7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July
7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Telluride's Free Gondola Rides and Mountain Village Exploration
Telluride's free gondola is a remarkable feat of transportation and a testament to prioritizing sustainability within a mountain town setting. It's the only system of its kind in the US, connecting the towns of Telluride and Mountain Village – a journey spanning roughly 11 miles. Riders are treated to panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains, which on a clear day can even extend to Utah. This 12-13 minute ride is available daily, running from early morning to midnight in the summer months with extended weekend operations. It's not just a scenic ride though. It's a key component to maintaining air quality in the region by reducing car dependency, moving around 3 million people each year. This efficient and eco-conscious approach is beneficial for both visitors and locals. Even better, pets are welcome, making it a great option for travelers of all kinds.
Telluride's free gondola system is a fascinating example of how public transit can effectively navigate challenging terrain. It seamlessly connects Telluride and Mountain Village, spanning a distance of roughly 11 miles and ascending a considerable 1,800 feet, making it a rather unique public transport system for a mountainous region. This system, the first of its kind in the US, operates year-round, transporting a substantial 3 million riders annually. It efficiently handles about 3,000 riders per hour, easing traffic congestion, particularly during periods of increased visitor traffic.
The gondola's construction aimed to enhance air quality by reducing the need for vehicle usage. This endeavor has created a notable environmental impact in this region. The journey itself offers remarkable panoramic vistas of the San Juan Mountains, and under the right atmospheric conditions, even glimpses into Utah. Operating daily, it offers convenient access between the two towns, with summer hours extending from 6:30 AM to midnight and weekend extensions during those months.
The gondola's engineering deserves recognition. The system incorporates heated cabins for the colder months, a notable achievement given the harsh high-altitude environments. It employs a counterweight system to minimize energy consumption while allowing for efficient travel. Further adding to the impressive engineering feat, the support towers stand as tall as 92 feet, built with innovative structural engineering to withstand the challenging conditions of high winds and significant snow loads. The gondola's design also incorporates steep inclines of 36 degrees, which minimizes disruption to the landscape while maintaining necessary clearances for buildings and the natural environment.
The gondola's existence illustrates how public transportation can not only enhance tourism but also contribute to preserving the area's natural beauty. Moreover, the ride itself presents a striking demonstration of changing microclimates and the way that elevation shapes the plant and animal life within the mountain region, offering a compelling lesson in the interplay of geography, environment, and biodiversity.
What else is in this post?
- 7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Telluride's Free Gondola Rides and Mountain Village Exploration
- 7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Breckenridge's Summer Fun Park and Alpine Slide Adventures
- 7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Crested Butte's Wildflower Festival and Hiking Trails
- 7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Aspen's Maroon Bells Scenic Area and Photography Opportunities
- 7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Steamboat Springs' Strawberry Park Hot Springs and Tubing on the Yampa River
- 7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Vail's Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and Eagle Bahn Gondola Rides
- 7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Ouray's Box Canyon Falls Park and 4x4 Off-Road Excursions
7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Breckenridge's Summer Fun Park and Alpine Slide Adventures
Breckenridge transforms into a summer playground, with its Fun Park offering a variety of mountain-themed activities. The park's centerpiece, the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster, delivers a thrilling ride down the mountainside over a 2,500-foot track. The Breckenridge Alpine Slide adds to the fun, offering a controlled, gravity-powered downhill experience for all ages. This array of activities, part of the larger Epic Discovery at Breckenridge Resort, also includes zip lines and ropes courses, providing a comprehensive adventure experience. A ride on the BreckConnect Gondola to Peak 8 helps to access many of these summer adventures and offers stunning views. While some may find the variety and pricing of these attractions somewhat typical for a mountain resort setting, there is no doubt that the mountain backdrop and diverse options provide a fun experience. For visitors seeking a blend of adrenaline and natural beauty, Breckenridge's summer offerings present an attractive option for a Colorado adventure.
Breckenridge's Summer Fun Park, nestled within the alpine environment, offers a range of activities centered around the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster and the Breckenridge Alpine Slide. The Gold Runner, spanning 2,500 feet, provides a thrilling ride down the mountainside. The gravity-powered Alpine Slide is a key part of the summer attractions at Breckenridge Resort, and its length, while not quite as impressive as the Gold Runner, still manages to provide an enjoyable downhill experience.
Epic Discovery, a part of Breckenridge Resort, offers a diverse range of options including scenic rides, zip lines, and ropes courses. It's intriguing to observe how the high-altitude environment affects the design and operation of such attractions. Access to Peak 8 and its associated summer activities is facilitated by the BreckConnect Gondola, which offers free transport from the town of Breckenridge.
The nearby Dillon Reservoir presents another recreational opportunity. Its size, with 3,233 surface acres and 268 miles of shoreline, suggests a wide array of water-based activities for those seeking a change of pace from mountain attractions. These activities, along with others like mini golf, bungee trampolines, hiking, and biking, suggest that Breckenridge offers a diverse set of summer recreational opportunities.
The Alpine Slide's design, which facilitates a controlled downhill experience, presents an interesting engineering challenge. Managing speed and rider safety within the context of a steep, natural slope is a unique problem. The Peak 8 area's Alpine Camp Gondola highlights how transportation infrastructure supports summer activities. The blend of engineered attractions with natural terrain suggests how design principles can be applied to enhance the recreation experience.
It's interesting to consider how the engineering and design choices for these attractions have factored in the environment's characteristics. Breckenridge's elevation and the potential for challenging weather conditions surely shape the construction of attractions, from the Alpine Slide's materials and braking system to the gondola's infrastructure. Ultimately, the combination of 30 diverse summer activities makes Breckenridge a worthwhile destination for those seeking an array of outdoor and engineered thrills. The interplay between natural terrain and engineered attractions in Breckenridge suggests a strong effort to create a unique summer recreation experience in the Colorado mountains.
7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Crested Butte's Wildflower Festival and Hiking Trails
Crested Butte transforms into a vibrant hub for nature enthusiasts in July, especially during its Wildflower Festival. The festival, slated for July 11-20, 2025, is a celebration of the area's unique wildflowers, with over 150 workshops that delve into aspects like photography, culinary arts, and artistic expression related to the blossoms. The main focus is on appreciating and protecting these delicate wildflowers, a significant part of the local environment. The peak wildflower season typically falls between mid-July and early August, weather permitting, making it an opportune time to witness the landscapes adorned in colorful blooms.
Hiking trails in the area, like the Snodgrass Trail and Rustler Gulch, present remarkable opportunities to witness the wildflowers in their full glory. The Snodgrass Trail, an out-and-back trek, rewards hikers with beautiful scenery, but it's a demanding hike, requiring around four hours to complete. Rustler Gulch, though known for its challenging terrain, offers scenic alpine meadows and cascading waterfalls as its reward. The variety of 74 hiking trails catering to various skill levels and interests makes Crested Butte a desirable destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning views.
However, for those venturing out onto the trails, be prepared for limited cellular service. It's wise to download trail maps and details before heading out, ensuring a smoother and safer hiking experience. The abundance of wildflowers is a key draw to the area, visible not only on the trails, but also lining roads and in the town itself. The festival, in essence, and the vast trail network are both geared towards raising awareness about the importance of these delicate habitats and their place in the local ecosystem.
### Crested Butte's Wildflower Festival and Hiking Trails
Crested Butte, often hailed as the wildflower capital of Colorado, boasts a remarkable diversity of over 750 documented species. This biodiversity is a direct consequence of the area's unique blend of elevation changes, soil composition, and microclimates. The interplay of these factors creates a visually stunning landscape, particularly during the peak wildflower bloom, which usually coincides with the annual Wildflower Festival in mid-July. The festival itself isn't just about admiring nature; it's a celebration with a multifaceted approach. Workshops on topics ranging from flower painting to photography showcase how human creativity can interact with the natural world. This highlights that appreciation for nature extends beyond pure observation.
The varied elevations in and around Crested Butte, reaching from 8,900 to over 12,000 feet, create distinct ecological zones, each supporting different flower species and blooming times. Observing this progression as you hike through the region provides a tangible lesson in the diverse ecosystems that form as you move up and down the mountain ranges. The Crested Butte area offers over 400 miles of trails, a testament to extensive trail engineering. These trails are designed to be environmentally friendly, minimizing soil erosion and maximizing visitor enjoyment.
Beyond its beauty, the abundant wildflowers also play a critical role in the local ecosystem. The diversity of wildflowers helps maintain a rich pollinator population. Over 25 species of native bees rely on the area's floral tapestry, which reveals that the interplay between flower and insect is integral to the local environment. Interestingly, the adaptations of many wildflowers to the harsh high-altitude environment, such as shorter stature and thicker leaves, are a prime example of nature's ability to evolve and thrive in challenging conditions.
The Mountain Harebell, one of the region's signature flowers, provides a stunning example of this adaptation. It's resilient enough to flourish in rocky, alpine regions above 8,000 feet and is one of the first flowers to bloom each season. This adaptability provides a glimpse into the complexities of nature. Guided hikes led by botanists during the Wildflower Festival give visitors an opportunity to learn about the ecological relationships between plant species. This interactive learning experience offers a more in-depth appreciation of the local ecosystem.
It's worth noting that events like the Wildflower Festival contribute significantly to Crested Butte's economy. This suggests that sustainable tourism initiatives can revitalize rural areas. This also helps support the local communities, showcasing the benefits of ecotourism. Yet, there's a flip side. Given the festival draws thousands of visitors, it's a reminder that human activity can impact even the most pristine settings. Balancing the need for economic growth with preserving natural habitats presents a fascinating and constant challenge for regions that depend on tourism. Cell service is rarely available on the trails, so visitors should download offline maps for safety purposes. With this in mind, it's important for anyone planning to explore Crested Butte to be well-prepared, not just for the stunning beauty but also for the occasional challenges of exploring high-altitude environments.
7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Aspen's Maroon Bells Scenic Area and Photography Opportunities
Nestled within Colorado's White River National Forest, the Maroon Bells Scenic Area is a renowned photography destination, often lauded as the most photographed mountains in North America. These iconic peaks, rising nearly 14,000 feet, showcase distinctive bell shapes and a striking reddish hue, making for a breathtaking vista, especially at sunrise or sunset. The area's beauty is often amplified by the alpenglow effect, casting a magical glow over the peaks during these times. Situated about 10 miles west of Aspen, the Maroon Bells are accessible via Maroon Creek Road, leading to various hiking trails. A popular and easy option is the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail, where hikers are treated to reflections of the majestic peaks in the tranquil lake.
While the area is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers, its popularity means access is strictly controlled. Vehicle access and shuttle services are subject to reservation requirements from late May through mid-October to manage the crowds and preserve the environment. The entire area covers a significant 181,973 acres, designated as wilderness since 1964, making it one of the largest wilderness areas in Colorado. September can be a particularly magical time to visit, as the aspens begin to change, providing a vibrant burst of fall colors that contrast beautifully with the mountains. With stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of hiking opportunities, the Maroon Bells Scenic Area provides a compelling experience for those seeking a taste of Colorado's natural wonder, but careful planning and reservations are a must to ensure a visit.
### Aspen's Maroon Bells Scenic Area and Photography Opportunities
The Maroon Bells, standing tall at over 14,000 feet, are frequently hailed as the most photographed mountains in North America. Their elevation plays a significant role in shaping the diverse ecosystems found within the White River National Forest, where they reside. This variety of environments provides a captivating range of subjects for photographers—from vibrant wildflowers to diverse wildlife.
The famous reflection of the Maroon Bells in Maroon Lake is a captivating visual spectacle. This phenomenon is a direct result of the peaks' placement in relation to the lake's calm surface, especially during the golden hours of dawn and dusk. Photographers often seek these times, as the early morning light can dramatically enhance the scene's color palette.
The Maroon Bells' existence within a stunning U-shaped valley is a testament to glacial forces that shaped this landscape over thousands of years. The last Ice Age, ending about 12,000 years ago, left its mark on this region, providing a historical backdrop for photography enthusiasts. The valley’s unique morphology is a reminder of the powerful forces that have sculpted the region, and a compelling photographic element in itself.
The Maroon Bells offer a dynamic seasonal landscape throughout the year. Winter transforms the mountains into snowy peaks, while autumn paints the slopes with the fiery hues of aspen trees. For photographers, autumn – particularly between September and mid-October – presents a unique and rewarding opportunity to capture the brilliance of the fall foliage.
Beyond visual spectacle, the area boasts a notable soundscape. The calls of local wildlife like elk and coyotes contribute to the overall atmosphere, adding another dimension to the experience. A photographer attentive to these sounds can create a more complete representation of this alpine environment.
The protection of the Maroon Bells’ natural beauty is paramount. The US Forest Service implements guidelines that help control access and preserve the delicate ecology. Understanding these limitations—like restricted zones during specific periods—helps promote a responsible approach to photography while preserving the area for future enjoyment.
The weather in the Maroon Bells can change rapidly. The rapid shifts in weather patterns due to the area's high elevation offer diverse photographic scenarios within a short period. Photographers can experience a range of conditions in a single outing—from brilliant sunshine to fleeting snowstorms.
The unique animal life found in the Maroon Bells, such as the yellow-bellied marmot or moose, offers a chance to capture images showcasing the ecological richness of the alpine zone. Observing wildlife and photographing these animals offers an added layer to capturing the essence of the Maroon Bells.
Accessing prime photographic locations within this area can be challenging. The terrain, often rugged and steep, demands effort. This element can reinforce the appreciation for the stunning natural beauty and the conservation efforts put into protecting it.
The Maroon Bells' location, relatively remote and removed from sources of artificial light, makes it a favorable location for night-sky photography. The absence of significant light pollution results in a dark sky that offers unparalleled views of celestial bodies. Photographers can capture events beyond the normal daylight views, extending their creativity to a unique photographic realm.
7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Steamboat Springs' Strawberry Park Hot Springs and Tubing on the Yampa River
Steamboat Springs presents a delightful blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure with Strawberry Park Hot Springs and tubing on the Yampa River. Located a short distance from the town center, Strawberry Park Hot Springs provides a haven for those seeking to unwind in naturally heated mineral pools. These pools, built with unique stonework, maintain a year-round temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an enticing option regardless of the season. The hot springs are a popular destination, particularly during the summer when visitors can complement their soak with a leisurely tubing experience on the nearby Yampa River. This creates a fantastic opportunity for those wanting to combine tranquility and outdoor excitement. While the setting is charming, accessing the hot springs might involve a somewhat bumpy drive, or the option of a shuttle for those who prefer a smoother ride. However, reservations are necessary for day-use visits, meaning a spontaneous escape to the hot springs may not always be possible.
### Strawberry Park Hot Springs and Yampa River Tubing: A Closer Look
1. **Earth's Inner Heat**: Strawberry Park's hot springs are a product of geothermal activity. Essentially, water heated deep within the Earth's core rises to the surface through cracks in the rock layers. This process can yield water temperatures exceeding 150°F before being cooled to comfortable levels for soaking.
2. **Mineral-Rich Waters**: The composition of the hot spring water varies, containing minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sulfur. These elements not only impact the temperature but might also offer health benefits, particularly for muscles and joints. It's worth exploring the precise scientific makeup to understand these potential effects further.
3. **A Long History**: Long before settlers arrived, the local indigenous population utilized these hot springs. This extended history emphasizes the cultural importance of the springs as a valuable natural resource for past generations.
4. **Nature and Engineering Combined**: The layout of the pools at Strawberry Park appears to blend natural contours with design. Engineers likely focused on adjusting the pool depths and shapes to improve the distribution of heat for the comfort of visitors. This fascinating interplay of natural and engineered features is worth exploring further.
5. **Nature's Pools**: Unlike commercial spas, Strawberry Park's pools are fashioned by the forces of nature. This aspect provides a more authentic bathing experience, perhaps offering a glimpse into historical methods of bathing.
6. **Tubing Adventures**: The Yampa River's flow varies, particularly depending on the time of year. In the summer months, the flow is usually calmer, making for ideal tubing. This duality—the relaxing springs and the river adventure—provides a diverse recreational experience.
7. **Altitude Adjustments**: Situated at an altitude of around 7,500 feet, Strawberry Park’s elevation significantly impacts both the springs and river activities. Visitors often feel the effects of the altitude, underscoring the need for proper hydration and a gradual acclimatization process.
8. **Wildlife in the Wild**: The area around Strawberry Park provides a fascinating opportunity to observe wildlife, including birds. The river's ecosystem supports diverse bird populations like the American dipper, making it a great spot for keen birdwatchers.
9. **Stargazing Under the Skies**: Due to its relative isolation and minimal light pollution, Strawberry Park is a superb location for stargazing at night. This means a clearer view of the night sky, enhancing the relaxation that comes with soaking in the hot springs.
10. **Winter's Embrace**: In the winter months, the springs maintain a steady temperature. This allows for a very unique experience, where you can enjoy a soak surrounded by snow. This emphasizes the engineering challenges of winterization, and how those factors contribute to a very special recreational experience.
7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Vail's Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and Eagle Bahn Gondola Rides
Vail's Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, nestled high in the Colorado Rockies at 8,200 feet, is a unique public alpine garden. Its primary mission is to educate the public about high-altitude plants and the importance of protecting mountain ecosystems. They strive to conserve these delicate plant species and the habitats they depend on. The Eagle Bahn Gondola, a popular Vail attraction, offers a ride that delivers panoramic mountain views. The gondola runs daily during the core summer season and on a limited schedule into late September. Both the gardens and the gondola are designed to be accessible to those with disabilities, offering opportunities for everyone to enjoy the beauty of this mountain environment. The combination of the garden and gondola ride provides a unique opportunity to experience the high alpine environment within Vail. While the gardens are funded through donations, the Eagle Bahn has set fees for rides that can be costly depending on access and the type of excursion. The ability for Vail to balance these elements for a sustainable environment and a recreational landscape within the Colorado Rocky Mountains will be interesting to see as visitation and outdoor recreation continue to grow.
Vail's Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, located at 8,200 feet, is a remarkable high-altitude botanical collection, one of the highest public alpine gardens in the US. It showcases over 3,000 alpine plant species, each uniquely adapted to thrive in this challenging environment. The gardens themselves seem to be designed with the region's natural features in mind, like the underlying geology and thermal springs, which influence the soil and moisture conditions. This natural impact translates into a diverse array of habitats within the garden, reflecting the local plant communities.
Unlike most botanical gardens, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens remains open throughout the year. The garden's design and diverse microclimates seem to allow visitors to appreciate its beauty in all seasons, a testament to the careful planning involved in creating this high-altitude space. A closer look at the individual plants reveals interesting adaptations for survival. The cushion plant growth form, for example, is a fascinating defense mechanism against harsh conditions like extreme cold and strong winds.
The gardens aren't just for viewing. They're used for educational programs and conservation strategies focused on native plant species. These initiatives highlight the role botanical gardens can play in both environmental education and plant science. The gardens also feature sculptures and installations, which integrate art and nature in interesting ways and prompt thought about ecological interactions.
The Eagle Bahn Gondola provides access to the gardens. Its design clearly reflects the challenges of high winds and heavy snow that mountain regions face. It represents an advanced example of constructing durable recreational infrastructure. Interestingly, the gondola's energy efficiency is improved by using a regenerative drive system, which generates power during descents.
Research projects in the area offer insights into how alpine flora and fauna respond to high-altitude climate features. The insights from these studies are crucial for understanding and developing effective strategies to preserve these delicate ecosystems. Riding the gondola is an experience in itself. The ride takes visitors over 2,000 vertical feet, offering incredible views of the Rockies. This change in elevation allows for an appreciation of the region's unique geology and the story of how the landscape was formed over vast spans of time. The Eagle Bahn Gondola operates daily from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM between June and September 2nd, and on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the same hours from September 6th to 29th. Both the gardens and the gondola are ADA accessible with parking at the Ford Park Lot or near the Ford Amphitheater. However, the gondola seems to be a popular attraction, with numerous positive reviews on travel sites, perhaps suggesting a careful balancing act between visitor capacity and resource management. The nearby Vail Nature Center provides additional educational experiences relating to the alpine environment, potentially highlighting different aspects of the region's ecology. While the gondola offers scenic rides during the off-season, it's advisable to check the website for updated operating dates. Overall, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens offers a rare opportunity to explore high-altitude botany, and the gondola provides a unique perspective on the Vail Valley.
7 Scenic Mountain Towns to Explore in Colorado This July - Ouray's Box Canyon Falls Park and 4x4 Off-Road Excursions
Ouray's Box Canyon Falls Park showcases a magnificent 285-foot waterfall plunging through a narrow, quartzite canyon. It's a visually stunning natural feature. Visitors can enjoy a range of hiking options, from a short, 0.3-mile walk to a footbridge with waterfall views, to more challenging trails with significant elevation changes. These trails offer chances to spot a variety of birds and gain insight into the local geology. You can also use the park for leisurely pursuits like picnicking. While accessible throughout the year, keep in mind Box Canyon Road might be closed during the winter months. It's a very convenient spot, located just a short distance from Ouray's town center. Beyond the park, Ouray's vicinity allows for exhilarating 4x4 off-road expeditions. These explorations traverse the challenging, yet beautiful, mountainous terrain of Colorado, offering a unique adventure for those seeking a more robust outdoor experience. It's a combination that attracts visitors to this region of the state for both relaxation and an adventure.
### Ouray's Box Canyon Falls Park and 4x4 Off-Road Excursions
Ouray's Box Canyon Falls Park, featuring a 285-foot waterfall plummeting through a narrow canyon carved from quartzite, presents a captivating spectacle. The park's geological formation is a result of long-term erosion, showcasing the intricate interplay of glacial forces and river dynamics that have shaped the landscape. It's notable how the falls generate a fine mist, leading to a microclimate conducive to unique ecosystems within the canyon, such as a range of mosses and ferns that thrive in the damp conditions. The park, accessible year-round except for Box Canyon Road's closure during the winter, offers various recreational opportunities including easy to moderately challenging hiking. You can explore trails, observe birdlife, and even spot rare species like Black Swifts. The park is easily reachable from Ouray's center, making it an ideal stop for tourists.
The park's management appears to be conscious of environmental impacts, with daily visitor limits and controlled access during peak seasons. The visitor center provides opportunities to learn about the local history and Indigenous populations, enhancing visitor understanding of the area's heritage. The nearby 4x4 off-road trails, with their roots in historic mining routes, add another layer to the region. Many of these paths were originally engineered to transport mining resources, creating a unique blend of historical infrastructure and the natural environment. The variety of trails demands specialized vehicles often with advanced engineering including suspension systems and drive trains designed to manage steep climbs and uneven terrains.
Interestingly, the falls' water temperature shifts throughout the year, mainly because of varying snowmelt upstream. It's an intricate hydrological relationship that is both beautiful and scientifically compelling. The surrounding area is also a haven for diverse wildlife, including mountain goats and a variety of bird species. This underscores the park's ecological significance. It's worth noting that the Ouray region has experienced significant snow accumulation in winter, reaching over 300 inches, greatly influencing the falls' water flow and the overall aesthetics of the landscape.
Furthermore, Ouray's history includes notable efforts in developing hydroelectric power in the early 1900s. The integration of engineering solutions with natural resources is a recurring theme here. Even the sound of the waterfall itself presents an intriguing physics problem. The sound waves produced by the falling water can be examined as intricate wave patterns, offering unique acoustic experiences depending on the listener's location within the canyon.
The Ouray region's blend of stunning scenery, diverse recreation, and geological features, combined with the area's historic uses and modern efforts at conservation, make for a rather unique and multifaceted outdoor experience. It's intriguing to see how well the balance between preserving natural areas and providing for recreation is being achieved in this part of Colorado.