For some, it is the gateway to the mountains, skiing, biking, rafting, fun, and something "more." For others, it is the link to museums, shopping, food, theatre, and something "more."
The drive from Denver to Steamboat Springs is unparalleled. Driving up I-70, the road scales, dips, curves in ways that seem to defy the laws of physics. The mountains rise up around you, but not in the imposing way of sky scrapers, but as though they are holding up the sky, opening up and inviting you. The trees, even as they are dying (darn beetles!!!), create an interesting and stark backdrop to the intensity of the roads. The aspens and wildflowers provide relief to both the living and dying evergreens.
Towns speckle the mountains, popping up where the slopes can create choice skiing, snowboarding, biking, and the rivers provide exceptional kayaking, tubing, and rafting.
Visually, the drive from Steamboat to Denver is the same. With one glaring difference. Instead of going to an outdoor fun, there is a different type of fun that is being sought after. Cultural elements, theatre, dancing, museums, art shows, music, and shopping are the order of the day.
A completely different vibe radiates from the city than Ski Town USA. Both are important and both are exciting. However the truly important part is the drive. Most drivers keep their windows up and their A/C on high. I like the windows down and the tunes cranked. The smell of the mountain air, whether you are coming or going, is invigorating. Sing along to the radio! It doesn't matter if you have the voice of an angel or if your singing makes the cats yowl in reply. You are on the open road, the music is playing, the wind is running through your hair, the sun is beaming in through the windows.
My favorite part about driving in the mountains is that there are turn-offs everywhere. Picturesque landscapes are no longer confined to rectangular frames on walls; rather they surround you, encouraging, even begging you to experience them. So get out of the car! Pick some of the wild flowers growing along the edges. Take pictures.
XOXO The drive is the important part.
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