My Denver Travel Journal

I just got back from spending a few days out west in Denver with my brother and sister-in-law before starting my new job! Sunshine ski days, hikes, puppy time, and just special time spent with my peeps.

Anytime I’m in Denver it’s the most magical, amazing time. We skied for a few days, laughed, ate, and hiked. Many of you know that Colorado is one of my favorite places, so I wanted to share a little travel journal on all the things.

Skiing:

My brother and I did two full days of skiing, one day at Keystone Resort and one day at Arapahoe Basin—a mountain catered to locals more so than a resort. I made the decision to rent demo packages from both mountains because I didn’t want to check my skis and was worried about them being smashed around under a plane.

I loved being able to demo powder skis, and got the Stockli Nela 83’s which are an absolute dream ski. They’re expensive and tailored toward advanced skiers, so once I got used to them, they were amazing. Keystone has a beautiful village around it with shopping, restaurants, condos, etc. The village is so cute and has so many options for non-skiers too.

Keystone is a beautiful mountain. Miles of trails that feel like you’re skiing on top of the world with views to die for. I was so proud of myself for trying harder trails, and as most people know, the levels of trails out there are different than the East Coast. A blue square here is a green circle there, a black diamond there is probably a double black here.

Something for newbies to remember is altitude effects…boy was I winded! Sweating profusely, panting after every run because we were 10,000 feet above. I always think it won’t affect me, but it’s so intense. Am I out of shape or is this the altitude? Was the question on blast all during skiing. After a few runs, I definitely needed a beer! But before beer o'clock, I had to make sure to hydrate, keep electrolytes up, and have water, as this is crucial to skiing out west.

The weather was perfect, and the trails were icy conditions with 1-2 inches of snow, but manageable. I’d recommend Keystone to anyone going to ski/ride out west for the first time. It’s a great mountain to get adjusted to skiing out west and has a ton to do for non-skiers.

Charty Sidenote…

Of course, I ended up flirting with the rental ski tech, who was quite the charming guy! I mean, who wouldn’t want to date someone who can wax skis and mix drinks? He invited me to his bar after skiing, which conveniently offered mac n cheese and drinks—because nothing says romance like gooey cheese and questionable decisions! After he assured me he was a skilled bartender, I had to check it out. If you’re ever in Keystone, make sure to visit Groovy Mac n Cheese, with the speakeasy in the back. Just follow the smell of melted cheese and gin—it's like a treasure hunt, but with carbs! Big thanks to my brother for tagging along and helping me scope out this guy. No, I don’t know his name! But he made me a fantastic drink and remembered my name. Simply iconic. Hope he realizes we're dating now because I’m already planning our future together—starting with a lifetime supply of mac n cheese!

We went another day and skied Arapahoe Basin, in Dillion, CO where I had skied a few times in 2023. It’s 13,000 feet above with views that will change your life, which is one of the reasons it’s my brother’s go to. It’s legendary for a reason!

I demoed a pair of Rossignol Experience 76 Skis, which reminded me a lot of my black pearls at home. They were a playful, fun ski!

A Basin is 48% dedicated to advanced skiers, featuring just a handful of easier trails and an abundance of steep slopes and moguls. Whenever I return, I aim to conquer this place more than before. Despite its difficulty, it remains my favorite. Skiing above the tree line is unmatched and so special. The conditions were tough and firmly packed due to the lack of recent snowfall, but any day in the west surpasses the east coast!

Ciders in the sun around lunchtime and oh yeah, answering a phone call from my new boss! Nothing but good times. I love the Black Mountain Lodge on A Basin, which has a bunch of different lunch options, and they aren’t insanely pricey like the resorts.

Next trip I’ll probably bring my own skis and boots, so I have that predictability. It was a blast to demo, but also hard to have to learn new skis each day. I learned fully that each ski is a very different ride.

Colorado Fashion:

Friday night, we went to our favorite Italian restaurant in Morrison, CO and had to stop for ice cream after. Major shoutout to the girl for giving us large sizes! The clothing style in Colorado is so different which is always fun. It’s very casual, versus in Boston we dress up in our fur and leather.

Colorado’s style is more jeans, sweaters, leggings and, snow boots. It’s mountain vibes meets fun ski vibes. And you can always throw on a snapback! Snow boots, sneakers, etc. are fully welcomed as are fun colors.

Whereas in Boston, I get a look when I’m dressed like I should be at Vail!

Vibes and Staying In:

Saturday, we took a break from skiing, and we hiked at the trails around Red Rocks, which are always breathtaking. Coming over the crest of a hill and seeing massive mountains as your backdrop never gets old. Everyone is out running or walking their dogs and just enjoying the fresh air. It’s such an active, lively community which reminds me of Boston.

We went to downtown Littleton on my last night (way too short a trip!) to shop around a little and then ate at Denver Beer Co. Denver Beer Co. is a cute family/dog friendly brewery with lots of awesome food. Then it was ice cream and movie time! This trip was extra fulfilling to me because we didn’t go out and party—it was meaningful family time, and quiet nights. I got to sleep well, have real conversations, and lots of laughs. And that’s okay to do people!

Denver and Colorado make me fall in love with them every time I am back. I have such a strong pull to Colorado and it seems like my heart is recalling it from somewhere, instead of discovering it anew. Like my soul knows I'm supposed to be there. The skiing, the town, the fashion, the restaurants, are all to die for.

I highly recommend Denver to everyone—not just skiers! Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, this it offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Beyond skiing, Denver boasts rich cultural, culinary, and recreational options year-round. Explore diverse neighborhoods, art galleries, museums like the Denver Art Museum, and the lively Union Station with its restaurants and shops.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Denver is a gateway to mountain activities. Enjoy white water rafting on Clear Creek or visit Georgetown for its historic charm and stunning views. We did the rafting as a family a few years back, and yes! We had to squeeze into used wetsuits and paraded down the river. Idaho Springs also offers hot springs and dining options, perfect for relaxation after hiking or rafting.

Denver, I always leave my heart out there! This city and state absolutely captivate me with the views, lifestyle, and vibrancy. I would love to eventually move out west and spend my days skiing and being outdoors. But, until that, I will continue visiting and just being.

Charty