Look, don’t touch? Not when it comes to the outdoors — unless we’re talking animals or poison ivy.
So when it’s time for a tour of fall’s kaleidoscope, I head to Rocky Mountain National Park () to get right in there with the colors.
The great thing about RMNP is that it seems as though there are as many ways to experience the display as there are leaves. Of course, driving through is one of the most popular, and that’s always an option.
One of my favorite ways to experience the park over the past couple of decades of visits, though, would have to be via the scenic Walter Tishma Way, a 42-mile hike that cuts into the park as its winds from Estes Park to Allenspark, with views of RMNP’s peaks even when you aren’t actually in the park (including Longs Peak).
Created by the guide company Footpaths of the World ( ), the journey involves hiking 7-11 miles a day, alternating with overnight stays in inns along the way, gourmet meals, a massage and other pampering perks such as boxed lunches and hiking poles. It’s delightful and a good workout, and you feel immersed in the showy surroundings. Cost: $890 per person (based on double occupancy).
Other top options:
• Learn how to photograph the scenery and wildlife better. Yellow Wood Guiding ( , 303-775-5484) offers group and private tours around Estes Park and in RMNP; guide and professional photographer Jared Gricoskie makes sure you get the shots and understand how your camera works. Cost: Starts at $150 for the first guest ($35 each additional guest, so it pays to bring a group) for a four-hour tour.
• Go on a , for all levels of bird watchers. Bring binoculars and field guide for a 1½ -hour easy walk every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, starting at 8 a.m., through Oct. 8 ( ).
• Want someone else to do the driving? Go on an “elk expedition” with the Rocky Mountain Nature Association ( ), which brings all ages in a 14-passenger guided mini-bus along Trail Ridge Road to track the elk during the rut Friday and Saturday evenings through September and October ( ). Cost: $40 for adults, $20 for ages 12 and under.
Kyle Wagner: 303-954-1599, travel@denverpost.com or twitter.com/kylewagnerworld
2012 Colorado fall colors
