Sightseeing on Your Journey to Adventure

‘Real’ Colorado is not found on a crowded city street or inside of man-made museums and manufactured tourist attractions.  Real Colorado is found in one place – the Mountains and there is no grander monument that could be erected which perfectly embodies the spirit of this great state.

You immediately identify Red Rocks as you pass it in the distance driving through 470 onto I-70 W.  For those who have never made this journey, we highly suggest touring through.  Gliding over the city of Golden, scouring the land below as if an eagle, your turn begins the journey ever upward into the mountains.

At a certain point you pass through a small village of mansions in the sky, and your mind races with thoughts of “How did they get that all the way up here?”  As envious as you may be of these grand palaces, you don’t begrudge them the journey home in the snows of winter.

As you carry on, you reach a grand opening view of white peaked mountains in the distance ahead and the amazing Buffalo Overlook Wildlife Refuge to your right.  It’s no coincidence this site is located near the road leading to Buffalo Bill’s Museum and gravesite, a worthwhile visit offers greater insight beyond the myth of the life of Buffalo Bill as well as the local history of the region.  It also features an incredible view over the distant city-scape as you shift from the view of city window gazing towards mountain-to-mountain top views.

Beyond the buffaloes, you reach a grand, sweeping view of the mountains which no photo can do justice.  Further, you set sail through a sea of trees – eventually arriving at the beginning of Clear Creek County.  In Clear Creek you can find a noticeably large antique shop and small town looking out from the mountain slopes.

Life then turns exhilarating as you slide down the steepest slopes into the side of the highest mountain.  Your reward as you masterfully make the descent down the hillside is a trip the mouth of a mountain in the Veteran Memorial Tunnels, the small historic town of Idaho Springs on the other side.  Even through it is tough to see going into Idaho Springs, there is a beautiful landmark awaiting.  The Bridal Veil Falls offer enjoyable hiking and breathtaking views from the other side of I-70.

You may want to stop for lunch at the many options available or stock up on food from the local Safeway if you’re planning a long stay in one of the fully-furnished cabins at Lawson Adventure Park.

Finally, you reach the last set of winding mountains and take either Exit 235 or 234, you emerge into the quiet town of Lawson and cross the bridge over Clear Creek River, where summer riving rafting awaits.

When you arrive at Lawson Adventure Park & Resort, don’t forget to grab the bucket of s’more supplies available in the lodge.