There’s something magical about summer along the Boulder Creek path and a stop to enjoy Boulder Creek at Eben G. Fine Park . Located about a 10 mile ride from my home it sits right at the edge of downtown Boulder, and is a gateway to the canyon — a place where the chatter of the city fades into the rush of the creek, and the trail begins to wind into the foothills. The Boulder Canyon Trail connects the Boulder Creek Path into Boulder and follows the course of Boulder Creek as it climbs into the ...
Towering Snow Walls and Fewer Crowds: The Best Week of the Year at Rocky Mountain National Park
Towering Snow Walls and Fewer Crowds: The Best Week of the Year at Rocky Mountain National Park
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Every year, right after Memorial Day weekend, I make my favorite trip of the season—a drive up Trail Ridge Road to the Alpine Visitor Center in Rocky Mountain National Park. Yes, I know, living in Boulder, Colorado does have many advantages and this is one of them!
This is the sweet spot. The plows have carved massive snow walls through the high-altitude passes, and for a brief window, you can drive through towering corridors of snow before they melt away in the early June sun. The week after Memorial Day is your best chance to catch it although based on the weather conditions and the opening of the road we've waited until mid-June.
If you can swing a weekday visit, do it. Timed-entry permits are still required, but you’ll skip the weekend congestion and get a better chance at finding parking and soaking up the views without the crowds. Just be sure you check the weather and if the road is open, with the variability of Spring weather and that altitude the road can close.
The Alpine Visitor Center, sitting at over 11,700 feet, is the highest in the national park system—and the road getting there is an adventure all its own. From crisp air to panoramic views, it’s always a highlight, but there’s something extra special about seeing it while winter still clings to the peaks and the valleys are waking up to summer. At this time of the year, bring your own drinks and snacks as the Visitor Center is still getting set up and sometimes the food and beverage options are limited or not available.
If you’re planning your own trip, Camping.Tools makes it easy to save your route, find gear, and share your adventure with others who live for high-elevation moments like this.
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Every year, right after Memorial Day weekend, I make my favorite trip of the season— a drive up Trail Ridge Road to the Alpine Visitor Center in Rocky Mountain National Park. Yes, I know, living in Boulder, Colorado does have many advantages and this is one of them! This is the sweet spot. The plows have carved massive snow walls through the high-altitude passes, and for a brief window, you can drive through towering corridors of snow before they melt away in the early June sun. The week after M...
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