Tons To See in Redstone In Summer
Bring your leather totes and dog toys to Redstone for a family vacation of fun!
Redstone, Colorado is a quirky little mountain community surrounded by accessible camping and 4-wheeling spots and the lively Crystal river, and offering a tiny, fascinating art scene in its downtown shops.
I first happened upon Redstone, nestled at the base of Mt. Sopris, in the beginning of the year, when the powdery snow piled up at least a foot deep. The one place to fill up in townhad, as usual, taped up its two old-school gas pumps in shiny Christmas wrapping paper with huge golden bows on top, and the locally famed snow sculptingcompetition was about to begin. Redstone also holds an annual dogsled race in January and always has something going on like the Winter Fest in February.
During the summer, Redstone is the ideal getaway to wade in the river, go for a hike, and then head over to one of several imaginatively decorated local diners, that serve both hamburgers and seared ahi tuna. Check out the BRB Crystal River Resort to get a quaint little cabin overlooking the river and river rafting during the runoff season. There are, of course, some very lovely places for rent on the town’s main street!
A hike all the locals will recommend just outside of Redstone is Avalanche Creek, right next to a great family-friendly campground, and backpacking is allowed as well. This hike requires a bit of a drive on unpaved roads (not really a rough road, but also not meant for the family minivan), for an immediate taste of the wild, even before you get out of the car. Don’t be intimidated by the 11 mile trail, since it’s a great trail to just wander a ways downuntil your kiddos get tired and want to go back and roast marshmallows.
The historic aspect of Redstone is visible even before you see the town, as you’ll see an impressive line of coke ovens opposite the town’s main turnoff. In the riverare washed up pieces of stark white marble which the river has carried down from the hills and riverbanks of Marble, Colorado. Also part of the town’s visible history, there’s the striking , well-preserved Redstone Inn—also known as Redstone Castle. This lovely old structure, constructed using—you guessed it—red stone, sponsors big special events each season, offers sleigh rides in the winter and carriage rides when the weather turns warm, and regularly provides musicians and a fancy supper. There’s nowhere better to find a comfortable room for the night, or you can simply join a tour and discover some of Redstone’s history.
Before you go, make sure you browse the inn and town’s websites for special events, and bring your swimsuits or snowshoes, depending on the season! Redstone is the kind of little destination with no lack of the amenities you’ll need to have an off-the-beaten-path experience. Visit Glenwood Springs Colorado
Destination links: http://glenwoodspringsaspen.com/towns/redstone-colorado http://activities.glenwoodspringsaspen.com/