With the rise of travel blogging, social media, and increasing tourism in our nation, certain destinations have become more popular than others. One particular favorite of vacationers is the great state of Colorado, and for good reason. This place hosts some of the most breathtaking scenery to be found in our country, and has become a favorite of mine.
Ever since I can remember, I have had a strange obsession with scaling the highest object I could find. As I grew older and life presented more opportunities, my tendencies have turned me toward a love of climbing mountains, and Colorado has a limitless supply of peaks with impressive climber bragging rights. The state is host to over 50 fourteeners, or mountains with an elevation over 14,000 feet. This rugged topography and empty wilderness draws adventurers of all types, from families simply wanting a scenic drive, to hardcore rock climbers, to hikers and hunters. The picture above shows some lakes below Mount Elbert, the highest peak in the Rockies. It sits at an impressive 14,439 feet high. I took this picture when I attempted to climb that mountain recently, and was rewarded with some awesome photographic views.
I encountered a considerable amount of snow pack still on the peak, even though it was mid-Summer, and faced a few other challenges like altitude sickness. Arriving in the area a few days in advance can be slightly beneficial in acclimating to the extreme elevation before attempting to climb a mountain like this. The trail to the peak passes through some dense forest for several miles before reaching the timberline. I snapped this picture of some Aspens near the beginning of the trail.
Another popular destination in Colorado is the city of Colorado Springs. It sits at the base of Pikes Peak, one of the most well known mountains in America. Pikes Peak has several ways to reach the top. A road goes all the way to the peak from the north side of the mountain, a cog railway runs up the eastern face, and Barr Trail also ascends the eastern side. The trail is definitely not for the weak or faint of heart. It stretches 12.5 miles to the peak and has an elevation gain of nearly 8,000 feet. The last time I climbed Pikes Peak, I noticed that the railroad was shut down. I don’t know if this is temporary or not, so if this is in your plans, I would definitely recommend doing a little online research before going.
If you are more of the scenic road trip type, there is a place that is a must see in Western Colorado. Highway 550, also known as The Million Dollar Highway, runs south from I-70 along the San Juan Range. I can honestly say this is the most beautiful drive I have ever taken. My favorite town along the Highway is called Ouray, and is known as the Switzerland of America, and for good reason. It is nestled in a steep canyon that brings to mind pictures of the Alps from tourist magazines. Ouray is a great stop along 550, and is within an easy drive of a more famous ski town called Telluride. Ouray is small, but has lots of amenities including hotels, campgrounds and quaint little cafes. Below are a few pictures I took of Ouray. If you want a little more of a peek at Ouray, here is a link to a video (not mine) with some footage of the breathtaking scenery in the area.
Tourism is understandably a huge part of Colorado’s economy, and it is always good to support small businesses and spend money here in the good old US of A. If seeing the Alps is on your bucket list, but recent events have taken a toll on your pocketbook, consider hitting up these awesome sights we have right here in our own backyard. You will be rewarded with some amazing memories and pictures. Below I’ve included a few extra picture of Pikes Peak and some snapshots I got on a drive over Independence Pass in the Sawatch Range.
Gypsy with a Camera 