Harry A Nottingham Lake — Harry A. Nottingham Lake

Colorado holds a special place in my heart. It was my first vacation destination as a young adult—no parents or adult supervision. I was 21, to be exact. It’s also where I discovered that skiing is not for me. But I didn’t give up on the slopes. I tried snowboarding and fell in love with it. Don’t get me wrong—I wasn’t (and am not) good at it. In fact, I was pretty terrible! But I enjoyed every moment in the snow. There was something exhilarating about sliding gracefully —or, let's be honest, rolling—down those snowy mountains.

I made it a tradition to visit Colorado once a year during the winter skiing season, exploring Aspen, Breckenridge, Keystone, Telluride, and Steamboat. I loved every trip, and each visit deepened my affection for Colorado. This year, I wanted to experience the state in a different light and with a different seasonal backdrop, so I visited in April and again in August.

Gateway, Colorado: A Stunning Transition

In April, I ventured to Gateway, Colorado. This little gem sits near the western border of Colorado, close to Utah. I drove in from Angel Fire, New Mexico, a town south of Colorado. The final hour of my drive took me along Highway 141, looking up at Gateway Canyon, which was nothing short of magical.

One of my bucket list items has been to hike down the Grand Canyon and spend time at the bottom. Always curious about what it would be like to stand at the canyon's base and look up, I no longer have to wonder. Gateway starkly contrasted the snowy landscapes I had associated with Colorado. Instead of white peaks, I was greeted by vibrant red and copper canyon walls. Driving into Gateway was a mesmerizing experience; the towering Gateway Canyon walls evoked a sense of awe and wonder with every mile. Standing at the canyon's base and gazing up at the red cliffs against the backdrop of a clear blue sky felt like stepping through a portal into another world—peaceful, stunning, and surreal all at once. It was unlike anything I’d seen before.

Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa: An Oasis in Nature

In Gateway, I stayed at the Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa, a beautiful retreat nestled right within the canyon. Surrounded by nature, this resort offers a plethora of activities, from fishing and horseback riding to ATV adventures, hiking, and mountain biking. With a spa and several restaurants on-site, it was so comprehensive that I found no need to leave the property.

I stayed in one of the two-bedroom Casitas, exquisitely decorated with a blend of Southwestern and Peruvian artisan styles. These Casitas provided privacy while offering easy access to the natural world outside. Each included a private patio, fire pit, and outdoor shower or tub, making it the perfect romantic getaway. Whether gazing at the stars by the fire pit or simply soaking in the natural sounds around you, this resort is enchanting —ideal not just for couples but also as a stunning wedding destination. Its natural beauty and secluded setting make it unforgettable.

Vail, Colorado: Nature’s Perfect Harmony

Fast forward to August, and I finally made it to Vail, a destination I had long wanted to visit. As always, God’s timing was perfect. Experiencing Vail during this phase of my life felt enriching, both for my heart and soul. The natural beauty of the area was simply breathtaking.

I embarked on my first high-altitude six-mile hike, surrounded by majestic mountains, flowing rivers, and serene creeks—an indescribable backdrop. Immersing myself in the natural beauty of Vail was profoundly moving, allowing me to experience God’s peace, grace, and love in a way that was both enriching and unforgettable. I cherish nature, and having the opportunity to connect so deeply with it in Vail is an experience I never want to forget. The perfect weather added to the allure, making Vail a hub of activity for families and nature lovers alike.

The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa: A Tranquil Retreat

I stayed at The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa in Avon, Colorado, conveniently located just 10 minutes from Vail. Avon is a gorgeous town, part of the Vail Valley, and nearby Nottingham Lake is only five minutes from the resort and offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, or relaxing on the beach. I spent a delightful afternoon there under a tree, reading and people-watching, and I highly recommend visiting this lake area if you're in the Vail Valley. Additionally, the Eagle River, which flows through Vail and Avon, provides excellent fly fishing and water rafting opportunities. The Westin also features mountain and road biking options for those interested in biking.

Vail Village: A Celebration of Slow Living

A must-do is the Vail Village Gondola One ride during the summer and autumn. This scenic ride costs about $60 per person—perhaps a bit steep for those on a budget, but worth every penny for the spectacular views. Alternatively, you can opt out of the gondola ride and explore Vail Village, which offers many other activities for the entire family, such as biking, swimming, mini-golf, parks, playgrounds, and culinary experiences complete with live entertainment such as small local bands/musicians and a farmers' market. For me, Vail Village is the quintessential definition of slow living and coexistence with the simplicity of nature.

I absolutely fell in love with Colorado's summer side—from the striking reds and coppers of Gateway to the lush greens and blues of Vail Valley, the beauty of this state continues to amaze me. No matter the season —whether blanketed in snow or bathed in summer hues, it’s a place that offers new horizons at every turn. I hope my experiences inspire you to explore this beautiful state and discover its magic for yourself.