Colorado Trip 9/15-20
Dec 16th, 2020, 08:29 AM
#81
Join Date: Jun 2003
Posts: 4,002
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
We had planned a family reunion Christmas in Steamboat Springs that we had booked almost 2 years ago - needless to say, we had to cancel. Four condos, ski passes, etc. It would have been about 18 of us. Most definitely NOT a good idea this year.
Fortunately we were able to recoup most of the condo expenses, but some who had bought ski passes but not the insurance are out hundreds of $$. Frankly, we knew it was growing increasingly likely that we would need to cancel even before they bought them, so I have limited sympathy. Their explanation was that the passes were so expensive that they couldn't afford the insurance on top of that - ??? SMH. Those same young adults are also the ones posting on social media as they go out clubbing, etc., so I am everlastingly relieved we won't be together at this juncture.
I had to take a premature retirement this year thanks to the pandemic. So, so fortunate that I was given a package from my company that made it possible. Now I'm just waiting for things to normalize enough to actually be able to travel, get out and enjoy the free time, and do new things.
Fortunately we were able to recoup most of the condo expenses, but some who had bought ski passes but not the insurance are out hundreds of $$. Frankly, we knew it was growing increasingly likely that we would need to cancel even before they bought them, so I have limited sympathy. Their explanation was that the passes were so expensive that they couldn't afford the insurance on top of that - ??? SMH. Those same young adults are also the ones posting on social media as they go out clubbing, etc., so I am everlastingly relieved we won't be together at this juncture.
I had to take a premature retirement this year thanks to the pandemic. So, so fortunate that I was given a package from my company that made it possible. Now I'm just waiting for things to normalize enough to actually be able to travel, get out and enjoy the free time, and do new things.
Dec 16th, 2020, 09:41 AM
#82
Join Date: Nov 2006
Posts: 8,030
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Their explanation was that the passes were so expensive that they couldn't afford the insurance on top of that - ??? SMH Something doesn't add up. I have the Summit pass (Vail. Breckenridge, Keystone plus others in Utah and CA) and the insurance was $20.
Dec 17th, 2020, 02:41 AM
#84
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 16,849
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Have you ever gone to Beech Mountain since you live in Nc? It's a 5hr drive from me
We used to ski Sugar and Beech all the time when the kids were home. Lots of Florida and Georgia license plates!! It's good skiing for the East--learn to ski on ice!! I was skiing one time in CO when there were some icy spots. Someone on the lift said something about it and I said "that's our "snow""!!
HOlidays are brutally crowded although this year they will be limiting "Maybe". You never know about ski operators in NC although the governor may have something to say about capacity this year.
We used to ski Sugar and Beech all the time when the kids were home. Lots of Florida and Georgia license plates!! It's good skiing for the East--learn to ski on ice!! I was skiing one time in CO when there were some icy spots. Someone on the lift said something about it and I said "that's our "snow""!!
HOlidays are brutally crowded although this year they will be limiting "Maybe". You never know about ski operators in NC although the governor may have something to say about capacity this year.
Feb 4th, 2021, 06:25 AM
#85
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2020
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
It's me again...
I know I should post in new thread...but I always want to come here first. 🙂
As you know Sept trip was awesome, still coming summer 2021, stopped planning boarding trip with boys in Feb... too much $$$, restrictions etc
But my friend and I are definitely coming for a Weds -Sun next month. We both luv Co and want a winter hangout.
First...we are both fully vaccinated, will still be just as careful as we would be here in Atlanta, we know and I have checked restrictions etc Called everywhere we are going etc.and everything is good for here so to speak.
But I would like advice on a couple things. We are not sking. A'pres sking...but not actually sking. But will go tubing etc.
We are going to Keystone. Want to come back towards Denver early in event of weather. So we are deciding between 2nights Keystone with visit to Break while there etc. and 1night Golden walking around, Red Rocks ? And because we both like cities 1 night in downtownDenver. (Hyatt Regency) Or... 3 nights Keystone and 1 night either Golden or Denver? She wanted to maybe visit Beaver Creek ...but I'm not crazy going over Vail pass🤔
Which leads me to next question. I thought it was no brainer to get at least mid-suv rental... but found out on TripAdvisor that it might not be the best if I usually drive sedan. Plus you cant guarantee 4wd on suv but better to get fwd /awd on sedan. I'm from Pa and have driven in snow many times and driving slow and safely is better I think no matter what vehicle.
Found a place in Keystone where they have Adirondack chairs around individual firepits. That's all I need . Dress warmly with some bourbon around a fire. Dont care about not being able to be at as many things like it would be normally🙂
Any advice?
Thanks again,
Natalie
As you know Sept trip was awesome, still coming summer 2021, stopped planning boarding trip with boys in Feb... too much $$$, restrictions etc
But my friend and I are definitely coming for a Weds -Sun next month. We both luv Co and want a winter hangout.
First...we are both fully vaccinated, will still be just as careful as we would be here in Atlanta, we know and I have checked restrictions etc Called everywhere we are going etc.and everything is good for here so to speak.
But I would like advice on a couple things. We are not sking. A'pres sking...but not actually sking. But will go tubing etc.
We are going to Keystone. Want to come back towards Denver early in event of weather. So we are deciding between 2nights Keystone with visit to Break while there etc. and 1night Golden walking around, Red Rocks ? And because we both like cities 1 night in downtownDenver. (Hyatt Regency) Or... 3 nights Keystone and 1 night either Golden or Denver? She wanted to maybe visit Beaver Creek ...but I'm not crazy going over Vail pass🤔
Which leads me to next question. I thought it was no brainer to get at least mid-suv rental... but found out on TripAdvisor that it might not be the best if I usually drive sedan. Plus you cant guarantee 4wd on suv but better to get fwd /awd on sedan. I'm from Pa and have driven in snow many times and driving slow and safely is better I think no matter what vehicle.
Found a place in Keystone where they have Adirondack chairs around individual firepits. That's all I need . Dress warmly with some bourbon around a fire. Dont care about not being able to be at as many things like it would be normally🙂
Any advice?
Thanks again,
Natalie
Feb 5th, 2021, 01:58 AM
#87
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2020
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
When we were there in Sept we rented full size but when we got there they offered an suv upgrade at a discount. Bot sure if they do that in winter. My gut is telling me a fwd sedan is better then a 2wd SUV .
We have awhile to decide...
Thx again
Apr 10th, 2021, 07:01 AM
#88
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2020
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
HI again! Lol!
Trip March 3-7 was awesome. Best of both worlds. Snowy and cold in mountains. Then it was warmer and sunny in Denver.
Was able to get Awd at rental at Union Station. Took train from DIA. Spent 2nights at Keystone. Went to Breck, rode gondola and tuned at top of Keystone. Went dogsledding(the best) outside of Breckenridge. 2 nights. Spent 2 nights Denver( should of did 1 more in Mtns) Denver was fun but just walking around ,eating and drinking.
I wasnt even home a week and found out we were invited to an event in Salida end of April. Soooo I checked flights. Probably last cheap fare since more and more are vaccinated. My sons included.
$84 rt on Delta! Of course I'd like any advice etc on our itinerary. Only my oldest and I going. Youngest gas finals.
Of course I find out its off season. ☹ But still excited to come even though alot I would of done if open or available. Flight and rental booked. Been waiting on hotels in case of weather??? But will soon since prices are going up a few dollars here and there.
1st day- Dia to Salida (event) spend night
2nd- Drive to Durango. Spend night
3rd and 4th- Durango- Telluride. 2 nights even though gondola closed. Alot open. Jeep tours closed. But place in Ouray said low elevation stuff they might be able to do??? Going to call this week and see maybe they can take us on Million dollar hwy??? Cuz you know I'm too chicken too.
5th- Telluride - Glenwood Springs. Sightsee on way. in car.Maybe road at Colorado monument? But saw that's scary at parts. Maybe just go to first overlook? Head to GS. Just tour downtown, maybe springs. Spend night.
6th- Up early to drive back to DIA for 7:30 pm flight. Just see what we can on way back time wise. Road to Maroon Bells closed. So maybe Frisco, Breck, Red Rocks ???
My great nephew and family up north all vaccinated and going there this summer. So 2021 Summer trip to Colorado will be in 2022 Summer now. Even better. More will be open etc
Was able to get Awd at rental at Union Station. Took train from DIA. Spent 2nights at Keystone. Went to Breck, rode gondola and tuned at top of Keystone. Went dogsledding(the best) outside of Breckenridge. 2 nights. Spent 2 nights Denver( should of did 1 more in Mtns) Denver was fun but just walking around ,eating and drinking.
I wasnt even home a week and found out we were invited to an event in Salida end of April. Soooo I checked flights. Probably last cheap fare since more and more are vaccinated. My sons included.
$84 rt on Delta! Of course I'd like any advice etc on our itinerary. Only my oldest and I going. Youngest gas finals.
Of course I find out its off season. ☹ But still excited to come even though alot I would of done if open or available. Flight and rental booked. Been waiting on hotels in case of weather??? But will soon since prices are going up a few dollars here and there.
1st day- Dia to Salida (event) spend night
2nd- Drive to Durango. Spend night
3rd and 4th- Durango- Telluride. 2 nights even though gondola closed. Alot open. Jeep tours closed. But place in Ouray said low elevation stuff they might be able to do??? Going to call this week and see maybe they can take us on Million dollar hwy??? Cuz you know I'm too chicken too.
5th- Telluride - Glenwood Springs. Sightsee on way. in car.Maybe road at Colorado monument? But saw that's scary at parts. Maybe just go to first overlook? Head to GS. Just tour downtown, maybe springs. Spend night.
6th- Up early to drive back to DIA for 7:30 pm flight. Just see what we can on way back time wise. Road to Maroon Bells closed. So maybe Frisco, Breck, Red Rocks ???
My great nephew and family up north all vaccinated and going there this summer. So 2021 Summer trip to Colorado will be in 2022 Summer now. Even better. More will be open etc
Apr 10th, 2021, 08:22 AM
#89
Durango is worth much more than one night. Mesa Verde is only a 35 mile drive away.
To get to Ouray from Durango you will need to cross Red Mountain Pass (Million Dollar Highway) - it sometimes closes due to weather. Snow is still possible in April. This road can be scary, especially in icy conditions, lots of drop offs but if going from Durango-Ouray you will be hugging the mountains, so not as scary as going from Ouray to Durango IME. Alternatively, you can get there via Rico and Telluride, which will add 1:15 to the drive, but is also very pretty. Ouray is in a hole, so most hiking trails go up.
Colorado Monument is near Grand Junction. Good place to go in April as it's warmer over there and damn hot in the summer. I don't recall any scary roads there.
As usual, your itinerary is very ambitious. Don't underestimate potential weather issues. Could be beautiful, could be wet and snowy. In my area we're in for five wet days next week.
To get to Ouray from Durango you will need to cross Red Mountain Pass (Million Dollar Highway) - it sometimes closes due to weather. Snow is still possible in April. This road can be scary, especially in icy conditions, lots of drop offs but if going from Durango-Ouray you will be hugging the mountains, so not as scary as going from Ouray to Durango IME. Alternatively, you can get there via Rico and Telluride, which will add 1:15 to the drive, but is also very pretty. Ouray is in a hole, so most hiking trails go up.
Colorado Monument is near Grand Junction. Good place to go in April as it's warmer over there and damn hot in the summer. I don't recall any scary roads there.
As usual, your itinerary is very ambitious. Don't underestimate potential weather issues. Could be beautiful, could be wet and snowy. In my area we're in for five wet days next week.
Apr 10th, 2021, 08:54 AM
#90
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2020
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Durango is worth much more than one night. Mesa Verde is only a 35 mile drive away.
To get to Ouray from Durango you will need to cross Red Mountain Pass (Million Dollar Highway) - it sometimes closes due to weather. Snow is still possible in April. This road can be scary, especially in icy conditions, lots of drop offs but if going from Durango-Ouray you will be hugging the mountains, so not as scary as going from Ouray to Durango IME. Alternatively, you can get there via Rico and Telluride, which will add 1:15 to the drive, but is also very pretty. Ouray is in a hole, so most hiking trails go up.
Colorado Monument is near Grand Junction. Good place to go in April as it's warmer over there and damn hot in the summer. I don't recall any scary roads there.
As usual, your itinerary is very ambitious. Don't underestimate potential weather issues. Could be beautiful, could be wet and snowy. In my area we're in for five wet days next week.
To get to Ouray from Durango you will need to cross Red Mountain Pass (Million Dollar Highway) - it sometimes closes due to weather. Snow is still possible in April. This road can be scary, especially in icy conditions, lots of drop offs but if going from Durango-Ouray you will be hugging the mountains, so not as scary as going from Ouray to Durango IME. Alternatively, you can get there via Rico and Telluride, which will add 1:15 to the drive, but is also very pretty. Ouray is in a hole, so most hiking trails go up.
Colorado Monument is near Grand Junction. Good place to go in April as it's warmer over there and damn hot in the summer. I don't recall any scary roads there.
As usual, your itinerary is very ambitious. Don't underestimate potential weather issues. Could be beautiful, could be wet and snowy. In my area we're in for five wet days next week.
Yes...certainly ambitious ( lol @ ""as usual") The only hotel that is for sure is first night in Salida. Holding off till next week when extended weather will hopefully be more predictable 🙂 to book other hotels.
I wanted to ride train??? but that would mean leaving Salida at 5am to catch it??? I think I'd rather 2 in Telluride.
I look at is as getting a better idea for 2.5 week trip next summer. More time to save plus staying at friends cabin for a week in Pagosa Springs and doing everything close to there then figuring out from this trip on what and where the next week and a half.
Like my friend in Colorado has said...she has lived between there and Hawaii for the last 30 years and still hasn't seen all of Colorado 🙂
Thx again Melnq8
Apr 10th, 2021, 09:37 AM
#91
dolfannat,
Seems like you caught a Colorado bug.
If you want to ride a train, you can keep this one in a back pocket in case making it to Durango doesn't work out.
https://www.georgetownlooprr.com/
As of now it starts running on April 24, on I-70 not far from Denver. Good luck.
Seems like you caught a Colorado bug.
If you want to ride a train, you can keep this one in a back pocket in case making it to Durango doesn't work out.
https://www.georgetownlooprr.com/
As of now it starts running on April 24, on I-70 not far from Denver. Good luck.
Apr 10th, 2021, 09:45 AM
#92
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2020
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
dolfannat,
Seems like you caught a Colorado bug.
If you want to ride a train, you can keep this one in a back pocket in case making it to Durango doesn't work out.
https://www.georgetownlooprr.com/
As of now it starts running on April 24, on I-70 not far from Denver. Good luck.
Seems like you caught a Colorado bug.
If you want to ride a train, you can keep this one in a back pocket in case making it to Durango doesn't work out.
https://www.georgetownlooprr.com/
As of now it starts running on April 24, on I-70 not far from Denver. Good luck.
Thx!
Apr 10th, 2021, 10:09 AM
#93
We are driving from Durango to Telluride. May go to Ouray...but if we do...we'll drive back to Telluride.
I'm not following your logic. You said: Going to call this week and see maybe they can take us on Million dollar hwy???
Why not drive from Durango to Ouray, then on to Telluride? You can check out Ouray en route. If you plan to drive from Durango to Telluride via Delores and Rico and then make a side trip from Telluride to Ouray to avoid Red Mountain, you're spending a lot of time in the car and then backtracking.
I'm not following your logic. You said: Going to call this week and see maybe they can take us on Million dollar hwy???
Why not drive from Durango to Ouray, then on to Telluride? You can check out Ouray en route. If you plan to drive from Durango to Telluride via Delores and Rico and then make a side trip from Telluride to Ouray to avoid Red Mountain, you're spending a lot of time in the car and then backtracking.
Apr 10th, 2021, 09:41 PM
#94
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2020
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
We are driving from Durango to Telluride. May go to Ouray...but if we do...we'll drive back to Telluride.
I'm not following your logic. You said: Going to call this week and see maybe they can take us on Million dollar hwy???
Why not drive from Durango to Ouray, then on to Telluride? You can check out Ouray en route. If you plan to drive from Durango to Telluride via Delores and Rico and then make a side trip from Telluride to Ouray to avoid Red Mountain, you're spending a lot of time in the car and then backtracking.
I'm not following your logic. You said: Going to call this week and see maybe they can take us on Million dollar hwy???
Why not drive from Durango to Ouray, then on to Telluride? You can check out Ouray en route. If you plan to drive from Durango to Telluride via Delores and Rico and then make a side trip from Telluride to Ouray to avoid Red Mountain, you're spending a lot of time in the car and then backtracking.
Thread
Original Poster
Forum
Replies
Last Post
panpeter
United States
26
May 9th, 2021 12:17 PM
Daydreamer
United States
13
Sep 7th, 2007 06:33 PM
monalua
Europe
5
Mar 27th, 2007 09:05 AM
