A worthy, thirteen hour drive from Austin to Colorado Springs. Colorado has everything you could ask for- mountains, hiking, lakes, skiing, city life, concerts (kickass venues) etc. The list goes on and on. But for this trip the itinerary included Colorado Springs and Rocky Mountain National Park.
Colorado Mountain Brewery was a great stop for drinks and dinner. The venison egg rolls and sweet chili glazed Brussel sprouts were delicious!
To get your day started, grab a unique, butter infused coffee from 13 Trees Coffee Co. located in Manitou Springs. I’ve never had anything like it.
13 Trees Coffee Co. 
Pike’s Peak
Pike’s Peak is one of the few 14’ers that can be reached via car. The 19 mile scenic drive will take you on a steep and curvy journey to the 16th mile marker. From there you can hike the remaining three miles or take a shuttle. Of course we chose to hike. It’s been a minute since I’ve hiked in high altitude so there were several breaks but like my friends say in Tanzania, “pole, pole” meaning “slow, slow”. Take your time and drink a lot of water. Even three miles will feel very rewarding at the top. Pike’s Peak sits at 14,115 feet which is pretty darn close to the clouds. The top also has a gift shop and quick food options including their signature Donut. The only donut made at 14,000 feet. Of course you have to try one because come on, it’s a donut. My honest opinion…very over-rated.
14,115 ft 
Descending Pike’s Peak requires a mandatory break check approximately half way down the mountain to ensure your break temperature is below 300 degrees. They suggest using lower gears to avoid overheating and losing your breaks. From there we drove to Manitou Springs for dinner and shopping. I saw the steps for the Manitou Incline but we didn’t do it. In less than one mile, you’ll gain 2,000 feet of elevation with the top reaching over 8,500 feet so it sounds challenging….but fun!
Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is a free public park that offers several walking trails, hiking trails, technical climbing and biking options. The Perkins Central Garden trail is 1.5 miles long and loops through some of the most extraordinary rock formations found within the park. The main trail is paved and wheelchair accessible. Can you see the “kissing camels” in my photo below?
Kissing Camels 
Check out the climbers
After completing the Perkins Central Garden Trail, we headed towards Balancing Rock. Parking is limited in this area so I suggest going early. Not to mention, this will help beat the crowds. You will not miss the Balancing Rock as it’s unbelievably close to the road. Venture out on the nearby trails to find several other balancing rocks.
Balancing Rock 
Of course I’m unable to drive by a gift shop without stopping in so that was our final destination before driving to the Rockies! Find the rest of my trip here!