11 Must Haves for Tent Camping in Colorado 2025

Car camping in Colorado is often paired with hitting up scenic hiking trails. We prefer to pitch our tents among alpine wildflowers, making for luxurious and colorful summer camping in Colorado. But we’ve also been known to camp in early fall or late spring too. For over 20 years, we’ve been tent camping with kids and teens, but we’ve learned a thing or two. It all boils down to this: do not skimp on comfort or great coffee. With that being said, here are our top eleven must-haves for camping in Colorado.

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campingTanya Raedeke
Tackling Colorado 13ers: Five Top Hikes We Love in 2025

With towering peaks, breathtaking vistas, and a sense of accomplishment like no other, conquering majestic 13ers in Colorado is a thrilling adventure. These lesser-known mountains are just a notch below the famous 14ers, but don't let them fool you – they offer their own unique challenges and rewards. Lace up your hiking boots and strap on your daypack! Push your boundaries and test your endurance on some of the best 13ers in Colorado.

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Tanya Raedeke
7 Must-Try Coffee Shops in Colorado Springs: Your Guide to COS Coffee

We love our coffee after a great hike, especially in cold months. Coffee shops in Colorado Springs offer a diverse mix, from cozy downtown spots to hidden gems near trails. Grab an espresso before heading out or enjoy a long coffee break in a welcoming spot. For those who prefer tea, local tea shops serve exciting blends in relaxing atmospheres, perfect for unwinding after a hike. This guide highlights the best coffee shops, tea shops, and nearby trails, so you can fuel up and explore the best of Colorado Springs in one adventure.

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Melodie Monberg
7 Insider Tips for Hiking Colorado in Fall: Avoid the Crowds and Savor the Season

After almost 30 years of living in Colorado, I’ve learned a thing or two about fall hiking here. Our fall season is short, and it can get crowded fast. But don’t worry! I’m sharing 7 tips to help you experience the stunning peak foliage in Colorado without getting caught in the traffic. Together, we’ll dive into how to make the most of Colorado in fall, with insider advice on how to find the best fall trails and enjoy the season without the crowds.

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Melodie Monberg
The Best Breweries Breckenridge Colorado: Where to Grab a Great Beer

After long hikes and winter adventures, Melody and her husband love unwinding with Breckenridge Brewery beers and other delicious Colorado brews from their favorite local spots. Their love for Colorado native beers began in 2000 on their first mountain trip, and they keep coming back to these same breweries. Each of their top picks among the breweries in Breckenridge and beyond offers unique ales made with local ingredients, making every visit special. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a post-hike pint and soaking up the atmosphere at these memorable spots!

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Melodie Monberg
Pack Smart: Essentials for Backpacking Trip

Ready to hit the trails in Colorado’s jaw-dropping backcountry? Finding the right essentials for backpacking trip in Colorado, whether you're going solo or with a group, just got easier! Download our FREE Ultimate Backpack Checklist and get ahead of the game. From our personal mishaps (because we’ve all been there) to the tricks that keep us moving, you’ll find 10 pro tips straight from locals who’ve trekked it all! Whether it’s your first adventure or your twentieth, we’ve got everything you need to enjoy the wild beauty of Colorado to the fullest. Let’s make packing a breeze—your backpack checklist is just a click away!

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Melodie Monberg
Winter Hikes in Leadville CO That Will Take Your Breath Away

Leadville, Colorado, is the perfect destination for a winter adventure, offering over 60 groomed trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. When looking for the best winter hikes in Colorado for snowshoes, Leadville’s unique charm and local vibe make it a must-visit. And for something extra special, don't miss the chance to book an overnight yurt adventure—an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the area. Seasoned pro or just starting out, Leadville winter activities provide an epic outdoor escape.

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Melodie Monberg
Zirkel Circle Trail: The Unmatchable Colorado Hike

For visitors looking to explore the stunning scenery found hiking in Steamboat Springs, the Zirkel Circle Trail Loop is a must-do. An 11-mile route takes you along Gold Creek, offering spectacular views of Mt Zirkel and Big Angus overlooking Lake Gilpin. Whether Zirkel Circle backpacking or day hiking, this Mount Zirkel Colorado hike should be at the top of your must do hiking list!

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Melodie Monberg
Hit the Trails! The Best Hiking Spots in Colorado Springs North Cheyenne Canyon

North Cheyenne Canyon is a local gem, packed with incredible trails that make it one of the best hiking places in Colorado Springs. From pine-scented paths to aspen-lined routes, this area is a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors. And if you’re up for a one-of-a-kind Colorado Springs waterfall hike, we’ve got a hidden gem to share—one with history, breathtaking views, and a route that feels like stepping back in time.

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Snowy Adventures Ahead: 7 Colorado Winter Hikes You Can’t Miss

Let’s escape the ordinary. Get ready for a whimsical journey on the 7 best Colorado Springs winter hikes from a local! Forget the tourist traps—we’re diving into hidden treasures, all within an hour’s jaunt of the city. These Colorado winter hikes are the year-round gift that keeps on giving, but in winter, they’re pure magic. Fewer crowds, more peace, and plenty of solo hiking await. If you’re searching for the most scenic hiking spots in Colorado Springs, it’s time to leave the beaten path behind and embrace the wild, wonderful trails that shine in the snow.

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Melodie Monberg
15 Happy Hiking Spots in Colorado for Families: Adventures Kids Will Love

Colorado Springs is packed with incredible hiking spots in Colorado, and this list features 15 of the best family friendly hikes. From easy strolls to adventure-filled trails, these routes offer stunning views, kid-approved exploration zones, and secret spots to make your family hike extra fun. Plus, we’ve got insider tips to keep little hikers happy and trails exciting—because a great day outside starts with the right plan!

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Dressing for the Trail: Hiker Clothes for Any Colorado Adventure

Are you wondering what to wear for hikes in Colorado? We’ve got you covered! As seasoned Colorado hikers, we’re sharing our go-to hiker clothes for every season. Colorado’s weather may be unpredictable, but your gear doesn’t have to be. Use our checklist to find the best clothes for hiking year-round, plus get expert tips on tackling every season—whether it’s layering up for winter or staying cool on summer trails!

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Melodie Monberg
North Kaibab to Bright Angel Trail—One of the Best HIkes in the Grand Canyon

You must add this bucket-list trek—the Grand Canyon’s North Kaibab Trail to Bright Angel Trail! This 24-mile route, with 10,000 feet of elevation change, reveals a side of the canyon few ever see. Passing the Colorado River and Grand Canyon Indian Garden, it’s easily one of the best hikes in the Grand Canyon. If you’ve got the grit, you can tackle it in a day. Here’s how to make it happen!

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Melodie Monberg Comment
9 Tips for Cheap Colorado Skiing

Gear up for wallet-friendly mountain magic in Colorado! Dive into the wisdom of a seasoned local who's called Colorado home for over 25 years and unlock the secrets of where to enjoy cheap Colorado skiing at some of the most affordable ski resorts in Colorado. We've got the inside scoop with these 9 tips for budget skiing so you can glide down the slopes, not your savings. Ski cheap Colorado style and have a blast!

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Melodie Monberg
Things to Do in Colorado Springs with Families

As local residents, we can attest that things to do in Colorado Springs, CO, are a blast for families, with our list of over 55 activities—many of them totally free! While you can’t miss iconic spots like hiking Pikes Peak and exploring the eclectic Art Walk, we’ve got a few local secrets on our list too. Snap selfies galore, enjoy brewery tours for the parents, and maybe even visit a real castle or step in the shoes of an Air Force cadet. This sunny city has endless things to do in Colorado Springs with kids, offering family activities year-round for an affordable, fun-filled getaway. From visiting the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo to discovering fun things to do with kids in Colorado Springs—like hiking to a preacher’s pulpit —the hardest part is narrowing down your must-dos for Colorado Springs family fun!

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Top 9 Colorado Springs Hikes Within 30 Minutes of Downtown

Since we’re locals, we are often asked where to head to for the best Colorado Springs hikes.

There are so many fantastic hiking trails and outdoor recreation spots, it can be hard to figure out the best place to start. While Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak (the only Colorado Springs fourteener), and nearby Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs immediately come to mind as some of the best hikes in Colorado Springs, these hikes deserve attention all on their own.

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Adventure Book Bonanza: 2026 Must-Read Journeys

Wondering what makes the best adventure book of 2024? Whether it’s uncovering the tallest trees in the USA or embarking on a heartfelt journey through South America, these books recommended for 2025 will take you on a ride you won’t forget. Ready to explore tales that blend nature, politics, and perseverance? You won’t want to miss these!

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Melodie Monberg
Glenwood Hot Springs in Colorado: The Ultimate Winter Escape

Imagine a place where snow-dusted trails lead to jaw-dropping vistas, where every meal feels like it was crafted by a chef with a secret superpower, and where steamy pools of healing mineral water soothe every winter chill. Glenwood Hot Springs in Colorado is that place—a winter paradise that ticks every box. Whether you’re hiking the scenic trails of Red Hill for epic views with your besties, soaking in the hot springs in winter for some much-needed romance, or splashing around with the kids in the family-friendly pools, this mountain town offers something magical for everyone. Winter weekends don’t get better than this.

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Melodie Monberg
19 Can’t-Miss Breckenridge Colorado Hikes to Add to Your List

Ever wondered about the best places to hike in Breckenridge? Dive into this local's guide to Summit County! Scale high mountains, traverse stunning Colorado trails, and discover alpine lakes framed by vibrant wildflowers. Curious about the thrill of hiking around Breckenridge? With 19 breathtaking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks, we’ve got something for every level of hiker. Afterward, unwind with delicious meals at favorite local spots, a cold pint at the best Breckenridge breweries, and the perfect place to stay for a cozy retreat.

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Melodie Monberg