A Breathtaking Weekend in the Colorado Mountains
We spent a long weekend in Colorado, and over the course of three days, we covered 38 miles, took more than 80,000 steps, and gained over 6,000 feet in elevation. We drank incredible coffee, lived off sandwiches and snacks, and spent nearly every moment outdoors in hiking clothes. It was the perfect mix of challenge, simplicity, and awe, and easily one of our favorite trips together so far.
We landed in Denver on Friday, picked up a rental car, and made our first stop at King Soopers to stock up on some essentials for the weekend. From there, we headed to Boulder, checked into our hotel, and hiked Royal Arch in Chautaqua Park just in time to catch the sunset over the city. After the hike, we wandered through Pearl Street, soaking in the city’s active culture, popping into outdoor shops, and feeling the energy of a community that loves being outside.
Saturday morning started with a run along the Boulder Creek Path and a coffee stop at OZO (10/10). Then we drove to Colorado Springs, stopping at Garden of the Gods on the way. We also made a quick stop at the Olympic Museum, which was free that day because of the start of the Olympics, and spent about an hour and a half exploring. Afterward, we headed to North Cheyenne Cañon Park and hiked Mount McCutler, moving through patches of lingering snow and ice while the sun warmed our faces, a contrast that made the hike feel truly one of a kind.
Sunday morning began with a climb up the Manitou Incline, a short but brutal challenge with nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain in less than a mile and 2,768 uneven steps, which we completed in 49 minutes. The first section starts as a gradual incline, but soon you’re stepping straight up, feeling like you might fall backward. The incline is relentless, but the energy of locals cheering each other on and tackling the climb together made it feel like a true community event. After reaching the top, we took the scenic Barr Trail down, grabbed a coffee in downtown Manitou Springs, and walked the Pikes Peak Greenway before driving back to Denver.
We wrapped up our time in Colorado at the Denver REI, one of only three flagship stores in the country. At 90,000 square feet, it is a paradise for outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, with every piece of gear we love under one roof. We spent a couple of hours exploring, picking up a few things to bring home, and soaking in the last bit of energy from an amazing state. It was the perfect way to close the trip.
Monday morning, we were up early to return our rental car and catch our 6 a.m. flight home (sad face haha).
There is a reason people say, “The mountains are calling and I must go.” You feel it when the air is crisp, the views are endless, and your body is challenged in the best way. If you have never been, we couldn’t recommend it enough. See you again, Colorado.
