We wanted to take Nick out for a little scoping in Colorado, but it was dialed in with classes and soccer. Can't fault him for that. Chris was able to work his remote schedule to get away!
I had a conference out there and wanted to take advantage of being in this beautiful state. We rented a VRBO in in Idaho Spring Colorado which was in the SAME town as the property my conference was visiting. Goes to show you that the other companies in my conference have some pretty cool properties! Idaho Springs was a small little spot with some cuter restaurants and little shops. We could walk right out the VRBO and grab coffee, ski jacket, cute guy on a bench. You name it!
FIrst day we found a fun afternoon hike - hikes are literally EVERYWHERE.
Fresh high altitude air just feels good
Chris was able to hear the deer as we came back down.
Another walk along the river near by - we were committed to do something active every day - relatively easy to achieve.
Next up - concert night at Red Rocks - pretty epic place to see a show.
Forecast was RAIN, RAIN, RAIN! Thankful that Rebecca's brother Walker was nearby and outfitted us with waterproof jackets, blankets etc. it turned out to be VITAL! Here is our drive up to the venue. Not sure why I was shocked by all the red rocks.
The rocks just came out of no where - amazing. As we pulled up to park they told us the show was being delayed for an hour. we opted to grab some delicious Mexican food in Morrison. It was funny we ran into several other couple who had traveled far for this concert - amused by the one couple that had come from Greenwich! We all finally decided to brave the rain and head back to the venue.
We stayed in the parking lot for a bit finishing out cocktail and getting prepared to get drenched. Its all about the experience right? The venue is WORTH seeing! Even the line to get into the venue was striking. - but the beauty and the amount of people
Almost in!
We are in and yes, look at everyone in their ponchos! We are seeing the Revivalists which is a band we have hear a few songs - not a ton. I felt they embodied the Colorado vibe. They had 3 opening acts. As one of them was wrapping up, Chris thought it was over - nope, not even the main band yet!
We stayed quite a while, but we did not stay until the end. Just way too rainy. We did meet a nice mother/daughter duo who we sat next to. We ended up being way too wet and getting rather cold. It was the kind of rain that you just didn't want to move for fear the water would find its way in somewhere else. Here are some fun Instagram posts that I enjoyed saving.
Very talented and eclectic band.
Soaked and ready for a hot shower!
Friday is exploring day! Walker to the rescue once again - We brought him our semi dried out blankets and jackets, while he hooked us up with some epic mountain bikes and off we went to explore Boulder.
Started the day at a greasy spoon college breakfast place where we got some great tips on mountain bike loops.
Than we worked out of a bagel shop for a few hours. Does it amaze anyone that Chris is able to pack these bikes in this adorable little car? I am not surprised at all! I wanted to label -
Chris Leadbetter - been 'tetris'ing bikes in cars since 2008
Cool pump track right out of campus. Valmont park - goot love their committment to the outdoor activities.
Than we opted to head into campus - we had some pretty great luck - GAME DAY is here for CU vs. CSU!!
The campus was ALIVE!
We eavesdropped a college tour and than snapped a photo of the stadium. Biggest in Colorado
Where I should go work out right?
You bet we get a photo with the Buffalo!
This time tomorrow this area will be flooded with students - game day set up right behind us! The mountain back drop is pretty fabulous.
We walked through campus and envisioned our kids here. Mostly Shane and Frankie eating right here! Check out the menu.
Sororities and frats were all over - in bathing suits as part of their party weekend. Happy to chill here for a cocktail or 2.
Next up a mountain bike loop that came recommended, Betasso Park - we linked a few of the trails together for maybe a 5 mile loop that pretty much smoked us. There was a runner (had to be in his 20s) that kept passing us on the uphills, we would pass him on the down hills. He ended up beating us in the end which was no surprise. I had to give my body props for just finishing!
Huge thanks to Walker and Sam for being our support staff. They are so welcoming! Loved having a moment to enjoy a beer with them and say things tons!
Headed back to Idaho springs and plenty of spots were closed up, except for this cool bar. Had a wrap and some chili before heading home for the night.
I took a little stroll in the early morning and captured a few shots outside our AirBnB
We headed out early to rent gravel bikes and tour Garden of the Gods. This was along the drive south - the Airforce academy!
Just so striking -
Perfect day for a ride!
Beautiful windy roads that were perfect for biking
Each one was beautiful in its own way
What a special treat to be able to see Rick and Amy! They live about 20 minutes from where we were biking and had a moment to grab lunch. Their recommendation at an Oktober fest party - how fitting for our friends we toured Germany with!
Successful get away for Chris and I - loved the exploration, activity and connection! Blessed we could make it happen.
