colorado

<p>will be going to colorado soon, flying into denver then to colorado springs and manitu springs staying with my daughter and grandson, they live near pike's peak, will probably go to garden of the gods, and then maybe camping trip somewhere not too far away, and hot springs/buena vista was suggested. any thoughts, experiences in this area? thanks, virginia</p>

<p>It's been many years since I lived in Colorado Springs, but.....<br>

First, you have to visit Garden of the Gods! It's only a "city" park, but it's a great park. Plan on spending some time. You really want to try catching sunrise light reflecting off the rocks.<br>

I remember going on a backpacking trip from Buena Vista to a place called Bear lake, or something similar. Amazing scenery the whole trip!<br>

If you have the time, I would consider driving to Rocky Mountain National Park. (west of Denver)</p>

<p>Garden of the Gods is great - must see. You might also consider driving up to Cripple Creek & Victor and down through Phantom Canyon - quite scenic. Also close to Manitou is Mueller state park (http://parks.state.co.us/Parks/Mueller/) - also quite scenic. RMNP will be probably a 3 hour drive North from Colorado Springs - worth it if you have the time.</p>

<p>I live here and can't get to all the great places to shoot. Just have fun and enjoy the scenery. And bring a rain coat, its been a wet summer this year. Lots of rain, hail, and tornadoes, very rare. </p>

<p>Take the cog railroad up Pike's Peak. Just be careful at the top - it's over 14,000 ft.</p>