Colorado
Colorado was not on my BINGO card for favorite destination vacations.
Not for 2023 - not ever. 🥴
We ventured into Colorado with limited expectations but a list of adventures to be had. When I travel I don't necessarily like to have a jam packed iteneray, a few loose plans here and there but always firm dinner reservations ensure everyone doesn't feel overwhelmed with a "To-Do list". We knew we wanted to get some winter activities in as well as once in a lifetime excursions if possible.
First things first, if you're planning on going in the winter season, make sure to plan well ahead to ensure you get to enjoy all of the cold weather sports without any stress of not having the right type of vehicle or worse, missing out on some snow fun. Colorado is renowned for its winter sports, such as snowboarding, tubing, and snowmobiling. So, make sure to book your spots for these activities beforehand - at least one month if possible, especially if you're traveling in a group.
One thing that may surprise you about Colorado is the large Hispanic population. With the influence of Mexican culture, you'll find plenty of delicious Hispanic cuisine options, such as burritos, tacos, and enchiladas. It's a refreshing break from the usual mountain town fare that you should expect to see and a great way to experience a different side of Colorado.
Snowboarding is a must-do activity when you're in Colorado. With endless snowy trails, stunning views, and the adrenaline rush of speeding down the mountain, snowboarding is an experience that you don't want to miss. It's a great way to bond with your friends and show off your skills (or lack thereof) on the slopes. For this I highly recommend Aspen as Echo Mountain just outside of Denver is smaller and has limited space.
If snowboarding is not your cup of tea, then you can opt for tubing. With giant tubes and thrilling slopes, tubing is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy, no matter their skill level or age. Get creative in your tube positions to level-up the experience, just make sure to hold on tight as you race down the mountain!
For those who want an even more thrilling experience, snowmobiling is the way to go! I promise you it was the HIGHLIGHT of our entire trip. With experienced guides leading the way, we rode through the snowy mountains and forests while taking in the beautiful Rocky Mountain and Vail scenery. It was GORGEOUS! Again try to book as far in advanced as possible as slots for these activities tend to fill up pretty quickly.
Despite being a winter wonderland, it's surprising how Colorado didn't really "feel" cold to most of us. With plenty of sunshine and dry air, the chilly temperatures are more invigorating than bone-chilling. So, don't be afraid to venture out and enjoy all the cute shops and restaurants that Colorado has to offer.
After a long day of adventure, it's time to indulge in some of Colorado's amazing cuisine. Colorado is famous for its farm-to-table cuisine, which means you're in for a treat. From juicy steaks to fresh seafood, Colorado's restaurants have something for everyone. Make sure to try the local favorites, such as bison burgers and green chili, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds. We loved our dining experiences as Tavernetta and El Five.
In summary, a quick getaway trip to Colorado with friends is the perfect way to break out of the monotony of everyday life. With surprising diversity, endless winter sports, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery, Colorado has something for everyone. Just make sure to plan ahead, book your spots for winter sports in advance, and let loose and have fun!
If you want more details about exactly what we did and where we went comment below and I'll be happy to share! For now enjoy the stunning and scenic imagery provided by the Rocky Mountain range. 🏔️
