Next, it’s back to Colorado for two days of traversing part of the largest flattop mountain in the world—Grand Mesa! More red rock formations contrast sharply with lush meadows as you cycle toward Long Slough and Flowing Park reservoirs. Though you’re in the desert, more than 300 small lakes populate Grand Mesa National Forest. We’ll stop and admire miles-long views of western Colorado along the way and make sure to cool off in creeks and mud puddles!

It’s time to change course—this time toward vertical endeavors. Spend a day learning the ropes at the Pump Station, where routes from beginner to advanced await on this granite and quartzite crag. You’ll have spectacular views of the Collegiate Peaks to the west, and Pike and San Isabel National Forests to the east. After you’ve had your fill of climbing, tie in for a unique rappelling experience!

South of Rocky Mountain National Park, the renowned Browns Canyon on the Arkansas River awaits another day of adventure. Browns Canyon offers the perfect mix of calm stretches (did someone say splash wars?) and exciting rapids—hold on tight for Zume Flume and Big Drop! You may see a few golden eagles and peregrine falcons as you gaze up toward the 14,000-foot-high Collegiate Peaks.

We’ll give back to the areas we’ve visited by volunteering for the Colorado Fourteeners Initiative, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that helps protect fragile mountain ecosystems, build trails, and educate hikers about sustainable outdoor practices. About six hours of our day will be spent restoring trails, where we’ll learn from and work side-by-side with the full-time trail crews to understand more about how great trails are maintained.

A trip to Colorado wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park. The first day, a section of the famous Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, a 3,100-mile route from Canada to Mexico, takes us to Cascade Falls. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, deer, elk, and interesting species of birds (like hummingbirds and woodpeckers) on the way. Vibrant wildflowers will line your path as you make your way toward the almost-50-foot-tall waterfall. The next day, explore a different region of RMNP—this time from the top of 12,713-foot Hallett Peak. As you climb up the mountain through scenic aspen groves, you’ll gain views of Longs Peak, Pagoda Peak, and other prominent Colorado mountains. Bonus: Before you reach Hallett, you’ll reap the additional summit of Flattop Peak, where you can gaze for miles with 360-degree views!

*May do Chasm Lake instead of Hallett