Fall in Colorado

Colorado is such a beautiful State. Be it winter or fall, we love Colorado. Same place we visited 2 years ago, it never fails to amaze us. Vail, Colorado. This time around, we included Aspen, Glenwood Springs, and Breckenridge to witness the beautiful scenery of fall foliage.

Aspen, Colorado
To ski? Not quite. As always, it's always better to visit the place once than to hear it a thousand time. Ever heard of Maroon Bell? That's what brought us back to Colorado.



Needless to say, the beautiful nature of Maroon Bell is worth the long journey. Aspen is about 4+ hour drive from Denver and the route to Aspen via highway 91 and 82 are as beautiful as its final destination.

About 3 hours in, we arrived at twin lakes and took a break. It was about an hour or so before sunset and it was a nice scenery. One tip, if you put twin lakes on google map as destination, it would take you to the parking lots next to the twin peak downtown. If you want to visit and have a better view of the lakes, go swimming or kayaking, or simply throwing rocks, take the boat tour exit road. Or search for twin lakes interlaken boat tours in google map.

Throwing rocks. Kids just love it.



Playing on the steep sand hill climbing up and down. Adult participated too. It was simply relaxing. For the rest of the driving from twin lakes to Aspen on highway 82; got to be one of the most thrilling drive daddy has had. The tight curves and single lane segment, looking out of the windows gasping on the view and its heights, and while driving up hill without the roadside guardrail are just one of its kind of experience.

Maroon Bells



There are probably two known options to get to Maroon bell. You could drive in and get as closed to the Maroon Bell or by the shuttle bus. During the fall foliage peak season (mid September to end of September), parking are expected to be full and certain restriction on hours. The gate closes from 8 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., so your best bet is probably the bus. We got there shortly after 7a.m, but the entrance had already blocked off. Parking range from $5-$10 for the first three hours, depending on days of the week. Bus ticket is $8 per adult and kids 6 and under is free. Be advised that bus ticket must be purchased prior to boarding and can be purchased inside the gift shop.
More info can be found on here.



We spent about 3 hours casual hiking and enjoying the view. The time went fast and it didn't feel like 3 hours when you have company.

Vail, Colorado
Vail is another popular tourist place known for its beautiful scenery. Our buddy claims that it is the most beautiful town in America. From its architectural building design to the surrounding views and variety of outdoor activities.



Vail offers convenient bus transportation system within its Town for free. Be sure to take advantage of it to explore the Betty Ford Alpine Garden, which has a magnificent view with playground for the kiddos.



Originally, we planned a day of activities to explore the Epic Discovery of Vail. However, due to lack of research, the day we arrived at Vail was the last day of Summer activities. Such a bummer. Luckily, mommy found an adventure park at another town.

Glenwood Springs, Colorado
About an hour West of Vail, is a town called Glenwood Springs. Glenwood Springs is probably known for its hot spring and the adventure park. Be sure to ask about the combo package as we did not realized until later. We spent a day at the Glenwood Springs Adventure Park since most Summer activities were closed for the season. Because it was a non-peak season, we practically had the theme park to ourselves. No line whatsoever.

The number of attractions offered for adults and kids!



All the attractions are on the top of hill by taking the tram. Mommy is excited!




Both adult and children had a great time with countless number of times on our favorite rides: Alpine Coaster. The speed of the coaster going downhill depends on how much brake is applied. And all we hear is the kids shouting go super fast! Yes!



There are also cave tours where the guide took us down to the cavern to view and explain the beautiful stalagmites (might trip on the floor) and stalactites (hold tight on ceiling). We have been to multiple caverns before, but this is the first time the tour guide showed us a complete darkness and the UV light experience.



Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is our last stop of this trip. Be sure to check out the McCullough Gulch Trail Head, where you could find a great photo spot of the foliage. The rocky road was not an easy drive with our little rental sedan, so we only managed to drive half way, but it is car accessible to the lake.



Lastly, for those priority pass holder, enjoy your free dining at Timberline Steaks & Grill restaurant! Gege coloring while waiting for our meals. See you next time Colorado!