Colorado

If you enjoy hiking and exploring unique natural landscapes, the Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado offers a fascinating experience. Known for its colorful rock formations and rich history, this park is a must-visit for travelers looking to combine outdoor adventure with a touch of geology and archaeology. This is a favorite spot of mine and I want to share a detailed itinerary, practical tips, and drive times from major Colorado cities to help you plan your visit.

Visiting Great Sand Dunes National Park in May offers a unique chance to explore one of Colorado’s most striking natural wonders without the summer crowds. The towering dunes, the refreshing Medano Creek, and the surrounding landscapes create an unforgettable day trip. I recently spent a day there in May, and I want to share everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

While I've spent plenty of time working in hotels, Airbnbs, coffee shops, the car, and a few hours outdoors here in there, I had yet to do a full day at a campsite. For a first outing I wanted to pick somewhere close by just in case I ran into unexpected issues. After researching a bunch of campgrounds nearby, I settled on Colorado Campground near Woodland Park, Colorado. This was just a few miles outside of Woodland Park and not far from Colorado Springs.