Are you planning a family vacation this year and aren’t sure of where to go? Well, if you’re into nature, the great outdoors, and relaxing in thermal pools, Colorado may be perfect for you. There are several mountain cabins for rent in Colorado or boutique hotels to choose from in Denver, Boulder, or Colorado Springs. And the best thing is, the state gets on average of 300 days of sunshine, so you’re almost guaranteed dry weather. Here are five of the best things to do on a family vacation this fall.
1# Drive Along the Trail Ridge Road:
The Trail Ridge Road has some of the best views in Colorado as it winds through the Rocky Mountain National Park. Passing between Grand Lake and Estes Park, driving along this continental drift promises dramatic scenery. Expect steep canyons and even snow on some of the higher points of the road while you’re driving along the highest paved road in the United States.
The switchbacks give some of the most beautiful views in Colorado. Wild elk also live on parts of the route, and it’s typical to spot them as you’re going along this 77 kilometers (48 miles) route. The kids will love the changing color of the foliage and varying landscapes. Stop at some of the viewpoints to soak up the natural beauty in front of your eyes.
Expect the journey to take approximately three hours factoring in plenty of breaks for photographs. Road closures are common during late fall and from the end of November to May because of heavy snowfall. Make sure you visit in the first half of the season to avoid disappointment.
2# Visit Capitol Peak:
If you want to show your family a blanket of aspen gold foliage stretching forever into the distance, take them to Capitol Peak in the Elk Mountains. Trails range from a smooth few kilometers trek up to more strenuous ones if you fancy a day of hiking. Head out for a day or exercise and enjoy the striking and vibrant shades surrounding you. The best time to soak up the beauty is just before sunset as the orange sun casts a wave of color over the already golden leaves.
It’s not advisable to go hiking with your family on some of the more difficult trails. Accidents do occur. Even if you’re not into hiking, still take the kids to see the colors of fall at their very best.
3# Get Lost in a Corn Maze:
A fun-family friendly activity in Colorado this fall is to take part in a Corn Maze. If you’re not sure what this is, imagine one of the endless cornfields in the state on a large piece of farmland. Now imagine a farmer hacking paths through the farmland to create a pattern that resembles a maze. Visitors come, pay a small fee and have to try to pass through to reach the other side.
The mazes typically open from late September and have a variety of themes. Some celebrate and allow parents to take their children pumpkin picking afterwards. Others are for older kids and have an element of trivia and mystery. You can find most of the mazes around the Denver area including the famous one at Denver Botanical Gardens.
4# Take Part in the Annual Gorilla Run:
The Denver Gorilla run combines running, dressing up, and raising money for charity. People from all over Colorado descend into Denver for the annual fall fun run covering a total distance of 5 kilometers. But, the running is just the start of it. All participants dress up in either a gorilla or banana outfit as they jog along the streets raising money for the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund.
Come down with the family, don a costume and run the short distance or cheer on the others from the sideline. There’s also the best costume competition, which encourages participants to be as creative as they can. Everything is good natured and will be a fun experience whether you take part or not. At the end of the run, everyone gets together to enjoy an after party and celebrate the conclusion of the event.
Gorilla Runs take place in a few cities around the United States, but the one in the Mile High City is said to be one of the best. So, if you’re in Colorado this fall, head down to Denver to join in the fun and games. It’s a certainty that the family will have a memorable experience.
5# Attend the Elk Fest:
Every fall in the Estes Valley, the annual Elk Fest takes place. Visitors can learn everything they ever wanted to know about Elks and buy handicrafts and other related souvenirs. The event is family-friendly, and kids of all ages enjoy getting close and personal with some of the animals inside. After the event is over, a concert with country music and bluegrass take place for the parents to enjoy. If you’re interested in this, search online to see what’s happening and to get more information on the specific dates. Learning about elk and seeing a concert is a great way to spend a chilly autumn’s day in Colorado.
From Colorful Scenery to Gorillas and Elk:
Show your kids the changing colors of leaves in the national parks or get lost in a corn maze. Check out the Gorilla Run and Elk Fest if you’re in the State when they take place. A family vacation to Colorado in the fall has everything you could need to have a perfect trip.
