Now that summer vacation is over, you’ll probably want to squeeze in as many outdoor adventures as you can on the weekends. So, pack your gear, throw in extra water and sunscreen, and head to the highway — these adventures compiled by Shea Homes® are calling.
Paddling
Are you into the heart-pounding and adrenaline-fueled rush of a kayaking or whitewater rafting venture? Even if you’d rather float serenely in a canoe across tranquil waters, we’ve found these amazing trips around Colorado and parts of Utah that will give you the adventure you seek. Whether you’re a rafting rookie or a paddle sport expert, these group activities will provide an outdoorsy, get-back-to-nature experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Be sure to check with the experts before you go, because the heavy snow pack has made the waterways much more ferocious than in previous years.
Kayaking
Stand Up Paddleboard
Speaking of paddling, have you tried stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) yet? SUP is becoming an increasingly popular water sport and, lucky for you, Colorado is home to more than 2,000 reservoirs and lakes. Some of the more popular SUP destinations include scenic areas like Dillon Lake, Grand Lake, and Lake San Cristobal. If you’re pressed for time and can’t go too far, you can always SUP the day away at nearby Chatfield State Park.
Stand-up Paddle Boarding
Via Ferratas
Via ferratas are protected climbing routes that use a system of steel cables, iron rungs, ladders, and other hardware attached to a rock face. These routes are typically led by guides, so you won’t need much technical skill or experience to get across the route. Although they might be scary, if you’re all about conquering fears you’ll find several via ferrata locations around Colorado — including the Royal Gorge, Arapahoe Basin, and Mount Evans.
Via Ferratas
The Continental Divide Trail
Are you looking for the satisfactory feeling of accomplishment or doing some mid-life soul-searching? If so, maybe a long weekend or week-long hike along a revered trail is the perfect note to end your summer. The popular Continental Divide Scenic Trail (CDT) brings people of all walks of life together and serves as a living museum of the American West. While it traverses 800 miles across the Rockies, you can find the section you want to conquer and hike your way into the 3,000 milers club.
Hiking
Isn’t this why you live in a beautiful place like Colorado? We hope you have time to take advantage of as many of these outdoor adventures as you can. And when you do, be sure you tag us in your pictures, so we can be inspired too!