Rocky Mountain High is a folk-rock song written by John Denver and Mike Taylor; it is one the official state songs of Colorado. Fittingly so, as Colorado will give you the highest natural high your family will ever endure. If you’re craving a lush, lovely, adventurous, action-packed yet tranquil escape, opt for exploring colorful Colorado. Here are four Colorado infused gems that will leave a footprint on your soul.
Vail
Located only two hours from Denver sits Vail, flaunting a wonderland in the winter and a simply stunning summer. There, you’ll find two adorable downtowns; Vail Village and Lionshead, walkable to one another. Packed with shops, restaurants and a river running through it, the flawless villages resemble a European escape. Gondolas are
conveniently located in the heart of the towns, bringing you atop the glorious and gorgeous ski mountain with plenty of seasonal activities like hiking and biking.
Book a luxurious condo from East West Hospitality, offering top notch vacation rentals in the area. Dubbed the best hospitably service in town, indulge in A-list accommodations, preferably the Altus Condominiums, flawless multi-bedroom abodes with endless views. Free family entertainment includes the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens alongside a fantastic playground.
If you like living on the edge- literally- Zip Adventures Vail is a must-do. Instill in your kids that fear is a useless emotion; the zipline course takes you soaring 200 feet over rivers and trees, in addition to diving off the (optional) tallest natural cliff jump in the country.
Breckenridge
A mere 45 minutes from Vail is Breckenridge, home to the largest historic district in Colorado. Founded in 1859, the town's Gold Rush brought droves of settlers seeking their fortunes, and those who visit Breck feel oh-so-fortunate. With stunning mountain scenery and endless recreation, Breck is a hot hub for all things outdoors.
Stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott Breckenridge, ideal for families. Located in the heart of the booming downtown, every spacious suite has a kitchenette- there’s also a rooftop pool and free daily breakfast. Minutes from the hotel are kid-friendly hikes (make sure to visit Breck’s resident troll: Isak Heartstone- a great photo opportunity).
To experience Breck’s rich history, check out the Country Boy Mine, one of the oldest most famous mines in Summit County. There, your family can go for a real treasure hunt, pan for gold, and take an exciting mine tour (way cool). You can also take a wet and wild whitewater ride down Beaver Creek courtesy of Performance Tours Rafting. Worth a day trip is Rocky Mountain National Park. The Grand Lake entrance is less than two hours from Breckenridge and it’s breathtaking. Spot moose, drive Trail Ridge Road, see the Continental Divide, and take a leisurely stroll via the Coyote Valley Trail.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs, about two hours from Breckenridge, is home to one-of-a-kind attractions and arguably the best destination for Colorado hot springs. The world’s largest mineral hot springs pool is a revitalizing retreat; plus, kids will love the whitewater tube ride plunging downhill with many twists and turns. Should you want to experience the real deal, however, Blue Sky Adventures rafts your family down the Colorado River, and you’ll surely catch some air.
Stay at the Hotel Glenwood Springs alongside a gondola that transports you to America’s only mountain top amusement park. The Alpine Coaster is a blast, but if you have a daring side, go for the Canyon Swing hitting speeds of 50 MPH perched high off a cliff. Besides the array of rides, you’ll want to check out the unique cave tours, introducing you the magic of inner mountains.
Durango
Before heading home, hit up Durango, known for unbeatable skiing yet so many summer activities. Choo-choo lovers must experience the world-famous Durango and Silverton Narrow Railroad, dating 1881. For families, take the five-hour Cascade Canyon Express offering incredible geological features and fantastic scenery that is downright jaw-dropping. The train tour pit-stops for a picturesque river-side picnic (don’t forget to pack a lunch).
Stay at the Rochester Hotel in Durango’s quaint downtown district. You’ll feel home at this boutique property offering an included made-to-order breakfast and daily happy hour treats. Moral of the story: we don’t remember days, we remember moments. And the best thing about memories is making them; people don’t take trips... trips take people.
