Brett B Wrote:
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> Good morning
>
> I’m looking for some guidance if possible. Just
> found out that my later 20 something year old
> daughter is road tripping to Colorado with some
> friends in 3 weeks. Because I raised her right,
> she has interest in railroads, and if she can find
> something of interest to see they may fit it into
> their schedule. They will be a little south of the
> Denver area during the work week. It seems they
> may be a week early for some things as it looks
> like many attractions won’t really open up until
> late May or are weekends only. As some of you are
> blessed to live out there, I thought I would reach
> out and see if there are any suggestions for
> things that she could look into further while they
> plan the itinerary. Pikes peak was mentioned to
> me, and I know they’re going to visit Denver
> Union for the opening of the farmers market.
>
> Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you in
> advance for helping me to promote the railroad
> experience of Colorado. I would like for her and
> her friends to have a safe trip so if there is
> something I should clue her into regarding
> weather, road conditions etc that would be great..
> they’re outdoorsy girls so it sounds like there
> is some hiking in the plans. What should they be
> aware of in the wild.
>
> Have a great day
>
> Brett
Don't know what altitude they're coming from, but they'll likely experience some altitude sickness just sitting around, at least for a day or two. Tell 'em to drink plenty of water during their entire visit.
The bears are about to wake up from winter hibernation, so they need to be cognizant of their environs. Carrying bear spray would be prudent. This is in addition to the other critters that might be around, like mountain lions. This is not a wilderness-specific thing; I've seen both species within the Colorado Springs city limits. Can't emphasize this enough: Never Hike Alone! Don't Even Split Up For Short Periods! Groups of people stand a much better chance of scaring or fending off wildlife than a single person...
While not technical hiking, walking about Garden of the Gods park in the Springs is a real treat, and easy to do. For a little more out-there experience still with a bit of a safety net, I recommend Mueller State Park, on the other side of Pikes Peak from the Springs, 3miles south of Divide, CO. The Visitors Center will have good information on trail conditions and wildlife sightings. They're up at just under 10,000 feet though, so they need to be prepared to hike no further than their lungs will carry them in, and out...
