ColoRADo

My roommate and I did a mini road trip to Aspen in October. By far one of my favorite Colorado road trips. It was stunning. I could definitely see myself living in Colorado someday! The middle picture is from hanging lake. That was a bitch to hike up to. It was a short hike but literally straight up the mountain. But the views were great. If you're ever near Glenwood Springs, go to Hanging Lake! It's crazy that such clear water exists up in the middle of nowhere on top a mountain!

Our mini road trip took us from Denver to Twin Lakes Via the I-70. Then we drove through Independence Pass (it was snowing!!!). That road closes in the winter because it is incredibly narrow and has a ton of switchbacks (if you're a cautious/nervous driver.. don't volunteer to drive). There are quite a few places to stop while you're driving Independence Pass. We stopped and did a miniature hike to a waterfall! Definitely worth it! It also let us stretch our legs! We finally got to Aspen and checked into our hotel (which was really cheap!). We stayed in Snowmass. Everything was dead because ski season hadn't started yet, but it was kind of nice to have a slower pace.

We specifically took this road trip to see the fall foliage as well as Maroon Bells. Maroon Bells is located about 20 minutes from Aspen! It's the first picture in this post! It's highly photographed and the view did not disappoint! We got there early in the morning because we were driving back to Denver that day, and because we thought there would be less people. There were still quite a few people but we got there early enough that you could see the reflection of it in the water! As the day went on, you couldn't get as clear of a picture! If you intend on visiting, just know there is a 10 dollar fee to get into the park where Maroon Bells is located--worth it! Also, depending on the time of the year, they don't let you drive your car to Maroon Bells, you have to be shuttled, so be aware (especially if you're on a time crunch!)!

I've now lived in Denver for close to two years! I love how it snows and then melts within the same day. I love how the leaves change colors in the fall, and how the landscapes never cease to blow me away. I love how you can drive an hour outside the city and feel like you're all by yourself with nature.

I will be graduating with my master's degree in May and will be moving back to Arizona. But, I will miss Colorado dearly. Thankfully, through mini road trips, weekend adventures, and golf, I've seen most of the state. Many of my friends have started to move out to Colorado, and it's really become a hub for millennials. The rent is outrageous, but Colorado has so much to offer. I will definitely be back!