Places to Go...

So, of course, the highlight of your trip will be watching us tie the knot! But, we realize you may want to have some highlights of your own. Many of you who are coming out to Colorado in August are planning a family vacation. Colorado in the summer is one big playground for you to explore. Here are some of our favorite places to go.....

Chief Mountain

We have to start with Chief Mountain. This is a great place for out of town hikers to try out some Colorado Mountain hiking. Remember, we are at a very high elevation. You are going to want to start slow to make sure you are acclimated to the altitude. Chief Mountain is fairly close to Denver and only about 1.5 miles to the top. The views at the top are amazing though. Bring water and, without fail, bring your camera. (Be sure to stand over the geographical marker so you can see the exact spot of our engagement!)
http://funcoloradohikes.com/chief_mountain.html

Estes Park

When coming to Colorado you have to at least give a thought to visiting Estes Park. Home to the infamous Stanley Hotel and one of the entrances to Rocky Mountain National Park. If you are up for some beautiful sight seeing, animal viewing and some hiking, make sure to visit the Park. And where to stay? Look at the Stanley. Lord Stanley moved himself and his lovely wife out to Colorado, not knowing that years later, his haunted hotel would be a great tourist attraction. If you don't stay at the hotel at least consider taking one of their haunted tours, which includes the actual room in which Stephen King penned The Shining.
http://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm
http://www.stanleyhotel.com/

Frisco, Breckenridge, Vail

Just a short drive up I-70 you will find all the popular mountain towns to visit. You may think they are only for ski season, but these towns are bustling in the summer as well. We have enjoyed many hiking trails throughout these towns. One of our favorites is Lily Pad Lake. Again, a shorter hike but it can be, literally, breath taking if you are not used to the altitude. If you are planning on staying in Denver, these towns are all close enough for a day trip. Travel up the highway early, get a hike in and enjoy lunch before heading back.

Colorado 14ers

Colorado boasts 53 separate "14ers". A 14er is a mountain peak above 14,000 ft. Its a difficult climb and it may take you 4 hours to complete a round trip of only 4 miles. But, MAN, is it worth the effort. This has to be where the term "Rocky Mountain High" comes from. (Yes, pot is legal here but we are all over the jokes!) The feeling you get from standing on top of one of these peaks is like none other. The sense of accomplishment alone is worth it. But the views are spectacular as you stand in awe of the mountains around you. Definitely come prepared and start early (like 6 am early). If you are thinking of attempting this feat, contact one of us for tips to make your attempt a successful summit. We have learned through experience what to do and what to avoid.
http://www.5280.com/magazine/2013/06/higher-ground?page=full

Mt. Evans

Want the experience of reaching the summit of a 14er but perhaps the journey may not be possible? Then DRIVE! Yup, DRIVE! The highest paved mountain road is right here! You can drive to the summit of this beauty and still see the sights. Beware, weather changes quickly up there so start early! You can stop along the way to see mountain goats, bighorn sheep, hiking trails and the very unique forest of bristle cone pine trees (some of them are over 1000 years old!). This road is not for the faint of heart or those fearful of heights though.
http://www.mountevans.com/

Golden

Golden is a quaint little town. Our venue is located just outside of town so many of you may want to stay in Golden. (We will be posting soon about lodging near and around Golden.) The historical mining town of Golden offers a lot of roaming around space. Shops, restaurants, a creek walk and the Coors Brewery and tour for those who are interested.
http://www.cityofgolden.net/
http://www.millercoors.com/Brewery-Tours/Golden-Brewery-Tour.aspx

Boulder

Located about 30 miles outside of downtown Denver is Boulder. There are many quirky aspects to this town that make it worth a day trip. When driving west towards the town, you will be greeted by the views of the Flatirons. Be sure to visit the pedestrian mall of Pearl Street Mall where you will see some of the best people watching and street performers in the state! As tends to be our focus on summer days off, there is a lot of great hiking in and around Boulder, so if you are interested let us know and we will steer you in the right direction.
https://bouldercolorado.gov/

Colorado Springs

A bit further of a drive, but there are definitely some highlights in the Springs. The Air Force Academy is located here. Also, for some interesting site seeing, is Garden of the Gods. A playground of red rock formations that are truly unique. Also travel to, drive up or take the cog railway up Pikes Peak (the inspiration for America the Beautiful).
http://www.gardenofgods.com/home/index.cfm

Red Rocks

Just outside of downtown Denver is Red Rocks Amphitheater. A natural concert venue at night, a popular hiking, yoga and exercise location during the day. There may even be a concert or an outside movie night happening when you are in town so be sure to check their schedule. It will be hot here during the day as the heat reflects off of, well, the red rocks.
http://redrocksonline.com/

Denver

Well, since you're there, be sure to check out Denver! Our downtown has so much to offer. Amazing culinary experiences, the Natural History Museum, the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Center for Performing Arts, the Downtown Aquarium, the Denver Zoo, Coors Field for a Rockies game, the Denver Mint (if you have small kids this may interest them!) or just a random walking around town day. Again, let us know if you have questions and we can help you plan a great downtown day!
http://www.5280.com/
http://www.denvergov.org
http://www.westword.com/

It is usually suggested when you come to Colorado to give yourself at least one day in or around Denver at lower altitudes before heading to the hills. Altitude sickness is no joke and we want you to enjoy your time here! If you are planning on outdoor activities in the mountains in August, try to plan them early. Wicked thunderstorms tend to hide behind the peaks and sneak up on you starting early afternoon. Stay hydrated and wear lots of sunscreen. And enjoy our great state! (You kind of want to extend your vacation now don't you!?!?)

Hope this is helpful. We have tried to include some helpful links for you to check out. As always, if you have questions or need help planning feel free to call, text or email us.

Alison - agagliardo30@gmail.com
Neil- n_rhein@yahoo.com