MOVING TO COLORADO
The Highs & Lows of Living in the Centennial State
In March of 2022 I took a big leap and moved from The City of Brotherly Love to the Mile High City, seeking fame and fortune. Instead, what I found was a new love and appreciation for the natural world, amazing new friends, and a wealth of wildlife that you just don’t see back on the east coast. While the summer and fall of 2022 saw me exploring Colorado largly on my own, the winter and spring of 2023 have found me exploring some amazing places that I may not have visited alone with some people I am happy to now call some of my closest friends.
To name a few of the amazing adventures I’ve had, my new friends and I have hiked up to Royal Arch in Boulder, CO, soaked in the mineral rich waters of Glenwood Springs, learned about hunting with hawks, falcons, and owls at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, and experienced Ice-Fishing for the very first time at Pine Valley Ranch Park. Below I’ve listed some of my favorite spots in Colorado (so far) along with descriptions of each, and links where you can learn more and maybe even plan a visit for yourself!
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful protected wilderness area located in Colorado, USA. It encompasses over 415 square miles of majestic mountains, alpine lakes, meadows, and forests, and it’s home to a rich array of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, black bears, and mountain lions. The park features hundreds of miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs, and it offers numerous opportunities for camping, fishing, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities. One of the most iconic sights in Rocky Mountain National Park is the Trail Ridge Road, a scenic drive that winds its way through the heart of the park, reaching elevations of over 12,000 feet and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in the mountains, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Canyon State Park is a stunning natural area located in Boulder County, Colorado, USA. It is renowned for its towering sandstone cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and picturesque views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The park is a popular destination for rock climbers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts, who come to explore its 885 acres of rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can choose from a variety of trails, ranging from easy strolls along the South Boulder Creek to challenging climbs up the park’s signature rock formations, such as the Bastille and the Redgarden Wall. Eldorado Canyon State Park is also home to a rich array of wildlife, including golden eagles, peregrine falcons, black bears, and mountain lions, and it offers numerous opportunities for climbing, picnicking, and fishing. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, Eldorado Canyon State Park is a must-visit destination in Colorado.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal WIldlife Refuge
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a protected natural area located just northeast of Denver, Colorado, USA. The refuge encompasses over 15,000 acres of grasslands, wetlands, and woodlands, and it’s home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including bison, deer, coyotes, bald eagles, and prairie dogs. The refuge was originally established in the early 1940s as a chemical weapons manufacturing facility for the US Army, but it was later cleaned up and transformed into a national wildlife refuge in 1992. Today, visitors can explore the refuge’s many hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and educational exhibits, all while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains in the distance. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful place to connect with nature, learn about the history of the area, and experience the beauty and diversity of Colorado’s natural heritage.
