Beginner’s Guides

  • REI’s Snowshoeing Basics class is worth your time

    REI’s Snowshoeing Basics class is worth your time

    Growing up on the East Coast, winter was something to dread. Once it arrived, you wrapped yourself in blankets and just waited for it to be over. In Colorado, it’s different. Winter is something to get excited for. Snowshoeing was my gateway drug. Step one of my foray into snowshoeing was REI’s Snowshoeing Basics class. Read more

  • Beginner’s Trail Guide: East side of Rocky Mountain National Park

    Beginner’s Trail Guide: East side of Rocky Mountain National Park

    The entrance to the eastern side of RMNP is right outside of downtown Estes Park. Now that Highway 36 is completely restored, the drive is an easy and scenic hour and a half from Denver. As any basic Google searching will tell you, Bear Lake is the perfect place for beginners, first timers, out of Read more

  • Trail Guide: Beginner Hiking at Staunton State Park

    Trail Guide: Beginner Hiking at Staunton State Park

    I’ve been to Staunton Stake Park twice, and I’m already in love. When my parents visited from Maryland a few weeks ago, I needed an option for hiking that wasn’t too far from Denver. It also had to offer doable trails for people living essentially at sea level. Staunton has all of this (and you Read more

  • Campground Guide: Platte River Campground in Pike National Forest

    Campground Guide: Platte River Campground in Pike National Forest

    Highway 67 follows the South Platte River through the Pike National Forest. It’s a popular spot for tubing and fishing, and staying at the South Platte Campground gives you the perfect starting spot for both. If you’re looking for a campground with a lot of hiking, this ain’t it! But it’s a beautiful spot that’s… Read more

  • Campground Guide – Big Meadows at Shenandoah National Park

    Campground Guide – Big Meadows at Shenandoah National Park

    Big Meadows is as close to an ideal first campground as you can get. With real bathrooms and a host of other amenities, it’s a great introduction to camping without sacrificing scenery. Here’s what you need to know before you go. Directions At just over two hours from DC, Big Meadows (and Shenandoah in general) Read more

  • How to pick the perfect first 5k

    Honestly, I could sum up this blog in one sentence. Make sure your first race is going to be FUN! If you’re looking to sign up for your very first 5k, you’re most likely just beginning to run. I started trolling for the Perfect First 5k almost immediately after deciding to try out running. I Read more