Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Welcome, Welcome, y'all, Welcome back to Colorado, a visitor's gode,
your go to podcast for fun, adventure and everything the
centennial state has to offer. From skiing and Aspen to
hiking the Rockies, brewery hopping in Venver to soaking in
mountain hot springs. We've got your Colorado trip covered. Whether
you're chasing adrenaline or just fresh mountain air. Your journey
(00:25):
starts here and the weather's getting warm, springtime is coming,
so it's just an absolutely amazing time to be anywhere
in Colorado. So let's just kind of hang on, let's
go for it and see what's out there. So it's
what I want to do today. Well, you know, we
talked about my favorite place last time. We talked about
Aspen and Snow mass which is just it's probably my
(00:49):
favorite place because it's the place I've been the most.
And I am a creature of habit Like a lot
of us, I'm more ailocentric. I actually have more egocentric thanlocentric, right,
So that's a special word, right.
Speaker 2 (01:03):
I looked that up.
Speaker 1 (01:04):
I was a parks of Recreation Tourism management major at
Clemson and that's about the only thing I remember anyway,
I do like to go to the same places and
learn more and more about each place, and also, you know,
sprinkle in in new destinations as well. So you know,
we were fortunate enough that that we had a house
(01:24):
in Aspen and actually snow Mass.
Speaker 2 (01:29):
It was my in laws. I got lucky with that.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
They're great people and very successful and they deserved everything
that they have. But so I got to go there
and stay there, and it was ski in, ski out,
and it was amazing all year round, whether the fall,
the spring, the summer. In the winter, of course, the
skiing is just absolutely amazing. But you know, there's so
many other smaller area, smaller cities, smaller towns are around
(02:00):
Colorado that don't get the fanfare that they deserve. And
I'm not saying Aspen is a huge city.
Speaker 2 (02:04):
It's not.
Speaker 1 (02:04):
It's it's a it's a large town, I guess its best,
and snow Mass is even smaller. But I want to
talk a little bit about the smaller cities, so I
want to explore some of those.
Speaker 2 (02:14):
So let's let's just leave the glitter.
Speaker 1 (02:19):
Of Aspen behind, because that's what Aspen is. Aspen, Oh
my gosh, I mean, it is decadent.
Speaker 2 (02:26):
It really is.
Speaker 1 (02:27):
But it's a fun place if there are ways to
make it affordable. But at the same time, there's it's
it's not just not a cheap place to go. Let's
put it that way. It's kind of like Rodeo drive
of Colorado. I guess the downtown Aspen and all that great,
great place, and I'm done with that. I promise I'm
done talking about Aspen. So let's let's leave Aspen. Let's
(02:49):
leave it behind, and let's go until I get there
next time. So while Colorado's major cities rightfully claim the spotlight,
a wealth of smaller towns and cities offer a different
kind of a lure, a quieter charm, a more intimate
connection with the land, and a chance to experience the
(03:09):
authentic heart of Colorado. These are the places where the
pace slows, the air is crisp with the scent of pine,
and the genuine hospitality of the local shines through. There
are actually locals there that haven't been transplanted in the past,
you know, five ten years where the I always said,
Aspen is the place that the millionaires came in and
(03:34):
forced the average people out right, and then the billionaires
came in and forced the millionaires out.
Speaker 2 (03:41):
I mean, that's just kind of the way that place is.
Speaker 1 (03:43):
It's amazing, but anyway, so exploring these lesser known gems
allow us for a more immersive experience, a chance to
step off the well trodden tourist trail and discover hidden treasures.
The journey takes us to places where the iconic mountain
vistas are still breathtaking, but the experience is more personal,
(04:03):
less crowded, and undeniably more authentic. One such destination is
Tell Your Ride. And we've all heard of Tell your Ride, right,
I've never been, but I hear amazing things nestled deeper
than a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains. Unlike
aspens polished luxury, Tell Your Ride exudes a rugged, almost
(04:23):
untamed beauty. It's Victorian era architecture, impeccably preserved, adds a
layer of historical richness, contrasting beautifully with the dramatic peaks
that surround that surround it. The town itself is surprisingly walkable,
with charming shops and galleries. Restaurants are just lining the streets.
(04:47):
I'll Tell your Ride does cater to skiers and snowboarders.
Its appeal extends far beyond the slopes. The hiking trails
weave through the surrounding mountains, offering breathtaking views and a
chance to connect with the raw power of nature. For
those seeking adventure, whitewater rafting on the nearby San Miguel
(05:08):
River provides an adrenaline rush, while the historic palamed Mine
offers a glimpse into the Colorado's rich mining past. Evenings
until you ride are filled with a unique ambiance.
Speaker 2 (05:22):
The stars blaze brightly in the clear mountain.
Speaker 1 (05:24):
And I'll tell you the first time I was out
in Colorado, I believe it was in October, and we
took a we went to this restaurant kind of off
the beaten path where you have to take like a
hay ride to the restaurant, and just that hay ride,
once you got off the street, you look up and
(05:45):
it's like you can reach up and touch the stars.
I mean, it is absolutely amazing. I mean, you know,
live in the Southeast my whole life. You know, it's
always humid or a little hazy, particularly in the summer.
It's just a it's a whole different world of stars
when you when you look up and you're out there
(06:06):
in the town's lively atmosphere offers a bribe, a vibrant
contrast to the to the quiet tude of the surrounding wilderness.
Tell you right offers a refined, yet approachable luxury, a
welcome alternative to the high octane glamour of Aspen. Moving eastward,
we encounter Duringo a town step and.
Speaker 2 (06:27):
What a good name? Right?
Speaker 1 (06:29):
I live in Durngo, a town steeped in history and
breaming with Southwestern charm. Located in the Animus Valley, Durringo
retains a strong connection to its railroad heritage, a legacy
that's that's deep.
Speaker 2 (06:46):
Uh. In its historic.
Speaker 1 (06:47):
Downtown area, the Durringo and Silverton Narrow Gage Railroad offers
a scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains. I'll tell
you a little side note here. I do a podcast
I call it Whistle Stops in Wonderlust. It's all about trains,
and to this day, I have never taken a train ride. Okay,
(07:10):
but this is probably that's probably one of my favorite
podcasts I do. And I cannot wait to get on
one of these awesome trains and go for four or
five days and just enjoy it, enjoy the ride, the
landscape and all that. So check that out if you want.
You know what I'm talking about, if you've been on
on a train ride, and let me know if I'm right.
Speaker 2 (07:30):
But I think it's absolutely.
Speaker 1 (07:31):
Amazing, you know, so much better than flying so sterile
or driving a car so stressful. Anyway, I'm looking forward
to that day. So it's a breathtaking trip through the landscape.
But Duringo appeal extends beyond it's railroad passed. The town
(07:52):
is a gateway to may sa Verda National Park UNESCO
World Heritage Site, featuring remarkable cliff dwellings built by ancestral Pueblowians.
Put blowings. You don'm talking about Pueblows pueb blowings. Yeah, Okay,
(08:15):
I've never pronounced that word before, I've seen it written.
I think I did it somewhat justice there after the
fourth try. It was built by them centuries ago. Exploring
these ancient ruins provided provides a profound connection to the
region's rich, rich history, to the ingenuity of its past inhabitants.
Beyond Mesa Verde, Duringo offers a variety of outdoor activities,
(08:39):
including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The animal The animous
River provides opportunities for rafting and kayaking, while the surrounding
mountains beacon hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Duringo
offers a blend of history adventure in southwestern charm, creating
a unique and unf gettable Colorado experience. It's a place
(09:02):
where the past and present intertwined seamlessly, offering visitors a
journey through time and a connection with the natural beauty
of the region. The laid back atmosphere and diverse range
of activities make it a perfect destination for families, adventurers.
Speaker 2 (09:19):
And history buffs.
Speaker 1 (09:21):
Further east, the smaller towns begin to reveal the diverse
character of Colorado. Consider Buena Vista, a charming town nestled
along the Arkansas River. Known as the whitewater capital of Colorado,
Buena Vista is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Arkansas
River provides exhilarating opportunities for rafting and kayaking, attracting adventurers
(09:46):
from around the world. The town itself maintains a small
town feel, with friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere. However, Buena
Vista offers more than just a river adventure. Surrounding the
town are countless hiking trails that lead to stunning mountain vistas.
The Collegiate Peaks, a range of towering mountains provide a
(10:09):
dramatic backdrop, inspiring awe and wonder. For those seeking a
quieter experience, the town offers opportunities for fishing, rock climbing,
and exploring the nearby National Forest. Buena Vista is an
excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of adventure
and tranquility, a place where the thrill of the river
(10:29):
meets the serenity of the mountains. The town itself retains
a sense of community in authentic Colorado charm, offering a
welcome respite from the bustle of the larger cities. It's
a destination for those seeking a genuinely immersive Colorado experience.
Our journey continues to smaller towns like Estes Park. Situated
(10:52):
on the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, this town
offers a unique blend of mountain charm and access to
one of the most conic national parks in the country.
While close to the bustling park, Este's Park maintains its
own character with quaint shops and art galleries and restaurants
lining its streets. The town proximity to the park allows
(11:15):
for easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities,
including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. The park itself
is a treasure trove of national beauty, with alpine meadows,
towering peaks, and pristine lakes. ST's Park provides a perfect
base for exploring the park and offers a comfortable and
(11:36):
welcoming atmosphere after a day of adventure. The town's blend
of small town charm and proximity to a world renowned
national park makes it a highly desirable destination, blending the
tranquility of a mountain village with the excitement of exposure
of one of America's natural wonders. Beyond these examples, there
(11:57):
are countless other small Colorado city and towns that we
don't have time to go into every single one of them.
But I just want you to know that they're out there.
Look for them and go enjoy them. Let it be
part of a trip, you know what I'm saying. Like,
you hit the glam and the glitz, and then you
hit a smaller area, then you hit a national park.
So much to do in Colorado. These are places where
(12:20):
you can connect with the more true spirit of Colorado,
a spirit of adventure, resilience, and profound appreciation for the
natural world, whether you've whether you're drawn to the to
the rugged beauty of the mountain, the vibrant culture of
a historic town, or the tranquility of a riverside village.
Colorado smaller communities offer a unique and unforgettable experience. So
(12:45):
like I said, you know, give that, give that a whirl,
do a little bit of extra research. I named a
few towns there of different sizes and different locations. But
go into a little research and see something you would
like to add. For maybe a two nights stay to
go along with a with a seven or ten days
stay in Colorado. Maybe you get away from the skiing
a little bit. If you don't do tell your ride
(13:06):
and just do some hiking or some rafting.
Speaker 2 (13:08):
Or so much stuff to do.
Speaker 1 (13:10):
But anyway, that's all I got for Colorado today and
I will be back next week. I got a lot
more to talk about for Colorado because it is such
an amazing state with so much going on. So until
I see you next time, have a great one and
God bless
Welcome, Welcome, y'all, Welcome back to Colorado, a visitor's gode,
your go to podcast for fun, adventure and everything the
centennial state has to offer. From skiing and Aspen to
hiking the Rockies, brewery hopping in Venver to soaking in
mountain hot springs. We've got your Colorado trip covered. Whether
you're chasing adrenaline or just fresh mountain air. Your journey
(00:25):
starts here and the weather's getting warm, springtime is coming,
so it's just an absolutely amazing time to be anywhere
in Colorado. So let's just kind of hang on, let's
go for it and see what's out there. So it's
what I want to do today. Well, you know, we
talked about my favorite place last time. We talked about
Aspen and Snow mass which is just it's probably my
(00:49):
favorite place because it's the place I've been the most.
And I am a creature of habit Like a lot
of us, I'm more ailocentric. I actually have more egocentric thanlocentric, right,
So that's a special word, right.
Speaker 2 (01:03):
I looked that up.
Speaker 1 (01:04):
I was a parks of Recreation Tourism management major at
Clemson and that's about the only thing I remember anyway,
I do like to go to the same places and
learn more and more about each place, and also, you know,
sprinkle in in new destinations as well. So you know,
we were fortunate enough that that we had a house
(01:24):
in Aspen and actually snow Mass.
Speaker 2 (01:29):
It was my in laws. I got lucky with that.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
They're great people and very successful and they deserved everything
that they have. But so I got to go there
and stay there, and it was ski in, ski out,
and it was amazing all year round, whether the fall,
the spring, the summer. In the winter, of course, the
skiing is just absolutely amazing. But you know, there's so
many other smaller area, smaller cities, smaller towns are around
(02:00):
Colorado that don't get the fanfare that they deserve. And
I'm not saying Aspen is a huge city.
Speaker 2 (02:04):
It's not.
Speaker 1 (02:04):
It's it's a it's a large town, I guess its best,
and snow Mass is even smaller. But I want to
talk a little bit about the smaller cities, so I
want to explore some of those.
Speaker 2 (02:14):
So let's let's just leave the glitter.
Speaker 1 (02:19):
Of Aspen behind, because that's what Aspen is. Aspen, Oh
my gosh, I mean, it is decadent.
Speaker 2 (02:26):
It really is.
Speaker 1 (02:27):
But it's a fun place if there are ways to
make it affordable. But at the same time, there's it's
it's not just not a cheap place to go. Let's
put it that way. It's kind of like Rodeo drive
of Colorado. I guess the downtown Aspen and all that great,
great place, and I'm done with that. I promise I'm
done talking about Aspen. So let's let's leave Aspen. Let's
(02:49):
leave it behind, and let's go until I get there
next time. So while Colorado's major cities rightfully claim the spotlight,
a wealth of smaller towns and cities offer a different
kind of a lure, a quieter charm, a more intimate
connection with the land, and a chance to experience the
(03:09):
authentic heart of Colorado. These are the places where the
pace slows, the air is crisp with the scent of pine,
and the genuine hospitality of the local shines through. There
are actually locals there that haven't been transplanted in the past,
you know, five ten years where the I always said,
Aspen is the place that the millionaires came in and
(03:34):
forced the average people out right, and then the billionaires
came in and forced the millionaires out.
Speaker 2 (03:41):
I mean, that's just kind of the way that place is.
Speaker 1 (03:43):
It's amazing, but anyway, so exploring these lesser known gems
allow us for a more immersive experience, a chance to
step off the well trodden tourist trail and discover hidden treasures.
The journey takes us to places where the iconic mountain
vistas are still breathtaking, but the experience is more personal,
(04:03):
less crowded, and undeniably more authentic. One such destination is
Tell Your Ride. And we've all heard of Tell your Ride, right,
I've never been, but I hear amazing things nestled deeper
than a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains. Unlike
aspens polished luxury, Tell Your Ride exudes a rugged, almost
(04:23):
untamed beauty. It's Victorian era architecture, impeccably preserved, adds a
layer of historical richness, contrasting beautifully with the dramatic peaks
that surround that surround it. The town itself is surprisingly walkable,
with charming shops and galleries. Restaurants are just lining the streets.
(04:47):
I'll Tell your Ride does cater to skiers and snowboarders.
Its appeal extends far beyond the slopes. The hiking trails
weave through the surrounding mountains, offering breathtaking views and a
chance to connect with the raw power of nature. For
those seeking adventure, whitewater rafting on the nearby San Miguel
(05:08):
River provides an adrenaline rush, while the historic palamed Mine
offers a glimpse into the Colorado's rich mining past. Evenings
until you ride are filled with a unique ambiance.
Speaker 2 (05:22):
The stars blaze brightly in the clear mountain.
Speaker 1 (05:24):
And I'll tell you the first time I was out
in Colorado, I believe it was in October, and we
took a we went to this restaurant kind of off
the beaten path where you have to take like a
hay ride to the restaurant, and just that hay ride,
once you got off the street, you look up and
(05:45):
it's like you can reach up and touch the stars.
I mean, it is absolutely amazing. I mean, you know,
live in the Southeast my whole life. You know, it's
always humid or a little hazy, particularly in the summer.
It's just a it's a whole different world of stars
when you when you look up and you're out there
(06:06):
in the town's lively atmosphere offers a bribe, a vibrant
contrast to the to the quiet tude of the surrounding wilderness.
Tell you right offers a refined, yet approachable luxury, a
welcome alternative to the high octane glamour of Aspen. Moving eastward,
we encounter Duringo a town step and.
Speaker 2 (06:27):
What a good name? Right?
Speaker 1 (06:29):
I live in Durngo, a town steeped in history and
breaming with Southwestern charm. Located in the Animus Valley, Durringo
retains a strong connection to its railroad heritage, a legacy
that's that's deep.
Speaker 2 (06:46):
Uh. In its historic.
Speaker 1 (06:47):
Downtown area, the Durringo and Silverton Narrow Gage Railroad offers
a scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains. I'll tell
you a little side note here. I do a podcast
I call it Whistle Stops in Wonderlust. It's all about trains,
and to this day, I have never taken a train ride. Okay,
(07:10):
but this is probably that's probably one of my favorite
podcasts I do. And I cannot wait to get on
one of these awesome trains and go for four or
five days and just enjoy it, enjoy the ride, the
landscape and all that. So check that out if you want.
You know what I'm talking about, if you've been on
on a train ride, and let me know if I'm right.
Speaker 2 (07:30):
But I think it's absolutely.
Speaker 1 (07:31):
Amazing, you know, so much better than flying so sterile
or driving a car so stressful. Anyway, I'm looking forward
to that day. So it's a breathtaking trip through the landscape.
But Duringo appeal extends beyond it's railroad passed. The town
(07:52):
is a gateway to may sa Verda National Park UNESCO
World Heritage Site, featuring remarkable cliff dwellings built by ancestral Pueblowians.
Put blowings. You don'm talking about Pueblows pueb blowings. Yeah, Okay,
(08:15):
I've never pronounced that word before, I've seen it written.
I think I did it somewhat justice there after the
fourth try. It was built by them centuries ago. Exploring
these ancient ruins provided provides a profound connection to the
region's rich, rich history, to the ingenuity of its past inhabitants.
Beyond Mesa Verde, Duringo offers a variety of outdoor activities,
(08:39):
including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The animal The animous
River provides opportunities for rafting and kayaking, while the surrounding
mountains beacon hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Duringo
offers a blend of history adventure in southwestern charm, creating
a unique and unf gettable Colorado experience. It's a place
(09:02):
where the past and present intertwined seamlessly, offering visitors a
journey through time and a connection with the natural beauty
of the region. The laid back atmosphere and diverse range
of activities make it a perfect destination for families, adventurers.
Speaker 2 (09:19):
And history buffs.
Speaker 1 (09:21):
Further east, the smaller towns begin to reveal the diverse
character of Colorado. Consider Buena Vista, a charming town nestled
along the Arkansas River. Known as the whitewater capital of Colorado,
Buena Vista is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Arkansas
River provides exhilarating opportunities for rafting and kayaking, attracting adventurers
(09:46):
from around the world. The town itself maintains a small
town feel, with friendly locals and relaxed atmosphere. However, Buena
Vista offers more than just a river adventure. Surrounding the
town are countless hiking trails that lead to stunning mountain vistas.
The Collegiate Peaks, a range of towering mountains provide a
(10:09):
dramatic backdrop, inspiring awe and wonder. For those seeking a
quieter experience, the town offers opportunities for fishing, rock climbing,
and exploring the nearby National Forest. Buena Vista is an
excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of adventure
and tranquility, a place where the thrill of the river
(10:29):
meets the serenity of the mountains. The town itself retains
a sense of community in authentic Colorado charm, offering a
welcome respite from the bustle of the larger cities. It's
a destination for those seeking a genuinely immersive Colorado experience.
Our journey continues to smaller towns like Estes Park. Situated
(10:52):
on the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, this town
offers a unique blend of mountain charm and access to
one of the most conic national parks in the country.
While close to the bustling park, Este's Park maintains its
own character with quaint shops and art galleries and restaurants
lining its streets. The town proximity to the park allows
(11:15):
for easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities,
including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. The park itself
is a treasure trove of national beauty, with alpine meadows,
towering peaks, and pristine lakes. ST's Park provides a perfect
base for exploring the park and offers a comfortable and
(11:36):
welcoming atmosphere after a day of adventure. The town's blend
of small town charm and proximity to a world renowned
national park makes it a highly desirable destination, blending the
tranquility of a mountain village with the excitement of exposure
of one of America's natural wonders. Beyond these examples, there
(11:57):
are countless other small Colorado city and towns that we
don't have time to go into every single one of them.
But I just want you to know that they're out there.
Look for them and go enjoy them. Let it be
part of a trip, you know what I'm saying. Like,
you hit the glam and the glitz, and then you
hit a smaller area, then you hit a national park.
So much to do in Colorado. These are places where
(12:20):
you can connect with the more true spirit of Colorado,
a spirit of adventure, resilience, and profound appreciation for the
natural world, whether you've whether you're drawn to the to
the rugged beauty of the mountain, the vibrant culture of
a historic town, or the tranquility of a riverside village.
Colorado smaller communities offer a unique and unforgettable experience. So
(12:45):
like I said, you know, give that, give that a whirl,
do a little bit of extra research. I named a
few towns there of different sizes and different locations. But
go into a little research and see something you would
like to add. For maybe a two nights stay to
go along with a with a seven or ten days
stay in Colorado. Maybe you get away from the skiing
a little bit. If you don't do tell your ride
(13:06):
and just do some hiking or some rafting.
Speaker 2 (13:08):
Or so much stuff to do.
Speaker 1 (13:10):
But anyway, that's all I got for Colorado today and
I will be back next week. I got a lot
more to talk about for Colorado because it is such
an amazing state with so much going on. So until
I see you next time, have a great one and
God bless
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