This trip was something Courtney and I have been dreaming about since moving out to the West. Yet, it’s been something we’ve been putting off for years because it was almost too feasible. Unlike a vacation that requires plane tickets and months of planning, this trip was comparatively easy. Our plan was to drive around to a bunch of mountain and ski towns of Colorado during the summer months, camping just outside of each town. That way, there was no reservations, not deadlines, just get in the truck and go. For this reason, we’ve just put it off year after year. That is, until this year!
The planned route for the trip was to start in Park City, UT, head first to Silverton, next to Crested Butte, then to Leadville, and finally ending in Snowmass/Aspen. We figured on spending 2 nights in each town. But the best part of this trip, was that each town was only separated by 2-3 hours which makes a world of difference compared to our trip to Oregon or Banff where it felt like the entire trip was spent driving.
Silverton
Silverton, an old mining town with a single paved street was so remote, that it was perfect. We camped right along a stream in a canyon that towered high above us. We spent our time wandering the touristy Main Street, drinking beer, and of course, hiking up to a glacial blue lake that sat above 12,000feet. This is a place I would love to come back and ski during the winter!
Crested Butte
Crested Butte, back for our 2nd time in 2020, was so much more fun in the summer. Everyone was out walking around, enjoying the incredible weather. We spent most of the time there hanging around camp on top of Kebler Pass, trail running the base of Mount Crested Butte, and of course getting on the SUP at Lake Irwin. If it wasn’t so damn expensive, I would love to live in a place like this!
Leadville
Leadville, sitting at a staggering 10,000ft, was a real blue-collar town, rather than the Disney world of Crested Butte. We were here for one reason, to hike the tallest peak in Colorado, Mount Elbert. Sitting at 14,440ft, this hike really pushed our limits, but the three of us made it! The rest of the time was spent riding mountain bikes around Turquoise Lake, and eating out on the historic Main Street. I’d love to come back and try my hand at the Leadville 100 Bike Course
Snowmass
Last stop was at Snowmass Village. Our little vacation from our vacation to finally enjoy a hot shower. We spent most of the trip there riding laps on the Snowmass Bike Park. It was incredible riding, both fun and challenging for both of us. The rest of the time we enjoyed wandering around the village, eating and drinking beers. Even made it into the fancy town of Aspen for an afternoon.
Hi there, my name is Zachary Kenney and I’m an adventure filmmaker & photographer. My passion is to tell stories that will hopefully motivate you to go live a more adventurous life. Whether that is to experience the view from the summit of a mountain, or wandering through a new town on a road trip. Currently based out of Park City, UT.
