Adventure #236

Above: Cliff-nicking in Estes Park, Colorado
ESTES PARK, COLORADO
Estes Park in northern Colorado, is considered “basecamp” for
the Rocky Mountain National Park and the adventure capital of
the region. There is every outdoor activity available from hiking,
mountain climbing, mountain biking, rafting, fishing and skiing.
Climate: During the summer temperatures range from highs
around 23 degrees C and lows of 10 degrees. In the winter
temperatures range from 2 degrees to as low as -10.
PAGE & SURROUNDING AREA
Page is a city in Arizona close to some
spectacular scenic attractions: Lake
Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, Horseshoe
Bend, Antelope Canyon.
Lake Powell straddles both Utah and
Arizona and is a major vacation spot for
boaties and fishermen. Although Lake
Powell is officially an artificial reservoir
do not let that put you off. Lake Powell is
one of the most picturesque and intriguing
places we have visited.
Lake Powell’s main body stretches up
the Glen Canyon but has also filled over
90 side canyons. It also weaves its way
up the Escalante River and San Juan
River and merges with the Colorado
River providing access to many natural
geographic features, including Glen
Canyon Dam and Rainbow Bridge, (one of
the world’s largest natural bridges). Hire a
houseboat for a few days, it’s a great way
immerse yourself in the environment.
Climate: Lake Powell area has extremes
in temperature, dropping to a high of 8 o C
in January to a scorching 37 o C in July.
Must see:
Horseshoe Bend: Just a short drive from
Antelope Canyon is Horseshoe Bend. It
is a part of the Colorado River that has
naturally created a horseshoe bend,
creating one of the most spectacular
landscapes in Arizona. Horseshoe Bend
is visible from high above the river bed,
just pay for parking and walk to the most
incredible viewing area. When we last
visited in 2016 there were no railings
and although it made for some incredible
photos they have since installed a barrier
at the main viewpoint. As of 2023, at least
17 confirmed deaths have happened
on the Angels Landing hike, and some
sources put that figure closer to 20. Most
of these were falls from steep cliffs.
The best time to photograph Horseshoe
Bend is either early morning or late
afternoon due to the angle of the sun.
Antelope Canyon: Known for its narrow
rock walls, smoothed by water and wind,
can be visited not far from Lake Powell but
you have to take a guided tour. Well worth
the money.
Above: Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
Above: Cliff jumping in Lake Powell
Why we loved it: Lake Powell and the surrounding area
is unique and incredibly different from anything we have in
New Zealand. The canyon walls are a vibrant salmon colour
and contrast against the green of the water. We spent a day
on the lake fishing for bass and exploring the canyon walls,
which also make for great jumping platforms.
Must do: This area is a climbers paradise but if you want to
experience the thrill of climbing without having the technical
knowledge, then via ferrata is an excellent option. Set up and
guided by Kent Mountain Adventure Center, the Estes Park Via
Ferrata climbs roughly 600 vertical feet and includes a traverse
with incredible views.
Cliff camping: If you want to take your experience a step further,
cliff camping is an option (but not for the faint hearted). Strapped
to a harness your rappel down to a small portaledge secured
to the cliff face where you will spend the night. An incredible
experience!
Best time to visit: The park is a year round destination, however
to experience the most the area has to offer, June to September is
your best option.
Why we loved it: Although busy during the summer months, this
town still holds a quaint feeling. It was also a great place to base
ourselves while exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park.
40//WHERE ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS/#236 ADVENTUREMAGAZINE.CO.NZ//41