Outdoor Project

Betasso Wildlife Preserve is great local mountain bike locale in Boulder not only because of its spectacular views and opportunities to see wildlife, but also because it can be ridden to directly from town. In the late 19th century the area had been used for mining operations and the Betasso family cattle ranch, but it has since been generously transformed into a Boulder County Open Space for all to enjoy. The Betasso family cabin from the early 1900s still stands in its original location.

Like most glaciers and snowfields, Saint Mary’s Glacier has been shrinking in recent years. However, there is still enough snowpack to attract skiers and snowboarders who hike up the trail and then descend on the glacier, even in the middle of the summer.

The Bakers Trail mountain bike ride near Breckenridge is a gorgeous route with plenty of fast downhill that provides a unique opportunity to see some of the area's mining and railway history. The namesake for this trail is an historic railroad water tank from the steam era, perched at nearly 11,000 feet, called Bakers Tank.

Officially the highest trailhead on Fromme Mountain, 7th Secret is worth the climb. Newly reinforced and updated, the trail is similar to a cobblestone road that twists through the forest. The trails can often deteriorate over a season without proper care and maintenance, so many rocks and boulders have been buried into the trail for support. 

Located between Montrose and Telluride, the Blue Lakes are situated in a glacial basin and make for gorgeous hiking destinations in Colorado's Mount Sneffels Wilderness. This adventure is is suitable as a day hike or as a backpacking trip (with an optional hike up Mount Sneffels, a local 14er). Park at the Blue Lakes Trailhead and follow the Blue Lakes Trail toward the Lower Blue Lake.

Bells Canyon Trail is a very popular Salt Lake City hike located right at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon. Thanks to the low starting elevation and the lack of major elevation gain it has become a popular hike for all ages and abilities. Not only are there great views of the Lone Peak Wilderness and the Wasatch Mountains, you'll enjoy fantastic overloooks of Salt Lake City. After only three-quarters of a mile you'll reach the "lake," which is really the lower of two reservoirs that are located in this watershed.

Standing tall at 12,777 feet and centrally located in Summit County, Buffalo Mountain is often overlooked by thousands of travelers driving on Interstate 70. But Colorado Gore Range locals know it as a moderate hike with massive views of the county from the top.

Once you have made the fabulous hike to the iconic Havasu Falls in Grand Canyon National Park and set up camp at Havasupai Campground, several possible adventures await. The hike to Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls should be high up on the list of any visitor to this section of the Grand Canyon.

This two-night hiking trip is one of the premiere hiking loops near Washington's Lake Chelan and provides incredible views of the North Cascades. The route leaves from Stehekin, and it is perfect for people looking for beautiful views of a stunning lake, massive Cascade peaks, the isolation of the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness, and a relatively moderate trail. You can pick up the trail right behind the Golden West Visitor Center, which is conveniently located about 500 feet up a short hill from the ferry and sea plane landing. 

The Hollyridge Trail traces fire roads through Griffith Park and leads 1.75 miles to the a vista atop Mount Lee, home of the famous Hollywood Sign. One of America's most iconic day trips and easily one of California's top hikes, the hike to the Hollywood Sign presents unforgettable views of the Los Angeles metro area. Unfortunately, due to a dispute over access, the Hollyridge Trail is closed until further notice.