Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle

SPRING/SUMMER 2024 DREAMSCAPES 67 drove to historic areas sharing stories of Denver's storied past from the Pike's Peak gold rush to the transformation from a sleepy backwater to a thriving metropolis due to the railroad. One afternoon we explored Meow Wolf Denver, an interactive art show with 110 local Denver artists that combines sculpture, architecture, storytelling, music and video in a multiversal transit station. Visitors explore four imagined alien worlds like the neon metropolis called C Street and the enormous Kaleidogothic Cathedral, in the Ice Cities of Eemia, that is a mythical mind-bend. At night, beneath a starry sky, we joined other concert goers for an R&B performance by emerging artist Mariah the Scientist at Red Rocks Amphitheater. She's no John Denver, but she has a lovely voice and the acoustics and the setting made for an unforgettable evening. Featuring massive red sandstone monoliths, the amphitheatre is one of the most impressive natural outdoor concert venues in America and even though it's a relatively small venue, A-lister performers like the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, John Denver and U2 once graced its centre stage. Accommodations: Thompson Denver GARDEN OF THE GODS Just over an hour's drive south of Denver, Garden of the Gods Park is a geological wonder that ended up being my husband's favourite stop. Colourful eroded sandstone spires and massive monoliths that were sculpted by nature over millions of years are considered sacred by Native American people. Greg was enraptured by the geology and loved photographing these ancient formations along the trails that wind through the preserve. We pulled off the road intending to spend about an hour but instead spent three incredible hours. COLORADO SPRINGS Every road trip should have a big splurge and for us it was The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. First opened in 1918, The Broadmoor is a legendary destination resort that has hosted American presidents, athletes, movie stars, royalty and us. There's a Wall of Fame near the bowling alley in The Broadmoor West building with pictures of some of the famous guests. We spent the better part of a day on the resort trying activities like golf, tennis, pickleball, swimming, and enjoying fine dining. Accommodations: The Broadmoor ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK We backtracked a bit to pass through Rocky Mountain National Park. The scenery is phenomenal and it felt like we were on top of the world driving along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved highway in the United States reaching 3,713 metres above sea level at its highest point. We stopped for photos and hiked in the park. I couldn't stop humming the entire way and thankfully, my husband didn't complain. INSIDER TIP For Rocky Mountain National Park visits during peak season (late May–October), a timed entry permit is required. Book about a month in advance at recreation.gov. PHOTOS: GREG OLSEN

• Cover