I am so tired of people complaining that summer is almost over. Last I checked it is July 22, which means that summer has SEVEN more weekends until it ends (formal end: Labor Day weekend). So why the despair?
Too many of us fail to plan for summer weekends, so we feel it's slipping away and we don't have a choice in the matter. Good news. We do. Thanks to a host of lodging specials, you can still get to the Colorado high country before the aspen leaves start turning. And before you start melting in lower altitudes.
Lodging dealsThe best spot for sweet deals on lodging is checking out a lot of package deals on Snow.com. Golf, spa, and free night packages are always appearing on the site. For example, if you book Vail's Lift, Lodging, and Lunch deal you can get a room starting at $150/night with lift access and lunch included.
For Keystone and Breckenridge resort, get 20 percent off lodging when you book Fun Park access at Peak 8 -- something you wouldn't miss anyway.
Back to NatureAnother affordable way to get up high is to camp. Developed campgrounds can be found at the Pine Grove Campground in the White River National Forest adjacent to Dillon Reservoir. Or tent campers may want to head to Heaton Bay, which has less pavement. More intrepid adventurers can camp in dispersed camping sites in the forest. Head to the nearest ranger district for maps and permit information. Or combine the best of both worlds (the remoteness of the forest with the luxury of four walls and a bed) and rent one of the historic Forest Service Cabins in the White River National Forest.
Near Breckenridge, there is Trappers Cabin and Lodge, a family style getaway along the banks of Trappers Lake. Toward Vail you'll find the remote and rustic Piney Guard Station. If those aren't available, check out the 10th Mountain Division Huts and book a high-alpine hut. These huts feature electricity (solar powered), beds, and everything you need to cook.All of which is to say sometimes the hardest thing about getting to the mountains is not what to do when you get there. It's where to stay. Check out these options and book your trip now.
After all, by the time you read this, we may be down to six remaining weekends in the summer.
--Rachel Walker