High Country Life

An alternative way to show someone you care is with an adventure trip in the High Country this spring. From Rhododendron hikes to mile-high adventures, these destinations provide all of the romance of national parks while featuring smaller crowds and shorter lines.

Soak in the healing mineral waters of Glenwood Springs at this cozy upscale getaway or take to horseback for a scenic ride through the valley before bush camping under starlit skies.

1. Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs’ natural hot springs, Old West charm, and family-oriented fun make it an all-year destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Winter activities such as skiing, snowshoeing and fat-tire biking are popular while hiking, river rafting and Gold Medal fishing take center stage in summer. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort features 23 geothermal pools of various temperatures for even more relaxation!

Glenwood Escape Rooms at 918 Grand Ave are an immersive team-based adventure to test your problem-solving abilities in a fun, exciting team-based atmosphere. Created by local business owners Ken Murphy and Logan Bartek, these mystery adventure rooms have quickly become an entertainment trend across the nation.

Rafting down the Colorado River is one of the best ways to take in Glenwood Canyon’s towering cliffs and majestic river, not forgetting a scenic gondola ride around town – two must-do activities in Glenwood Springs!

Hanging Lake, a National Natural Landmark, offers stunning blue-green hues fed by Bridal Veil Falls. If the weather permits, continue hiking to reach Spouting Rock where water cascades off its face like an impressive waterfall that must be seen!

After an exciting day in Glenwood Springs’ winter wonderland, relax at the Iron Mountain Hot Springs resort for some relaxation and rejuvenation. Conveniently situated near historic downtown and Amtrak train stations as well as local restaurants and attractions. If possible, travel during either spring or fall shoulder seasons for maximum savings while experiencing its natural beauty without peak prices and crowds.

2. Aspen

Aspen is one of the premier winter vacation spots worldwide, but this mountain town’s charm doesn’t end when the snow recedes. Not only can Aspen boast world-class skiing but its beauty also includes breathtaking vistas and an arts and cultural scene rivaling that found in most major cities.

Aspen area rivers offer great whitewater rafting, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding opportunities in the summertime, while hiking trails cater to beginners as well as experts alike. To maximize your experience select a guide with experience of Aspen area landscape.

Rather than exploring Aspen on foot, cycling along Aspen’s bike paths is an excellent way to discover more of its natural splendor and enjoy more of its city’s scenery. Or try your hand at fly fishing – another popular activity in Roaring Fork Valley.

Horseback riding offers a more peaceful way of exploring the mountains. Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl and experience breathtaking scenic rides with Maroon Bells Guide and Outfitters.

Ski trips to Aspen would not be complete without taking advantage of its legendary apres-ski scene and visiting one of Aspen’s spas or massage therapy studios for extra relaxation.

Make sure to indulge in retail therapy while visiting Downtown Aspen; its high-end stores and boutiques will make for a pleasant shopping experience. Or if you prefer taking public transit instead, Aspen’s bus system and hotel shuttles make getting around easier than ever!

Aspen offers plenty of exciting things to see and do for a spring adventure getaway, so plan your visit now to discover why Aspen has become such an esteemed location – you won’t regret it!

3. Boone

Boone, North Carolina offers the ideal place for couples seeking an unforgettable romantic retreat. Boone boasts gorgeous mountain scenery, excellent accommodations, and plenty of adventurous outdoor activities that promise an enjoyable time out together – from skiing and snowboarding to spa treatments, this cozy mountain town has something special in store.

Boone weekend trips offer many of the same beautiful attractions year-round, making winter visits all the more delightful. With some extra planning, visitors can experience some of Boone’s breathtaking hiking trails and outdoor attractions while keeping warm – just pack some comfy gear before hitting the trail.

One of the most impressive trails in Boone is Linville Falls Loop Trail. This peaceful, scenic hike features two main hiking trails that weave their way through a forest setting and provide visitors with breathtaking forest scenery and breathtaking waterfall views. Plus, visitors may prefer taking this journey during winter as there will be less people around – an ideal opportunity to fully experience this incredible trail!

Grandfather Mountain is an iconic state park offering miles of hiking trails and breathtaking mountain vistas, not to mention taking a ride on Tweetsie Railroad or visiting Howard’s Knob County Park for breathtaking views of Boone and Appalachian State University.

Boone offers some outstanding performing arts venues for visitors looking for some culture during their vacation, including The Schaefer Center and Appalachian Theatre which host world-class performers all year long.

Boone, North Carolina is also a fantastic spot for whitewater adventure. There are several outfitters offering kayaking, canoeing and rafting trips all year long.

4. Banner Elk

Banner Elk is a winter wonderland, and Beech Mountain Resort has rightfully earned the distinction of “ski capital of the South.” Situated at 5,506 feet elevation, its snowy wonderland draws skiers and snowboarders from near and far alike to ski its 17 trails or visit its alpine village for ice skating, shopping and dining experiences. When spring rolls around, snow melts from mountain streams thawing, turning Banner Elk into an idyllic spring hiking oasis covered with vibrant wildflowers – but winter remains as winter never-before!

Enlightened Elk Escape’s cabin stands out among High Country rentals due to its distinct mountain vibe. The great room boasts an exposed tongue-and-groove ceiling, leather furniture, and large windows that showcase breathtaking mountain scenery – plus it sleeps up to eight guests comfortably!

Boone, North Carolina offers popular attractions like Tweetsie Railroad and Linville Caverns. Grandfather Mountain can also be reached quickly – its famous mile-high swinging bridge provides spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Banner Elk’s summer months offer hiking, cycling and horseback riding opportunities galore. Wildcat Lake at Tufts Memorial Park features lifeguard-patrolled beaches with swimming areas, fishing piers, canoe rentals and canoe rentals; additionally the area features Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster (North Carolina’s first alpine roller coaster) as well as Emerald Outback Trail Park’s downhill mountain bike trails; additionally family-owned Edge of the World outfitter in downtown Banner Elk offers whitewater rafting trips as well as rock climbing tours.

Banner Elk is an outstanding dining destination, boasting restaurants that provide casual to fine cuisine. Additionally, this region is famed for its award-winning wineries and vineyards, part of the High Country Wine Trail. Attractions within Banner Elk include Foggy Mountain Gem Mine and Moses H. Cone Memorial Park as well as Alta Vista Gallery & B & B and Banner House Museum with collections to view.