Hike to Gem Lake and Balanced Rock in Rocky Mountain National Park
If you are a rock hound and love unusual rock formations, then the Lumpy Ridge is for you. Even the name "Lumpy" delivers on the oddities that you will discover.
Author
Gloria Wadzinski
National park enthusiast, Gloria Wadzinski writes, photographs and shoots video to encourage travelers to try something new. A planner at heart, Gloria likes to be prepared for adventures so she helps other travelers by thoroughly documenting hikes, road trips and destinations, including everything they need to know to forge out safely and not miss a thing.
Gloria earned a BS in Communications from the University of Wisconsin, and because life is change, added additional degrees and certificates from Western Iowa Tech, Front Range Community College and the Art Institute of Denver. Over a 40-year career, Gloria has won national accolades including CUES Golden Mirror Awards for a children’s educational program and graphic design projects, and most recently a Folio Digital Award for the relaunch of a website about the national parks of Colorado.
What is Gloria’s favorite national park? The last one she visited, so the answer changes several times a year.
My Stories
Old Fall River Road in Rocky Mountain National Park
This seasonal road is striking and well-worth driving.
Drive Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park
If you thought the journey to Rocky Mountain National Park was beautiful, just wait until you experience Trail Ridge Road.
3 Waterfalls in 3 Miles on Ouzel Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park
If you like hiking to waterfalls, head to the quieter Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park for a chance to hike to three waterfalls in a relatively short distance.
Hike to Alberta Falls and Mills Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park
This hike past Alberta Falls and Mills Lake to Jewel Lake is about 3.2 miles one way.
3-Mile Trail to Deer Mountain Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park
There are gorgeous views all the way along the trail and a 300-degree view as your reward for reaching the top.
10 Best Things to Do at Dinosaur National Monument
Seeing dinosaur bones, going rafting and more of our favorite things to do.
Go Sledding at Hidden Valley Snow Play Area
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Closest Airports to Great Sand Dunes National Park
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Closest Airports to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Convenient airports serving major airlines include Montrose, Grand Junction and Denver. See maps and our vacation recommendations below.
Closest Airports to Mesa Verde National Park
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Tundra Communities Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park
Hands down the most beautiful trail with the ugliest name. If the views don't take your breath away on this 1-mile round-trip hike, the elevation and incline will.
First-time Snowshoeing Adventure
If you can walk, you can snowshoe. This adventure is easily done by all ages and abilities including families with young children.
Geocaching Across The Divide Through Rocky Mountain National Park
Learn about the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future while experiencing the "Wilderness, Wildlife and Wonder" of Estes Park, Grand Lake, and Rocky Mountain National Park
No, You Can't Name a Colorado Peak That!
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Top 4 Rocky Mountain Wildflower Hikes
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3 Wintertime Blunders in Rocky Mountain National Park
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