The Colorado Vacation Directory Camping, Cabins, Fun Things To Do

14/06/2024

Should Flag Day be a national holiday?
Today June 14th is Flag Day! Our founder is a retired veteran and he has always hung a flag outside our door to honor the idea that we are one nation with many beliefs, ideas, hopes and dreams for our families and our country.
Here is the "official" significance behind our annual observation: Today is the anniversary of June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress approved the design of a flag for the United States, which at the time featured 13 stars and 13 strips, representing the 13 colonies.
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After reading this, I'm thinking our national Lucky Number should be 13!

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We post about

13/06/2024

Victor is one of my favorite stops along the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway! And this weekend is the Victor Gem and Mineral Show - Great for families, couples, and well everyone who likes to get out the the heat of the front range! https://www.coloradodirectory.com/maps/goldbelt.html
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Victor Lowell Thomas Museum is so much more than a museum! Yes you can explore gold rush history past and present. BUT THE TOURS: working gold mine and cemetery walk. Pan for real gold!
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Gold Camp Bakery in Victor is the place for a great treat while you are strolling Victor Downtown Historic District.
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Be sure to make time for the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad it's a 4-mile round-trip ride on the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad from our 1894 vintage depot and gift shop. Enjoy rich gold mining history a short drive from Colorado Springs and Cañon City.
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12/06/2024

WILDLIFE WEDNESDAY: Mom’s charge and stomp to protect their young calfs; humans must keep their distance
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It is Calving Season in Colorado. Moose, elk, and deer protect their younglings, and when I say protecting, I mean these moms are aggressive and attack people, leading to serious injuries.
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REPORTS
In Estes Park there have been three separate momma elk stompings in two weeks.
In Winter Park there have been two separate moose attacks were recorded this month.
In El Paso County a doe protecting a nearby fawn was fatally shot after charging a pregnant woman and stomping two dogs.
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STAY SAVE and ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS
1. Leave young wildlife alone. Adult animals often leave their newborns to forage for food.
2. DID YOU KNOW that baby mammals are born scentless, so predators can't find them? Touching them can remove their scentless armor, causing their parents to abandon them.
3. Be aware of the signs of aggression, which include laid-back ears, raised hairs on the neck, Curled lips and grinding teeth, licking of the snout. Additional danger signs include charging, kicking, circling, or following you.
4. Keep your dogs on a leash; elk, moose, and deer view them as predators and will act accordingly. Better yet, during calving season, leave them home.
5. DO NOT turn your back on aggressive wildlife. Back away, facing them, shoulders down, eyes up, and try to put an object between you and the animal - a tree, rock, or car!
6. You can zoom in with your smart phone or camera. USE IT! Your harmless need for the perfect photo is far less important than their need to protect their BABIES!
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11/06/2024

One of my favorites is the Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic & Historic Byway is 130-mile southwest Colorado byway passes through the Unaweep Canyon while traveling from Whitewater to Placerville. Take advantage of the many scenic hiking and biking trails and keep an eye out for historic remnants of the area's mining past along the way. https://www.coloradodirectory.com/maps/unaweep.html
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Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways West End Farm and Craft Market West End Colorado Rimrocker Trail West End Economic Development Corporation - WEEDC Nucla Round Up Nucla Rodeo Arena Tabeguache Trail Riders History Colorado I Love Colorado History Montrose County Historical Museum

05/06/2024

WILDLIFE WEDNESDAY: Wildlife Wednesday: Today, my garden inspired me. The bees pollinating my raspberry patch and the rock garden captivated me. My iPhone camera is no match for their speed.
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7 of the Best Gardens to Explore across Colorado! Spend time this weekend strolling through one of my favorite Colorado gardens.

1. Betty Ford Alpine Gardens (Vail) the only botanic garden in North America dedicated to the preservation and conservation of alpine plant species and their associated habitats.
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2. Denver Botanic Gardens (Denver) an oasis in the middle of metro Denver; no matter the season, I love strolling here. Looking for farm experience? Head to Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms.
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3. Durango Botanic Gardens (Durango) is along the Animas River Trail, featuring horticultural gems, from flowers to herbs to grasses, sculptures, and rock gardens. The gardens are free to visit and open to the public 24 hours a day.
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4. Gardens on Spring Creek (Fort Collins) on 12 acres foster environmental stewardship through horticulture. There are 12 themed gardens, including the Children's, Foothills, Garden of Eatin', Prairie, Wetlands, and my favorite, the Xeric Strip.
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5. The Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs) is Mother Nature’s Rock Garden! There are 20 breathtaking sandstone formations sculpted by erosion, including one that looks like two camels kissing. Eight miles of trails for bikers and hikers run through the park. Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center offers talks, walks, and guided bus tours. Stop for lunch Garden of the Gods Trading Post. https://www.coloradodirectory.com/maps/hiking_gardengods.html
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6. Western Colorado Botanical Gardens (Grand Junction) spend a morning exploring the Cactus Garden, Antique Rose Garden, Children’s Secret Garden, Western Heritage Garden, Celebration Plaza, and Japanese Garden. Be on the lookout for ponds, butterflies, turtles, and tortoises.
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7. Yampa River Botanic Park (Steamboat Springs) was voted "Best Yoga Studio" and is one of the jewels of Northwest Colorado! It's six acres and features ponds, berms, and 40 gardens. Learn about local wildflowers and fauna.
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Nature Lovers

04/06/2024

TRAVEL TIP TUESDAY: Head to the Go Pro Games with TAXA OUTDOORS in Vail, CO. 🚎⛰🛤🌅🚐 RSVP to let B&B RV, Inc. know you'll be there!
TAXA Outdoors GoPro Mountain Games.
B&B RV, Inc is the largest single-location rental dealer in the Nation. Family owned - operated with experienced mechanics. https://www.coloradodirectory.com/bbrv/
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B&B RV, INC. serves the Rocking Mountain Region in Denver: RV RENTALS featuring the nation's largest single location RV rental dealer with a newer more upgraded fleet!
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The rental fleet includes RVs from small to large with many options and upgrades. Pick from a variety of floor plans including Class C RVs, Class B RVs, Sprinter Diesels and Camper Vans. Every year they sell off the majority of their fleet to keep it new.
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Join us at the Go Pro Games with B&B RV in Vail, CO. RSVP to let us know you'll be there!

31/05/2024

FRIDAY BYWAY: TOP 6 SHORTS COLORADO SCENIC DRIVES
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Colorado is home to 26 Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways; of these, 11 are also National Scenic Byways, and 2 are All-American Roads! And we have honored three Scenic Drives for a total of 29 must-drive routes!
https://www.coloradodirectory.com/maps/scenic-byways.html
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As summer approaches, the call of the open road beckons adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. If you’re looking to experience the beauty of Colorado’s landscapes firsthand, there’s no better way than by planning a road trip. Colorado has 26 Scenic Byways and 3 CVD Scenic Drives; these routes feature breathtaking natural beauty and cultural heritage sites. Plan your summer journey today, filled with stunning vistas and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
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#1 Pikes Peak - America's Mountain Scenic Drive is a 12-mile climb to the top (14,115 feet) of the world's second-most visited mountain summit. Start at the Cascade toll booth in south-central Colorado. Take in the spectacular scenery as the road winds to the summit, where the view inspired the song America the Beautiful. Activities along the way include fishing in Crystal Creek Reservoir and hiking on various trails. While you cannot walk along the highway, you can hike up to Pikes Peak on the Barr Trail or the Manitou Incline Hike.
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#2 South Platte River Trail Scenic Byway is 19 miles, and the shortest official Colorado Scenic Byway. This Northeastern Colorado route loops through Julesburg and its surrounding area. It follows part of the Overland Trail and the first transatlantic railroad. Activities along the way include Fort Sedgwick, the only Pony Express stop in Colorado, and the Julesburg State Wildlife Area.
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#3 Guanella Pass Scenic Byway, a 22-mile route, is a few miles southwest of Denver. Whether you start in Visit Georgetown, or Grant, you’ll enjoy this mountain drive over the pass at 11,669 feet. Be sure to stop at Bierstadt Trailhead; it’s a short trail your kids and dogs will enjoy. Activities along the way include Bear Mountain Stables, Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours, the former Silverdale mining camp, and plenty of hiking and biking trails.
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#4 Church Park Road Scenic Drive (the second CVD Scenic Drive on the list) is 24 miles and takes around two hours. This is a hidden gem connecting Fraser to Hot Sulphur Springs in Grand County in north-central Colorado. Notable attractions include Blue Ridge and Byers Peak (12,804 feet) in Arapaho National Forest. Why take a highway when there is a beautiful, less-traveled route? Activities along the way include High Country Stampede Rodeo Saturdays (June-July), Hike Byers Peak, dogs allowed, and soaking in the Hot Sulphur Springs.
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#5 Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway climbs 7,000 feet in 28 miles and is the highest paved highway in North America. The route starts in Idaho Springs and climbs to Mount Blue Sky's (fka, Mount Evans) summit at 14,266 feet. Activities along the way include many stops with short hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife watching. At the base, Echo Lake Mountain Park offers hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities. Also spend time at ARGO Mill and Tunnel. NOTE: Reservations are needed to drive the byway.
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Lariat Loop Scenic Byway is Colorado's only urban byway in the Denver Mountain Area. The 33-mile loop connects Golden, Genesee, Evergreen, and Morrison together. Activities along the way include Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, Genesee Park (see roaming buffalo), Humphrey History Park & Museum, and Red Rocks Park, home to stunning rock formations and its famous natural amphitheater.
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Visit Clear Creek County Visit Colorado Springs Northeast Colorado Travel Region of the Pioneering Plains

30/05/2024

TRAVEL TIP THURSDAY: Nederland's Historic Carousel of Happiness is a restored, fully-functional 1910 Looff Carousel with 56 Playful Hand-Carved Animals. Rides are only $3. Along the Peak to Peak Highway Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways
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Have a Carousel Party! Rent the carousel after hours to host your wedding, reunion, or birthday party. The venue is fun and unexpected; surely your guests will love the playfulness of the carousel!
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Summer: Monday-Thursday, 11am to 5pm; and Friday-Sunday, 10am to 5pm
Rides $3 each, or 10 for $25; 25% of ticket sales revenue goes toward our Carousel Preservation Fund.
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CARNIVAL 10am to 1pm $1 GAMES: Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Chipeta Park in Nerderland, Colorado.
Fun carnival games and concessions. Plan to enter the donut-hole-eating contest and other races. Face painting by our clown, SuzQz!
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ALL AGES CIRCUS SHOW AT 1pm, $45
"Circus Pirates" is a 60-minute show featuring the 7-ensemble circus artist cast. This fun, family-friendly show for all ages is especially great for the youngest crowd, with juggling, acrobatics, jumprope, hooping, aerials, and cloning!
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AGES 12+ CIRCUS SHOW AT 4pm, $55
"Cirque Noir" is a 90-minute show featuring the 7-ensemble circus artist cast. This fun, exciting show has amazing acrobatic feats for ages 12 and up! Includes: Chinese Pole, Aerial, Clowning, Acrobatics, Dance, Juggling, Hooping, Bullwhip, and Rola Bola!
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LOCATION: Carousel of Happiness, a restored 1910 Looff, is in north central Colorado, along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, in Nederland, Colorado, between Estes Park and Idaho Springs.
DIRECTIONS: From Boulder, take Colorado Highway 119 (Boulder Canyon Drive) into Nederland; the Carousel is just off Highway 119 at 20 Lakeview Drive, right beside the Train Cars Coffee Shop.
DRIVE TIMES: Boulder, 30 minutes. Idaho Springs takes 45 minutes. Estes Park, Lyons, Longmont, and Denver are all about an hour away.
PHONE: 303-258-3457 To book a birthday party, family reunion outing, wedding proposal, or any occasion, mention the Colorado Vacation Directory.
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Links:
Carousel of Happiness: https://www.thecvd.com/carousel/
Tickets: https://carouselofhappiness.org/circus-fundraiser/
Circus Foundry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCQfLtK6IVg
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Visit Black Hawk Visit Estes Park

30/05/2024

5/29/24 WILDLIFE WEDNESDAY: I love hiking in Colorado! My favorite part? The water breaks! I often stop for a spit of water and look around; there is always something I did not notice while walking, like a cloud that looks like dolphins, a bee on a flower, a rock that fits in my pocket to take home, and when I am lucky, a deer just hanging out in the brush, hoping I will get moving so she can. That was my luck last Monday.
Feeling Colorado Blessed!
https://www.coloradodirectory.com/nationalparks/red-rocks-park.html
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Nature love

28/05/2024

HOW I SPENT MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND IN COLORADO
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On Sunday is was all about picnicking and wandering the Boulder Creek Festival.

True Honey Teas: you can buy online I loved the blueberry and ginger lemon. Wish they had iced samples. It was also suggested that you can brew the tea and make ice cubs to had to black tea for a pop of favor, I'll give it a try.

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What I usually post about:

28/05/2024

HOW I SPENT MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND IN COLORADO
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I hung our flag in honor of my grandfather, Werner Kappel. He escaped Berlin, Germany, fought in the Pacific, and earned the Purple Heart in WWII. Love ya, Grandpa, you are remembered. Without your courage and determination I would not be here.
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This past weekend was about honoring those who served in the US military and lost their lives, and those who came home forever changed. I hope all of us remembered to honor Memorial Day as a day of remembrance. A day to give thanks to those men and women who had the courage to fight for the freedom we enjoy today. A freedom they did not get to see; they died on the battlefield. If there is ever a moment to stop the noise, yesterday was as good as any. My heart pumps red, white, and blue. There is hardly a family alive today that does not have a family member that served in at least one of our country's wars, whether with a pen or a gun, on our own soil or across the ocean. Our sons and daughters fought for what they believed was right and justice. May we always come together in love, and thanks for their courage.
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It had been years since I hiked at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre a National Historic Landmark. The Amphitheatre is one of America's best-known performing arts venues, famous for its natural acoustics, design, and setting. However, this weekend we hiked the Old Trading Post Loop Trail and enjoyed meadows of flowers, babbling creeks, blue skies, and a few steps. Hiking is one of my favorite family activities!
https://www.coloradodirectory.com/nationalparks/red-rocks-park.html
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After a day of hiking, one tends to be hungry, and WOW we found a fun place, the Morris & Mae Market. The three of us all had next-level mac and cheese at Mac Nation Cafe: hubby got the Bronco, I got Carolina honey chicken, and our son had one that included spaghetti sauce. The bar had a great selection of draft beers. We also recommend the Smooth's at Kiki's Fresh Bowls.
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On Saturday my men went rock climbing and I worked on the Garden. And On Sunday is was all about picnicking and wandering the Boulder Creek Festival.
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What I usually post about:

25/05/2024

The Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic & Historic Byway running just outside the Uncompahgre National Forest is along the western edge of Colorado, almost to the Utah border. Stretching for about 130 miles, it will take you almost 3 hours to drive it all. This area is filled with history: geological formations, Native American buildings, petroglyphs, hieroglyphics.
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Make your vacation plans today: https://www.coloradodirectory.com/maps/unaweep.html
Location: From I-70 in Grand Junction, take Highway 50 South. Turn onto Hwy 141 just outside of Whitewater; this is where the Byway starts. Follow Highway 141 through Gateway, Uravan, Vancorum, and Naturita. The byway continues on Hwy 145 through Norwood and ends in Placerville.
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Naturita - A Vacation Destination to Trails and Adventure - Big Things Happen in -- Little Nature -- Rimrocker Trail, Buckeye Reservoir, Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway, San Miguel River, wildlife, ancient petroglyphs, hike, fish, ATV, mountain bike, hunt, raft.
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Rimrocker Historical Society Museum and Ballpark at Historic Uravan CO - Campground and Day Use Park: Dedicated to rimrocker cultural and natural history of the West End of Montrose County: interpretation, preservation of artifacts, events. Uravan Ball Park Campground: self-contained RVs on San Miguel River.
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Stay at Rimrocker Adventures along the Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway. RV Park near groceries, San Miguel River boat launch and Unaweep Canyon Trails. Off-Roading is Naturita's Middle Name!
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Townof Nucla - A Vacation Destination to Trails and Adventure PLAY in SW CO! Nucla along Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway, Hwy 141: San Juan Mountains and Uncompahgre Plateau, Off-Road Trails - ATV, bike, hike; fish San Miguel River, prehistoric caves and art.
Vestal House at Tabeguache Park - Bed and Breakfast and RV Park, the Tooker Family renovated this historic landmark the Vestal House at Tabeguache Park: a Bed and Breakfast and RV Park in Nucla. Explore the Unaweep Tabeguache Byway and Rimrocker 4x4-ATV Trail.
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18/05/2024

Planning a vacation to south-central Colorado? The Royal Gorge Area features the Arkansas River, 2 National Fossil sites, the Gold Belt Tour Scenic Byway, the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park and a tourist train. Cañon city has a rejuvenated downtown shopping district and the Arkansas Riverwalk Fitness Course, making this area a great vacation destination with more than 300 sunny days a year.
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🌌 Vacation Destination with Luxury Cabins and Glamping Tents • 8-Mile Bar • Echo Canyon River Expeditions • A True Family Resort! 🌌
PLAN TODAY: https://www.coloradodirectory.com/royal-gorge-cabins/
🛌 ⛺️🛖 Royal Gorge Cabins is in the Heart of Arkansas River Valley; one hour from Colorado Springs and Pueblo along US 50 near milepost marker 271 on the north side of the Highway.
🛶 Echo Canyon River Expeditions - FAMILY and ADVENTURE Rafting. 45+ years of experience creating Vacation memories with quality time with your loved ones.
🍽 🍺 8 Mile Bar & Grill Open May through mid-September. Freshly prepared home-made meals with a kids’ menu and a wide selection of Colorado crafted beers
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Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance

17/05/2024

I LOVE MANITOU SPRINGS COLORADO!
- Dinner at Edelweiss Restaurant was amazing! The service was spot on, the food reminded me of my Babi's homemade dinners, and the music was fun. Great food and friendly people!
- Mother's Day Breakfast at Adam's Mountain Cafe I had the egg Benedict; my husband had the fruit pancakes. Good-sized portions. They serve healthy vegan options and use organic food. If you're looking for a friendly place with healthy food that tastes great, this is the spot!
- Shopped at The Cauldron , a friendly place with mystical curiosities.
- I LOVE the@manitouspringspennyarcade ! I came here often as a kid, and spent hours playing the games for just a couple bucks from Dad. I'm no longer good at Galaga, but pinball is still super fun.
PLAN TODAY: https://www.coloradodirectory.com/pikespeakarea/
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15/05/2024

WILDLIFE WEDNESDAY – The Bald Eagle
Bald Eagles get their distinctive white tail and head feathers when they are 4-5 years old, and they are the second largest bird in North America.
FUN FACT: Winter is a great time to see bald eagles.
TOP 8 VIEWING SPOTS IN COLORADO
1. John Martin Reservoir State Park, in Las Animas/Bent County, in Lamar, head west on CR HH. Bald eagles are active along the shore year-round.
2. Barr Lake State Park, Colorado State Parks, in the Greater Metro DENVER Area south of I-76 exit 22, is a birdwatchers paradise. Certain areas of the park close periodically to protect nesting bald eagles.
3. Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area, in Fort Collins, is just west of I-25 exit 262. The reservoir, surrounded by forests, is along the bald eagle's migration highway.
4. Yampa River State Parks, west of Steamboat Springs and north of US-40, is home to nesting bald eagles.
5. Highline Lake State Park, near Grand Junction north of I-70 off exit 11, watch for migrating bald eagles during the winter months.
6. Manitou Lake, in the Pikes Peak Region north of Greater Woodland Park off of CO-67, is an ideal habitat for bald eagles, where they enjoy fishing. You may also spot the flammulated owl.
7. Trinidad Lake State Park, in Trinidad, off CO-12 heading west, has a reservoir at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains that is the perfect winter home for bald eagles.
8. Sweitzer Lake State Park, in Delta east of US-50 on E Road, is a great spot for bird watchers, with over 170 different species, including bald eagles.
HOW TO SPOT A BALD EAGLE:
They are rarely found more than a mile away from water; fish are their preferred food, so scan the skies near rivers and lakes. Use binoculars. Due to their large size, bald eagles require tall trees with thick canopies in order to nest and roost, but are occasionally found nesting on cliffs, smaller tree species, and even on the ground. PRO TIP: If you see a golf ball in the trees, look closer; it’s a bald eagle!
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Nature love

14/05/2024

TRAVEL TIP TUESDAY: TWO family-friendly events inspired to help Marble, Colorado, build the "Marble Geology Museum" in the Crystal River Valley along the West Elk Scenic Byway.
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FIRST The Mable Mineral Gala is May 25, 2024, 4-10pm in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, at the Hotel Colorado: Dinner, Rock and Roll, and Silent Auction. Learn more: https://www.marblegemshow.com/
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SECOND The Marble Gem and Mineral Show is June 7, 8, and 9, 2024! Marble Campground will host the Geology Market. Marble Mill Park hosts FREE entertainment throughout the weekend.
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HIGHLIGHTS: Meet Flintknappers, geologists, healers, and creators who love sharing their knowledge and passion for crystals and minerals. There will be workshops, guided meditations, and vibrational journeys.
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PLACES TO STAY and FUN THINGS TO DO
https://www.coloradodirectory.com/crystalrivervalley/
Avalanche Outfitters at Redstone Stables
Avalanche Ranch: Cabins and Hot Springs Along the Crystal River
Beaver Lake Lodge and Cabins
Crystal River Jeep Tours
Gateway RV Park - Carbondale Recreation
Marble Crystal River Chamber
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