Last week I road tripped with my mom and cousin Addison to visit some family in Fort Collins, Colorado. Every time I journey to Colorado I fall in love with it just a little bit more. The scenery, the adventures, the BEER, there’s something about Colorado that just makes you want to keep going back. The lack of humidity also was a definite plus when the temps reached 80-90°.

Friday we stopped for lunch at The Cow An Eatery before exploring Red Rocks Park. After hiking the Trading Post Trail we met up with our “Coloradians” for a concert at the amphitheater.

Below: Buffalo grilled cheese w/ sweet potato fries

Saturday afternoon we saddled ourselves with our large packs and climbed up Horsetooth Mountain. We camped overnight sleeping in hammocks and making dinner, Hawaiian style chicken and rice, from a packet. 

Below: This is what happens when you have to work and then decide to run up the mountain.

Below: The view of Fort Collins from our campsite.Sunday morning we climbed to the top of Horsetooth Rock before packing everything up and making our descent. I don’t have pictures, but with the conclusion of our hike we stopped for a swim in the reservoir and then treated ourselves to Five Guys. Never has a hamburger tasted so delicious. 

Monday morning we said our goodbyes; but Mom, Addison, and I made a stop in Rocky Mountain National Park before making the drive home. We completed a short and easy hike to Alberta falls—then strolled through some of the shops in Estes Park and grabbed a bite to eat at Penelope’s.

All in all it was a successful road trip, and I’m already planning my return.