As soon as September rolls around, I’m ready for all things fall—pumpkins, apple spice, spooky movies, and leaf-peeping at the best places to see autumn foliage in Colorado! There are many wonderful destinations throughout the state where you can spot colorful yellow aspens. These are my picks for where to admire fall colors and go leaf-peeping in Colorado.
Aspen and Maroon Bells are the ultimate Colorado fall destinations. Aspen is an upscale ski town with luxury boutiques, restaurants, and hotels. Fall is one of the most popular times to visit, when the town is blanketed in golden leaves.
During your trip to Aspen, you must go hiking in the Maroon Bells area. The landscape is incredibly picturesque year-round but especially during autumn.
Estes Park
From Rocky Mountains National Park to the Stanley Hotel, Estes Park offers many fun fall activities. Explore outside by driving or hiking in the park before spending a spooky evening at the hotel that inspired Stephen King to write “The Shining.” Keep your eyes peeled—you can frequently spot herds of elk in Estes Park.
Leadville + Twin Lakes
Leadville and Twin Lakes are highly underrated areas in Colorado to see fall foliage. While Leadville is small, the downtown is cute and historic. Don’t miss the aspens at Twin Lakes—the sight of the water and the golden trees is as pretty as a postcard! Twin Lakes is a peaceful place to go kayaking, fishing, and picnicking.
Georgetown + Guanella Pass
I highly recommend taking a fall road trip through Georgetown and Guanella Pass. Ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a scenic train through the Rocky Mountains. Continue your sightseeing journey by driving along Guanella Pass, a gorgeous, high-altitude mountain road that provides easy access to trails like Mount Bierstadt and Silver Dollar Lake.
Winter Park
Winter Park is one of my favorite places to see fall foliage. This charming resort town has hiking, mountain-biking, scenic drives, and so much more. I enjoy hiking up to Rogers Pass—it’s a relatively easy trail but boasts sweeping mountain views.
Breckenridge
You can see unbelievably vibrant fall colors in Breckenridge. There are many aspen groves located throughout town that turn bright yellow in fall. Breckenridge is also an excellent home base to go hiking on trails like Aspen Alley, which are busy but breathtakingly beautiful during peak leaf-peeping season.
Colorado Springs + Pike National Forest
I’ve called Colorado Springs home for the past four years and can confirm it’s an excellent leaf-peeping spot. Garden of the Gods is a must-visit, and the yellow leaves contrast beautifully against the red rock formations in fall. If you enjoy hiking, there are plenty of local trails in Pike National Forest of all lengths and difficulties.
Where do you like to go leaf-peeping in Colorado? I hope you have an unforgettable fall season!
If you’re planning an Oregon coast vacation, make sure to check out all the fun things to do in Newport. This quaint coastal town is famous for its marine life, coastlines, and family-friendly activities. My parents just celebrated one year of living in Newport, so it’s the perfect time for me to share a local’s guide to the best Newport things to do.
Top 15 Things to Do in Newport, Oregon
1. Shop on the Bayfront
Newport’s historic bayfront has fun souvenir shops, candy stores, art galleries, and clothing boutiques. Spend an afternoon strolling the area and browsing the local stores.
2. Grab a Drink at a Brewery
Oregon is an excellent vacation spot for fans of beer and cider, and Newport has several top-notch craft breweries:
Rogue Brewer’s on the Bay – this spot is located inside Rogue’s headquarters. Enjoy tasty bites, specialty brews, and stunning waterfront views.
Pelican Brewing Company – technically, this spot is in Lincoln City, but it’s only 30 minutes north of Newport. The Siletz Bay location has gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows and a sleek, modern design. There’s tons of seating, so it’s the perfect place to grab a drink with friends or family.
Beachcrest Brewing Company – another place a bit north of Newport but worth the drive. Beachcrest is across the street from the Salishan Coastal Lodge, a beautiful resort with classic PNW vibes.
3. Hunt for Agates
The beaches in and around Newport are fantastic for agate-hunting. This area of the Oregon coast is famous for its rocky shorelines, which often have tons of these fascinating rocks. Unsurprisingly, Agate Beach is a popular spot to find agates.
4. Tour a Lighthouse
Visit Yaquina Bay or Yaquina Head Lighthouse to learn more about the local history. Both are still in operation but open to visitors. Admire their viewpoints of the rugged coastline while diving into their storied pasts, stretching back over 100 years.
5. Watch Sea Lions on the Dock
If you hear a strange barking noise or catch a whiff of something fishy in Newport, it’s probably the resident sea lions. They’ve been spotted on Newport’s public docks for almost two decades. The sea lions usually stay in Newport 11 months out of the year, migrating to California the other month.
See Newport’s iconic sea lions at Port Dock One. You can usually find them by following their noise, which can be heard throughout town.
6. See Tide Pools
In Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area lies Cobble Beach. This is one of Newport’s best tide pool spots. At low tide, Cobble Beach reveals pools of various sizes teeming with starfish, chitons, crabs, anemones, urchins, and so much more. If you’re lucky, you might also spot some adorable harbor seals.
7. Go Whale-Watching
Newport is a wonderful place to see gray whales and orcas. There are many tours that will take you on the water to get up close and personal with the whales. If you’d prefer to stay on land, you can often spot the whales spouting and breaching around kelp beds.
8. Head to Devil’s Punchbowl and/or Thor’s Well
There are some unforgettable rock formations near Newport. Devil’s Punchbowl is a distinctive sea arch you can hike into at low tide. It’s also interesting to view from above at high tide as the waves crash and swirl.
Another cool spot is Thor’s Well, which appears to be a sinkhole on the ocean’s edge. It’s only around 20 feet deep but looks wonderfully dramatic, with waves pouring over at high tide.
9. Visit the Hatfield Marine Science Center
I’ve heard great things about the Oregon Coast Aquarium but haven’t visited yet. However, I can recommend the Hatfield Marine Science Center. It’s a laboratory owned by Oregon State University with some entertaining, interactive exhibits.
The touch tank teaches you about sea urchins, anemones, and sea cucumbers. Other display areas feature fascinating fossils and skeletons of marine animals like sea lions and whales. Admission is only $5, so it’s also a cheaper afternoon activity than the aquarium.
10. Take a Trip to Pacific Sourdough
Set an alarm to drive to Waldport first thing in the morning and line up for Pacific Sourdough. This beloved bakery almost always has a line out the door and down the street. I completely understand after sampling the treats myself! Everything here is tasty, but you must try the chocolate chunk cookies, marionberry muffins, and lemon bars.
11. Eat Local Seafood
Seafood lovers will be in heaven with all the mouthwatering restaurants. Whether you’re craving sushi, oysters, fish ‘n chips, or smoked salmon, Newport has it all. Here are some of my favorite seafood spots:
South Beach Fish Market – some of the best fish ‘n chips I’ve ever had! Almost always busy, so visit during an off-time.
Rogue Bayfront Public House – this is the sister restaurant to Brewer’s on the Bay—visit for delicious clam chowder and salmon, plus there are pool tables in the back.
The Taphouse at Nye Creek – laid-back atmosphere, tasty cocktails, yummy fish ‘n chips, hearty oyster shooters, and vegetarian/vegan-friendly options. What else could you need?
Get your daily dose of outdoor adventure at the Yaquina Bay Recreation Site. It has a lighthouse, bluff overlooks, forests, and rolling dunes. Bring the entire family, including furry friends, to check out what Yaquina Bay offers.
13. Get Coffee at a Stand
Coffee stands are one of my favorite aspects of the PNW, and Newport has several worth visiting. I recommend The Surfing Bean Coffee Company or Camp One Coffee.
14. Watch Otters from the Public Fishing Pier
You’ll likely see at least one otter from the public fishing pier. Crabbing is popular at the dock, but it’s also a great spot to watch for otters and see the boats. Otters are very playful and social, so where there’s one, there’s usually more!
15. Walk Across the Bridge
You can’t go to Newport without crossing the Yaquina Bay Bridge. It’s a good place for a morning walk and provides views of Newport from above. Bring a pair of binoculars to spot animals in the water below.
BONUS: Admire Art at the Visual Arts Center
Many fantastic artists call Newport home, and the Visual Arts Center showcases everything from photographs to paintings and sculptures. I’m biased, but my dad’s astrophotography exhibition, The Dynamic Poetry of Nature, is out of this world and runs until October 6, 2024!
I hope you’re inspired to visit the charming town of Newport next time you’re on the Oregon coast. Let me know if I missed any of your favorite Newport spots!
These are some of the most underrated national parks in the U.S. where you can get off the beaten path and unwind in nature. Great Smoky Mountains, the country’s most-visited park, saw over 13 million visitors in 2023. That’s a recipe for busy trails, limited parking, and sitting in traffic when you should be out exploring. If you want to leave some of the crowds behind for a more authentic outdoor adventure, plan a trip to these underrated U.S. national parks.
While most tourists head to Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes is also worth visiting. It’s dog-friendly, which is rare for national parks, and offers unique views of the dunes against distant mountain peaks.
Don’t underestimate how challenging it is to hike to the top of a dune—from there, you can try sand-boarding to the bottom. There’s plenty of room to spread out at Great Sand Dunes, so it never feels crowded, and you can stay past sunset to enjoy incredible stargazing.
4. Badlands – South Dakota
Visit for: wildlife, venturing off-trail, fossils
I consider the entire state of South Dakota underrated—especially Badlands National Park. From the striking rock formations to the fascinating exhibits on fossils and gems, the park has much to offer.
Watch for bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep while visiting. The Badlands are also one of the few outdoor areas where off-trail hiking is allowed, letting you wander to your heart’s desire.
3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison – Colorado
Visit for: dramatic viewpoints, intense hiking
Black Canyon of the Gunnison is another Colorado national park worth adding to your sightseeing itinerary. Admire sweeping overlooks of the canyon from accessible viewpoints, ideal for travelers of all ages and fitness levels. For a physical challenge, consider hiking into the canyon to gain a new perspective on the stunning natural area.
I technically haven’t been to North Cascades National Park, but the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest that borders it is one of my favorite places to hike in Washington. I’ve heard fantastic things about the North Cascades area and its hiking trails. It also gives visitors the opportunity to rock climb, bike, boat, and more.
1. Canyonlands – Utah
Visit for: epic views, off-roading
Many overlook Canyonlands for other Utah national parks like Arches and Zion—this vibrant desert area is as captivating as the Grand Canyon but far less popular. I visited over July 4 weekend and it was almost empty compared to Arches.
Canyonlands boasts picturesque viewpoints, hikes, and remote roads leading you through dramatic canyons. It will make you feel like you stepped onto the set of a thrilling Western movie!
Have you been to any of these underrated U.S. national parks? Let me know what you thought in the comments.
Looking for more national parks info? Check out my other travel guides:
I took a stroll down memory lane revisiting my 2022 Colorado Summer Bucket List, and it inspired me to do an updated all-seasons version! I’ll be moving out of the state soon and have been reflecting a lot on how thankful I am to have spent the past four years in Colorado.
It hasn’t always been peaches and cream, but I’m so grateful for the experience of living in such a beautiful state and getting to see so much of it. Since I checked everything off my summer bucket list, here are the 10 best Colorado activities to do throughout the year.
1. Get to the top of a 14er
Regardless if you drive, hike, or ride a train, I highly suggest getting to the top of a 14er (a mountain at least 14,000′ tall) one way or another. It’s a really unique experience to be at high elevation and see how different the environment is above the tree line. Watch for marmots and pikas, and enjoy the 360-degree views.
2. Hike in Maroon Bells
Hiking in the Maroon Bells area is a quintessential Colorado experience. The gorgeous mountain peaks are located near Aspen, making them the perfect day or weekend trip. Fall is an exceptionally beautiful time of year to visit, but the landscape is picturesque year-round. Crater Lake is a beautiful, family-friendly hike with scenic views.
3. Go leaf-peeping
Colorado is famous for its stunning autumn foliage, and leaf-peeping is an essential fall activity to admire the golden aspens. Areas like Breckenridge and Aspen (shocker) are popular for their expansive aspen groves.
4. Try a new sport
There’s something active to do in Colorado year-round, from whitewater rafting and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter. While in Colorado, I worked on my (very limited) ski and snowboard skills. Trying a new sport as an adult can be challenging, but it’s really rewarding when you start to get the hang of things.
5. Visit all four national parks
Make time to visit Colorado’s four national parks: Rocky Mountain, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison. They’re each unique and worth seeing for different reasons. Whether you love hiking, stargazing, wildlife-watching, or history, Colorado’s national parks have it all.
6. Attend a concert at Red Rocks Ampitheatre
Technically, I haven’t seen a musical performance at Red Rocks yet…but I did take a yoga class! Getting up early on a Saturday to stretch in the cool morning air and watch the sunrise was unforgettable. Sharing that experience with the hundreds of people surrounding me was incredibly special and definitely worth the early wakeup call.
7. Soak in a hot spring
Colorado has many hot springs to explore, and Mount Princeton is one of my favorite day trips from Colorado Springs. Try to visit when temperatures are a bit chilly so you can fully enjoy the springs. Most hot springs in Colorado are pretty commercialized, but there are some less popular ones you can only reach on foot.
8. Walk through Garden of the Gods
You can’t miss Garden of the Gods during your next trip to Colorado. This stunning Colorado Springs park is full of vibrant red rock formations. The iconic geologic features in Garden of the Gods make it perfect for strolling around and snapping pictures.
9. Sleep in the hotel that inspired “The Shining”
Head to Estes Park and spend a night at the Stanley Hotel, if you dare. The hotel inspired Stephen King to write “The Shining” after he slept in Room 217, rumored to be one of its most haunted spots. This fascinating historic building has a reputation for its supposed resident ghosts and dark, storied past.
10. See the Flatirons in person
The Flatirons, a series of five large rock features near Boulder, are breathtaking in person. They dominate the skyline and are a top attraction for nature lovers. Hike around the base of the mountains to admire them from below or scramble up the Second Flatiron, the easiest to climb. Arrive early, as this outdoor area is almost always busy.
I’m so grateful to have checked every item off my Colorado bucket list! There are many more things I’d like to see and do throughout the state on future visits. What can’t-miss activities are on your Colorado bucket list?
Looking for more fun things to do in Colorado? Check out my other Colorado travel guides:
I’ve called Colorado Springs home for the last four years, and I’m excited to finally share my perfect Colorado Springs weekend itinerary! While you could spend a week exploring Colorado Springs and not see the same thing twice, three days is ideal for experiencing all the highlights. Here’s exactly how to spend three days in Colorado Springs, from outdoor adventures to indoor activities and plenty of food and fun in between.
3-Day Colorado Springs Weekend Itinerary
Friday
Start your weekend in Colorado Springs on the right foot by exploring one of the city’s most iconic sights: Pikes Peak. Afterward, spend the afternoon exploring the adorable city of Manitou Springs. Catch sunset at Garden of the Gods before grabbing a casual dinner and preparing for an early start on Saturday.
Morning
You can’t visit Colorado Springs without going to the top of Pikes Peak! Known as America’s Mountain, it towers 14,115′ in the air. There are several ways to summit Pikes Peak: driving up via Pikes Peak Highway, taking the Cog Railway, or hiking.
If you’re comfortable tackling the steep and winding mountain road, I recommend driving. You’ll have plenty of flexibility to stop at viewpoints along the way and spend as much time at the top as you like. The Summit Visitor Center opened in 2021 and is definitely worth seeing—make sure you try the freshly made donuts.
The Cog Railway is excellent for families who want an immersive Pikes Peak experience. It is a bit pricey, but you’ll get unique views and fun facts from the conductors. Keep in mind you will have limited time at the summit if you buy roundtrip tickets.
Hiking Pikes Peak is incredibly challenging but rewarding. The most popular route is the Barr Trail, which is over 12 miles one way. You’ll gain about 7,800′ of elevation during the hike, so I only recommend it for experienced hikers. This is also the most time-consuming option, as many break the hike up into two days and camp overnight.
Altitude sickness is very common, so watch for symptoms like headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Consider turning back and descending in elevation if you start feeling ill and your symptoms don’t improve. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body!
Afternoon
After seeing Pikes Peak, grab lunch and spend the afternoon exploring Manitou Springs. This charming city has gorgeous views, Victorian architecture, quirky shops, and delicious restaurants. Some of the most unique activities in Manitou Springs include an old-school Penny Arcade and a castle built in the 1890s!
Evening
Once evening rolls around, it’s time to visit Garden of the Gods. The Visitor and Nature Center is a fantastic place to get information about the park’s history, trails, and wildlife. There’s also a top-notch gift shop with local goods and a tasty cafe where you can grab a coffee to refuel. They host lots of fun events like stargazing parties, ranger-led nature walks, and wildlife workshops.
There are many walking paths throughout Garden of the Gods, making it perfect for visitors of all ages and ability levels. You don’t even have to leave your car to see jaw-dropping views of the striking red rock formations! Watch for bighorn sheep, which you can periodically spot around the park.
Garden of the Gods is conveniently located near several delicious restaurants. Colorado Mountain Brewery and Trinity Brewing Co. are some of my favorites. Even if you don’t drink beer, their food is really yummy. I recommend turning in early so you can be fully rested for tomorrow’s morning hike!
Saturday
Get an early start if you want to embark on a weekend hike in Colorado Springs. Afterward, you can indulge in a tasty brunch before freshening up for an afternoon of shopping. Saturday night is also an excellent time to explore bars and restaurants in the downtown area.
Morning
There are many beautiful and unique hikes in and around Colorado Springs. Here are some of the best hiking areas, depending on how far you feel like driving.
You’ve probably worked up an appetite after your morning hike. If you stayed local to Colorado Springs, I recommend Adam’s Mountain Cafe or Denver Biscuit Co. for brunch. The city has a fantastic variety of coffee shops, too. I love grabbing a cup at these spots:
Take a few hours to rest before going shopping around town. There are some great thrift shops, boutiques, and outdoor stores worth checking out. These are my favorite local shops (most of them are downtown and within walking/biking distance of each other):
Once you’ve shopped til you’ve dropped, spend the evening enjoying downtown Colorado Springs. The city has it all, from Italian to Mexican, Irish, Indian, and more. I personally recommend these restaurants and bars:
The Rabbit Hole – great date night spot and super cool experience because it’s underground and Alice in Wonderland-themed.
You deserve a relaxing day after yesterday’s adventures! Sleep in and keep things low-key with an activity the entire family can enjoy. Then, explore one of my favorite Colorado Springs neighborhoods and visit a top-notch brewery.
Spend your final afternoon in Colorado Springs strolling around Old Colorado City. This historic area has delicious restaurants and eclectic stores. It’s a good place to find farmer’s markets, seasonal festivals, live music performances, and art shows throughout the year.
Evening
End your weekend in Colorado Springs at a local brewery. They’re some of my favorite places to people-watch and catch up with friends. Many breweries are dog-friendly, and you’ll find everyone from families to couples and solo travelers enjoying a brew. Here are some can’t-miss spots:
I hope you have the best getaway with my ultimate Colorado Springs weekend itinerary! Let me know in the comments how you would spend three days in Colorado Springs.
Looking for more fun things to do in Colorado? Check out my other Colorado travel guides:
From Washington to South Dakota and everywhere in between, these are the 10 best national parks I’ve visited (so far). Over the years, I’ve seen 16 of the 63 national parks located throughout the United States. I’d love to visit them all someday, and I try to explore at least one new national park every year.
Regardless of how many national parks you’ve visited, I hope this inspires you to plan a trip of your own!
10. Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado was a pleasant surprise. My husband and I visited during a road trip and had no expectations—we were blown away by the dramatic scenery. While I didn’t have much time to explore Black Canyon, I was in awe of the views from each overlook we stopped at.
I recommend visiting Black Canyon if you’re in the area, as it makes a great itinerary add-on. However, I don’t think centering an entire trip around the park is worth it unless you plan to do some serious hiking.
9. Badlands
Badlands National Park holds a special place in my heart, as I have family in South Dakota and first visited the area as a kid. I consider South Dakota a criminally underrated travel destination, and the Badlands are a must-visit.
Expect to see wildlife like bighorn sheep and bison, unique rock formations, and centuries of history while exploring the park. Don’t forget to visit the nearby town of Wall, a quirky location that’s famous worldwide.
8. Rocky Mountain
You can’t go to Colorado without seeing Rocky Mountain National Park. There are many beautiful hikes ranging from easy to strenuous, and the mountains are stunning year-round.
In the summer, you can swim in alpine lakes, while winter is the perfect time snowshoe or cross-country ski. Rocky Mountain is an excellent vacation spot for adventurers of all ages.
7. Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree National Park is another one that took me by surprise. I only spent 24 hours in the park, but it was an unforgettable experience. The rocky landscape looks otherworldly, and I loved seeing all the cacti and desert plants. My favorite thing about camping in Joshua Tree was staying up late to watch the night sky—I’ve never seen so many shooting stars in my life!
6. Olympic
Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse parks I’ve been to. It has everything from coastlines to glaciers and rainforests. The scenery here is lush and captivating—you could spend days exploring without seeing the same thing twice. Make your way out to the Olympic Peninsula next time you’re in Washington.
5. Arches
You’re probably familiar with Arches National Park for its iconic Delicate Arch formation. It’s definitely a bucket list-worthy sight, but the park offers so much more.
Regardless if you’re exploring on foot or by car, you’ll be awestruck by the colorful rocks and desert views around every corner. Of Utah’s five national parks, Arches is one you can’t overlook.
4. Grand Teton
Seeing Grand Teton National Park in person feels like stepping back in time to the 1800s. The jagged peaks, rushing rivers, and rugged forests are so stunning, you’ll never want to leave. Grand Teton boasts some of the country’s most picturesque scenery and feels like a true wilderness area.
3. Canyonlands
Get off the beaten path to explore the best that Canyonlands National Park offers. This park ranks so highly for me because my husband and I embarked on a spontaneous journey along an unpaved, 4WD road while there. The canyon views were like nothing I’ve ever seen, and we had the best time escaping the chaos of the park’s main paved roads.
2. Yellowstone
You probably aren’t surprised to see Yellowstone National Park in second place. Yellowstone is an incredibly famous park, and for good reason. The geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife areas throughout it offer something new with every visit. This is another park I only had one day to explore but would 100% return to.
1. Mount Rainier
Of all the parks I’ve visited, Mount Rainier National Park is the best, in my opinion. Seeing Mount Rainier in person for the first time was a dream come true, and I fall in love all over again every time I return.
Something about the mountain’s imposing beauty sparks my sense of adventure, and the surrounding glaciers, meadows, and forests feel like a fairytale. If you only have time for one hike in the park, make it the Skyline Trail (Naches Peak Loop Trail is another favorite).
What do you think of my national parks ranking? Let me know which one I should visit next down below!
I’ve got the perfect national park road trip itinerary if you dream of an epic weekend adventure throughout Colorado and Utah! My husband, Solomon, and I recently hit the road to tackle four parks in three days, and it was the best time.
We’re based in Colorado Springs but moving to Alaska (!!!) soon, so we wanted to take advantage of what time we have left in Colorado by exploring some national parks within driving distance. We somewhat spontaneously decided to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Arches, Canyonlands, and Mesa Verde in one long weekend.
I already made a short video of our national park adventures (watch it here), but I want to share more details on how we made it happen in case you’re interested in planning a similar road trip.
Day 1: Colorado Springs -> Black Canyon of the Gunnison -> Moab
Solomon and I originally planned on visiting only the Utah national parks (Arches and Canyonlands). Once we hit the road, we realized we could easily add Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Mesa Verde as well! One of my goals before moving from Colorado was to visit all four national parks in the state, and we’ve already explored Rocky Mountain and Great Sand Dunes.
Tomichi Point
We left Colorado Springs around 8:30 a.m. on a Friday and made it to Black Canyon around 3:30 p.m. Unfortunately, a detour near Gunnison delayed our trip by about an hour, but at least we got to see some pretty views along the way!
Neither of us had expectations for Black Canyon, and it was an incredible surprise. The canyon was genuinely jaw-dropping to see in person, and we stopped at nearly every viewpoint along South Rim Road. Our favorites were Tomichi Point and Sunset View. Of course, pictures don’t do it justice whatsoever.
We spent about an hour and a half in Black Canyon before continuing to Moab, another three hours away. The sun was already setting when we arrived and checked in at HTR Moab Lodge & Cottages. This was the perfect place to spend two nights in Moab. We booked a studio cottage with a queen bed, bunk beds, a kitchenette, and an attached bath—everything you could need! It was also pet-friendly and just minutes from downtown Moab, but quiet and peaceful.
Day 2: Arches -> Moab -> Canyonlands
Day two began with an early 4:00 a.m. wake-up call because our goal was to hike to Delicate Arch for sunrise.
Note: depending on the time of year you visit Arches National Park, you may need to a timed-entry permit to enter the park. Since we arrived before 7:00 a.m., we did not need a reservation.
We arrived at the trailhead a little before 5:00 a.m. and started the hike. When we hit the trail, the parking lot was already beginning to fill up—another reason to get an early start. The hike to Delicate Arch is around three miles roundtrip, with steady elevation gain. There were some steep portions, but we didn’t find it too strenuous and only took one or two quick water breaks.
When we reached Delicate Arch between 5:30 and 5:45, the sun was just starting to peek over the rocks. Lots of people were gathering to watch the sunrise and take turns snapping pictures of the iconic rock formation. We hung out here for about half an hour before meandering back to the parking lot.
After returning to the car, we followed the main road through the park north to see the Fiery Furnace and Devils Garden areas. We briefly hiked around Devils Garden to Tunnel Arch and Pine Tree Arch but mostly drove around, admiring the views and stopping at random overlooks that caught our eye.
Pro tip: bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen! This area gets incredibly hot and you don’t want to get dehydrated, hungry, or sunburnt while exploring.
Temperatures were quickly rising, so we stopped to check out the visitor center around 9:30 a.m. before heading back to Moab. We grabbed coffee and breakfast burritos from Nuclear Bean Coffee Co. and returned to our cottage for a quick shower and a power nap.
Around 2:30 p.m., we left the cottage to explore downtown Moab. We started at Lop’s Pop Stop, an adorable coffee and soda stand with an extensive menu of refreshing drinks. We walked around downtown Moaab and shopped for a bit—my favorite spot was Desert Wild.
We wolfed down a late lunch at Trailhead Public House and Eatery after realizing the Island in the Sky Visitor Center at Canyonlands would be closing within the hour. We soon hit the road again and arrived at Canyonlands National Park just before 5:00 p.m.
From the visitor center, we drove south to Grand View Point Overlook, where we stopped to take in the landscape. It definitely lived up to its name! On the way back, we also stopped at Green River Overlook and drove over to Upheaval Dome, though we didn’t get out to hike.
Solomon was interested in exploring Shafer Trail Road, an unpaved 4WD route into the canyon. The road was rough, but our Subaru Outback handled it just fine. After consulting the map, we decided to follow it along the Colorado River to connect with 279, leading us back to Moab.
We spent about two hours on Shafer Trail Road, which was our favorite part of the weekend. Getting off the beaten path in Canyonlands felt like stepping onto the set of a Western film. The canyon and river views were stunning, and we only saw a handful of other cars along the way. You need a 4WD vehicle to tackle the road, but I highly recommend exploring it if possible.
Once we arrived back in Moab shortly before 9:00 p.m., we grabbed “dinner” at Side Hustle Ice Cream Shop (next door to Trailhead). It was the perfect sweet treat to end a full day of adventures, and they didn’t skimp on the sprinkles! We ended the night on the front porch of our cottage, watching the stars begin to peek out over Moab.
Day 3: Moab -> Mesa Verde -> Home
The following day, we slept in a bit and left Moab around 8:30 a.m. On the way out, we grabbed coffee at Cafe Italiano, a downtown food truck. Mesa Verde National Park was only two hours from Moab, so we arrived at the visitor center between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m.
The drive from the visitor center to the Chapin Mesa area (where some cliff dwellings are located) took about 45 minutes. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get spots on a ranger tour of the dwellings, so we couldn’t enter them. Seeing them from a distance was cool, but there wasn’t much to do without a tour group.
On our way out of the park, we saw signs for homemade frybread, which Solomon hadn’t tried before. A super friendly couple was making the frybread fresh with locally-milled flour. They recommended trying it with salt and a drizzle of honey, and it was so tasty! The flavor was reminiscent of kettle corn, and it had a soft, pillowy texture.
Our final stop was Telluride for lunch, and we made it back home in time to cook dinner and get a full night’s rest before returning to work the following day.
All in all, this was an incredible trip! I’m so glad we pulled it off and decided to be spontaneous. Canyonlands was our favorite national park on this trip, but I think all of them are worth visiting for different reasons.
Have you been to Black Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, or Mesa Verde? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Can you believe how quickly December is flying by?! With only one weekend left before Christmas, now is the best time to start planning a fun holiday getaway before the holiday madness really kicks in. This guide to the 5 Best Colorado Christmas Towns highlights some of the most charming and festive towns I recommend visiting for a day or weekend this holiday season.
Breckenridge is the first Colorado Christmas town I recommend visiting for the 2022 holidays. Located a little over an hour and half west of Denver, Breckenridge is known for being a super charming mountain town with lots of personality. Skiing and snowboarding are some of the most popular winter activities in Breckenridge, but the quaint town also offers snowshoeing, sledding, tubing, shopping, and much more!
Estes Park
Another classic Colorado Christmas town is Estes Park, which is about an hour and a half drive north of Denver. Estes Park is considered the gateway to the Rockies since it’s located just a few minutes from one of the main entrances to Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park is the perfect destination for a holiday getaway because of the endless festivities the town plans throughout the winter months. Estes Park is also an outdoor-lovers paradise offering plenty of snow activities.
A list of the best Colorado Christmas towns would be incomplete without including the home of the North Pole! Manitou Springs is a small town located just outside of Colorado Springs that is full of Christmas spirit around the holidays. The main street through Manitou is lined with cafes, bars, and shops, and a short drive up Highway 24 will take you to the North Pole amusement park! After exploring Manitou Springs, I recommend making the short drive over to Colorado Springs to continue the festivities. Colorado Springs is home to lots of holiday markets and seasonal pop-ups, as well as some incredible shopping and dining that make it an awesome place to spend an afternoon or an entire day.
Georgetown
Georgetown is a lesser-known Colorado Christmas town that is a seriously underrated holiday destination located less than an hour west of Denver. Georgetown is super charming year-round, but the town especially comes alive around the holidays when the historic buildings and homes are decked out in Christmas decorations. Georgetown also hosts several Christmas markets and events that are well-worth a visit.
Last, but certainly not least, on this list of the best Colorado Christmas towns is Vail. Vail is well-known for having some of the best skiing in the country, and this Bavarian-style town is an amazing holiday destination. From a festive 5k to a Christmas market and plenty of opportunities to get out and have some fun in the snow, Vail is hard to beat.
I hope this guide to the 5 Best Colorado Christmas Towns is helpful as we approach the holidays. Let me know in the comments what your favorite Colorado town to visit around Christmas is, and I hope you have an excellent holiday season surrounded by loved ones!
Over the years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to visit 11 of the 63 National Parks that can be found throughout the U.S. While all were unique and interesting in their own way, there were definitely some I loved more than others. This is my ranking of the Top 5 U.S. National Parks that I’ve visited so far. As a bonus, I’m also sharing the top 3 National Parks on my travel bucket list that I haven’t yet been to!
Top 5 U.S. National Parks
5. Badlands
Fun fact: I actually used to live in South Dakota as a kid! I have a lot of family there and still love going back to visit because I think South Dakota is a super underrated state. Similarly, I don’t see too many people talking about Badlands National Park, even though it’s one of my favorites. The landscape is super unique and looks like something you might find on another planet. Plus, the park is full of wildlife ranging from bison and bighorn sheep to prairie dogs.
4. Yellowstone
I would actually love to return to Yellowstone National Park and explore some more because my husband and I only got to spend one day in the park when we visited. Still, Yellowstone is such a classic that I highly recommend everyone take a visit. There’s a huge variety of wildlife and landscapes, and it’s unreal to see the massive hot springs and geysers in person. There’s a reason Yellowstone is one of the most popular National Parks!
3. Olympic
Olympic National Park is one of those places you have to see for yourself to believe. I mean, where else in the U.S. can you spend a day exploring rocky beaches, snow-capped mountains, glacial rivers, and thick rainforests? Olympic National Park is full of biodiversity that makes every visit unique from the last.
2. Grand Teton
In my humble opinion, Grand Teton National Park is probably one of the prettiest areas in the entire country. The mountains look absolutely unreal in person, and the whole park feels wild and rugged. Grand Teton is another park I’d love to return to and spend more time exploring because there’s so much to see and do!
1. Mount Rainier
Of all the National Parks I’ve gotten to visit so far, Mount Rainier National Park is undoubtedly my favorite. Seeing Mount Rainier up close and personal is an amazing experience, and you truly can’t fathom its grandeur until you’re seeing it with your own eyes. Plus, Mount Rainier National Park is where I saw my first wild bear! The whole park feels so magical and is absolutely stunning year-round.
Top 3 U.S. National Parks Bucket List
3. Glacier
Glacier National Park in Montana is one National Park I’ve been wanting to visit for years. The mountains look insanely dramatic and I’ve heard the park is absolutely full of wildlife. Plus, I’d love to pay a visit to RightOnTrek’s EDGE Backpacking Gear Rental Facility that just opened this year. I love that RightOnTrek works to make the outdoors accessible for as many people as possible. And, they make delicious backpacking meals!
2. Yosemite
As someone who loves both hiking and rock-climbing, Yosemite National Park sounds like an absolute dream. I’ve seen so many documentaries about Yosemite and I would love to pay the park a visit in the next couple years. I’ve actually never been to California, so I hope to make a trip out of it and explore a few different areas throughout the state!
Alaska seems to be one of the last truly wild places left in the U.S., and I would absolutely love to spend some time exploring Gates of the Arctic National Park. The wilderness of Alaska looks intimidating but also incredibly beautiful, and I definitely plan on taking a trip to the state – hopefully, sooner rather than later!
What’s your favorite U.S. National Park, and which one would you like to visit next? Let me know in the comments!
Maroon Bells is an iconic wilderness area in Colorado that is home to some of the most photographed mountains in North America. I’ve wanted to visit Maroon Bells since moving to Colorado in 2020, and my husband and I finally got the chance to go the second weekend of October.
From May to October, peak season at Maroon Bells, you need a reservation to enter the wilderness area. You can either get a reservation to drive into Maroon Bells and park there yourself, or a reservation to park in Aspen and take the shuttle. We weren’t able to snag a parking reservation but we did book a spot on an 11am Saturday shuttle.
Maroon Bells is about 3.5-4 hours from Colorado Springs, so we got up bright and early to make our way to Aspen. We arrived in Aspen early enough to spend about an hour grabbing coffee and exploring the town a bit. There was a farmer’s market going on which we strolled through, and we also popped into a couple shops. We ended up parking in the garage at Aspen Highlands Village which was pretty expensive but very convenient. The shuttle system was very straightforward, and soon we were pulling up to one of the most beautiful views I’ve ever seen in person.
We decided to take the less than 4 mile out-and-back trail to Crater Lake. The trail begins gradually ascending through a gorgeous aspen grove before heading into a forested area. The trail gets pretty rocky for the last half mile or so to the lake, but is fairly easy with less than 700′ of elevation gain in total.
Crater Lake was very low when we visited given the time of year, but the views were absolutely stunning. We stopped to eat some PB&J’s before heading back down the trail to the visitor’s center. We had to wait for the return shuttle for about 10 minutes which wasn’t bad at all.
I’m so glad we took the time to visit Maroon Bells, and I’d love to return and explore it even more. Have you visited this beautiful wilderness area yet?
Wandering the Gap 