As the days grow longer and the sun graces our beautiful Colorado landscape with its warmth, it’s time to shake off our tendency to hibernate and embrace all the wonderful activities Colorado has to offer. While ensuring your estate planning needs are in order is crucial, it’s equally important to enjoy life to the fullest. So, let’s dive into some fun things to do in Colorado this month! Luckily, the entire Front Range is full of activities for all people and personalities, offering a true playground of entertainment at our fingertips. Here are some of my favorite ideas for getting out of the house this month:
- Garden of the Gods – Colorado Springs: Did you know that, on average, about 4.5 MILLION people visit Garden of the Gods every year? That’s more than Yosemite, and on par with Yellowstone for visitation numbers. And we have this stunning gem right here in our own backyard. April is a perfect time to take a mini-road trip and admire these towering red rock formations before the number of visitors starts to skyrocket in the coming summer months. Learn more and plan your visit here.
- Cherry Creek Regional Trail – Denver: If packing up the kids, the dog, extra water, granola bars, and hiking boots to head for the mountains feels like a daunting task, consider trying the Cherry Creek trail right here in Denver. This 45.5-mile trail winds through the city while still offering some of the beautiful sights of the state. The Cherry Creek trail’s two endpoints are the Platte River Trail at Confluence Park in Denver and south of SR 86 in Franktown. View the trail map here.
- Fort Collins Museum of Discovery – Fort Collins: Fort Collins boasts a 16,000 sq ft interactive and immersive museum sure to delight the entire family. Originally forged from a partnership between the City of Fort Collins Museum and the nonprofit Discovery Science Center, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery focuses on “fun learning experiences that explore the interplay of science and culture” and offers a playground for the adventurous spirit. Adult tickets are $15, with youth/seniors/students being $12.50. Kids under 2 are free. Plan your visit and purchase tickets here.
- Hot Springs – Find a hot spring near you: If you feel like you are still thawing out from the winter months, taking some time to soak in a steamy hot spring could be just what the doctor ordered! Colorado is home to numerous hot springs, all offering different views and amenities. Find the right hot spring for you and your tribe from this quick list of 30 Colorado Hot Springs: A Quick Guide.
- The Denver Mint – Denver: There are only 6 United States Mint Facilities (4 production facilities, 1 bullion depository, and 1 headquarters) in the country, and one is right here in Colorado! The even better part… tours are free! Head to the Denver Mint to learn more about coin manufacturing and craftsmanship and the history of the mint. Learn more and plan your visit here.
Colorado Green Chile Ribs
| While I am busy boasting about all of the fun activities that can be found along the Colorado Front Range, let’s take a moment and share a recipe submitted by a local Rocky Mountain home cook. See the full list of Colorado based recipes here. |
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds pork baby back ribs
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 jar (16 ounces) salsa verde
- 3 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chiles
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Additional minced fresh cilantro
Directions:
- Cut ribs into serving-size pieces; rub with 1 tablespoon cumin. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown ribs in batches. Place ribs in a 6-qt. slow cooker.
- Add onion to same pan; cook and stir 2-3 minutes or until onion is tender. Add salsa verde, green chiles, broth, 1/4 cup cilantro, flour, garlic, cayenne, and remaining cumin to slow cooker. Cook, covered, on low 5-6 hours or until meat is tender. Sprinkle with additional cilantro.
- Enjoy!