Moms in Colorado absolutely have it made when it comes to countless ways to enjoy the great outdoors with their families on Mother’s Day.
Having lived in various parts of the country from the plains of South Dakota, the lakes of Minnesota, “Cow” town aka Fort Worth, Texas, Sin City or Las Vegas, Nevada and most beautiful of all, Parker, Colorado – I know Mother’s Day is a good reason to celebrate spring! Mid-May in Colorado (for most of the Denver Metro area) is likely to bring temps in the mid to low 70’s and the Weather Channel ranks the “comfort index” as very good.
Here are two spots near the Denver Metro Area to try.
1. Castlewood Canyon Hike
What better reason to spend quality time outside with the very people who define why you celebrate Mother’s Day? Last year, my three kids, husband and I enjoyed the most beautiful morning hike through Castlewood Canyon.
Hikers at Castlewood Canyon can choose from several trails and distances depending on degree of difficulty or the amount of time that you want to spend hiking. Our Mother’s Day hike was a 2-mile easy loop starting near the East entrance at Canyon Point Parking lot and winding down into the canyon over boulders and across a trickling stream. Maps and trail information is available at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife site.
2. Evergreen
Another Colorful Colorado family favorite for my family, and soon to be yours, is the easily accessible mountain town of Evergreen. Right off of I-70, Evergreen is a short drive into the mountains just high enough in elevation to feel the pressure change in your ears.
Located right in the center of town, Evergreen Lake offers a 1.25 mile hiking trail, year-round trout fishing and seasonal boating options. Kids, dad and mom alike will all agree that the very best spot to hike and mountain bike in Evergreen is Alderfer Ranch/Three Sisters Park. We’ve enjoyed this park numerous times either on foot or biking as a family, and have taken visiting relatives here for a good dose of Colorado outdoor culture as well.
If your family works up an appetite with all of that outdoor activity might I suggest one of two local favorites in Evergreen? The first pick would be my husband and 12-year-old son’s recommendation: Cactus Jack’s Saloon and Grill where you’ve got to order the Dirty Chicken Sandwich. They also have live music outside, which is a draw on a sunny Colorado afternoon.
My choice and that of my girls ages 11 and 6 would be One World Café for their green, locally sourced, delicious food and friendly way of doing business.
Not just on Mother’s Day, but any time I get outside and enjoy fresh air a with my family makes me grateful to be a mom. When you remember those reasons to be grateful — three happy, healthy kids who call me mom — every day is Mother’s Day, isn’t it? Here’s wishing you and your family a colorful Colorado Mother’s Day filled with fresh air!
