Rachel & Mel
Things To Do
Rocky Mountain National Park
Mel worked as a fishing guide in and around RMNP through vet school and this area is very special to us. The national park itself is breathtaking and provides ample opportunities to hike to lakes and waterfalls, fish for wild trout, and see wildlife such as elk and moose. If you can only swing a short visit, we recommend driving over Trail Ridge Road between Estes Park and Grand Lake. This could be used as a "scenic route" to or from Denver and Beaver Creek, but give yourself a full travel day. Estes Park has numerous touristy activities and is home to the famous Stanley Hotel (where we ate at right before our engagement), which was Stephen King's inspiration for "The Shining". Grand Lake is a quieter town with incredible access to the more remote sections of the national park and the Colorado River.
Vail Valley Anglers
Fly fishing and summertime in Colorado are almost synonymous, and this activity has played an integral part of our relationship- early dates, big vacations, and pivotal moments in our journey together have been centered around chasing trout. Vail Valley Anglers has a great reputation as an outfitter in the area. Keep in mind if you are wanting to fish around Rocky Mountain National Park, hit up Mel's former employers at Kirk's Fly Shop! If you want to fish DIY, Mel is more than happy to give you some recommendations.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks is undoubtedly one of the most famous music venues in the United States. If you're here for several days, catching a show here is a must. The amphitheatre and surrounding area is also a public park with hiking/biking trails and the Red Rocks and Colorado Music Halls of Fame. There are often art exhibits, and viewing a sunrise from the amphitheatre is on many people's Colorado bucket list!
St. Mary's Glacier
If you want a quick hike to see some snow (in August), St. Mary's Glacier is relatively easy access and is right off of I-70. This hike is under two miles and provides great views of the Front Range.