WHEN IT COMES TO RECREATION, there is no "bad" season for SW Colorado and its neighbors to the south and west. Anytime of the year is a "good" time of the year here. For the outdoor enthusiast and adventurer of every level and interest, there is always something wonderful to do.  Colorado, and the Four Corners area are all about enjoying being out doors.

WATER SPORTS
Got a pole or a paddle?  Like to sail, snorkel, jet ski, or just bum around at the beach? Spring and early summer are the best times for river rafting and kayaking,when the waters are roaring and excitement at its best. Utah and the Colorado River make for some of the best adventure, but don't discount the rivers in Colorado. For those seeking quieter adventure, when helmet and gritted teeth are not a factor, try canoing or saling on one of  our many lakes. Fishing, especially shoreline fishing starts when the ice begins to disappear and extends until it cover the water again. Reservoirs and lakes offer great boating and beaches.  Check the  Colorado state parks website for updated information.

OFF ROAD ACTIVITY
Got a jeep?  Or an ATV or mountain bike?  Got feet? Any and all are what you need to follow the trails to high country adventure. Jeeping in the fall is especially rewarding when color is high and the air crisp and cool. If you don't care to brave the roads yourself, let a pro do it. Take a tour and keep your camera handy! Summer, when mountain temperatures rise and snow melts is the best time for biking and hiking. Several SW Colorado foot races, including the Kendal Mountain Run, Silverton and Imogene, Ouray, as well as numerous bike races test strength and stamina. In the bike race, pictured here, race the train from Durango to Silverton, a 2,000+ foot climb , often in snow!

LEISURELY ADVENTURE
Crested Butte's Wildflower Festival is an annual favorite as are numerous arts craft and shows and music festivals. Your sure to find something to please every eye and ear here. Those less inclined to Four-wheel on rugged roads enjoy a more leisurely pace in their own vehicles, traveling paved roads and well-groomed trails to view and photograph magnificent scenery including snow-capped mountains, wildflowers and waterfalls and animal life.  Related article, Silverton Magazine; "Wildflowers and Waterfalls."

HOT SPRINGS
For a respite after  after any adventure, great or small, try one of the area's soothing hot springs. You'll find them all over Coloradoo and the neighboring states. They come in all sizes and some are free. Others, like the posh resort at Pagosa can run you up to $600 a night. A few are hike-in-hike-out, clothing optional. All are comforting.

CAMPING
Recreation doesn't have to mean hair-raising, teeth-clenchinig adventure. Consider camping. Take a book or maybe spend time walking or beach-sitting, enjoying fresh air and endless quiet. At night, lie back and look at the stars. Colorado state parks offer campsites and yurts. Senior rates are available. You can also find numerous campgrounds and RV Parks (Camp Colorado) throughout the state.  In Silverton, Colo, try Silver Summit or Red Mountain Motel and RV Park. In Ouray, check out the KOA or Timber Ridge.

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