Get Away from Denver

Summer approaches. What better time to start planning for all the great outdoor adventures you are going to have? Here's some of the best ways to make use of living along the Front Range.

Some of the most popular road cycling routes for skinny tires in the Valley are on roads with little to no shoulder. Highway 6, which runs from Eagle-Vail to Gypsum, is an enjoyable ride, gradual downhill to Gypsum and gradual uphill back, for those who don't mind sharing a lane with vehicular traffic.

Spending a weekend in Aspen? You lucky thing, you! This guide lists some of my top stops in the mountains to keep you entertained.

Though I don't physically live in Steamboat, my soul seems to stay there after I leave. Maybe it has to do with the old Ute legend : ""Those who come to the Yampa Valley to live will never be able to leave. If they do succeed in leaving the valley, they'll be forced to return," From the people to the mountain, Steamboat is the last gem for those who appreciate the understated resort. This and the fact that I know the mountain better than my house.

While driving downhill, have you ever seen smoke flying from the inside of the rear wheels of a tractor trailer? Have you ever felt your brakes get mushy while going down a fast, steep grade? Ever smell an acidic, sweet smell that becomes acrid as you continually push on your brakes?