Daytripping!

We live in a most beautiful state – one that gives you summer and winter all in one day! (But we never complain about getting moisture!)

Do you have a day to explore and wonder where to go for a quick getaway??

Here are some great destination ideas less than two hours away – great for a quick family getaway.

Here are a few of our favorites:

Sphinx Park, CO: Take a scenic drive about 100 miles northwest of Colorado Springs. Drive Hwy. 24 through Woodland Park, then north through Deckers to Pine, CO.  Then look for the narrow canyon road to Sphinx Park  – watch for the houses built into the rock outcroppings along this scenic drive, and don’t miss the Bucksnort Saloon. Housed in an original Mercantile building, this 138 year old rough-hewn log structure overhangs Elk Creek. Great atmosphere, food, and drink! Zokas restaurant in Pine along Hwy. 287 has excellent food and views as well. Or float down the South Platte River – do a little fishing or camping along the way!

Mt. Princeton Hot Springs: For a relaxing afternoon, head west through Woodland Park toward Buena Vista. See the spectacular views as you cross Wilkerson Pass, and keep heading west. Once you are at the Hot Springs, find the area in the river that is just the right temperature, or you can choose a pool to soak in. Numerous rafting companies run out of Buena Vista down the Arkansas River – a great family outing!

Bishop’s Castle: Located just 24 miles west of Colorado City (less than 100 miles from Colorado Springs), this castle was started as a cabin in 1969 and just kept getting bigger and bigger and bigger…. Possibly the largest one-person project, this “castle” needs to be seen to be believed. A combination of rock, mortar, rebar and welded supports, the structure just goes on and on (quantity over quality?).   The builder is an eccentric and opinionated man, who shares his beliefs openly, all while he continues to build his own unique “castle”.  Worth the drive!

Salida: 105 miles southwest of Colorado Springs sits a gem of a small town. Head south on Hwy. 115, then follow Hwy. 50 west along the scenic Arkansas River. Be sure and turn north into the Historic part of Salida. Our favorite restaurants include Laughing Ladies or have a burger and beer overlooking the kayakers and swimmers on the river at the Boathouse Cantina. Antique and artists shops abound, as well as plenty mountain biking and hiking trails.

What are your favorite destinations? This is only a small sampling, so we would love to hear your suggestions.

Love those day trips (or quick overnighters) for a quick getaway!