11:30 am, Aug 16, 2012
Joel Shaw of Highlands Ranch sinks a putt at the Colorado Heights University disc golf course.
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1:59 pm, Aug 14, 2012
Why we love it: Because it’s truly a challenge—and victory is especially sweet after three previous attempts. Plus, the sunrise is spectacular. When to go: August is the best, and July and September are feasible if the weather gods are smiling, but you’re more likely to encounter snow and hazardous conditions. Quick tips: The campground at...
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3:30 pm, Jul 31, 2012
Why we love it: The climb is just steep enough that you'll feel it in your calves the next day, but short enough that you can tackle it in the morning and spend the afternoon strolling around nearby Aspen. When to go: The parking lot fills up quickly, so head out around 8 a.m. You'll nab a parking spot, and the trail will be yours (with the...
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10:40 am, Jul 17, 2012
Why we love it: We often miss out on the full glories of the night sky because we live in an urban center. Night hiking fixes that. When to go: At night, of course. Bring a friend and a flashlight to be safe, but on a full moon (the next one is August 1), you’ll have enough light to see your shadow on the trail. Set off about 30 minutes...
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11:26 am, Jul 10, 2012
Why we love it: Because there’s nothing better to beat this summer’s oppressive heat than getting out of the city and onto the water with a lazy float—no skills required—down the scenic Colorado River. When to go: June through August, although river flow varies widely depending on the year’s snow runoff. Call the Bureau of Land Management Grand...
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10:37 am, Jun 26, 2012
Why we love it: You get to feel like a kid again—and it's a great place to bring visiting family who have children in tow.When to go: The Summer Fun Park is open daily (9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.) through September 3, and then Friday through Sunday until September 16. ***While relaxing at the base of Peak 8 in Breckenridge after a moderate...
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12:44 pm, Jun 19, 2012
Why we love it: Front Rangers love 'em some fourteeners, but sometimes it's nice not to worry about bagging another peak. The long upslope to the Chicago Lakes lets us stretch our legs without needing to stake a claim. When to go: Anytime you are ready to take a dip in an icy cold, high altitude lake. ***I'm from the Windy City and these...
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10:02 am, Jun 12, 2012
Why we love it: It’s a perfect hike for out-of-town visitors who won’t be joining you on your 14er quest this summer, but still want to get out of town and into the woods. When to go: Any time you want a break from the crowds at Chautauqua or Mt. Sanitas in Boulder. Quick tip: After your hike, treat yourselves to an ice cream cone or cold...
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12:55 pm, Jun 5, 2012
Why we love it: It is one of the most accessible parts of the Colorado Trail (with views of South Park to boot). When to go: The path gets crowded with horses and bikers during the day, so hit the trailhead in late afternoon when the ponies are tired and the two-wheelers are in search of a brewery. ***For most people, a pit-...
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2:00 pm, May 29, 2012
Why we love it: We're leery of a hike that starts in town, mainly because we're convinced the majority of the scenery will be of someone's backyard. Not so on Bear Creek Trail, where you'll quickly ditch buildings for aspen groves, wildflowers, and, of course, a waterfall. When to go: By our estimation, this trail is recommended to visitors...
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9:04 am, May 22, 2012
Why we love it: For most Coloradans, this is a lazy one-mile stroll. Sometimes, that's exactly what we are in the mood for. When to go: As anyone who has driven up U.S. 36 on a summer or fall weekend can tell you, Estes Park and RMNP get a tad bit crowded. Head up in the spring to avoid the swarm of tourists. ***Saturday's cloudy skies...
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11:51 am, May 15, 2012
Why we love it: It is smack dab in the middle of Denver, but doesn't have the heavy traffic of the Cherry Creek Trail. When to go: Because much of the trail is shaded, you can venture out all day. We like to hop on the path in Aurora (corner of East Exposition Avenue and South Havana Street) so we can stop for brunch at nearby Pho...
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9:20 am, May 8, 2012
Why we love it: We are always looking for a good reason to drive up to Lyons for an afternoon beer on the patio at Oskar Blues brewery. This hike, just 13 miles past the tiny hamlet, is our go-to excuse. When to go: Around 10 a.m., so you can hit up the brewery on the way back to Denver. Even if I hiked every weekend...
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9:00 am, Apr 17, 2012
Why we love it: This is choose-your-own-adventure hiking. Have the kids along? Pick the Lodgepole Loop Trail for a shady walk with minimal climbing. Want more of a challenge? Head to the top of the Old Ski Run Trail. (In the 1940s, skiers raced down the southern slope.) When to go: In the early morning, before the picnickers arrive....
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3:44 pm, Apr 10, 2012
Why we love it: Eldorado Canyon is more well-known for its more than 500 rock climbing routes, but if you prefer keeping your feet on terra firma, the hiking is pristine and the views are expansive. When to go: Mid-afternoon when the sun shines right through the canyon. If you want to get away for a few hours in the mountains, but want...
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