One of the biggest decisions you have to make before leaving Colorado is what kind of skiing you are going to try. If you are an advanced skier who plans to spend a lot of time on the cushion, you might want to consider going on a Class II (kind of like a short board). The majority of our guests though, are looking for something more like a gentle stroll on a nature trail. We do have a few camp sites right in the neighborhood and a few with our guests that offer some of the comforts of home, but most of our guests are looking for something more like a trail.
1. Probably the easiest place to drop in for a few days is Turtle Rock State Park. There is a parking lot right at the entrance to the park and there are showers, laundry and firewood available. There are also a few trailheads available, including one that leads to “Devil’s Corkscrew,” a trail whose name appropriately describes the shape of the trail.
2. Let’s travel a little further to the South base of the park. The Blue Mesa trail has a nice, easy 2.7 mile hike that passes the historic Blue Mesa town site and features cultural exhibits and live music. This is definitely one of the favorites of younger visitors.
3. One of the popular hikes for residents is the extremely popular switchback trail which begins with a beautiful lake view and serene river valley. Once you reach the top, you’re going to be absolutely amazed at just how many switchbacks you’ll encounter. They are truly challenging, but you’re sure to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. This is a great place for venturing out for the day and seeing why Blue Mesa and the surrounding area is a popular spot for residents and visitors.
4. Rusks is the second largest city in the state and is a very popular spot for visiting families, lovers, honeymoon couples, blue collar workers and much more. They have a lot of activities going on in the area including a zoo, regional park and plenty of hiking trails. This is a great place to stop for lunch and perhaps enjoy some of the wonderful restaurants that dot the area. Again, a perfect spot to stop for a while and let’s have some fun together.
5. Mountain Biking is a very popular activity in the area. The Dunks Bicycle Trail is a wonderful 50 mile long path that travels through the park and opportunities for mountain biking. It is a great place for families and beginners alike to explore mountain biking. There are enough forests, wildlife and streams to explore and multiple marked routes to ensure you have a great time.
6. What couldn’t be easier? Enjoy a nice day exploring the trails in Forest Park with your dog. This is a fantastic place for older visitors who may need some help getting around the city. Forest Park is located within the University of Colorado Aniston campus, so you can enjoy plenty of amenities on and around the park. Maintenance workers stress patience, so do their dogs. Once you arrive, grab your bike, hit the trails and enjoy yourself.
7. Offering several distinct options, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a fantastic location for horseback riding, rock climbing and cave exploration. Set in the 25th century Ohio site known as the Ohio State Park, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a glimpse into the history of the early American settlers and colonial times.
8. Make the short drive to the beautiful 12 acre Brandywine Falls State Park for a wonderful waterfall view and the possibility of seeing some of the local wildlife. unsurpassed hiking and multi-type trails will take you to the top of the Brandywine. The 606 foot Brandywine Falls is a must see. The state park is located just 12 miles from downtown, so it is convenient to get to the park by public transportation. Brandywine Falls is open from 10 am until dusk.
9. Make the short drive to the nine mile long Whirlpool Park, where the wild and fabulous Whitefish National Forest meets the man-made high bluffs of the Ohio & Erie Canal. This is one of the most unique parks in the state and offers a variety of attractions including camping, a changing area, boat rentals, picnic areas, grills and a playground.
10. One of the most popular parks in the state is the attractive Canalside Choose-Your- Own-Park which is located side by side with the Cayoosh Canal. The two areas combined, as well as close proximity to hikers and bikers, offer a wonderful area for a morning or afternoon excursion.
