The post Spend The Day Fishing And Observing Animals At This New Wildlife Area In Colorado appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>Central Colorado is beautiful! Nathrop is right in the middle of it all.
The Arkansas River runs right through this part of the state. It's a wonderful place for recreation and is an excellent location for visual encounters with our abundant wildlife.
Bighorn Springs State Wildlife Area is a 122-acre space that opened to the public in early September of this year.
This new natural and recreational space is owned by BlueTriton Brands but will be managed and overseen by Colorado Parks and Wildlife thanks to a new partnership. Now, anyone with a Colorado hunting or fishing license or CPW state wildlife area pass can go and enjoy its trails and river access.
This property is an excellent one for bighorn sheep viewing.
You can also expect to see some raptors.
Chances are, you'll see some elk, too.
This easement increases the number of public fishing access sites to three along this part of the Arkansas River.
Get out there and see what you can catch!
You'll love visiting this new, public, natural space in Colorado. Plan a visit soon.
Many thanks to BlueTriton Brands for not only offering the land but for suggesting the partnership to Colorado Parks and Wildlife as well.
Bighorn Springs State Wildlife Area near Nathrop, Colorado awaits you! The only activities allowed on this property are fishing and wildlife viewing – nothing else is permitted. But, both of those things will be plenty to keep you busy and entertained on this incredible parcel of land. Happy exploring!
Need fishing gear? Stock up at Backcountry.com!
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]]>The post The Small Town In Colorado That Comes Alive In The Fall Season appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>Montrose is simply beautiful in the fall. The colors in this part of Colorado really pop and it's a lovely place to visit as summer fades away.
No matter where you go around town or in the surrounding areas, you'll see beautiful yellows, oranges, and reds.
There's lots to do in Montrose in the fall, too. The Montrose Farmers' Market is in full swing and offers the bounty of the fall harvest.
The Montrose Botanic Gardens holds a Scarecrow Festival as a fundraiser each year.
There are kids' activities, fall crafts, a silent auction, and more to enjoy.
Plus, you'll love simply walking around the gardens and taking in the fall colors.
The Museum of the Mountain West is great at any time of the year, but you can enjoy ghost tours and other haunted events in the fall.
You can even check out some real human skulls!
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is only about 15 minutes away from central Montrose. You'll be amazed at the fall colors that you see in the park, especially in contrast with the black canyon itself.
It's really spectacular.
After you explore Montrose, stop by Pomona Brewing Company and try a seasonal autumn beer to cap off a perfect fall day.
Montrose is a great place in Colorado to spend some time this fall or any fall. Plan a weekend visit or a longer trip and you’re sure to be pleased with what you find there. Enjoy the foliage, the people, and the activities. You’ll want to return in every season! Have a great trip.
Visiting Montrose and looking for a place to stay? Check out VRBO.com or Hotels.com to find the perfect place to lay your head while you’re in town.
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]]>The post The Train Ride Through The Colorado Countryside That Shows Off Fall Foliage appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>There's no better way to see the Colorado mountains than by train.
And, there's no better time of year to ride a train through those mountains than the fall.
The Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of the very best train rides in Colorado.
The full, round-trip train ride from Durango to Silverton follows 45 miles of track and takes all day. You'll stop for a few hours in historic Silverton to shop and eat before heading back to Durango.
Along the way, you'll see incredible views at any time of the year.
But in the autumn season, those views are especially spectacular.
You'll weave through the mountains and follow the beautiful Animas River.
There's no WiFi or cell phone service for most of the journey, so you'll be able to focus on the beauty all around you without any distractions.
This is one of the best ways to enjoy the breathtaking fall foliage in Colorado.
As you can see, a ride on the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in the fall is an experience that you will love and is one that you will never forget. Because rides on this train are so popular, it’s important that you buy tickets in advance – you never know when they will sell out, and you don’t want to arrive and end up disappointed! There are lots of great things to do in Durango, so maybe include this on a longer adventure to the area. Have a great trip, and have a great fall! Enjoy the foliage in southwestern Colorado this year and every year!
Visiting Durango and looking for a place to stay? Check out VRBO.com or Hotels.com to find the perfect place to lay your head while you’re in town.
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]]>The post UFOs Were Sighted In Colorado 56 Years Ago And What They May Have Left Behind Was One Of The Most Interesting UFO Encounters In History appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>The San Luis Valley is the biggest valley in Colorado. It's quite beautiful. However, it's also a bit desolate. People live there, certainly, but it's rather rural overall. Alamosa is the valley's largest town with around 10,000 residents, but most of the towns in the valley are far smaller.
In 1967, the population in this area was even more sparse. However, there were quite a few ranchers who lived in the area and raised horses and cattle.
One horse from this area has become very famous since then. Although her name was actually Lady, people know her best as Snippy - due to what happened to her on September 7, 1967.
Right around that time, numerous local residents reported seeing strange lights in the sky.
UFO sightings are rather common in this part of Colorado, even today. It's very dark there, and you never know what you'll see at night when you take the time to look up.
Lady went missing one night and did not return to her stable at Harry King Ranch.
She was found dead. All the skin on her head was stripped clean from her skull. It appeared that it had been removed; the cuts appeared to be made with surgical precision.
No blood was left behind. The exposed bones on the carcass were white as if they had been bleached by the sun for years, but she had only been dead for a few days.
There were also a number of circular imprints on the ground around the body, and the ground seemed to be burned. A bush nearby was flattened and the ground was wet, even though the weather had been very dry.
A US Forest Service Ranger used a Geiger counter and found that the area around Lady's body was highly radioactive.
Many believed that she was simply struck by lightning. However, the whole thing was so mysterious that no one is really truly sure what really happened.
We'll never know for sure. However, the horses in the area pass the tale down from generation to generation, and they're all still a little on edge.
You never know when the UFOs will come back...
There are so many weird things about Colorado, but the tale of what happened to Lady/Snippy on that night in 1967 is surely one of the weirdest ones. Have you ever seen UFOs in Colorado? Do you want to?
If you find yourself searching the night sky for visitors, you might want to pick up this Nocs Provisions Zoom Tube 8 x 32 Monocular Telescope from REI to help you with your search. Good luck!
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]]>The post Early Snow Means Hiking Season May Be Over On Some Colorado Trails appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>Colorado is absolutely spectacular during the autumn season. The colors are breathtaking and the weather is cool and comfortable for hiking.
However, when fall begins, winter is just around the corner. It comes quickly here in Colorado, especially at the high elevations.
The tallest mountains in our great state often get snow as early as early September, and this year is no exception. Numerous 14ers are already covered with snow throughout the state.
The snow may still be light, but it's there!
People who enjoy summer hiking will be in for a bit surprise if they try to summit some of our highest peaks this fall.
Some meteorologists refer to the light coating of snow on these mountains as "termination dust" since its arrival signals the termination of hiking season for most.
Longs Peak, Pikes Peak, and the Alpine Visitor Center on Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park have already seen snow this season. Many others have as well.
You can still hike at high elevations in the winter time if you are experienced and prepared, of course - but just be ready for cold and ice.
Plan your route ahead of time, tell someone where you are headed, and have the proper gear. Watch the weather and start early. Stay on the trail, and know your limits.
Winter hiking can be amazing, but it can also be dangerous. If you're not prepared, don't go!
And, don't worry - spring and summer will be back before you know it so you can get back out there safely once again - without wearing every piece of warm clothing that you own.
Hiking in Colorado at any time of the year is great, but the most important thing – always – is that you stay safe. Have a great time out there in the mountains, no matter what the season, and come back alive and with all your toes!
If you’re headed outdoors this winter in Colorado, make sure you bring all the winter essentials!
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]]>The post You’ll Be Transported To Austria At This Top-Rated Restaurant In Colorado appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>Austria is great! However, if you can't afford or take the time to fly all the way to Europe, you can enjoy Austria right here in Colorado at Pepi's Bar and Restaurant in Vail.
Pepi Gramshammer was talented ski racer who was born in Austria. He was lured to Vail by early local developers who wanted to put their new ski town on the map. He moved to Vail and met his wife Sheika, a model and dancer also from Austria, and they soon married. Together, they opened the Gasthof Gramshammer Hotel in 1964. Over the years, it has remained popular and has hosted thousands of visitors including many celebrities.
Pepi's Bar and Restaurant is located inside the hotel. It's an authentic Austrian restaurant. When you get to your table, you'll feel like you've been transported to Europe.
In nice weather, the outdoor seating area is also lovely. You'll can enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains while you eat.
The food at Pepi's is excellent and the menu is exactly what you would seek and expect from a restaurant like this one. Why not try some weinerschntizel?
Or perhaps you'd like some genuine bratwurst with sauerkraut? You can choose from among veal, pork, or buffalo brats!
Pepi's Beef Stroganoff is another excellent choice.
The Hungarian Veal Goulash is another not-to-be-missed dish.
The Roasted Venison Loin is to die for!
Of course, if you aren't feeling super adventurous, you can also opt for something simple, like a burger on a pretzel bun from the lunch menu.
Or, maybe just go for the pretzel itself. Who doesn't love a good pretzel?
You'll also want to wash down whatever you order with a tasty Austrian beer. There are local beers that you can try, too.
Pepi's Bar and Restaurant is a very special place. Be sure to check it out the next time you head up to Vail!
Vail is always fantastic and you can make your visit even more memorable when you dine at Pepi’s Bar and Restaurant! Guten appetit!
Taking a road trip to Vail? Don’t forget a thing! The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List by OnlyInYourState
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]]>The post A Mountainside Getaway In Colorado, This Vacation Rental Home In Breckenridge Has A Private Waterfall appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>You're going to love Creekside Chateau in Breckenridge. This vacation rental home is very special. It's decorated beautifully, it's spacious, and it's in a spectacular setting.
This home would be lovely anywhere, but the fact that it's right on the banks of a creek with its own private waterfall really elevates it even further.
It's only ten minutes from downtown Breckenridge, but you'll feel like you're a million miles from everything when you check into this place.
The wraparound deck is a wonderful place to relax. You can enjoy the breeze through the towering pines, abundant wildlife, the eight-person hot tub, and the mountain air.
Inside, you'll find a comfortable living room where you and your group can relax and connect.
It even has a fireplace.
The kitchen is quite large and is well-equipped and it offers plenty of space to cook meals for yourself and your companions.
This home has five bedrooms and can accommodate up to 14 guests at one time. This is one of the master suites.
This is the other master suite.
Two of the other bedrooms have queen beds. The bedrooms shown here has a king bed plus another queen bed in the loft; it's perfect for families who wish to stay together.
There are five beautiful bathrooms in the home. You can relax in the tub in this one while listening to the creek and waterfall flow by outside.
Everyone in your party will also love the game room. It even has a wet bar.
You'll likely want to spend much of your time at Creekside Chateau outdoors, though. This creekside, waterfall-side hot tub is calling your name.
This home is truly exceptional. Plan a visit today, and get ready to enjoy your own private waterfall for a few days!
Creekside Chateau is lovely! In our opinion, there’s nothing quite like having your own private waterfall, even if it’s just for a few short days. Plan a visit to Breckenridge soon and get ready to have a very pleasant and memorable experience. Safe travels – and don’t forget to check out our road trip packing list for ideas about what to bring with you.
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]]>The post With Five Newly Recognized Restaurants, Colorado Is The Sixth State In The U.S. To Receive Michelin Star Designations appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>1. Brutø - Denver
Brutø is inside Free Market in Denver's Dairy Block. It's one of two restaurants in the Id Est hospitality group to earn a star.
The food at Brutø is Mexican-inspired and is seasonally and locally focused. Chef Michael Diaz de Leon impressed the Michelin inspectors enough to earn the restaurant one star.
2. Beckon - Denver
Beckon is the other restaurant in the Id Est hospitality group to earn one star from the Michelin Guide.
Chef Duncan Holmes is known for his small plate tasting menus, and meals at Beckon are prix-fixe and pre-paid. You can watch the chef's team at work from the 18-seat counter that overlooks the kitchen.
3. Bosq - Aspen
Bosq in Aspen is surprisingly the only restaurant in a Colorado ski resort town to earn a star so far.
This restaurant is known for dishes focused on foraging, fermenting, and local sourcing. Chef Barclay Dodge is creative and innovative.
4. Frasca Food & Wine - Boulder
Frasca Food & Wine has long been known as one of the best Italian restaurants in the state, so it was no big surprise that it got a nod from the Michelin Guide.
Chef Ian Palazzola focuses on cuisine from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, and everything he creates is incredible.
5. The Wolf's Tailor - Denver
The Wolf's Tailor is a small restaurant in Denver's Sunnyside neighborhood.
Chef Taylor Stark creates dishes that are just as beautiful as they are tasty. The precision in his creations impressed the Michelin inspectors and won The Wolf's Tailor one star.
6. Plus, Nine Colorado Restaurants Awarded Bib Gourmand Awards
In addition to the five restaurants that earned stars, the Michelin Guide also recognized nine restaurants with Bib Gourmand Awards. These awards go to notable restaurants that are also affordable, which is great for foodies on a budget. The winners of this award were AJ's Pit Bar-B-Q in Denver, Ash'Kara in Denver, Basta in Boulder, The Ginger Pig in Denver, Glo Noodle House in Denver, Hop Alley in Denver, La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal in Denver, Mister Oso in Denver, and Tavernetta in Denver.
7. Plus, Four Colorado Restaurants Awarded Michelin Green Stars
Further, Michelin inspectors awarded Michelin Green Stars to four restaurants. These awards go to restaurants that are focused on sustainability and that are environmentally friendly. The four that received Green Stars are Blackbelly Market in Boulder, Bramble & Hare in Boulder, Brutø in Denver, and The Wolf's Tailor in Denver.
If you like good food and have thus far overlooked the restaurants mentioned above, it’s time to make some reservations to give them a try! You might have a hard time getting into the restaurants that won stars, but give it a shot. The Bib Gourmand Awarded restaurants are certainly worth visiting as well, and they may be easier to access – and afford. We’re so lucky to live in a state that the Michelin Guide finds noteworthy. I can’t wait to try all of these places out!
Planning a visit to Denver, Boulder, or Aspen to try one of these places? Check out VRBO.com for accommodations while you’re in town.
The post With Five Newly Recognized Restaurants, Colorado Is The Sixth State In The U.S. To Receive Michelin Star Designations appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>The post The Best Prix-Fixe Meal In Colorado Is Only Accessible Via Horseback Or Sleigh Ride, But It’s So Worth The Effort appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>Beano's Cabin is a very special restaurant that is part of Beaver Creek Ski Resort in Colorado.
This restaurant is located in a meadow at the base of the resort's Larkspur Bowl. It opened in 1986.
This restaurant was inspired by Polish immigrant Frank Bienkowski who lived on this mountain a century ago. He raised lettuce and hay on his ranch and also worked in the nearby Aurora mine. The restaurant itself is a replica of "Beano's" cabin. Chef Mackenzie Nicholson cultivates a summer garden next to it each year that likely reflects what Beano himself might have grown at this elevation.
In the summer, people with reservations to dine at Beano's Cabin can get there three ways - via a one-hour horseback ride, via a 20-minute wagon ride pulled by a John Deere tractor, or via a 10-minute shuttle ride.
The summer season runs from June to September.
The rest of the year, guests can only reach Beano's Cabin by open-air sleigh. The ride takes about 20 minutes.
Once you arrive at the restaurant, you'll love its rustic decor.
There are antler chandeliers, a large stone fireplace, vaulted ceilings, and a huge wraparound deck with impressive views.
There's a full bar at Beano's Cabin, so order whatever you'd like to drink.
However, keep in mind that the alcohol will likely hit you quite a bit harder at this elevation.
When the time comes to eat, you'll be able to enjoy a five-course meal here. The menu is prix-fixe, but you'll have some choices for each course.
There's a three-course prix-fixe kids menu, too, if you want to bring your little ones along for this interesting experience.
The menu at Beano's Cabin changes with the seasons, but the first course is a soup course, and the second course is a salad course.
The third course is an appetizer - and you're sure to have a hard time choosing between the incredible, delectable offerings here.
The fourth course is a main dish. You can choose from mains such as fish, poultry, beef, elk, or a vegetarian entree. All of the dishes are beautiful - and tasty, too.
The fifth course, of course, is a dessert. These are fantastic, too.
Everything you have at Beano's Cabin will be wonderful. The overall experience will be unforgettable - without a doubt.
When you’re finished with your meal, you’ll head back down the mountain the same way that you came. Whether you reach Beano’s Cabin on horseback or by sleigh, you’re sure to remember this meal for the rest of your life.
You’ll need reservations to dine at Beano’s Cabin, so be sure to make them ahead of time. Bon appetit!
If you’re planning on going in the winter – then you’ll want to consult our packing list before you go: The Ultimate Winter Packing List: 30 Cold Weather Essentials.
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]]>The post The Largest And Most Inclusive Playground In Colorado Is Incredible appeared first on Only In Your State ®.
]]>Centennial Center Park Playground is amazing! This giant playground has everything and it's open to everybody.
You'll love all the wide and easy-to-navigate paths here!
This very special place encourages recreation and imagination.
There are numerous climbing structures to explore.
The rope jungle gym is vast and interesting - can you make it all the way to the top?
There's a rock climbing wall and a fast and steep slide.
And, there are also climbing structures that are perfect for the littlest folks in your group.
There are lots of things in this park and playground that help make it accessible to all. There are swings like this one.
There are also several sand pits for sensory play.
Some are enclosed and have low-to-the-ground play structures that everyone can reach and enjoy.
You'll also find interactive music toys to try. They can be reached by guests in wheelchairs.
There's lots of astroturf to roll around on.
And, there's a really fantastic splash pad. It's big and open and is easily accessible to all.
Even when the water is turned off for the season, the splash pad area is a fun place to play.
It's soft and safe with no sharp edges.
You're going to love Centennial Center Park Playground!
This park and playground is awesome! You are going to love everything about it. I have been many times and every time I go, I feel like a kid again! You will, too. Plan a visit today and have a blast!
Looking for something else fun to do while you’re in Centennial? Try this Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Centennial by Operation City Quest from Viator!
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