New Year’s resolutions are much
easier to keep when they involve things you want to do. Swapping out dieting
for traveling and resolving to feast on the sites rather than fill up on kale
is an inspiring and exciting way to ring in 2022. And you don’t even have to
leave Colorado to do it!
There are all sorts of fabulous
places to go right here in our state, including the following dynamite
destinations:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is among the most
famous national parks in the country, and for good reason. The park is marked
by rising peaks, alpine lakes, flourishing meadows, and lush forests filled with
deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, pikas, mountain lions, bears, bobcats, and more.
Depending on the season, it offers snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, tours,
hiking, and scenic drives.
Rocky Mountain National Park is located near Estes Park,
which means you can always make it a double-destination day and swing by the Stanley Hotel on your way in or out of town. On the rare occasion, you might spot a
mountain goat and a mountain ghost.
Garden of the Gods
Located in Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods
is a
registered National Natural Landmark. The unique landscape of burnt red rock,
balancing boulders, and stone pillars offers the perfect photo op for nature
lovers and beauty seekers. While you’re there, enjoy mountain biking, horseback
riding, rock climbing, or casual strolls.
The trails are quick, undemanding, and offer tons of variety.
With 15 miles of trails to choose from, you’ll certainly get your steps in.
The Million Dollar Highway
The
Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile
stretch of US Highway 550 extending from Silverton to Ouray. It’s a challenging
drive, with steep drop-offs and mountainside hugs, but well worth the effort:
it showcases some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Driving
one-way takes approximately 45 minutes if you go on a clear day when the roads
are dry, snow-free, and safer.
It’s rumored that the Million Dollar Highway gets its name
because it cost a million dollars per mile to build. However, the name also pays
homage to the breathtaking views it’s known for.
Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park
Arizona might have the Grand Canyon, but this is Colorado’s
rebuttal. The Black Canyon is courtesy of the Gunnison River
and millions of years of carving and erosion. It offers depths greater than
2,000 feet and plenty of things to do.
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing,
and backcountry camping while summer ushers in climbing, hiking, and fishing.
The night sky lights up year-round and features some of the best stargazing in
the region.
Buena Vista
Buena Vista is a quick two-hour drive from the Denver
Metro Area and the perfect destination for those who love the outdoors (as well
as those who only sort of like them). It’s a destination filled with
family-friendly activities, rustic landscapes, and hillside thrills.
Summit a 14er, explore a ghost town, soak in the hot springs,
go four-wheeling, hop on a bike, or raft upon the Arkansas River. During winter
months, you can go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, or
snowmobiling.
If you’re keener on the indoors, the Buena Vista nightlife
won’t disappoint. It offers plenty of dining options, eclectic shopping, and a
thriving music scene.
The above destinations remind us that Colorado is smack dab
in the middle of Mother Nature’s playground. As 2022 rolls in, resolve to
rejoice in the beauty all around.
FoxRidge Apartments in Longmont offers a quiet residential location,
mountain views, and modern amenities. We’re the perfect place to call home.
Contact us to learn more.