Asics Adventures: Mount Evans, Colorado

Editor’s note: In an effort to provide the Mindschmootz readers with fresh content on ever increasing topics, I have asked a few of my best friends with the biggest opinions to guest blog with me.  My globetrotting gal pal, Chele, will be recurring with trip tips, exciting destinations, and answers to any questions posed regarding trekking and travel.  Where will Chele’s Asics take her next?  I know, but remember for me, it’s all about the shoes!

When Mindschmootz ask me to join her merry band of bloggers I was incredibly flattered and horribly intimidated. What is it that I could possibly bring to her brain trust of wit and wonder?  It was then she reminded me of what it is I do for a living. See, I travel and by travel I don’t mean occasionally get on a plane to go on a business trip.  I work in Entertainment and although I don’t fly as often as say people in the music business I fly… a lot.

I LOVE traveling.  Didn’t always, in fact many would have called me a homebody, comfortable with her things and her routine. Well, the routine is different now – the routine is travel.

While living my new routine I have been many places. Some have been amazing, others wonderful surprises, and some, exactly what I would have expected and with this amount of travel there has to be something worth sharing. Right?  So as I go on another fabulous adventure I might as well bring the readers of mindschmootz along for the ride.

So let’s log some frequent travel miles together.

Mount Evans, Colorado Afraid of heights and want to get over the fear without having to jump out of an airplane or bungee off a bridge?  Enjoy the idea of the wonders of nature without heading to the same old American landmarks like the Grand Canyon.  Why not try North America’s highest paved road and drive it, or for those of you who are really fit and ambitious hike or bike to the top?

Nestled near the small mountain town of Idaho Springs, it’s only a short drive from Denver and surrounded by Colorado’s gold country.  Mount Evans is quite a sight.  Climbing an amazing 14,240 feet above sea level.  The way up can be daunting not just on nerves but on one’s oxygen level but it’s well worth it.

Along the way you’ll experience the splendor of rolling hills, natural lakes, and mountain top glaciers. Animals dwell on the mountain side and the sight of a mountain goat or a yellow bellied marmot is common place.  On my recent trip up, car companies (Lotus) were testing out their new car models.

For those who love to take photos, using something as simple as the iPhone took the photos attached to this blog.  There is plenty to see and record. If you like trout fishing, stop about 12,000 feet up at Summit Lake and drop a line in the cold waters.

A word of warning as the elevation climbs the oxygen levels drop. Drink plenty of water on your trip. Don’t be afraid to stop frequently to let your body acclimate to the altitude, and if you have issues with winding roads or heights, don’t be afraid to take it slow on your way up and your way down.

Plan some time at the top to check out the University of Denver Meyer- Womble Observatory.  Keep in mind you are on a mountain so parking at all the stops along the way is limited. So you might want to pack your patience along with a picnic lunch.

Due to weather conditions the roads leading to the top aren’t always open. Check here for details before making the drive out.  Also, be aware that temperatures can drop as much as 40 degrees as you climb so dress accordingly. Long pants and layers are key. I learned this lesson the hard way ignoring common sense and dressing for the 90 degree weather in the city. Even with the dry air, 57 degrees can feel awfully cold in a wind gust while wearing shorts and a tank top.

Oh, and what better way to spend the day exploring this natural wonder of Colorado?  With friends. Nothing goes better with nature’s beauty than lots of laughter.

  Next report…Europe!!!