Toni & Dylan
Things To Do
Garden of the Gods Park
We visited Garden of the Gods in July 2020 and loved the red rocks and unique landscapes! There are several rock formations in this location, and you can see incredible views with only a short hike. This area is accessible for wheelchairs and has optional trails up to the top of one large formation.
Estes Park
This area is GORGEOUS and we definitely recommend spending a day checking out this region! Check out Estes, the Stanley Hotel (from the movie "The Shining"), Bridal Veil Falls, and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Boulder Creek Path
This creek is a beautiful spot to stop to soak your feet and rest from a day's drive. The creek water will be frigid this time of year but is shallow enough to roll jeans up and walk in.
Paradise Cove/Guffey Gorge
If you're up for some hiking, this has incredible views! The hike starts with descending rock 'stairs' of different sizes. Once at the bottom, you are in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains and rock formations in the prairie grasslands. Hike across a small pond and start your ascent to the top of the cove. Once at the top, you'll begin a steep descent to the swimming hole hidden on all sides by the massive rocks of the mountain. Once safely at the cove, you'll see a small pond of mountain water and a trail to climb and jump from rocks above. This is a truly special place to see, but would caution anyone on being prepared with bandaids and water bottles. Toni had rocks slip beneath her feet and she did get scraped up on the last hike. That said, there were babies to elderly and animals that made the hike - please use your best judgement.
Doctor's Orders
Did you really think we'd leave this specialty shop off our list of recommendations?! This place has a wide variety of products available. Be sure to check the website before visiting - many shops have cash only requirements. Please also familiarize yourself with and abide by state laws.
Paint Mines
This natural wonder, located about 1 hour east of Co Springs, is truly a sight to see. The colored layers of clay had once been used to make paint by american indians. This formation does require some walking from the parking lot to the mine (this walk includes about 1/4 mile walk to the formation and going up/down the sloped hillside).
The Stanley Hotel
Park and walk these famous hotel grounds. On the main floor, you can visit the lobby and bar area. The ground floor has many restrooms and gift shop. I recommend checking out both levels, as they have movie memorabilia on display.
Grand Lake
This lake is situated in the mountains near Estes/RMNP and is supposed to be a beautiful spot!
Sapphire Point Trail
This location was initially our first choice for wedding location, however we didn't want to have such a long drive the first day. If you've got the time to explore this region, I highly suggest it! Check out Aspen, Breckenridge, and other great ski spots!