Colorado. The very name conjures images of majestic mountains, vibrant wildflowers, and crisp, clean air. it’s also massive. And within its vast expanse lie countless hidden gems, waiting to be discovered.
Last June (2024), I traveled from Yellowstone to Colorado. We were treated to relatively empty trails and temperatures 60°-75°. Perfect for hiking, exploring, and soaking in the scenery.
Any way, enough reading, let’s get to some pictures.
#1 Trail Ridge Road- Rocky Mountains
Everyone knows about the Rocky Mountains. Why do you think it is popular?
Being eye-level with the mountains from the window was such an experience.
No filter needed. What you see is pure blue mountains, fog, and vastness. It was an incredible experience to be so high, without hiking at all.
We stopped at one stunning location
That’s another mention… You’ll be glad to know, Trail Ridge Road makes it easy to enjoy the views. There are tons of places to pull over.
This is where we had to stop. I found myself thinking, ‘Am I in Middle-earth?’ The sheer size of the landscape, the way the clouds draped over the mountains.
This scene was straight out of a dream. Patches of snow, a stark contrast to my usual Florida sunshine.
It was simply beautiful. Make sure you take a moment to pull over, breathe in the fresh air, and look out.
#2 Alluvial Fan Trail
Foggy day, but the mountains and trees were still stunning.
The trail wound through a towering trees, with red bark, and lush green leaves. At the end, you will find a waterfall/ stream with rocks.
One of the unique aspects of this spot is that you can physically enter the stream.
Calling all bird watchers! The trees here are filled with songbirds. If you’ve got binoculars or a good camera lens, you’re in for a treat
#3 Fall River Pass
Now I do not want to confuse you… This was right by the sign of Fall River Pass.
We first saw a giant moose (that I did not get a picture of) and a bunch of deer… Or at least I think they are deer, Mule deer?
We saw Deer here almost every time we passed this area, so maybe its a little spot for them.
#5 Alberta Falls
Alberta Falls is a long hike (IMO), filled with birds and plenty of rocks to relax on the way.
I saw maybe 3 Steller’s Jay up close just being beautiful and majestic.
Okay, confession time: I was so tired from the hike that I completely forgot to take decent pictures of Alberta Falls.
But I did manage to capture some other trail moments, including this gem.
This little dude clearly thought I was annoying.
Here is another Steller’s Jay.
After you hike Alberta falls, there is something close by that is worth going to. The perfect place to relax….
Only 17 minutes away is…
#6 Moraine Park
The field was a dream: tall grass, colorful flowers, and a winding stream
But then I saw…
More deer! They were a blur of motion, leaping through the stream and across the field. I was completely mesmerized that I did not capture the best pictures.
I promise there are two deer in this photo… Did you ever figure out if it they are deer? I’m still unsure.
Let’s go on to the next spot.
Last photo, I promise.
#7 Sprague Lake
We’d done our homework, and it was worth it. Sprague Lake, they said, was the place for moose. And they were right!
Within minutes of arriving, a colossal, almost prehistoric figure walked from the forest. This giant star wars looking creature walking on the trail.
Hey dude! Or should I say girl… Woman? She looked a bit older.
We followed her from a distance to see where she would go.
She was so quiet and peaceful, minding her own business, wanting a little snack in her lake…. But oh, look who’s here, an even bigger moose.
She did not even get 10 minutes to this spot to herself! They were friendly to each other.
Look at his little (big) nose with the pond weed on it.
I took this on my DSLR with the super long lens. She was simply unbothered.
Even if I did not see a moose at Sprague Lake, I would say that it is still worth going. It is a great picnic spot or place to relax. No hiking required!
Click Click! Or should I say Clique….
Thank you for reading and have an amazing time in Rocky Mountain, CO!
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