Not to big that you feel like you are giving someone a piggy back ride, not to small that once you put everything in you break the zipper.
Sneakers/Bathing suit
You never know when a hike through the mountains may reveal a secret waterfall or cliff jump or a swim at the beach ignites an inner necessity to climb to the top of a volcano on the neighboring beach.
Small Towel
Whether hiking, on the beach, or just wandering around town, it will be HOT. Sweat isn't cool. You will be a hot sweaty, salty, mess. Promise.
Sunscreen
Protect Yo self. Protect Yo skin.
Scarf
Whoa
wait what? Its probably not the winter during your trip and even if it
is it's probably still warm. I'm not talking about a thick chunky
knitted scarf that will cause heat stoke. For this tip you will need a
thin, LARGE not necessarily long scarf; one that when you open it up its
more like a blanket. Wrap it around yourself and tie the top two corners to the side; instant sarong This will be your swim suit cover up.
WATER
In terms of biology ocean water (salt water) is a hypo-tonic solution
and and you are hyper-tonic solution therefore water will be drawn out
of you and into the ocean through the pores of your skin. If you plan
hiking in the mountains remember this at higher elevations you urinate
more frequently (almost twice as much) therefore you need to drink more
than you typical daily amount. Dehydration is avoidable. DRINK WATER.
Snacks
Since you wont be at home on the computer all day the extra activity might increase frequency of hunger. Avoid HANGER (anger due to intense hunger) its has been known to affect mood, emotion, and patience.
Shades
Protect Yo self. Protect Yo eyes. (they make you look 23% cooler anyway)
Comb
That moment that you walk out of the ocean hair tangled in seaweed, dry from the salt and sun and you are expected to go out for lunch. In public. With a curly Afro. Stop the madness and bring a comb or some scissors to tame the nonsense.
Hand Sanitizer/ Anti-Bacterial Wipes
Whether hiking. on a boat, at the beach or at a museum. You touch things. It's gross. Handle it.
Whether you are a seasonal expert or a novice like myself taking up either of the sports will no doubt help you to feel like a part of the Colorado culture. I suggest taking a class if you are new to the sport. The best pricing I found was at Loveland Ski Area 55 minutes from Denver. My brother and I got level 1 snowboarding lessons for $115 each including a Full day (5.5 hour) lesson, ski equipment rental, and lift ticket + an additional $5 for a helmet and goggles. This is something you are going to spend the whole day enjoying.
(Tip for snowboarding newbies) Snowboarding is a challenge; not impossible ,but quite a workout. I was sweating as it was pouring inch after inch of snow. I suggest taking a class with a friend or two. It'll help you to laugh off the many times you fall in front of your class and your gnarly instructor.
2. Rocky Mountain National Park
A scenic drive through these vast and beautiful mountains is a great way to reconnect with nature.
(Tip for the winter) The roads may be iced over in some area so talk the park ranger (who will also provide you with a nifty map) where to drive to see the most you can while avoiding crashing into the side of a mountain.
Be prepared for some possible animal sightings, there are many different animals living out in the Rockies.
3. FREE
Don't forget to take advantage of the free. Not every excursion taken on your trip has to shell out a few hundred. Nature and the outdoors are free to those who wish to enjoy her presence. Grab a bike and see where a couple miles takes you. Everywhere I drove the mountains where in view. Or if you want to be up close and personal with nature just grab your backpack and a water bottle and take a hike. I suggest Estes park they have a visitor center where someone can assist you with a map and the best trails to take and you can stock up on some sweet post cards for $0.33-$0.80.
4.The Denver Museum of Nature and Science
The 4th largest museum in America located in Downtown Denver. Great for both the young and old with TONS to do and see. With everything from dinosaurs to mummys, gems and even a piece of the moon, this can easily turn into a whole day trip.
By far the best interactive exhibit was the Expedition Health. Looking at your veins through your skin, seeing yourself in 70 years and an open laboratory with experiments and lab coats. Need I say more.
And to top everything off after you are done walking through all the exhibits they have a 4th floor sky terrace that has great views of Denver showcasing both the picturesque city skyline and the mountains in the distance.
5. What to wear (winter)
When it comes to what to wear be smart. In the winter freezing is a definite possibility, but due to the positioning of the mountains its not ridiculously cold that you can't enjoy yourself outside. Just remember to layer. Gloves, scarves, hat, sweater, jacket, coat. There is no need to go overboard the weather isn't borderline freezing. It's just cold. If you layer right, multiple coats and jackets just make you look silly.
6. Driving through Colorado
"The journey is the reward" -Erik Daniel Shein
Most of the drives in Colorado have a mountainous backdrop and will leave you in awe of beauty and wonder. On trips we tend to swell up in excitement of the destination and forget to look around us. As you drive along occasionally take advantage of the random sights made available along the road. Look out for the large brown signs signaling for recreation.
Lookout Mountain
7.Stay Hydrated
At elevations of 5,280 ft (exactly one mile) adjusting will include ear popping and going to the bathroom more often. Avoid dehydration and stay on top of your water consumption.
8. Denver Zoo
Open every single day of the year, the Denver zoo is a great place to take the whole family. It doesn't disappoint and is great for every age group. Visiting local zoos informs you on which animals are indigenous to the area great to know if you are heading out on a hiking trip.
9. Venturing into other cities
As the capital of Colorado its easy to get caught up in all it has to offer ,but don't be afraid to drive an hour or two out of the city and enjoy at the other national parks Colorado has to offer.
10. Taking Risks
Denver alongside Colorado in general is an extremely active city with sports galore and everything geared toward the outdoors and getting you out there. Take a few risks on your trip and turn off your computer and try something new.
