Maroon Bells and All the Ways To See These Beauts in 2026

The Maroon Bells of Colorado may as well be the state’s poster child for enticing people to her breathtaking Rocky Mountain views. Hiking to Maroon Bells, or through them if you're an avid hiker, is at the top of many Colorado bucket lists. Head to the Aspen - Snowmass area for hikes to Maroon Lake, Crater Lake, Buckskin Pass, or the challenging Four Pass Loop, and learn other cool things to do after you hop off the hiking trail. Learn the best time to hike to Maroon Bells, plus super helpful pro tips and reminders for the hikes.

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Million Dollar Highway and Hiking in Ouray

This gorgeous town in Colorado is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and features world-class hiking trails that are just waiting to be explored. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, there's a trail here that will suit your skill level and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to discover the beauty of Ouray!

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Kenosha Pass Hikes We Love for 2026

Hiking trails near Kenosha Pass offer widespread vistas, wildflowers, wildlife sightings, creek crossings, forests, aspen groves, waterfalls, lakes and a chance to hop on the famous Colorado Trail. Kenosha Pass is a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains of central Colorado and tops out at an elevation 10,000 feet. The pass is located on US Hwy 285, just southwest of Denver, Colorado and northeast of the town of Fairplay, Colorado. Other small towns nearby Kenosha Pass include Jefferson, Bailey, Conifer, and Grant, all serving as gateways to many fantastic Colorado hiking trails. This area is well-known for its colorful groves of aspen making it a popular place for hikes and drives, especially on the weekends in late September through early October.

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mountain townsTanya Raedeke
Southern Colorado Road Trip 2026

This 2024 southwest Colorado road trip takes you to the best spots for hiking in the San Juan Mountains and beyond. Head up to adrenaline filled mountain passes, explore three national parks, many natural hot springs, mining ghost towns, waterfalls, and jagged Alp-like mountains. Spend a week paddling, hiking, biking, climbing, off-roading, canyoning, rafting, fishing, and more fun attractions in southwestern Colorado.

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How to Hike Crested Butte to Aspen Through Iconic Maroon Bells

Aspen and Crested Butte are gateways to some of the best Colorado hikes. More specifically the trails for hiking the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness dole out jaw-dropping views and wildflowers everywhere you turn. We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about hiking between Aspen and Crested Butte. No small endeavor, many love to hike the West Maroon Pass one way, then follow up the next day by hiking by via the East Maroon Pass. Like a lot of outdoor adventure, this two day hike takes lots of planning ahead of time, but it’s worth all your effort. Here’s how to check off some of the best Colorado hikes.

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Aspen, Crested ButteTanya Raedeke
Crested Butte Hikes with Stunning Views: 14 Trails to Explore in 2026

Hiking in Crested Butte among the best dressed Colorado wildflowers out there can only be rivaled by sleeping under a star-studded night sky. Camping in Crested Butte —on the outskirts of this gorgeous mountain town — puts you that much closer to endless outdoor recreation. With so many stunning summer things to do in Crested Butte like hiking, mountain biking, SUP paddling, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, wildflower viewing, and hopping downtown, you can see why we love outdoor adventures here.

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Crested ButteTanya Raedeke
Cross Country Skiing For Beginners in Colorado

Cross country skiing in Colorado for beginners is not as hard as one may think. This active winter sport offers great exercise with majestic views. Learn the difference between class skiing and skate skiing and which one is easier to learn first. Discover some of the best places to head to learn how to cross country ski in Colorado with a dozen great nordic centers all over the Rocky Mountains.

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23 Best Hot Springs in Colorado Calling for a Dip In 2026

Hot Springs in Colorado are natural mineral-rich pools of water that have been heated naturally over time. Take a dip in these hot springs located throughout this Rocky Mountain state, each known for their healing properties. Some hot springs are primitive, requiring a short day hike or overnight backpacking trip. There are also many developed hot springs in Colorado that you’ll love a good long soak in after your trek. These hot springs resorts offer amazing sleeping accommodations. Here we share our favorite hot springs all around Colorado. Let’s get going!

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hot springsTanya Raedeke
15 Scenic Campgrounds in Colorado We Absolutely Love for 2026

Camping in Colorado and her majestic Rocky Mountains where nature's best amenities are trickling creeks, rushing waterfalls, and shaded campsites surrounded by Aspens and pine tree forests. Here's our very favorite campgrounds in Colorado for tents, camper vans and smaller RVs. Simple yet stunning, these 15 campgrounds are gateways to hiking on Colorado trails, biking, paddling, fishing and more.

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campingTanya Raedeke
Unmissable Hikes in Colorado: Top 17 Trails to Explore

Looking for adventure and breathtaking views? Colorado has some of the best hikes in the US. Check out our list of must-do hiking trails for 2025! We've logged loads of miles all over the Rocky Mountains. From stunning day hikes to 14ers and even a couple of short and sweet backpacking trips, we unpack our favorite Colorado hikes to date. Grab your trekking poles, backpacks and water bottles and let's go!

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Tanya Raedeke
Ski Towns in Colorado That Deliver the Pow!

Looking for the best Colorado ski resorts for your gang of skiers and snow boarders? Here are our 10 favorite ski towns for 2024-2025 and where to hit the slopes on the best ski mountains in Colorado this winter. Plus, we'll show you where to find main street in town for food and drink, plus great spots for other winter activities like snow shoeing, cross country skiing, downhill tubing, and snowy hikes. Let's go!

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A Magical Colorado Springs Christmas Vacation

Plan the best Colorado Springs Christmas now! Colorado Springs at Christmas is filled with free light shows, snowy trails, and unique winter events. We’re sharing our favorite things to do in our hometown, giving you things to do do near me on Christmas day and throughout December. Favorite restaurants, things to do and memory making experiences are sprinkled throughout. We want you to have the best Colorado Springs Christmas!

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Melodie Monberg
Hikes Near Denver with Stunning Views in 2026

If you're a nature enthusiast and love to explore the great outdoors, then you're in for a treat! Denver, known for its stunning scenery and natural beauty, offers an abundance of hiking trails that cater to adventurers of all levels. From leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes, there's something for everyone. But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming. Fear not, as we've rounded up the top 10 breathtaking hikes near Denver that offer stunning views. Get ready to be immersed in nature as you trek through picturesque landscapes, encounter wildlife, and witness jaw-dropping views of the Rocky Mountains. So, grab your hiking boots, pack some snacks, and let's hit the trails!

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DenverTanya Raedeke
Boreas Pass Colorado: 3 Best hikes + Complete Driving Guide (22 Miles, 2-3 Hours)

Boreas Pass offers Colorado's best fall colors with 3 trails: Baker's Tank (5.5 mi), Big Baldy Loop (4.4 mi), and Black Powder Pass (3.4 mi). The 22-mile drive reaches 11,481 feet with peak colors mid-September to early October. After 28 years exploring Colorado, this remains our family's top choice. Visit weekdays for empty trails - weekend traffic jams at altitude aren't fun!

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Melodie Monberg
Romantic Picnic Ideas in Colorado: Where to Go for the Perfect Outdoor Date

We’re excited to share our favorite hikes to some of the most romantic places in Colorado—with killer views, waterfalls, and big open skies that make perfect backdrops for romantic picnic ideas turned into reality. Plus, we’ve tossed in a few extra spots we love to help you make those special moments even better. We’ll tell you what we love about each place and share simple tips so your day feels just right with someone you care about.

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Melodie Monberg
Epic Denver CO Time: Explore Our Favorite Free Things In Denver!

Ready for a Denver adventure? We’re sharing our favorite free things to do in Denver—from quirky street art to must-see spots we’ve fallen in love with over the years! We’ve also got some tasty food stops (not free, but totally worth it). Whether you're out for a date day, showing off Denver to guests, or just soaking up the city vibes, this guide is your ticket to an unforgettable time in Denver Colorado USA! Let’s go explore!

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DenverMelody Monberg
Hiking and Yoga: Finding Balance Along the Trail

Have you ever felt pain or tightness while hiking and wished you could stretch it out? Hiking and yoga help me combat those aches and improve my overall trail experience—and I bet they can do the same for you. Stretching after walking helps with things like hike hip and keeps us feeling strong and mobile, allowing us to enjoy the trail longer. By incorporating yoga into my hikes, I’ve learned how to move more freely, prevent injury, and fully appreciate every moment on the trail.

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Melodie Monberg
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