Open post
Cañon City royal gorge bridge

Canon City

Travel to Canon City, Colorado

Tucked into the folds and bluffs of the Arkansas Valley in south central Colorado, Canon City boasts the nickname of “The Climate Capital of Colorado” due to the mild climate. The relaxed pace of the region’s quaint small towns, spectacular scenery, year-round outdoor activities, The Royal Gorge Park & Bridge, and The Arkansas River, which flows through the region, make this the perfect vacation destination. Request a FREE Vacation Guide.

Favorite Things to Do in the Royal Gorge Region

  • Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – a must-see and do experience. Cross America’s highest suspension bridge and participate in the other features offered at the park.
  • Whitewater rafting through the Royal Gorge Canyon – a very popular way to see and experience all the wonders of the Royal Gorge Canyon and the Arkansas River.
  • Jeep Tours – The Royal Gorge Region is an amazing place to travel through. Featuring a high alpine desert landscape and a plethora of off-road routes.
  • Royal Gorge Scenic Train – climb onboard the original transcontinental passenger train from the early 1900s.
  • The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey – voted “Best Front Range Tasting Room” by Colorado Vine. The wine-tasting room is open daily.
  • Mountain Biking & Hiking – are understated activities but many exceptional miles of trails await.

Cañon City Downtown Canon City

About Canon City and Regional Attractions

Family fun starts with a memorable ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The historic tracks follow the Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge Canyon, with views of the bridge from below. The whole family will enjoy exploring the unique rock formations and historic dinosaur sites. Leisure seekers will delight in the one-of-a-kind galleries, renowned antiquing, wine tasting, golfing, and fishing.

Canon City is home to The Royal Gorge, which has a width of 50 feet at the base of the gorge and a few hundred feet at its top, with a depth of 1,200 feet; the 10-mile-long canyon is a stunning natural wonder. 1929, one of the world’s highest suspension bridges was built over the Grand Gorge. The Royal Gorge Bridge has a quarter-mile long span and hangs 1,053 feet above the gorge. The bridge is one of Colorado’s most popular attractions.

Open post
Aerial 1B.jpg

ATV Tours Colorado

Colorado ATV Tours

Get ready to explore the great outdoors and discover the beauty of the Rocky
Mountains in a unique and exciting way. Our tours are for adventure seekers
of all skill levels. Each group is provided an expert guide who will walk you
through proper operation of the equipment so you can have a safe and
unforgettable journey.

Choose Your Experience

You can choose from a one hour or two hour guided experience that navigates
the historic Silver City Trail into the backcountry of Colorado. With our
top-of-the-line ATVs and safety gear, you can feel confident, and focus on
the stunning views and exciting terrain you will encounter on your ride!

Our tours are great for groups of any size! Reservations are available online
or by calling us directly!

Open post
EDGE Ziipline

EDGE Zipline and Adventure Park

The EDGE Zipline and Adventure Center

The EDGE (formerly Castle Rock Adventure Park) is an outdoor adventure center near Denver featuring a zipline tour, Epic Sky Trek, and more.

The EDGE Sky Trek

A 4-story, featuring a 110-element aerial trekking course that ranges from simple to full-fledged daring type elements.

The EDGE Adventure Tower

Thirteen elements of climbing, free-falling, and repelling.

The EDGE Ninja Course

Ninja warrior action as seen on TV. Choose your challenge level.

Check the website for seasonal DEALS and to book a visit; groups are welcome. Gift cards are available for purchase.

EDGE Zipline

Open post
Pack Burro Picnics

Pack Burro Picnics

Pack Burro Picnic

A Pack Burro Picnic is a unique way to experience the high alpine backcountry in Colorado. The tour starts at an elevation of 10,500 feet and ascends approximately 2 miles to the summit of Chalk Mountain at an elevation of 12,017 feet. Hike alongside a burro, who will carry your gear and a sumptuous picnic as you meander through forest, wildflowers, and a stunning mountain landscape surrounded by some of Colorado’s highest peaks. Learn the history and geology of this land, while immersed in a wild and natural landscape. Enjoy the “breathtaking” and ASS-tounding views.

Open post
All Aboard!

All Aboard!

All Aboard – it’s that time

Welcome to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! We’re glad you’ve chosen to visit. Whether you are new to experiencing this legendary railroad or have been a returning guest for years, we look forward to offering you the best in year-round historic train adventures presented today as they were in 1882! We invite you to hop aboard and relive the “Golden Age” on our railroad, which was voted “#1 Best Scenic Train in North America “ by USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice 2021 & 2022, “Best Historic Railroad of the West” 2021-23 by TrueWest Magazine Readers, and “Best Train Experience in the West” in 2016 by Sunset Magazine. Order a FREE All-Aboard Guide.

About D&SNGRR

Our family has dedicated decades to preserving the history surrounding this national treasure, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This railroad is designated a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service and an American Society of Civil Engineering Landmark.

When is the best time to visit the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad? Any time of the year!

During the winter, we offer exclusive round-trip train adventures deep into the heart of the San Juan National Forest to Cascade Canyon as well as the premier holiday family event train, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train ride.

If you’re visiting in the springtime, your train excursion may feature incredible waterfalls during the spring thaw season as you journey to Cascade Canyon.

All Aborad

All Aboard in the Summer

Summer is high season at the D&S with daily full day Durango to Silverton excursions May through October departing from Durango. We also offer daily 5-hour excursions on the Cascade Canyon Express seven days a week during the high season. These rail journeys also depart from the Durango Depot and travel to Cascade Canyon and are a perfect highlight reel of spectacular Rocky Mountain vistas for those with limited time.

Autumn offers you a unique way to experience peak leaf season from the comfort of the D&S train. Connect with family and friends as you explore the Rocky Mountains by historic railway. Sit back and allow yourself to be transported through a riot of blazing fall colors featuring the spectacular golden glow of aspens.

However you choose to relax and connect on the D&S train, and whatever adventure awaits you, we hope you have an inspiring journey where you create wonderful life-long memories!

Open post
Cañon City royal gorge bridge

Canon City

Travel to Canon City, Colorado

Tucked into the folds and bluffs of the Arkansas Valley in south central Colorado, Canon City boasts the nickname of “The Climate Capital of Colorado” due to the mild climate. The relaxed pace of the region’s quaint small towns, spectacular scenery, year-round outdoor activities, The Royal Gorge Park & Bridge, and The Arkansas River, which flows through the region, make this the perfect vacation destination. Request a FREE Vacation Guide.

Favorite Things to Do in the Royal Gorge Region

  • Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – a must-see and do experience. Cross America’s highest suspension bridge and participate in the other features offered at the park.
  • Whitewater rafting through the Royal Gorge Canyon – a very popular way to see and experience all the wonders of the Royal Gorge Canyon and the Arkansas River.
  • Jeep Tours – The Royal Gorge Region is an amazing place to travel through. Featuring a high alpine desert landscape and a plethora of off-road routes.
  • Royal Gorge Scenic Train – climb onboard the original transcontinental passenger train from the early 1900s.
  • The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey – voted “Best Front Range Tasting Room” by Colorado Vine. The wine-tasting room is open daily.
  • Mountain Biking & Hiking – are understated activities but many exceptional miles of trails await.

Cañon City Downtown Canon City

About Canon City and Regional Attractions

Family fun starts with a memorable ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The historic tracks follow the Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge Canyon, with views of the bridge from below. The whole family will enjoy exploring the unique rock formations and historic dinosaur sites. Leisure seekers will delight in the one-of-a-kind galleries, renowned antiquing, wine tasting, golfing, and fishing.

Canon City is home to The Royal Gorge, which has a width of 50 feet at the base of the gorge and a few hundred feet at its top, with a depth of 1,200 feet; the 10-mile-long canyon is a stunning natural wonder. 1929, one of the world’s highest suspension bridges was built over the Grand Gorge. The Royal Gorge Bridge has a quarter-mile long span and hangs 1,053 feet above the gorge. The bridge is one of Colorado’s most popular attractions.

Open post
Maroon Bells

Maroon Bells

Visiting the Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells are a must-see to complete your Aspen adventure. The series of distinctive bell-shaped peaks tower at 14,000 feet above the glacial Maroon Valley and offer some of the best views in the world. – The most photographed mountains in North America

For reservations and questions, please call (970) 930-6442
or email info@vistitmaroonbells.com.
Full reservation details can be found through the Aspen Chamber or the U.S. Forest Service.

Summer 2023 Update

Reservations are required to access the Scenic Area and related amenities by personal vehicle or by shuttle. Reservations can ONLY be secured through the Aspen Chamber. >>

Access with a personal vehicle reservation will begin on May 15th through October 31. The cost for each vehicle reservation will be $10. Personal vehicle parking reservations will initially be available in rolling three-week increments.

Maroon Bells Information

Here, you can explore the glacial valley while surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks. Maroon Lake, surrounded by fields of wildflowers, mirrors images of the Maroon Bells in its waters.
maroon bells fall

For the best Maroon Bells experience

Visit the Bells on a weekday and utilize the bus service. If you have skied in Aspen, you know how easy and hassle-free the bus service is. Riding the bus system is a hassle-free way to access the area and leave the driving to someone else.

The road is open to private vehicles prior to 8 a.m.; However, the parking lot can already be full. Frequently, photographers or overnight hikers have begun their Maroon Bells experience in the wee hours of the morning. Which fill up the parking lot before the rest of us have even gotten out of bed. When this happens, the road is closed to private vehicles in advance of 8 a.m. The road is subject to closure at any time due to overcrowding. *Leaf peepers visiting on peak foliage weekends in late September/ early October should anticipate this being the case and plan alternate visits accordingly.*

Camping & Hiking

Camping and pet-friendly hiking trails are both available. Camping or backpackers going further into Aspen’s Maroon Bells must make campsite reservations or permits for backcountry camping. Find more info about camping.

Open post
Castle Rock Colorado

Castle Rock

Things To Do in Castle Rock

It’s easy to see how Castle Rock got its name when one spies the castle-shaped butte towering high above the town center. The town’s history is also easily visible in the original, well-preserved homes, cafés, and churches throughout the area. Many of these were built using the unusual rhyolite stone that originally attracted the settlers who founded the town in the mid-to-late 18th century. Prior to their arrival, the area was occupied by Cheyenne and Arapahoe Indian tribes. Today, nearly 60,0000 people call Castle Rock home.

With roots in mining and railroads, this affluent town offers an updated taste of the Old West. It boasts a historic downtown area, 265 acres of parks, and 44 miles of trails.  Castle Rock, easily accessible by Interstate 25, is home to the Outlets at Castle Rock (the largest open-air outlet center in the State) and is the seat of Douglas County.  The town encompasses 33 square miles and sits in the East Plum Creek Valley at the base of the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of 6,202 feet.

With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Castle Rock is a safe and welcoming place to enjoy the brisk Colorado air year round.

Castle Rock neighborhood

 

Open post
Mountain sailing at Lake Dillion Colorado

Year-Round Activities

Year-Round Activities in Colorado

Colorado is most famous for its world-class skiing and hiking. However, its varied geographical regions and diverse population, make Colorado a place to be enjoyed by people of all passions and ages with year-round activities abound.

Colorado’s diverse activities

Besides the high-profile activities found in Colorado’s resort towns. People with other interests should not be surprised to see their favorite activities and organizations in Colorado too. Here are a few activities that might not be front of mind when thinking of Colorado but are in fact popular and thriving in Colorado.

Colorado adventure parks

Adventure Parks

If you’re looking for man-made assisted fun. The adventure parks in Colorado are not to be missed. Similar to the urban amusement parks, Colorado’s adventure parks combine the awesomeness of mountains, and their natural setting, with the thrill of manmade fun. 

ATVs and Jeep Tourscolorado snow buggy tours

If hiking, riding horseback, or mountain biking is not your thing. Getting the “out there” feeling of being in the National Forest is something anyone can do. There are a variety of companies that provide guided backcountry tours to suit your style. With the advent of modern ATVs, you can even tour the backcountry year-round. The modern buggy ATVs can accommodate small parties through remote areas in the summer and winter. 

Marinas and Boating

Boating is certainly not first to mind when thinking about Colorado. However, this state has a variety of exceptional mountain lakes and reservoirs to satisfy your mariner cravings. If oceans and big bodies of water are more your style. Consider the lakes of Colorado to be a new challenge. Generally speaking, these lakes are suited for smaller crafts and will call upon a modified skill set. 

Hot Air Ballooning

A really fantastic activity that anybody can do is hot air ballooning. The mountains of Colorado are perfect for ballooning year-round. The mountain views are just stunning. A truly “eagle eye” experience.

Spas and Hot Springs

If you just need to unwind Colorado has got you covered. Throughout Colorado, you can find natural hot springs. Often these springs have been developed into spas or accompany resort getaways. Hot Springs are open year-round. The hot mineral-rich waters can feel even more satisfying in the winter. Follow that up with a message and you’ll be ready to take on life with new meaning. You will also find top-notch spas in all of the resort communities.

Activities for those more Culturally Minded

Colorado Museums

Colorado has been an integral part of western immigration. Pioneering the west involved navigating the Oregon and Santa Fee overland trails. Colorado essentially bisected these traveling routes. Then there was the gold rush which established most of Colorado’s small towns still in existence today. Simultaneously, the open-range cattle industry boomed and clashed with the mining town culture. Creating the romanticized cowboy lifestyle that developed the Hollywood western movie storytelling that is still seen and loved. Small-town museums can be found throughout Colorado. If you’re a history buff or fascinated by the early western culture. Stop by any number of these museums and step back in time and check out the early days of the west.

stage coach john wayne

Colorado Performing Arts

Colorado has a unique ability to draw eclectic people. So, no surprise to find a strong influence of performing arts throughout the state. Home to Colorado Symphony Orchestra, a plethora of Bluegrass festivals, The famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Denver’s Center for Performing Arts, and more. You will also discover similar cultural experiences available throughout Colorado’s small mountain towns.

Year-Round Vacationing in Colorado

When you think of vacationing in Colorado. Think of all the incredible year-round activities, cultural experiences, and events you can mix into your trip. With a little planning, you can easily check off activities to satisfy your body and mind. Find activities to thrill you, challenge you, stimulate your curiosity, or just find satisfying relaxation. Colorado is the place to get a recharge on life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posts navigation

1 2 3

Sponsored Content

Scroll to top