Colorado: A Year of Winter Adventures and Stunning Peaks
While much of my year was spent exploring Colorado's winter wonderland, the moments I ventured beyond the snow were equally unforgettable. From towering peaks to crisp mountain air, Colorado has a way of capturing your soul—especially when you embrace both the winter and warmer months. Here are some of the highlights of my year:
Chasm Lake Sunrise – New Year’s Day
The year kicked off with a sunrise hike to Chasm Lake on New Year’s morning. As I made my way up, the first light of the day illuminated the peaks of Longs Peak, casting an ethereal glow across the landscape. The sun rose opposite the mountain, making the snow-covered ridges and valleys come alive in warm hues. It was one of those rare, quiet moments that felt timeless—a perfect way to start the year.
Maroon Bells – Winter Day in Aspen
Many of you may recall the incredible winter day Travis Foki and I spent in Aspen, riding bikes to the Maroon Bells for sunrise. The lake was covered in about two feet of snow and had iced over, creating a stunning winter wonderland. Snowflakes swirled off the iconic peaks, adding to the magical scene. We skied Snowmass afterward and wrapped up the day with a hike to the Capitol Peak trailhead just in time for sunset. The fiery colors that filled the sky and illuminated the peaks are forever etched in my memory. It was the most packed day of the year, but the beauty of the Bells, combined with the vibrant sunset, made it all worth it. To top it off, we fueled up at Nepal Restaurant with some of the best food I’ve had in a long time—definitely a memorable end to an unforgettable day.
Crested Butte – A Quick Stay with Beautiful Sunrises and Sunsets
Crested Butte offered a brief yet breathtaking escape. Though my time there was short, the sunrises and sunsets made every moment count. There’s a rare peace and solitude in this place, with the mountains and skies creating a stunning backdrop to my time there. It’s one of those places that never disappoints.
Durango & Ouray – Solitude, Ice Climbing, and Rich History
Next, I journeyed to Durango and Ouray, nestled in the San Juan Mountains. In Ouray, I visited the famous Ice Park to watch ice climbers scale frozen waterfalls, which was a new experience and absolutely incredible to witness. I spent a cozy night at the historic Western Hotel and enjoyed some winter festivities in Durango with my cousin and his wife. The highlight? Watching the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad train steam through the snow-covered mountains—something I’ll never forget.
Backpacking off Independence Pass – A Summer Escape
Summer brought a different kind of adventure when I embarked on my annual backpacking trip off Independence Pass. The wildflowers were in full bloom, and the crisp air of the high alpine environment provided the perfect escape. Spending sunrise on one of the ridges is always a magical feeling. This backpacking trip is one I look forward to every year, and it never gets old. The solitude, the beauty, and the silence of the mountains always remind me why I love this place so much.
Fall Colors in Aspen and the San Juans
As the year wound down, I caught the tail end of fall’s vibrant colors in Aspen and the San Juan Mountains. The golden aspen leaves were a sight to behold, and the peaceful transition of the seasons felt like a perfect way to close out the year. I made a return trip to Crystal Mill, even though a disgruntled man tried to close the area just as we arrived. That moment didn’t diminish the beauty of the place, though. I also ventured to Silver Pick and Silver Jack for the first time, and met the famous Trent Bradley along the way. Telluride, as always, was stunning, and it was the perfect backdrop to close out the season.
Aurora Borealis – A Mind-Altering Experience
One of the most mind-altering experiences of my life came in October, right after my fall colors chase. After the intense drive and minimal sleep, I was exhausted and had little energy to venture out. But thanks to some great friends who encouraged me, I made my way out into the wilds of Colorado to witness the aurora borealis. It was something I didn’t expect—something I’d only dreamt of experiencing. The night sky erupted in an almost otherworldly display of green and purple lights dancing across the sky. Standing there, in the stillness of the night, watching the northern lights swirl above, felt surreal. It was a humbling, awe-inspiring moment that left me speechless. The sheer beauty of it all reminded me how small we are in the grand scheme of the universe, and it’s a memory I’ll carry with me forever.
Colorado has truly been an amazing place to call home this year. Though I didn’t get to explore outside of the winter season as much as I’d hoped, every moment spent in this beautiful state has been full of memories I’ll treasure forever. The mountains, the snow, and the ever-changing landscape will keep calling me back for years to come.
Here’s to many more adventures in the Centennial State!