Our trip went way too fast and our last day arrived before we knew it! Dale’s number one request was that we hike up to Ptarmigan Lake, and while it was a little longer of a hike than anticipated the view at the top was spectacular. I’ve never been to Colorado in the Fall and really loved getting to see the start of fall with the orange and red ground cover and yellow trees. I’m more grateful than ever that we had a chance to get on the road and visit somewhere new. None of my travel plans went as expected this year but it was SO nice to have the smallest bit of normalcy with a road trip. I hope you all are staying safe and have some adventures of your own (even at home!) planned for this Fall!
Buena Vista, Colorado
We spent the last half of our trip in Buena Vista, Colorado! Dale had been once before and I was really excited to spend a few days hiking and enjoying the hot springs. We arrived right after the sand dunes and immediately went in search of dinner before spending the evening relaxing at our apartment. We ate at Eddyline Brewery a couple times during our stay as well as at the beautiful Surf Hotel. I’m grateful there were a couple great outdoor dining options in town!
Our first full day in town was spent sleeping in, visiting the Mount Princeton Hot Springs, and driving through Cottonwood Pass. We were able to plan out our hikes for our last full day and truly relax, it was the best.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
After our time in Colorado Springs Dale and I headed to the Great Sand Dunes National Park! I’ve always wanted to visit and as we drove up I couldn’t believe how big the dunes were. Since we had plenty of time and the park was our main stop for the day we decided to hike up to the top of the dunes. I’ve never hiked through sand before and despite a few moments where I wasn’t sure I could make it the views from the top were more than worth it! However, my very favorite part was running down the dunes because the moving sand sort of propelled you forward as you ran. Checking off this national park and looking forward to the next one we have the opportunity to visit!
Paint Mines Interpretive Park
Visiting the Paint Mines Interpretive Park outside of Colorado Springs was one of our favorite stops during our trip! I would recommend visiting in early evening like we did if possible because the light was perfect for photos as the sun was setting. Different parts of the park feature white rock formations and then some have rainbow sherbet like palettes! Enjoy!
Garden of the Gods
Dale and I’s first day of our Colorado road trip began at Garden of the Gods! I had been once before with my grandparents, but was excited to hike around the park with Dale. This was our first trip since Covid and we decided driving and staying in private Airbnb’s would be the best way to safely spend a week off. We had perfect early fall weather and I can’t wait to share more photos from our week in the mountains!
Labor Day Blooms
Dale and I made a stop at Grinter Farms on our way to Turkey Hill for Labor Day. Enjoy the blooms!
