The Wild, Wild West

So maybe the western part of the United States is not as wild as it once was, but it is definitely just as beautiful!

 One of the things that was wonderful about CO was that there was something for everyone. My family is into the outdoors so we were up early hiking up mountains and spending the rest of the day exploring the areas around where we stayed like Vail and Breckenridge. My step father's favorite place to visit was Leadville. I think he liked it so much because he ate some "Monkey Balls".  ....Have any one of you ever eaten anything interesting like that?? 

Feel free to leave an interesting or funny memory from a vacation as your comment :)

Hiking mountains (if you are physically able to do it) is must when you go out there! The views are amazing, you have chances to see animals, and it is just a great claim to fame to be able to say you hiked some of the Rocky Mountains. Even if you aren't able to do some hiking, the Ski Resorts keep their chair lifts going so you can ride up the mountain and hang out at a lodge and do some exploring and then ride back down. ... My little sister dropped her jacket off the chair though so she and her dad had to hike down some areas where no one should be hiking to get it while my ma and I went to the top of the mountain :) So BE SURE TO HANG ON TO ALL YOUR BELONGINGS!

Also keep in mind the signs and symptoms of altitude sickness. I was in fairly good shape and didn't think too much of it, and I ended up suffering from it while hiking one day. It's really important to stay hydrated and if you feel sick at all, let someone know and stop climbing any further. Another thing to keep in mind if you are going to be hiking is that it is pretty much guaranteed to storm on the top of the mountain every afternoon. So get your hikes in early! 

If hiking isn't your thing, you can white water raft (which we did and the water was FREEZING in August), or spend some time in the nicer neighborhoods and shop, take scenic drives, or find out what sort of festivals or events are going on in your area while your out there. Getting involved with things the locals are doing is fun and a great way to experience life any where that you go. :)

Some of you might not think hiking up mountains and white water rafting is much of a vacation, but let me tell you...it is! :)


The pictures below are my mom and I pointing out that we are on the top of the mountain, taking a break while hiking one of the days, and the "stable" terrain we had to hike on once you get above the tree lines of the mountains.