Notes From the Road

The Best of Colorado:  July, 2009

In July, a group of seniors from Poudre Valley Hospital’s Aspen Club boarded a deluxe motor coach to visit Pagosa Springs, Durango, Telluride and Grand Junction.  Ho Hum  you say.  Been there.  Done that.  I say…probably not!

THE MOTORCOACH…took us to Pagosa, where we enjoyed the hot springs, walked the riverwalk or explored downtown.

THE TRAIN:  Alll..aboard the Durango/Silverton Railroad!  This vintage narrow gauge steam train took us on an amazing journey along the Animas River, high up into the San Juan Mountains.  As the train built up steam for the climb to the historic mining town of Silverton (9,000+ feet), we saw a rainbow arc across the river as hot steam & cool air over the water collided! 

THE JEEP:  In Silverton, we “saddled up” for our 4 X 4 jeep tour over Ophir Pass.  Our guides told wonderful stories of the history, people and events that made this area come alive for us!  It made us all appreciate the courage and stamina of the people who worked and lived here.  The scenery…well, I ran out of adjectives!  We ate a scrumptious picnic lunch at the top of the pass.  Food definitely tastes better outside and with a view!  We felt like we you touch the sky and see forever!

THE GONDOLA:  Descending the pass to Mountain Village, a very elite ski and residential community,  we said goodbye to our guides and caught the gondola for a ride into Telluride.  Our hotel was within walking distance of the station.  We enjoyed a free evening exploring the historic downtown, walking the river path, porch sitting at our hotel or riding the gondola back to Mountain Village to take in the free concert.

THE RAFT:  In Fruita, we climbed into rafts for a float trip down the Colorado River.  Eagles, hawks & osprey were are companions on this leisurely journey through some of Colorado’s prettiest country.  We all were hungry and dined on BBQ at a riverside pavilion. 

THE MOTORCOACH:  Coming full circle, we boarded our motor coach for the return home.  Red rock mesas, sandstone bluffs and the awesome drive through Glenwood Canyon put the capstone on this trip.

What a terrific way to experience Colorado… from a different perspective!

If this sparks your interest for adventure, join us in July, 2010 for Arkansas River Ramble.