Manitou Springs
Idaho Springs
Breckenridge
Cripple Creek
South Park
Silverton

There are many other historic sites, museums and stories to find! Get out and explore! :)

My Favorite Colorado Hiking Spots

The summer season is almost upon us which means it is time to dust off the old hiking boots! Here are some personal faves:

1) Rocky Mountain National Park

Is there a National Park that isn't beautiful year round? Well, summertime highlights Rocky's abundance of hiking trails and iconic views! Pick any trail in this park and I doubt you'll be disappointed. One of the most hiked areas is Bear Lake. There are multiple pristine lakes in this area to hike near, as well as, ascending mountain views. On the way up to Bear Lake is another favorite area with several waterfalls; called Glacier Gorge. For a less populated experience head over to the west side area of the park (either driving the picturesque Trail Ridge Road or entering through Grand Lake). Another beautiful but less traveled area is the Wild Basin area--check it out! One note of caution: check the website for weather or road conditions due to past flooding and weather updates.
website: http://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm

2) Hanging Lake

Definitely one of the most famous and dreamy mountain lakes in Colorado. I've posted on this hike before but it is worth mentioning again. Imagine a clear, emerald blue-green tiny lake with a few fallen trees....fashioned like an Ansel Adams photograph....and that is what Hanging Lake means to me. Also, it is a very popular hike in the summer so go early to beat the crowds! Tip: it is indeed a hike, bring water.
website: http://hikingincolorado.org/hang.html

3) The Colorado Trail

The Colorado Trail is a 500 mile stretch encompassing the essence of Colorado's Rocky Mountains! It is divided into 28 segments and varies in elevation and level of difficulty. Some folks take 4 to 6 weeks to hike all the way through while some do a little bit at a time over their lifespan. You can catch part of the trail (segments 5/6) at Kenosha Pass (about 40 min outside Denver...and this section is highly popular in the fall as there are several aspen groves in this section). Also, another segment that is pretty cool is segment 13 (North Cottonwood Creek Road to Chalk Creek Trailhead). Nearby are two popular hot springs to soak in. Also, leashed dogs ARE allowed on the trail except for segment 1 (Waterton Canyon) so as to protect the bighorn sheep habitat in that region.
website: http://www.coloradotrail.org/

4) Great Sand Dunes National Park

Amazing hikes, views, and photo opportunities abound at this park! Hike in the dunes, on the dunes, around the dunes....just seriously go see the tallest dunes in North America--in Colorado! However, in the summer the sand is very hot so definitely forget your flip flops and grab your boots instead! Seriously, they are like no sand dunes I have ever seen! Nestled beside the Sangre de Cristo mountains many trails abound! And many views to explore! For more trip planning ideas see my blog posted here.
website: http://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm

5) Collegiate Peaks Region

This area was mentioned in number 3 as part of segment 13 of the Colorado Trail....and this region is actually my favorite area in the summer. Have you always wished to have Ivy League blood in you? Well, now you can! Mt. Princeton, Mt. Harvard, or Mt. Yale; take your pick! Hot springs, rivers, recreational fun galore in this part of Colorado! Also, gem mining is popular in the region as agates and rubies have been found here.
website: http://www.coloradoswildareas.com/collegiate-peaks/


Honorable mentions closer to Denver:

Staunton State Park--Say hello to Colorado's newest addition to the State Park system! About 45 minutes west of Denver, near Conifer, is a tree hugger's paradise! Hike in solitude beneath conifer trees and mountain blue birds.

Pike National Forest--Hike and camp surrounded by rock outcrops and mountain pine trees in this calming nature escape.

Mt. Falcon Open Space--Scenic views, historic sites, and open space characterize this park. Just 35 minutes west of Denver.

Best of Denver's Brunch Scene

Top Picks for Denver's Brunch Scene:


1) Sassafras American Eatery

Sassafras is a Southern Cajun delight! Nestled in a cozy brick house with a myriad of comfort food brunch ideas; your lips will smack and your taste buds will thank you. Oh, and did I mention they have grit sticks?! So yummy and paired with New Orleans style jumbo shrimp! Get ready for some decadent and quaint down home goodness!

2) Snooze; An AM Eatery

There's a reason this place is so popular; its got everything--ambiance, wide variety of menu choices, creative and scrumptious pancake flavors, and booze. 'Nuff said. Try 'em--you'll love Snooze...well, you'll love everything except the waiting list.

3) Jelly Cafe

The Jelly Cafe has an 80's and modern hipster vibe to it. For an artsy and unique brunch experience step inside Jelly Cafe and try their Salmon Eggs Benedict or their different array of doughnut bites! With a wholesome variety of egg scrambles, pancakes, french toast and benedicts--you are sure to find something to your liking!

4) Annie's Cafe and Bar

Annie's is a cozy cafe with a lot of neighborhood flavor. A wide ranging menu and cozy ambiance makes Annie's a comfy place to return to again and again. I personally love the lunch boxes from the 1980's that hang near the bar area. I've seen them a million times but every visit I recall them each again. So grab a cup of coffee and relax at this local favorite.

5) Racines Restaurant

Racine's is my "go to" place--for any meal--the ambiance is always cozy and satisfying and the food is always tasty. Whether it is breakfast or dinner--they have a menu guaranteed to please everyone. I like that it can be a casual or fancy affair; depending on what kind of experience you want to make it. It is a place that is like a home away from home for those who frequent this lovely local hot spot. And congratulations on being in business for 30 years this year!

6) Cake Crumbs Bakery

Some friends recently introduced me to Cake Crumbs. This little-known bakery sits back in the historic Park Hill neighborhood. They feature cake, cupcakes, fresh baked goods and warm breakfast items. This place is perfect for when you wake up on a Sunday morning and want to grab some coffee and breakfast and experience the freshness of a new day; and of being alive. Check 'em out.

Camping Along Guanella Pass

GUANELLA PASS AREA CAMPING

I have written previously about exploring Guanella Pass during the fall season. It is a beautiful drive to tour the aspen leaves amidst a mountainous backdrop. In addition, Guanella Pass is also home to many popular camping spots and hiking destinations. Guanella Pass runs between I-70 (at Georgetown, CO) and US-285 (at Grant, CO). During the winter months, the road is not always open all of the way through so be sure to check the road conditions online at CDOT.

There are various camping locations all along Guanella Pass (also known as HWY 62, or Guanella Pass Scenic Byway).

Along the pass there are some first come, first served "unofficial" camping spots. Also, there are several designated campsites where you are allowed to have a fire (inside the designated fire ring), pit toilets, and picnic tables. And there are dispersed camping sights (please check the rules and regulations for dispersed camping).

Also, something else to know is that camping along Guanella Pass is near Mt. Bierstadt and Mt. Evans. So, if you want to camp and get up early to hike a 14er (what we Coloradoans refer to as mountains that surpass 14,000 feet) this area is ideal for such a venture.

For designated campsites check out (click on the links below):

Guanella Pass Campground


Clear Lake Campground


Burning Bear Campground

For a complete list of campgrounds located along Guanella Pass check out Pike National Forest Campgrounds website.

Dispersed Camping Guidelines
http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/fishlake/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5121831&width=full


Mt. Bierstadt Info:
https://14ers.com/routemain.php?route=bier1&peak=Mt.%2520Bierstadt

St. Mary's Glacier

Hard to believe that barely an hour drive from Denver and you can hike up to a glacier. St. Mary's Glacier is one of the first attractions I visited when I first moved here to Colorado. It is so close town and just off of I-70 (well, just about twenty minutes from I-70). Heading west out of Denver take exit 238 which is the next exit after Idaho Springs...and is marked: St. Mary's/Alice. Follow this road (Fall River Road) passed the town of Alice just a little ways and you will see a parking lot on the left for the glacier hike. The first couple of times I went it was free to park on the side of the road....however, I recently went last weekend and found out it now costs $5.00 to park (but there is a vault toilet now).

Anyway, it is mostly an inclined hike 3/4 of a mile to the base of the glacier. I like it because it gets my heart rate up but isn't too strenuous. Then once you get to the base you can explore and even continue further up the face of the glacier. The trees are reminiscent of Lord of the Rings; as they are bent, blown, and partially barren from the wind.

I really enjoy visiting St. Mary's in the winter as it makes for an excellent snowshoeing experience. During the other seasons, the terrain is pretty rocky on the initial ascent. Folks also ski, sled, and slide down the glacier but be careful and use caution as always.

So, if you want an easy day hike with excellent views and a great excuse to eat at Beaujo's in Idaho Springs afterwards...check out St. Mary's glacier!!

Four Mile Historic Park; Home to the Oldest House in Denver

Back in the old days people heading west into Denver would find several "mile" houses along the various stagecoach trails (e.g. Smoky Hill Trail, Cherokee Trail, etc.). Each house represented the number of miles to the city center. For instance the Four Mile House was four miles from downtown and the Nine Mile House was nine miles out...and so on. Only two of these mile houses are still standing in Colorado today; the Four Mile House and the Seventeen Mile House.

The Four Mile House came into existence in 1858, when two brothers with the last name Brantner built a log house that became a popular stagecoach stop on the way into Denver. Eventually the brothers sold the house to a business savvy widow named Mary Cawker, who became the first to run the place as a sort of hotel for those traveling west. She and her teenage kids would hang out in the parlor while the men would drink and play cards in the tavern. After the Cherry Creek flooded in 1864, Cawker sold the property to an up and coming couple, Levi and Millie Booth. The Booth's added a brick addition onto the log house along with finely furnished Victorian era furniture (which is currently on display at the Four Mile House). The Four Mile House is exactly four miles away from downtown Denver, from the intersection of Colfax and Broadway. Folks would head into town to gather supplies and then head further west in search of gold!

Nowadays, the Four Mile House is a part of the Four Mile Historic Park and is open to the public for house tours, cultural history education, and Colorado heritage education. The park makes for a nice family outing, school field trip, photography session, scenic special event host, and overall fun learning experience.

So, get in touch with your pioneer spirit and come take a tour of the oldest house in Denver!



Four Mile Historic Park Hours

April-Sept. (Wed-Fri 12-4, Sat and Sun 10-4)

Oct-Mar (Wed-Sun 12-4)

Every First Friday of the month is FREE!

Call ahead to find out if wagon rides are available for the day you want to visit.

Websites:
Home Page: http://www.fourmilepark.org/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FMHP

(Sources: Information contained in this blog entry is taken from information dispersed from FMHP. Photos taken are property of this blog writer.)

Barr Lake State Park; A Bird Watcher's Paradise.

 

Colorado is home to several pairs of bald eagles that stay year round. However, the primary viewing season for bald eagles is January through April. Around mid-February the eagles start to lay their eggs and guard their nests for their eaglets.

One place that I enjoy watching bald eagles perch, nest and soar is Barr Lake State Park. Within the park is a wildlife refuge where many species of birds and wildlife are thriving. Be aware that separate rules govern the refuge area (e.g. dogs are prohibited within this part of the park, etc.). Barr Lake State Park is a bird watchers paradise! During the appropriate times of year you can expect to find eagles, hawks, great horned owls, and even osprey!

 

(Above: Two bald eagles sit atop a cottonwood tree)

From May to September the Eagle Express can carry up to 13 passengers on a naturalist guided tour of the refuge. Make your reservations today! Or plan to come and trek around on your own. Don't forget your binoculars and camera's for some spectacular wildlife viewing!

 

(Above: hawk feeding on carrion. Below: hundreds of Canadian Geese fly from one side of the lake to another.)

 

 

(Below: a creative way to display some hay.)

Lily Lake and Lily Mountain Trail

 

Upon a recent visit to Estes Park, a local referred me to Lily Mountain Trailhead. This mountain hike borders Rocky Mountain National Park and is right next to Lily Lake (located within the NPS borders). One of the many great things about this hike is that it is dog friendly...although your dog must remain on the leash (according to the sign). [Sidenote: I recently bought a dog and have since realized that there are not any National Parks (that I know of) where dogs are welcome due to trying to preserve the land and the safety of wildlife. So, the fact that I can hike right next to the NPS with my dog was a HUGE delight!]. Anyway, the Lily Mountain trail meanders up and around to a beautiful panoramic view of Estes Park. There are many rock outcrops and beautiful evergreen trees along the way. After you hike enjoy a picnic at Lily Lake!

 

Last year, 2012, Rocky Mountain National Park partnered with National Geographic for the annual Bioblitz. Lily Lake was one of the lakes sampled for aquatic macroinvertebrates. And of course, plenty of lively creatures thrive in this pristine lake....which makes for great fly fishing if you are interested! Apparently, the more diverse sample of aquatic species indicates the level of health of an area. Conclusion: the Lily Lake area is thriving with healthy wildlife--nature that is seen and even unseen with the naked eye.


So, the next time you visit the Estes Park area check out Lily Lake and Lily Mountain Trail.

Estes Park; My Home Away From Home.

 

I never get tired of visiting Estes Park. It is the first place I longed to visit when I first moved to Denver ten years ago. And it is the place where I continue to return.

 

 My fascination with Estes (the nickname used by many Coloradoans) began when my parents shared that it was a camping spot they used on their first road trip together back in the 70's. As a child of divorce, I treasure tiny nuggets of my parents lost nostalgia...and therefore believe I was drawn to Rocky Mountain National Park like a lost camper retracing their steps.

Nowadays, I come back month after month simply to be, to rest, to play. It is a familiar stomping ground of which I have grown quite fond of its beauty, wildlife, and amenities.

There are alot of other places in Colorado I still want to explore. But when I need a quick, refreshing, intimate getaway I continue to return to Estes Park.




Helpful Links:
http://estes-park.com/

http://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm

http://www.rockymtnresorts.com/

Nature Photography

If you are interested in any local Colorado photography...check out the website below:

http://jessie-foster.fineartamerica.com

Also, the following links might be helpful for more general photography:

For nature photos:
http://fineartamerica.com/art/photographs/nature/all"

For wildlife photos:
http://fineartamerica.com/art/photographs/wildlife/all"

Thanks for looking!

Elk Meadow Dog Off-leash Park

I just found my new favorite dog park! I have been to Elk Meadow Park in Evergreen, Colorado before but I didn't know there is a section designated for dogs off leash!! The entrance to the dog area is off of Stagecoach Blvd. I love being able to hike in the mountains while allowing my dog to roam free (and I am not breaking any rules). There are several trails and there is also a fenced area. I really enjoyed this place.

**My only  slight concern is the traffic near the parking lot....and of course potential for wildlife encounters. But otherwise a GREAT place for both (wo)mankind and dogs to roam free!