Forum Discussion
Lauren
Feb 02, 2013Explorer
Yes, Rocky Mtn NP has taken a hit with the pine beetle and some recent fires for sure but it is still great; we were back there again this summer for the 4th time since we moved from there in 2003. Having lived in Estes Park for 8 years - and been back as mentioned - I would disagree with busskipper on his preference for the west side. Nearly all the Park activiites are on the east side; hence, more crowds to be sure. The west side has a very small visitor center and a couple isolated hiking trails - that is about it. The east side has two major visitor centers, programs, lots of wildlife viewing, all kinds of hikes for all levels of hikers, drives, picnic areas, campgrounds, etc. And less moisture - rain or snow - and less bugs.
As mentioned, this year we are, once again, returning to Buena Vista, Montrose (Black Canyon), Mancos and Ouray.....concentrating on BV and Ouray. Going to be there for fall colors. Pikes Peak is great - either driving it with tv or toad or the cog railway. Forget the Royal Gouge (as we used to call it) - very pricey for what there is there.
4runnerguy and ThunderMountain are good resources as they also have spent a lot of time in CO.
Enjoy that great state!
As mentioned, this year we are, once again, returning to Buena Vista, Montrose (Black Canyon), Mancos and Ouray.....concentrating on BV and Ouray. Going to be there for fall colors. Pikes Peak is great - either driving it with tv or toad or the cog railway. Forget the Royal Gouge (as we used to call it) - very pricey for what there is there.
4runnerguy and ThunderMountain are good resources as they also have spent a lot of time in CO.
Enjoy that great state!
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