Venture with us into mountains of Boulder, CO! Let's follow Taylor, @taywholss, as she guides us through her top 3 hikes that are full of beauty and wonder. After completing each of these adventures don't forget to explore the top stops for food and fun in each area. Thank you Taylor for your expertise!
Green Mountain
Where: Boulder, Colorado
When: All seasons!
Why I love it: The ability to customize this hike, hike out and back or make it a longer loop. And the views, endless Rocky Mountains to the West, birds eye view of the city to the East.
Pro tip: Avoid during college return week. Weekdays are always less busy. Parking fee area, between memorial and Labor Day.
Post hike food and fun:
1. Osakas ramen: it’s unreal, make a reservation!
2. The Dark Horse: for burgers, unique atmosphere!
3. Hapa Sushi: Happy hour is from 2pm-4:30pm, 2 rolls for $10!
4. Rosetta Hall: 8 restaurants and 2 bars in one! Great food, great happy our, DJ at night.
Shopping:
Pearl street: check out Bliss and Earth Bound. Pro tip: Free parking on Sunday!
Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass Trail on AllTrails
Where: Ward, Colorado
When: Summer time
Why I love it: The incredible views, alpine lakes, and I always see Moose!
Post hike food & fun: Head over to Nederland to ride the Carousel of Happiness and get some amazing BBQ at Busey Brews or brick oven pizza at Crosscut Pizzeria and Tap-house!
Hike #3: Lake Haiyaha
Where: Rocky Mountain National Park
When: Summer time
Why: The water, it’s turquoise blue. It looks like the Caribbean in the middle of a forest.
Pro tip: You can use your America the Beautiful pass here.
Post hike, food & fun: Head into the quaint town of Estes. Full throttle distillery does free taste testings! Estes is also home to the hotel from the movie the Shining, known as the Stanley hotel. You can stay here or just explore!