Issuu

Proving his metal

Artist mines his creative spirit

Plus

Railing into the backcountry

Riverside Colorado rocks the Poudre Haykin is the apple of Aurora’s eye

Constellation Prize

Experience our great outdoors, 43 state parks and night skies.

Plan your Adventure Reserve a state park campsite (six months in advance), purchase a park pass, obtain an off-highway-vehicle permit or buy a fishing license: or 1-800-244-5613

Destinations

8 Sculpting the West

Local artist creates an array of larger-than-life pieces

12 Riverside Colorado

Glamp, fish, hike, raft, rock ‘n’ roll.

16 Pedal power

Rail your way into the backcountry

36 Lake City

The little town surrounded by so many outdoor options

Experiences

14 Flowering

Lavender has become a hot product and attraction

20 Select Cider

Haykin Family Ciders aims to elevate the popular beverage

24 Events Calendar

Avoid going to work with these incredible options

41 Engineered fun

Sometimes it takes hard work to bring the adventure home

44 Prime Pairing

We’ve matched up a sweet treat and a tasty cocktail

On the cover

Nick LoFaro of LoFaro Metal Arts created Royal the Forest King. See story on page 8.

Johnny Burkin

In addition to writing and copy editing for Thirst Colorado, Burkin writes screenplays and breaks down the chances of the Denver Broncos and Denver Nuggets returning to championship glory. And he’s been known to bend a few ears with a history lesson.

Cara Myers

Myers has a passion for storytelling across music, film, theatre and dining. Alongside her writing, she also builds a career in parks and recreation. You may find her hiking, getting lost in a good book, catching a concert or simply enjoying a cozy night at home with her husband, Travis, and her stepdaughter, Luna.

Eric Peterson

Peterson is a freelance writer who covers travel, business, and real estate, as well as Colorado’s craft beverage industry. He lives in Denver with his wife, Jamie, and their faithful mutts, Aoife and Ogma.

Tiffany Thompson

Thompson is a Colorado-born writer and musician. In addition to her creative pursuits, she spends her time reading, checking out the Denver music scene, and watching movies with her partner and their cat.

Rebecca Toy

Toy is a freelance writer who covers wine, spirits, beer, travel, history — anything with passionate people doing inspiring things. She has contributed to National Geographic, Wine Enthusiast, Fodor’s Travel and others.

David Young

Young is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins who specializes in beer, whiskey and outdoor writing. Young has been published in SKI Magazine, GearJunkie, 5280 Magazine, USA Today and The Denver Post. Learn more at davidyoungcommunications.com.

Publisher Paul Johnson paul@thirstcolorado.com

Associate Publisher & Editor Joe Ross joe@thirstcolorado.com

Vice President, Sales Scott Kaplan scott@thirstcolorado.com

Sales

Linda Battle, Rebel Becker, Kylie DeMarco, Olivia Dodson, Christine Werner

Design & Layout

Sandy Birkey

President & Founder Emeritus Wilbur E. Flachman

Digital & Marketing Manager

Steve Graham

Contributors

Johnny Burkin, Cara Myers, Eric Peterson, Tiﬀany Thompson, Rebecca Toy, David Young

The Publishing House also produces Colorado’s Performing Arts Publications, serving arts venues along the Front Range. 7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, Colorado 80030 303.428.9529

Drink up life in large amounts, but restrict your alcohol consumption. We do not endorse or support excessive drinking.

Thirst Colorado is advertiser-supported. Reach us for print and digital advertising opportunities at 303-428-9529 or sales@thirstcolorado.com.

Except where noted, the content of Thirst Colorado is the property of the magazine and should only be reprinted with permission. Thirst Colorado is not responsible for false or misleading claims made in advertising or editorial materials published herein. Thirst Colorado Magazine is distributed in part by DJM Distribution, Inc., and Community Racks Distribution, LLC.

Forged Myth A SELF-TAUGHT ARTIST TRANSFORMS RECLAIMED

STEEL INTO TOWERING, STORY-DRIVEN FIGURES THAT ARE PART MYTHOLOGY, PART MOUNTAIN MEMORY

By Rebecca Toy

At the Westin Riverfront Resort in Vail, a towering elk rises out of steel – muscle taut, head lifted, caught somewhere between stillness and motion. It feels less like a sculpture than a moment interrupted. You half expect it to exhale.

Or maybe it belongs somewhere older, stranger, alongside the creatures of Greek myth, where gods punish hubris and mortals transform mid-story. In Nick LoFaro’s world, that line between the natural and the mythical is intentionally blurred. His figures, whether an imposing elk, a striking Medusa or a winged Luna Mothra “fairy,” don’t simply exist. Their size, details and downright maximalism evoke imagination.

LoFaro’s pieces are buzzy successes across the state, capturing both the state’s elemental awe and groundedness. And like many Colorado artists, his own path has been far from linear, stacked with strata of influence. Long before he picked up a welding torch, LoFaro was writing stories, reading mythology, drawing comic books, and inventing characters. Today, he channels that same instinct into steel, creating figures that feel less like objects and more like heroes.

COLORADAN FOLK ART WITH ANCIENT INSPIRATION

LoFaro’s own story is quintessentially Coloradan. Born in Vail and now living and working in Minturn, he grew up surrounded by the mountains’ scale and drama. That sense of awe, of being dwarfed, of looking up until your neck aches, still defines his work.

His mother was a teacher and artist, his father a mechanic and naturalist: the combination led to LoFaro’s self-reported ADD

brain exploring all the details of nature and using those to fuel his creations. Childhood dreams of being a character creator shifted to a degree in writing and literature — he even wrote a kids’ book with his mom. He now teaches his art to middle schoolers, sparking engagement in even the most hesitant. And, like many across the state, LoFaro also works in hospitality, leading the bar at the same hotel where his elk stands.

For years, his primary medium and first love was clay. He experimented with plaster, wood, and even animal bone, drawn to the malleability. But around 28, after a particular purge of broken pieces and inspired by his brother’s work in furniture, LoFaro began experimenting with welding. Steel offered a sense that the work could outlast him. But more than that, it connected him to something elemental.

“Iron is from the earth, even coursing in our blood,” he says. “It never decomposes, just moves into different forms.”

Using reclaimed steel, discarded tools and abandoned materials, LoFaro builds sculptures that feel both ancient and newly alive. There’s a folk-art quality to the process, with ancient mythology infused in the inspiration. LoFaro points to Greek myths in particular, not for their grandeur, but for their reflection of humanity’s flaws.

“The gods were kind of horrible,” he says, laughing, before describing the tales of jealous gods and aspiring mortals. “Childish and cruel. But there are lessons in there about human nature.”

LoFaro takes those sometimes harsh lessons, as well as the animals that roam the mountains, and re-centers narratives. He gives every creation love, creating imposing Hulks with the affable Bruce Banner living within.

“I really love the idea of being a character creator,” he says. “Each piece is its own little superhero.”

TO LIFE

“IRON IS FROM THE EARTH, EVEN COURSING IN OUR BLOOD. IT NEVER DECOMPOSES, JUST MOVES INTO DIFFERENT FORMS.”

“The most important part of any sculpture is the silhouette,” he says. It’s a lesson he carries into every piece: that a figure should be recognizable, compelling, alive even in outline.

Up close, LoFaro’s sculptures reveal themselves as intricate assemblages of meaning. Nothing is arbitrary.

– Nick LoFaro

Take Medusa. We know her as a snake-haired monster, turning men to stone with a look. Yet, LoFaro highlights her traumatic origin story, a victim of the gods’ assaults and vanity. LoFaro cheekily gave the historic villain a comeback: ligaments made from nutcrackers, an antique household iron as a chest plate, transforming domestic labor into defiant protection. The piece isn’t just a figure — it’s an argument, a reinterpretation.

LoFaro’s pieces also have a look — literally. He embeds marbles or LEDs into his sculptures. The effect is subtle but powerful, suggesting something like a spirit — an inner life flickering beneath the surface.

In addition to the elk, or Royal the Forest King, his works are scattered across Colorado. The Luna Mothra at Bellvue’s Mishawaka Amphitheater is one of the most accessible, but pieces like the Starfox on a corner in Avon also pop up, part street art, part gallery for sale.

Perhaps it’s Hephaestus, the Greek god of the forge and blacksmiths, that drives LoFaro. The art is physical work that takes a toll on his body: the elk required 20 hours a week for a year, hours put in outside of his other job. Yet the ideas and ultimately the commissions keep coming.

“This is not a hobby,” he says, reflecting the experience of all artists. “This is who you are.”

Check out more of his work at lofarometalarts.com. ■

Photos courtesy of Nick LoFaro

Glamp Out

POUDRE CANYON CAMPING GETS AN UPGRADE AT RIVERSIDE COLORADO

By Steve Graham

Riverside Colorado may ruin camping for you.

I have spent many summer weekends in a tent alongside the Poudre River or at State Forest State Park.

Then I spent a warm spring morning touring the Riverside Colorado glamping resort with owner Dani Grant.

The well-appointed glamping tents, cozy tiny homes and colorful cabins made pitching my own tent and sleeping on the ground far less enticing.

Riverside Colorado is on the Poudre about 30 minutes west of Fort Collins and five minutes east of Mishawaka Amphitheatre. Affectionately known as “the Mish,” it is consistently rated one of Colorado’s best outdoor concert venues. In addition to indoor and outdoor stages, the Mish has a large and popular restaurant and an outdoor snack bar.

Grant owns both businesses, which have a symbiotic relationship. Mish attendees fill the resort after concerts, and Riverside guests have meals at the Mish. The businesses also are planning some weddings, corporate retreats and other events this year, said private events coordinator Gary Duvall. He helped

organize the first on-site wedding last year, and the Mishawaka has also hosted weddings that saw the wedding parties stay at Riverside.

Duvall also appreciates some of the uninvited guests — such as the rams who witnessed a polar plunge dip last year.

“There were bighorn sheep that came down on the rocks right there by the river,” he said, pointing at the Poudre. “... and every once in a while there’s a bear that wanders through.”

Duvall appreciates the serenity at Riverside, but said the resort can be full of people and energy when a popular band plays at Mishawaka.

“There’s a little bit of a party atmosphere,” he said. For example, he said Riverside sold out before tickets went on sale for Lane 8’s 4-hour DJ set in June. Other summer concert nights also sold out quickly at Riverside this year.

ROCK YOURSELF TO SLEEP

With very limited on-site parking, the main option for most Mish concertgoers is a shuttle arriving from Fort Collins before the show and returning after the last song. For Riverside guests, a dedicated shuttle runs to the Mish on demand, allowing guests to arrive late or leave early on show nights.

Photos courtesy of Riverside Colorado

Riverside had a soft opening in July 2024 and slowly ramped up last year. Grant expects the first really busy summer for Riverside this year, as well as some full shoulder season weekends.

“We’re just now getting the name out there so that people recognize that there’s actually a place in the Poudre Canyon to stay,” Grant said. “Historically, it’s a campground or Fort Collins.”

She said both Riverside and the Mish rely on the location and personalized customer service.

“The music industry is a very complex situation with a lot of monopolies and a lot of big gorillas,” Grant said. “...The only reason we survive is because of this canyon and the river and the reputation. So we’re known for good hospitality.”

She said she rented a Harley for Xavier Rudd when he played a show, and she hooked up Les Claypool with a fly fishing excursion. In turn, Mish headliners have played campfire sessions for VIP guests at Riverside.

RAFT IN, RAFT OUT

Rocky Mountain Adventures, a Fort Collins rafting company, also can entertain Riverside guests. Grant partnered with the company, which brings several levels of whitewater adventures to the resort.

“We offer Riverside guests a convenient, exciting, and intimate way to explore the Poudre River,” said RMA co-owner Kyle Johnson. “The property has great access to the river, trails and the Mishawaka. (It has) excellent accommodations and amenities, and the staff at Riverside are excellent people who love what they do.”

There is an additional perk to rafting through the Mish and Riverside.

“They’ll take people to concerts because the rule at the Mish is you don’t need a ticket if you raft in,” Grant said. “But you have to raft out. … People can raft in and park their rafts out there and come grab a beer, watch for 15 or 20 minutes, and then take off.”

Grant also has a partnership with fly fishing outfitter Liar Flies. One of the owners was in a band that Grant helped promote in her former job at a Fort Collins music non-profit. Now Liar Flies does classes and retreats at Riverside.

“I only fish with them because that’s the only time I catch fish,” Grant said, laughing.

For additional recreation options, the on-site van will shuttle guests to trailheads and other sites within a five-mile radius of the resort.

Other potential events for this year include a gourmet campfire cooking class and yoga retreats.

Riverside Colorado is on the site of a former mobile home community that had a negative reputation among some neighbors. The trailer park and the amphitheater were both accused of overcrowding and mismanagement, but Grant said the Mish is now “their crown jewel, their pride.”

She said neighbors enjoy seeing Riverside’s colorful tiny homes, and they patronize the general store in the lobby and the coffee shop in a converted Airstream. Grant said she is committed to carrying grocery staples including bread, eggs, milk and butter at reasonable prices, and offering discounts to canyon residents.

“It’s really one of my commitments to the community,” she said. ■

Photo by Steve Graham

Dani Grant, owner of Riverside and The Mish.

Loving Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful landscape addition and budding Colorado cash crop perfectly suited to the high-desert climate. As its popularity and commercial potential blossomed across the Western Slope, the Lavender Association of Colorado was formed. It launched the Colorado Lavender Festival in 2011, and the event celebrates its 15th anniversary June 26 to 28 in Palisade. Festival director Olivia Coe said this year’s “15 Years of Loving Lavender” edition will focus on the history of lavender in Colorado and beyond. It includes private farm tours, a large vendor fair, art classes and free educational lectures and workshops. ■

Photos courtesy of the Lavender Association of Colorado

“Most people are really glad that this is something they can do with the whole family. Whether it’s a young couple with a six-month-old or your 90-year-old grandmother, they can all come along.”

— Isaiah Farr, general manager of Colorado Railbike Adventures

By Cara Myers

Railbiking may be the next outdoor trend for Colorado tourists, locals, families and work groups hoping to shake things up. This eco-friendly, low-impact, recreational activity allows riders to explore scenery surrounding abandoned or low-traffic railroad tracks without needing to steer or balance. Because of the ease of use, adventure seekers of all ages and abilities are welcome to hop aboard.

“Most people are really glad that this is something they can do with the whole family,” said Isaiah Farr, general manager of Colorado Railbike Adventures. “Whether it’s a young couple with a six-month-old or your 90-year-old grandmother, they can all come along.”

This relatively new company in Erie utilizes the second oldest railroad tracks in the state – created in 1871 – so history is a big component of their tours. Farr said one of their main motivations is to truly appreciate and respect those that came before and gave Erie the identity it has today. That identity is alive and well and especially apparent when the tracks that riders glide along happen to cross a downtown street.

“(Riders) wave like you’re the paparazzi (and passersby) will laugh and wave back,” Farr said. “Our goal is really to unite and give Erie something to feel pride in, while bringing the history of Erie to life.”

Aside from traditional daytime, sunset and community rides, Colorado Railbike Adventures also offers specialty tours such as their Fireworks Ride, Rails and Ales, Haunted History, Illuminated Christmas and Daytime Christmas Rides. These additional offerings

Photo courtesy of Revolution Rail Co.

Photo courtesy of Colorado Rail Bike Adventures

keep Farr and his colleagues busy most of the year, with an off season for maintenance and planning from January to May. With just two years under their belt, they’ve already taken out close to 40,000 guests and plan to expand the experiences in the future.

Another railbike company with locations dotting the East Coast opened their first Colorado location in 2021. Revolution Rail Co. offers riders various tour options in South Fork, all of which promise stunning views of the San Luis Valley and Rio Grande River.

“It’s a unique way to explore the wild because you’re not in a car or hiking,” said Katie Harrison, South Fork station manager. “It introduces people to beautiful hidden parts of nature, (and also helps) preserve and protect scenic areas that we ride through because we’re leaving such a minimal footprint.”

South Fork riders can choose from the standard railbike experience, Rio Grande Run, or opt for an extra adrenaline rush with the Pedals to Paddles tour. In partnership with partner Rocky Mountain Ski and Raft, the latter combines a railbike portion through Coller State Wildlife Area with a rafting float through a serene section of the Rio Grande.

Additional partnerships with the Creede Musical Arts Collective and Creede Repertory Theatre have allowed Revolution Rail Co. to expand their offerings to include cultural experiences such as concerts and theater performances in their tours. While details are still being finalized for the theatrical events, the Tracks & Tunes music series is on the books for various Saturdays this summer.

“It’s a special experience, which I call a ‘music in the wild’ experience,” Harrison said. “Listening to live music while surrounded by the majestic, rugged landscape here in South Fork is truly magical.”

While both companies host different events and offerings in separate locations, their operational logistics are similar. Each ride begins with a safety briefing, and tours range from approximately four to six miles round-trip. Whether on a four-person or twoperson bike, each group has a tour guide available to point out wildlife, share historical tidbits and help pedal on the more challenging stretches.

Another commonality is the sheer number of heartwarming moments that guests experience on Colorado Railbike Adventures and Revolution Rail Co. rides. Both Harrison and Farr shared standout memories, including a couple that detoured their cross-country road-trip for a bucket list railbike ride, a rider with a heart condition who was eager to explore the outdoors despite her limitations and first-time riders who may be on the fence.

“What my mind keeps going back to is that we get a lot of families, which we love to have,” Farr said. “I think it’s so cool to be able to see a kid that’s a little nervous to get on the bike, go off down the tracks and come back an hour and a half later with total joy plastered all over their faces and asking ‘can we go again?’”

As railbiking continues to gain momentum across the state, it’s clear this isn’t just another outdoor activity — it’s an experience that brings people together in meaningful ways. By blending accessibility, history and a deep appreciation for surrounding landscapes, companies like Colorado Railbike Adventures and Revolution Rail Co. are redefining what it means to explore the outdoors. ■

Photo courtesy of Colorado Rail Bike Adventures

Photo courtesy of Revolution Rail Co.

From Orchard to Table

HAYKIN FAMILY CIDER IS ENRICHING CRAFT

CIDER IN COLORADO

By Cara Myers

When Talia and Daniel Haykin opened Haykin Family Cider on February 1, 2018, they weren’t chasing trends, they were pursuing a philosophy rooted in family, agriculture and craft. Their approach has carved out a unique space in Colorado’s beverage scene, resembling a boutique winery more than a traditional cidery.

The idea began simply.

“We had some friends who went paleo and stopped drinking beer, so they started drinking cider,” Talia recalls. “We are really big sparkling wine fans and one day (Daniel) said I think I can make this.”

Their first attempt – a one-gallon batch made with pasteurized apple juice – was, in Talia’s words, “really bad.” But it sparked something. Daniel dove into research, experimenting relentlessly. About 18 months in, a turning point came.

Photos courtesy of Haykin Family Cider

“I realized that the output is only going to be as good as the input,” Daniel said.

“So we started buying apples from farmers at markets and grinding and pressing on our own,” added Talia. “That’s when it took a huge leap in quality.”

They began treating cider more like winemaking than homebrewing, and what started as a hobby quickly became something more serious. Encouraged by friends and family, they entered competitions, and won. Even before opening their doors, their ciders were gaining recognition.

That “stick to what we know” mindset continues to define their work. Rather than following trends or adding popular fruits, they focus on what they personally like drinking.

“What we make is what we enjoy,” Talia said. “As long as we continue to do that, I think people will get behind it.”

and a Betta fish named Lox – have assumed roles as chief barketing officer and head of liquid assets, respectively.

“It’s definitely a team sport,” Daniel said with a chuckle.

Extended family plays a role, too. “There’s a fair chance someone you talk to when you come in is related to us somehow,” Talia added.

That hands-on, multi-generational approach extends to production. There’s no typical day, especially during peak season. Fall brings harvest and a surge of activity leading into the holidays. Fermentation can take four to six months, followed by extensive bottling. And as a branch-to-bottle operation, they handle nearly every step themselves.

Their portfolio reflects a wine-inspired approach, spanning kegs, Champagne-method sparkling ciders and dessert styles.

“Wherever someone is in their wine journey, we want to meet them there,” Daniel said.

The Haykins work with small, often family-owned orchards growing rare apple varieties not found in most grocery stores. While they prioritize Colorado fruit, they also source from Washington, Oregon, Michigan and even Normandy, France.

“We’re looking for the best farmers on Earth with the best apples,” Daniel said. “Farmer, growing region and variety all matter. It’s very similar to wine grapes.”

Their market strategy reflects that philosophy. While many cideries lean into casual taprooms, Haykin focuses on fine dining, targeting restaurants interested in pairings and prix fixe menus.

“Our intention was not necessarily to be big, but to be on the top shelf of ciders that can compete with the best wine on earth,” Daniel said.

Despite that reach, their ingredient list remains simple: apples and yeast.

“Different apples can take on the flavor profile of different fruits,” Daniel said. “Our goal is to show that full range. I want to hit every note: bright, high acid, tannic, dark.”

Looking ahead, the Haykins are focused on deepening what they’ve built: expanding club offerings, hosting more events and continuing to release thoughtfully aged ciders — including future vintages from their earliest batches. Yet through it all, their mission remains unchanged: to elevate cider, honor the craft and keep it in the family for generations to come. ■ philosophy.

While Colorado’s cider scene has contracted – impacted by hard seltzers and COVID-19 – Haykin has continued to grow. Milestones include medals at the Great American Beer Festival, placement on the menu at The French Laundry in Yountville, California, and a cider club that tripled in size during the pandemic.

Some of the most meaningful moments, though, are personal.

“I stood right here and bottled pregnant and with my babies wrapped in carriers,” Talia recalled. “Now they’ll come with me and push pallets around. They want to help label bottles and count.”

At the heart of it all is family. The couple balances running the business with raising their three children, who are already involved. Their oldest began introducing himself as “David Haykin of Haykin Family Ciders” in preschool. Their second child, Eva, was born just six days after the cidery opened, and their youngest, Avi, is known as the “happiest little guy around.” Even the family pets – a Schnoodle named Soba

guy Schnoodle

EVENTS

DON’T MISS OUT ON THESE EXCITING HAPPENINGS

HAPPENING NOW

THROUGH JUNE 7

“AVENUE Q” - The comedy musical known as the “R-rated Sesame Street” returns Town Hall Arts Center, Littleton

THROUGH JUNE 21

“HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD”- A new story from the wizarding world Buell Theatre, Denver

THROUGH JULY 26

“THE IMPROVISED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY”

- Watch a theater company craft a new, fully improvised Shakespearean masterpiece live Garner Galleria Theatre, Denver

THROUGH AUGUST 2

“TWELFTH NIGHT” - William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy performed as part of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre, Boulder

JUNE

JUNE 4

TASTE OF THE WEST - A showcase of food and drink samples from the Denver metro area Foothills Fieldhouse, Denver

JUNE 4-6

MOUNTAINS OF MUSIC - Mountain Grass Unit, Wilderado and the Allman Betts Family Revival in the Rockies Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

JUNE 5

WELLSHIRE GOLF COURSE 100TH ANNIVERSARY TOURNAMENT - Four-person team scramble and community celebration Wellshire Golf Course, Denver

JUNE 5-7

PALISADE BLUEGRASS & ROOTS FESTIVAL

- Headliners include Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country, Andy Frasco & The UN, and Shiny Ribs Riverbend Park, Palisade

JUNE 5-28

VIOLET - Phamaly Theatre Company presents classic Tony-nominated musical Aurora Fox Arts Center

JUNE 5-AUGUST 29

“SHREK, THE MUSICAL” - Fairytale adventure based on the Oscar-winning movie Rocky Mountain Repertory, Grand Lake

JUNE 6

MANITOU SPRINGS COLORADO WINE FESTIVAL - Colorado wineries pour samples alongside vendors, live music and food trucks Memorial Park, Manitou Springs

JUNE 20

EDGEWATER MUSIC FESTIVAL - Wild Love Tigress, Velvet Daydream and the Duke Street Kings headline the day-long festival and Habitat for Humanity fundraiser at Citizens’ Park in Edgewater. bluesnbbq.com

JUNE 6

LAFAYETTE BREW FEST - Free festival with taster tickets available for purchase 990 S. Public Road, Lafayette

JUNE 6-26

SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL - Classical festival with concerts, lessons and master classes Colorado College, Colorado Springs

JUNE 6-JULY 25

GRANBY RODEO - One of the nation’s longestrunning rodeo series returns on Saturdays Flying Heels Arena, Granby

JUNE 11-14

PARKER DAYS FESTIVAL - Free event with food, drinks, vendors, family activities and four stages of live music Downtown Parker

JUNE 12-13

LANDER BREWFEST - Samples from regional breweries and distilleries, with live music Lander City Park, Lander, Wyoming

JUNE 12-13

VAIL CRAFT BEER CLASSIC - 10th annual showcase of beers and other libations Vail Village

JUNE 12-13

ASPEN FRINGE FESTIVAL - Celebration of a wide variety of leading-edge arts Various locations, Aspen

JUNE 12-28

“MY FAIR LADY” - “Pygmalion” adaptation staged by Performance Now Theatre Company Lakewood Cultural Center

JUNE 13

LAKE DILLON BEER FEST - 30 breweries pouring samples amid classic mountain views Dillon Amphitheater

JUNE 13

AURORA FEST - Family-friendly festival celebrating international cultures Aurora Municipal Center

JUNE 13

FEAST OF SAINT ARNOLD - Beer festival honoring the patron saint of beer Chapel of our Saviour Episcopal Church, Colorado Springs

JUNE 13-14

HIGHLANDS ART FESTIVAL - 14th annual festival with a wide range of media Highlands Masonic Lodge, Denver

JUNE 13-AUGUST 2

COLORADO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL – 16th Century medieval amusement park re-creation Larkspur

JUNE 13-AUGUST 2

“JULIUS CAESAR” - William Shakespeare’s historic drama performed as part of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival Roe Green Theatre, Boulder

Photo courtesy of Edgewater Music Festival

EVENTS

JUNE 14

COLORADO EPILEPSY WALK - Annual fundraising walk for the Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado and Wyoming City Park, Denver

JUNE 16-SEPTEMBER 15

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS - Free concert series, including The Main Squeeze, Jammy Buffet, Jamestown Revival and the Wailers Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

JUNE 17

HIGH LONESOME - Part of the Sounds Exciting! summer outdoor concert series Belmar Park, Lakewood

JUNE 18-20

WHITTLE THE WOOD RENDEZVOUS - Live chainsaw carving and art show, music, artisans, booze and food Moffat County Fairgrounds, Craig

JUNE 18-21

FIBARK WHITEWATER FESTIVAL - America’s longest-running whitewater festival, with sporting events and live music Salida

JUNE 19

O.A.R - Beloved Maryland band celebrates three decades of energetic live shows as part of the Amp Summer Concerts series Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

JUNE 19-21

JUNETEENTH MUSIC FESTIVAL - Annual celebration honoring the day when the last U.S. slaves learned of their freedom 27th and Welton Streets, Denver

JUNE 19-21

STRAWBERRY DAYS - The 129th annual celebration of tradition, arts, and community Hot Springs Resort, Glenwood Springs

JUNE 19-21

EVERGREEN RODEO - Pro rodeo events with a kickoff party and parade Rodeo Grounds, Evergreen

JUNE 19-21

FOOD & WINE CLASSIC - Iconic festival with tastings, seminars and celebrity chefs Various locations, Aspen

JUNE 19-AUGUST 2

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET - Musical about a night that changed rock & roll history Theatre SilCo, Silverthorne

JUNE 19 - AUGUST 28

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS - Classic musical comedy nominated for 11 Tonys Rocky Mountain Repertory, Grand Lake

JUNE 19–AUGUST 29

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS PRO RODEO SERIESWeekend rodeo competitions all summer Howelsen Hill Rodeo Grounds, Steamboat Springs

JUNE 20

EDGEWATER MUSIC FESTIVAL - Long-running fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity Citizens’ Park, Edgewater

JUNE 21

PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILL CLIMBInvitational automobile race to the summit of Pikes Peak, a.k.a. the Race to the Clouds Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs

JUNE 23-28

DURANGO PLAYFEST - Collaborative festival where playwrights develop new work with professional actors and directors Various locations, Durango

JUNE 24

MACON MUSIC REVUE - Part of the Sounds Exciting! summer outdoor concert series Belmar Park, Lakewood

JUNE 25-AUGUST 6

BRAVO! VAIL - Classical music festival at various venues around the Vail Valley Various locations, Vail

JUNE 25 - AUGUST 20

MINTURN SUMMER CONCERT SERIESThursday night shows, including 101st Army Band, Bonfire Dub and Heavy Diamond Ring Little Beach Park, Minturn

JUNE 26

TGIFAIRPLAY FREE CONCERT - A Brother’s Fountain performs in downtown Fairplay 5th Street, Fairplay

JUNE 26-27

DEER TRAIL RODEO - One of the world’s first rodeo events returns Deer Trail

JUNE 26-28

TICO TIME COUNTRY FESTIVAL - Live music from national country artists, as well as camping and river activities Tico Time River Resort, Aztec, N.M.

JUNE 26-28

BLUES FROM THE TOP FESTIVAL - Three-day blues showcase with national touring artists Winter Park Resort, Winter Park

JUNE 26-28

COLORADO LAVENDER FESTIVAL - Arts, live music, paired dinners, farm tours and other ways of celebrating a growing Colorado industry

Riverbend Park & other locations, Palisade

JUNE 27

SALIDA WINE FESTIVAL - Wine tastings from more than 20 Colorado wineries, plus live music, food and gift vendors Riverside Park, Salida

JUNE 27

FUN & FIREWORKS FESTIVAL - PreIndependence Day celebration Waneka Lake Park, Lafayette

EVENTS

JUNE 27

STILLS IN THE HILLS - Main Street turns into a giant speakeasy with some of the best Colorado distilleries

Main Street, Central City

JUNE 27

CASTLE ROCK SIP & SAVOR - Wine and bourbon tasting with food, artisan vendors and live music

Miller Amphitheatre, Castle Rock

JUNE 27-28

KEYSTONE BACON AND BOURBON FESTIVAL

–Bacon-inspired dishes, bourbon tastings and live music River Run Village, Keystone

JUNE 27-28

EVERGREEN MOUNTAIN ART CELEBRATION

- Curated festival focused on mountain living, Western, Southwestern and rustic themes Evergreen North shops, Evergreen

JUNE 27-28

DENVER CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVALJapanese cultural celebration Sakura Square, Denver

JUNE 27-AUGUST 1

“SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE” - Adaptation of Oscar-winning film staged as part of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre, Boulder

JUNE 27-AUGUST 2

CENTRAL CITY OPERA - World-famous opera company stages “The Marriage of Figaro,” “The Ballad of Baby Doe” and “Master Class” Central City Opera House

JUNE 28-JULY 5

MUSICFEST - Telluride Chamber Music event with concerts and community events Mai House, Telluride

JUNE 29-JULY 5

TELLURIDE PLEIN AIR - 20 to 25 nationally renowned plein air artists make live outdoor art, then display and sell their work Downtown Telluride

JULY

JULY 3

KEYSTONE STARS & GUITARS CELEBRATION

- Free event with interactive entertainment from Salida Circus, live music and more River Run Village, Keystone

JULY 3

MYLES SMITH - DIY singer-songwriter brings his mix of folk, pop and Americana as part of the Amp Summer Concerts series Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

JULY 3-4

ART IN THE PARK - Handmade arts, crafts, jewelry, apparel, paintings, ceramics, etc. La Veta

FAIRPLAY

COLORADO

EVENTS

JULY 3-5

CHERRY CREEK ARTS FESTIVAL - A juried art festival showcasing hundreds of artists, live music and food vendors

Cherry Creek North, Denver

JULY 3-AUGUST 27

“URINETOWN, THE MUSICAL” - Tony-winning satirical musical that became a modern classic Rocky Mountain Repertory, Grand Lake

JULY 4-5

BROADMOOR TRADITIONS FINE ART

FESTIVAL - More than 100 local and national artists will display and sell their work Colorado Springs School, Broadmoor Avenue

JULY 4-AUGUST 15

HIGH COUNTRY STAMPEDE - Popular rodeo series on Saturdays, with themed nights Fraser

JULY 6-11

ROOFTOP RODEO - Pro rodeo, plus a parade and themed event nights Estes Park

JULY 8

WALDEN - Part of the Sounds Exciting! outdoor concert series Belmar Park, Lakewood

JULY 9

TASTE OF ARVADA - Restaurants, breweries, distilleries and coffee shops offer samples and compete for prizes Apex Center, Arvada

JULY 9-11

CATTLEMEN’S DAYS - Longstanding rodeo, with a horse show, parade and carnival Gunnison

Saturday and Sunday

August 22 & 23, 2026 10 am to 5pm Buchanan Rec Center Fields

32003 Ellingwood Trail Evergreen CO 80439 www.evergreenfineartsfestival.com

JULY 9-AUGUST 2

MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS - Multi-week classical concert series with family events Durango

JULY 10-12

COLORADO BLACK ARTS FESTIVAL - 40th annual art showcase with more than 80 local artists, creatives and Black-owned businesses City Park, Denver

JULY 10-18

PARK COUNTY FAIR - Vendors, carnival games, animals and rodeo County Fairgrounds, Fairplay

JULY 10-19

CRESTED BUTTE WILDFLOWER FESTIVALMore than 150 workshops and events in the Wildflower Capital of Colorado The Depot, Crested Butte

JULY 11-AUGUST 1

“FRIENDS / ROMANS / COUNTRYMEN” - David Davalos’ comic take on “Julius Caesar,” performed as part of the Colorado Shakespeare Festival Roe Green Theatre, Boulder

BIG TROUT BREWING

is a family-run brewpub in downtown Winter Park, serving award-winning craft beer, house-made meals and pizzas, and hand-selected wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks. Join us for Monday and Thursday Happy Hours, live music, and signature community events like our Voices of the Valley fundraisers — visit our website for the most current lineup of gatherings that bring mountain-town spirit to life. bigtroutbrewing.com

JULY 11

COLORADO BREWERS RENDEZVOUS - 65 Colorado breweries pour samples against a backdrop of the Collegiate Peaks Riverside Park, Salida

JULY 12

COLORADO WINE WALK - Wine tasting event with food, artisan vendors and live entertainment Dairy Block, Denver

JULY 14-18

PIKES PEAK OR BUST RODEO - Pro rodeo events, plus kids’ and fan zone activities Penrose Event Center, Colorado Springs

JULY 15

HAZEL MILLER & THE COLLECTIVE - Part of the Sounds Exciting! outdoor concert series Belmar Park, Lakewood

JULY 16-18

MANASSA PIONEER DAYS - Homecoming event with 5K run, parade and carnival Manassa

JULY 17-18

ROYAL GORGE WHITEWATER FESTIVALWhitewater competitions and land-based recreation on and around the Arkansas River Centennial Park, Cañon City

JULY 17-19

ROCKY MOUNTAIN STATE GAMES - Colorado’s largest annual multi-sport festival, welcoming athletes of all ages and abilities Colorado Springs

JULY 17-19

PEARL STREET ARTS FEST - Artists, live music, and street performances line Pearl Street Mall Pearl Street, Boulder

JULY 18-19

KEYSTONE WINE & JAZZ FESTIVAL - Wine tastings, along with food, merchandise and Colorado jazz musicians River Run Village, Keystone

JULY 18-19

DURANGO FIESTA DAYS - 91-year-old rodeo with pie auction, vendors and other activities La Plata County Fairgrounds, Durango

JULY 22

CHATHAM RABBITS - Part of the Sounds Exciting! outdoor concert series Belmar Park, Lakewood

JULY 24

TGIFAIRPLAY FREE CONCERT - With Hazel Miller and the Collective 5th Street, Fairplay

JULY 24-25

REVEL IN THE PARK - Weekend celebration with live music and outdoor experiences Rendezvous Event Center, Winter Park

JULY 24-26

RIVER RUN ART FESTIVAL - A juried art festival with more than 80 local and national artists River Run Village, Keystone

JULY 24-26

ROCKYGRASS FESTIVAL - Headliners include I’m With Her, Sam Bush and Rhiannon Giddens Planet Bluegrass, Lyons

JULY 24-26

EVERGREEN JAZZ FESTIVAL - 21st annual festival spread across five intimate venues Various locations, Evergreen

JULY 24-26

FAIRPLAY BURRO DAYS - Historic event with burro races, parades, and Old West contests Downtown Fairplay

JULY 24-AUGUST 2

DOUGLAS COUNTY FAIR & RODEO - Trace Adkins concert, pro rodeo and much more Douglas County Fairgrounds, Castle Rock

JULY 25-26

AVON ARTS CELEBRATION - 120 artists will show paintings, jewelry, ceramics and more Nottingham Park, Avon

JULY 25-26

CHEESMAN PARK ART FEST - Free festival showcasing more than 150 national artists Cheesman Park, Denver

JULY 27

THE DRIVE GOLF TOURNAMENT - Fundraiser for the Epilepsy Foundation Blackstone Country Club, Aurora

JULY 29

PAUL MCDONALD & THE MOURNING DOVESPart of the Sounds Exciting! concert series Belmar Park, Lakewood

JULY 30-AUGUST 1

TELLURIDE RESERVE - Upscale wine and food festival with tastings, seminars and dinners Telluride

JULY 31-AUGUST 2

CRESTED BUTTE ARTS FESTIVAL - Competitive, juried fine art show Elk Avenue, Crested Butte

JULY 31-AUGUST 10

VAIL DANCE FESTIVAL - The magic of dance, featuring 13 performances Various locations, Vail

AUGUST 1 AND 2

KEYSTONE BLUEGRASS AND BEER FESTIVAL - The Brothers Comatose, Silas Herman & the Tone Unit, Rebecca Frazier and 10 more string bands will perform at one of the state’s longest running beer festivals. keystonefestivals.com.

AUGUST

AUGUST 1

DACONO MUSIC AND SPIRITS FESTIVALFree live music with national artists, beer garden and spirit tasting Centennial Park, Dacono

AUGUST 1-2

BLUEGRASS & BEER FESTIVAL - National bluegrass artists on three stages, local craft beer and food River Run Village, Keystone

AUGUST 1-6

MIDDLE PARK FAIR AND RODEO - Western events and CPRA rodeo Kremmling Fairgrounds

AUGUST 1-9

DELTA COUNTY FAIR AND RODEO - Rodeo events, 4-H exhibits and heritage activities Hotchkiss

AUGUST 5-9

BOULDER COUNTY FAIR - rides, rodeo events, agricultural exhibits and live entertainment Boulder County Fairgrounds, Longmont

AUGUST 5-9

LA PLATA COUNTY FAIR - Concerts, family dances, 4-H exhibits, shows and competitions La Plata County Fairgrounds, Durango

AUGUST 6-8

BRECKENRIDGE AUGUST ART FESTIVALJuried art show with artists in 13 categories, plus live music and food trucks 505 South Park Ave., Breckenridge

AUGUST 6-23

PHAMALY THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS “504: THE MUSICAL” - A world premiere musical about a 1977 disability rights sit-in Kilstrom Theatre, Denver

AUGUST 7-9

ROCKY MOUNTAIN UKE FEST - Ukulele workshops, concerts, jams and marketplace Durango

AUGUST 7-9

LEADVILLE BOOM DAYS - Mountain festival and historic celebration Downtown Leadville

AUGUST 7-8

TELLURIDE JAZZ FESTIVAL - Lettuce and Disco Biscuits headline Town Park, Telluride

AUGUST 7-9

ROCKY MOUNTAIN FOLKS FESTIVAL - With Jesse Welles, Ani DiFranco and Junior Brown Planet Bluegrass, Lyons

AUGUST 8

BROADMOOR CYCLE TO THE SUMMIT - Road cycling challenge on Pikes Peak Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade

Photo by Jeffrey Fierberg / Courtesy of Blanchard Family Wines

EVENTS

AUGUST 8

LAFAYETTE PEACH FESTIVAL - Arts, crafts and 30,000 pounds of Palisade peaches Public Road, Lafayette

AUGUST 8-9

EAGLE RIVER JAMBOREE - Robert Randolph and Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country headline Eagle County Fairgrounds, Eagle

AUGUST 8-9

LIVING HISTORY DAYS - Volunteers and history buffs dress up and reenact historic events and characters South Park City Museum, Fairplay

AUGUST 8-9

MOUNTAIN ARTS FESTIVAL - 41st juried art exhibit with more than 100 artists Memorial Park, Woodland Park

AUGUST 11 - SEPTEMBER 13

TENDERLY: THE ROSEMARY CLOONEY

MUSICAL - Celebration of a singer who defined a generation Theatre SilCo, Silverthorne

AUGUST 12-16

TELLURIDE MUSHROOM FESTIVALMycologists, artists, foragers and enthusiasts exploring all things fungi Downtown Telluride

AUGUST 13

TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUENew Orleans’ top musical ambassador Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

AUGUST 14-15

GREENSKY BLUEGRASS - Hard-touring band returns as part of the Amp Summer Concerts Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

AUGUST 15

STEINLEY CUP BREWFEST - Competitionstyle beer festival with tastings and games Veterans Island Park, Saratoga, Wyoming

AUGUST 15

CRAFTS, COCKTAILS, & CORKS - Festival with cocktails, wine tastings and music Rendezvous Event Center, Winter Park

AUGUST 16

MOUNTAIN MUSIC FEST - Kevin and Michael Bacon headline student-run festival Buchanan Park, Evergreen

AUGUST 16

ALISON KRAUSS & UNION STATION - Jerry Douglas joins acclaimed roots band Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

AUGUST 18

THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD SHOW - The Happiest Days of Our Lives greatest hits tour Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

AUGUST 20-23

BRECKENRIDGE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF ARTS - Multidisciplinary visual and performing arts festival Various venues, Breckenridge

MINTURN FIRST FRIDAYS

Monthly community celebrations with live music, activities, and small-town charm

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES – THURSDAY NIGHTS, JUNE 25-AUGUST 20

Free live music, mountain views, and laidback summer nights at Little Beach Park & Amphitheater, overlooking the river

MINTURN MARKET – SATURDAYS 9AM-2PM, JUNE 20-SEPTEMBER 12

Local food, handmade goods, and a bustling family-friendly vibe in historic downtown Minturn

EVENTS

AUGUST 21

JOE RUSSO’S ALMOST DEAD - Grateful Dead cover band performs Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

AUGUST 21-22

PALISADE PEACH FESTIVAL - Peach-themed food, tastings, live music and contests Riverbend Park, Palisade

AUGUST 21-23

OVERLAND EXPO - Overlanding trade show with classes, camping and community The Ranch, Loveland

AUGUST 22

NEDERLAND JAZZ & WINE FESTIVALColorado’s best wineries pour samples, plus live music, crafts and gourmet food Chipeta Park, Nederland

AUGUST 22

OLATHE SWEET CORN FESTIVAL - Live music, 5K and all things corn Montrose Rotary Amphitheater

AUGUST 22

DENVER SUMMER WHISKEY TASTING FESTIVAL - Taste whiskies and learn about libations from distillers Montrose Rotary Amphitheater

AUGUST 22-23

EVERGREEN FINE ARTS FESTIVAL - Juried artists and live demonstrations, with live music, food and kids’ activities Buchanan Park, Evergreen

AUGUST 23

GOV’T MULE - Grammy-winning guitar legend Warren Haynes leads his acclaimed band Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

AUGUST 25

RAY LAMONTAGNE - Singer-songwriter celebrates 20th anniversary of “Trouble” as part of the Amp Summer Concerts series Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

AUGUST 28

TGIFAIRPLAY FREE CONCERT - With Chris Daniels & the Kings and Freddi Gowdy 5th Street, Fairplay

AUGUST 28-29

SAN JUAN BREWFEST - Live music and tastings from up to 35 breweries Buckley Park, Durango

AUGUST 28-SEPTEMBER 7

COLORADO STATE FAIR - Live music, competitions, carnival rides and rodeo events State Fairgrounds, Pueblo

AUGUST 29-30

COLORADO DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

- Dragon boat races, Asian cultural performances and food vendors Sloan’s Lake Park, Denver

AUGUST 30

AFFORDABLE ARTS FESTIVAL - Art show focused on accessible pricing with a wide range of local artists and crafts Arapahoe Community College, Littleton

SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER 5

OKTOBERFEST - Craft beer, chicken dances and Kinderfest activities River Run Village, Keystone

SEPTEMBER 5-6

FALL FEST - Colorado Art Weekend brings 100 artists in a variety of media 10 Buffalo St., Dillon

SEPTEMBER 10

COLE SWINDELL - Country superstar with multiple No. 1 singles performs Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

SEPTEMBER 11-12

OKTOBERWEST - Craft beer, music and games amid mountain views Steamboat Square, Steamboat Springs

SEPTEMBER 11-12

STRING CHEESE INCIDENT -Legendary jam band performs Gerald Ford Amphitheatre, Vail

SEPTEMBER 11-13

SCOTSFEST - Scottish festival with highland games, bagpipes and cultural showcases Estes Park Fairgrounds

SEPTEMBER 12

COLORADO WINE WALK - Wine tasting event with food, vendors and live entertainment Dairy Block, Denver

SEPTEMBER 12

COLORADO EPILEPSY WALK - Annual fundraising walk for the Epilepsy Foundation Olympic Center, Colorado Springs

SEPTEMBER 12-13

PARK HILL FALL ARTS FESTIVAL - Art, live performances and interactive activities near the Denver Zoo

Park Hill Masonic Lodge, Denver

SEPTEMBER 17

LET FREEDOM SWING GOLF TOURNAMENT - Fundraising event for Colorado Veterans Project and veterans’ organizations

The Ridge at Castle Pines North, Castle Pines

SEPTEMBER 18-20

TELLURIDE BLUES AND BREWS FESTIVALHeadliners include Jon Batiste, Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’ and the Marcus King Band Town Park, Telluride

SEPTEMBER 19

COLORADO EPILEPSY WALK - Annual fundraising walk for the Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado and Wyoming Fossil Creek Park, Fort Collins

SEPTEMBER 20

DENVER WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S - Fundraising event for the Alzheimer’s Association

Denver City Park

SEPTEMBER 26-27

COLORADO HIGHLAND GAMES - Celtic sports, dancing, music, cars and food

Denver Polo Club, Sedalia

Lake City

THE LITTLE-KNOWN PLAYGROUND WITH EXCELLENT OUTDOOR OFFERINGS

By Eric Peterson

In south-central Colorado, Lake City checks all of the boxes for a summer road trip. The out-of-the-way town of Victorian homes and woodsy cabins is surrounded by some of the leasttrafficked wilderness in the state, a geological jumble of tundra, water and rock.

Despite its roots in silver mining, Lake City is perhaps best known as the site of the infamous cannibalistic crimes of Alferd Packer in 1874. Packer escaped but was subsequently arrested and tried in Lake City in 1883, and ultimately paroled in 1901.

That grisly episode aside, the area is about as quiet and peaceful as any place in Colorado, with enough trails and scenic drives to easily fill a week.

DRIVING

Silver Thread Scenic Byway: This paved 117-mile stretch of Colorado Highway 149 from Blue Mesa Reservoir to South Fork passes through Lake City and features several overlooks and waterfalls, and the sheer basalt cliffs known as The Gate. silverthreadbyway.com

Alpine Loop: This 64-mile loop from the heart of Lake City passes Lake San Cristobal while traveling to Silverton and Ouray and back to Lake City. It is one of the most renowned and rugged 4x4 routes in the state, and dotted with ghost towns and shuttered mines. The beginning of the road is passable for two-wheel-drive vehicles, but the majority of the route requires four-wheel-drive and high clearance. alpineloop.info.

HIKING

Big Blue Trail: With a trailhead about 20 miles northwest of Lake City, this is a perfect hike for those looking for sublime scenery without extreme terrain. The 10.9-mile trail parallels Big Blue Creek through stands of aspen and pine on the way to the Uncompahgre Wilderness Area.

Crystal Lake Trail: From a trailhead on the north side of town, this hike ascends 3,000 feet and 4 miles through aspen groves and rocky terrain before arriving on the shores of idyllic Crystal Lake.

Handies Peak: One of the easier fourteeners to summit, the shortest trail up Handies Peak starts from the Alpine Loop. It’s still no picnic, a 5-mile round trip with a 2,500-foot elevation gain, but it’s shorter and less strenuous than the alternate route from Grizzly Gulch.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Lake Fork of the Gunnison River: Lake City is located alongside the river, and it features a 0.6-mile trail and plenty of fishing spots and places to stop and relax within earshot of the water.

Lake San Cristobal: The second-largest natural lake in Colorado offers fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife viewing. Dan’s Fly Shop (dansflyshop.com) offers boat rentals, guided fishing and gear.

Slumgullion Pass: The site of Alfred Packer’s crimes two miles south of Lake City is named for the earthflow known as the Slumgullion Slide. There is an overlook of the slide as well as a memorial to Packer’s victims on the roadside.

Photo courtesy of Lake City-Hinsdale County

By Michael Underwood Photography

EATING & DRINKING

Packer Saloon and Cannibal Grill: This watering hole and eatery features a rough-and-tumble bar and bustling patio. The menu includes burgers, pizza, and assorted pub grub. packersaloonandcannibalgrill.net.

San Juan Soda Co.: Housed in a historic former soda fountain, this mainstay now scoops ice cream and pours coffee, and stocks an assortment of unique gifts and housewares, much of it from local artisans. sanjuansoda.com.

For more information, contact the Lake City Chamber of Commerce at 970-944-2527, or visit lakecity.com. ■

Photo courtesy of Lake City-Hinsdale County

Photo by Eric Peterson

SUMMERTIME DINING

HOTSPOTS ACROSS

COLORADO

Summer in Colorado is busy. With important meetings at trailheads and power lunches after rock climbing, on-the-go folks need nourishment! This is the season of lighter plates and flexible dining.

That sense of movement is perhaps most apparent along the Front Range, where dining often fits into the margins of a busy day. Across from Swallow Hill Music, Colore Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria has long functioned as a neighborhood constant, the kind of place that quietly adapts to changing tastes. The lemon ricotta ravioli arrives with a restrained citrus butter sauce that lifts rather than coats, offering just enough richness without tipping into excess.

Not far away in Lone Tree, Via Baci Italian Bistro occupies a similar space that is comfortable and familiar. Its approach is perhaps most evident in its seafood. A simply prepared grilled branzino, served with vegetables and a bright hit of lemon, keeps the focus on clarity rather than embellishment.

Closer to the University of Denver, The Pioneer reflects a different kind of rhythm, shaped by students, locals and a steady flow of foot traffic. Grain bowls anchor the menu, and the grilled chicken version, layered with farro and seasonal vegetables, lands somewhere between convenience and intention—filling enough to matter, but not overly heavy.

That same sensibility carries across the metro area at Hapa Sushi Grill, where multiple locations cater to diners looking for something immediate and relatively light. Sushi, of course, naturally lends itself to summer, and Hapa’s combinations stay close to that strength.

Making beer that makes you smile...

- Fresh Craft Beer

- Ping Pong Parlor

- Food Trucks

- Private Event Space

- Two Outdoor Patios

- Weekly Events

West in Lakewood, 240 Union offers a quieter, more established presence. Since 1988, it has evolved without much reinvention, maintaining a menu that favors consistency. In summer, that approach shows up in dishes like the popular seared ahi tuna salad.

- Dog & Famiy Friendly!

Visit our website to nd out what’s up at Wonderland this week!

dining, one shaped by the balance of herbs, acidity and heat that defines much of Thai cuisine. The papaya salad stands out not for complexity, but because it’s crisp, tangy and just spicy enough to sharpen the palate.

Beyond the Front Range, the connection between food and movement becomes more pronounced. In the Yampa Valley, The Local, tucked inside the Yampa Valley Brewing Company Barrel Room, operates with an easy informality. Walk-up service and a steady stream of foot traffic reflect a clientele that hikes, cycles and rafts.

A similar dynamic plays out in Del Norte, where Three Barrel Brewing Co. serves as a destination in the San Luis Valley. The town itself is at a crossroads, and the menu reflects that in its flexibility. A chicken salad, built on greens and a bright vinaigrette, provides a lighter meal.

In La Junta, The Copper Kitchen introduces a slightly more deliberate pace, even as it serves a region defined by wide-open landscapes and seasonal events like Tarantula Fest each September. A vegetable flatbread, crisp and layered with fresh ingredients, feels in line with the broader shift toward lighter summer dining.

Higher into the mountains, in Crested Butte, The Secret Stash continues to draw a crowd, even after leaving behind the original location that helped shape its identity. A straightforward Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil offers a fresh alternative, particularly after a day spent at altitude.

In Broomfield, the locally owned and operated Wonderland Brewing Co. offers local bands, pickleball, mini-golf, pinball and arcade games to build an appetite. The full kitchen includes burgers, wings, tacos and sandwiches. With plenty of patio space and an outdoor stage, the kid and dog friendly location is a popular destination for the entire family.

In Boulder, where outdoor activity often dictates the day’s structure, The Corner fits into the gaps. The avocado toast, topped with poached eggs and tomatoes, is a great start.

Further south, Klom Klorm Thai Taste Story offers a different lens on summer

In Vail, that interplay between tradition and seasonality becomes more pronounced. Lancelot Restaurant, which dates back to the era of the first Woodstock Festival, carries with it a sense of continuity. While it’s long been associated with heavier dishes, lighter preparations like trout almondine reveal a more restrained side.

Engineering a Colorado Adventure

THE STORIES BEHIND INNOVATIVE PROJECTS THAT IMPROVE RECREATION ACCESS

By Johnny Burkin

Colorado’s natural wonders tend to get a lot of attention and rightfully so. But what about its feats of human ingenuity? After all, the state’s diverse and often unforgiving landscape can present many challenges to our modern way of life. Sometimes, that can make building roads, bridges, tunnels, energy infrastructure and dams a task that requires innovative solutions and, yes, a little out-of-the-box thinking. So here’s an ode to some of the Centennial State’s engineering marvels, structures that not only help maintain and improve everyday life, but also open up possibilities for fun and adventure.

THE GORGEOUS GORGE

It’s one of the most beautiful places to experience in all of Colorado. Coincidentally, it is also home to some impressive man-made wonders. For starters, there’s the Royal Gorge Bridge. Built in 1929, it is recognized as the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. and ranks among the highest in the world. Standing 956 feet above the flowing waters of the Arkansas River, the bridge connects both sides of the Royal Gorge and was designed to provide visitors with stunning views of the landscape.

A GATEWAY TO THE ROCKIES AND BEYOND

Sometimes the only way is through. In the case of the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel (EJMT), that literally meant going through a mountain, which happens to be part of the Continental Divide. Fully completed in 1979, the nearly 1.7-mile stretch, just 60 miles west of Denver on I-70, has helped facilitate travel between the eastern and western parts of Colorado (and the U.S.), making it easier to access ski areas and numerous other outdoor attractions along the Rocky Mountains.

LARGEST MAN-MADE RESERVOIR

Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest natural lake. To be sure, the largest overall body of water is the human-created Blue Mesa Reservoir with a maximum capacity of 940,700 acre feet. For comparison, an Olympic-sized swimming pool holds about 2 acre feet of water; Grand Lake holds about 68,000 acre feet. That means, in a head to head, the capacity of Blue Mesa Reservoir is nearly 14 times larger than that of Grand Lake.

RAILS THAT PIERCE THE DIVIDE

There may be a bit of a theme developing here, but Colorado’s mountain ranges have truly presented distinct obstacles that have pushed the bounds of human innovation. The Moffat Tunnel is a great example. Opened in 1928, the 6.2-mile passageway cuts through the Continental Divide, specifically James Peak, and was built to establish a direct railway between Denver, the Rockies and the West Coast.

A CITY IN A MOUNTAIN

And the last one is top secret. Unlike the great views and hiking opportunities found at nearby Cheyenne Mountain State Park, this place is not open to the public year round. Even feeding the giraffes at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo won’t net much intel on this beast. That’s because to get a peek at this marvel one would have to go deep. How deep exactly? Well, 2,000 feet below a solid granite mountain, you know, just far enough to withstand a nuclear blast.

Known as America’s fortress, the Cheyenne Mountain Complex is a testament to the engineering capabilities of the U.S military and it plays an essential role in the country’s national defense operations. ■

The Royal Gorge Bridge

Blue Mesa Reservoir

Cheesecake cookie cups and a chai mule

A light cocktail and rich, mini-desserts can hit the spot on a summer afternoon.

We’ve paired a spicy and creative spin on a mule with a these delicious cheesecake bites. They are decadent, but really simple to make with household ingredients. It’s tough to beat something that will impress a guest with minimal effort.

Red Rocks Spirits may be the official vodka of the Colorado Rockies, but you won’t find either of these homemade treats at Coors Field. And that’s appropriate. This pairing is more suited to a porch swing or a patio fire pit.

For more cocktail recipes, visit RedRocksSpirits.com. There are also fun “Supper Club Sunday” videos on the distillery’s Instagram page. We were particularly drawn to the spicy blackberry vodka smash paired with a blackberry brie grilled cheese sandwich.

CHEESECAKE COOKIE CUPS

Ingredients

Makes 12 cookie cups

2 packages (16 ounces each) chocolate chip cookie dough

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons sugar

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 cup whipping cream crumbled cookies, for topping (optional) sprinkles, for topping (optional)

Directions

Heat oven to 350 F.

In a muffin tin, press three pieces of cookie dough into each muffin hole. Bake 15 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes, then use a shot glass and press into each hole. Let cool another 5 minutes and place on rack to cool completely. With a hand mixer, mix heavy cream and sugar until it thickens and then add cream cheese and powdered sugar; cream together. Spoon into cool cookie cups.

If desired, use a piping bag to create a pretty edge around each cup. Top with crumbled cookies or sprinkles, if desired.

Food recipe provided by Cookin’ Savvy at Culinary.net