Right from the moment we pulled into the parking lot, the sound of rushing water filled the air,…read moreand it didn't take long to find out why. The centerpiece of the park is this stunning trio of waterfalls--three streams of water pouring side by side over bright limestone cliffs, surrounded by the kind of lush greenery that feels almost tropical. It was like walking into a Colorado rainforest. Mist from the falls cooled the air, and everything around them felt alive--ferns, moss, chirping birds, and the occasional chipmunk darting across the path. The trails were surprisingly well maintained and easy to navigate. We started with the paved path that led right up to the base of the falls--perfect for just soaking in the view, and even wheelchair accessible. Then we took the Coyote Trail, which loops up around and behind the falls. That's where things got even more fun. The trail winds past a handful of small limestone caves, some of which you can crawl into and explore. One of them opened up into a surprisingly big cavern--we hadn't brought flashlights, but our phones did the trick, and the kids loved it. It felt like discovering secret chambers in a fantasy story. When we made it to the top of the falls, the view was totally worth the mild climb. You could look down and see all three cascades in full, framed by trees and cliffs. And with the mist rising in the sunlight, it felt absolutely magical--like something out of a painting. What I loved most was how much this park offered in such a compact space. Waterfalls, caves, trails, wildlife, creeks, picnic spots--everything felt close and accessible, but never crowded or rushed. It was peaceful, beautiful, and so well kept. Honestly, it's one of the best hidden gems I've stumbled upon in Colorado.

This is a worth while stop if you are traveling through the area. It was a scenic drive from I-70…read moreinto the park. I was traveling with my husband and relatives. Note: I detracted one star because all the picnic tables for day visitors have been removed to discourage that activity. The only tables in the park are for the camp sites. We pulled into an empty site, since we did not see tables elsewhere, to have a quick lunch. We got a talking to from one of the park employees that it was not permitted. We were nearly done with lunch so we finished quickly and removed ourselves, making sure the area was as we found it. We then parked up at the trailhead parking. It is a pleasant walk to the base of the falls. Then we headed up the stairs that take you behind the falls as well as to some caves. My husband and his brother did the hike up and around to the top. My sister-in-law and I found a nice shaded bench to enjoy the views while we waited for them to return. It was an overall good experience. I would go back.

The Glenwood Canyon drive is not to be missed! So, I didn't really dig deep into so many travel…read moredetails, when I planned this last trip to Colorado. We went on kind of a whim, so I had no idea that we were going to pass through Glenwood Canyon, when I planned our itinerary. This was such a treat! The canyon views will take your breath away. Some of the rock formations looked like ancient cities. There was some construction happening during our drive, so it reduced the speed to 40 MPH, which we were glad happened because we were able to observe the majestic views. I did not want this ride to end. There are some rest stops along the way, so you can get out and explore a bit more outside of your car. We stopped at one and had access to the Colorado River and that was nice to see... looked like there was a trail for hiking and biking, too. Glenwood Canyon is a definitely must, when visiting Colorado. I was glad that we did this during the summer and not during our visit in the winter. I can't imagine driving through this, when it's icy, snowy and has the potential for avalanches. Colorado has some of the most amazing change in terrain and things will just pop-up and surprise you, like this place did.

Yes - the views are absolutely stunning. And I've been through the canyon before- hiking, biking…read moreand as a passenger in a car. Yesterday was the first time I ever drove this - as the driver. And It totally freaked me out. It is super scary to drive. I just felt like if anything went wrong - like even if I sneezed - then I would go over the edge and die. And there is absolutely no cell service in the canyon. So if you crash your car, you can't even call someone to rescue you. And your Sirius doesn't work, so you can't even listen to calming music. Great place to visit, but if you have any anxieties - leave the driving to someone else!

Two Rivers Park Path - Nature's runway, minus the paparazzi…read more This path is the Beyoncé of walking trails--well-groomed, scenic, and knows how to work a river view. It's so well maintained I felt like I should tip someone just for letting me stroll on it. You've got peaceful river vibes the whole way, which makes you feel like a woodland creature out for a wellness walk. Ducks? Check. Gentle breeze? Check. A mild existential breakthrough by mile two? Double check. Whether you're power walking, zombie-limping through a "light jog," or just trying to trick your kids into exercise--this path delivers. 10/10 would walk again (preferably with snacks).

The park had some good views and was right along the river. There was a skate park section, boat…read moreramp, bathrooms, and a small playground. Walking along the river was nice and it will take you on a path back into town.

Beautiful park with a nice walking path close to the river that is not too long and not too short.read more

Gorgeous park by the water with a playground, sports fields and a grass field. Lots of picnic…read moretables. Perfect place to hang out in summer

Trail & Experience: Hanging Lake Trail is absolutely…read morebeautiful! It's definitely an uphill challenge, but so worth it. The trail is easier to go down than up, but the workout is worth every step for the stunning views at the top. Atmosphere : Going around sunrise is perfect. The sun isn't beating down on you. Plus the whole area feels peaceful and refreshing. The lake itself is stunning and truly worth the hike. Service: Rangers were super nice and helpful. Parking is easy to find, and GPS takes you directly there. You do need a permit $12 per person and timeslots fill up quickly, especially early in the morning, so plan ahead. Tips : Dogs are not allowed. Go early for cooler temps and smaller crowds. Bring water and good shoes the uphill is a workout! If you're in Glenwood, this hike is a must!

Whether you go snow shoeing hiking like a normie. This trail has changed and evolved so much that…read moreevery time I hike it I find new features new things and more challenges. It's a strong standing testimony that nature is forever wild and we are just the visitors Mother Nature allow. Enjoy the photos. NO YOU CANT SWIM IN HANGING LAKE! Do not be a bum and touch the water or get into it it's to be respected and enjoyed.

What a cool tribute to John Denver! The garden is beautiful and free!! We were there during…read moreoffseason so I can only imagine what it looks like in the summer. It's a nice walk around, right in the town of Aspen. Kid friendly dog friendly but not wheelchair accessible, it was a rocky path with some stones crossing little streams. If you're in Aspen you should definitely check it out !

What an incredibly gorgeous, peaceful, and ethereal place to take a stroll…read more Im more of a walk-not-hike and I-like-plants-not-nature kinda gal. I could've sat and admired the landscape of this place forever. Wildflowers, and natives, gentle water and little animals about. 10/10 explore if you visit. Bonus if you're the type of person to pull out Zillow and see what some of these places backed against the sanctuary go for. (Seems fair to me!)

One of the more larger parks accommodating many sporting events such as baseball, football, soccer,…read moreand lacrosse as well festivals during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. There are a few areas that has covering where you can have a barbecue with tables and benches. This place also has a nice well equipped playground for children 4-10 years old. A favorite of our daughters. The fields are well maintained as well as the facilities and ample free parking, even during major events such as the Summerfest Balloon Bash. Surrounding the park there are walking and bike paths with a river nearby should you decide to try your luck at fishing. Whether, if you looking for a nice place to walk, bike, run, or have a picnic, Crown Mountain Park is always a good option.

Nice little park right off 82 in El Jebel. Nice walking trail, rock climbing wall, basketball…read morecourts, and a playground for the younguns. I was only in town for 24 hours, I didn't have hiking boots or tevas. Plus it was overcast and windy. So this park gave us the opportunity to get outside, walk around. Plus I was the only one to make it to the top of the rock wall. Which says nothing about my athletic abilities, but says a lot about how athletically lame my companions were!

This is a stunning park next to Rifle Falls State Park. This one has tons of climbing areas for…read morewarmer months, and incredible ice caves to explore in the winter. There are a ton of picnic benches and places to relax next to the river that winds through the park, and a solid array of campsites as well (closed currently due to the weather and Covid). I highly recommend going in the winter to check out the stunning ice caves... just grab some cramp-ons for your shoes (and I'd recommend snow boots or waterproof boots because there is a solid amount of snow). We didn't see areas to snow shoe currently (as of December 2020), but we also didn't go out too far beyond the more easily accessible areas.