We stayed the next two nights in Steamboat Springs about 3 hours from Estes Park. We went to the hot springs, shopping downtown, swimming at the hotel with hot tub and steam room, hiked to a beautiful waterfall and made smores at the park. We had the nicest weather and enjoyed being outside so much. Even though this trip was a lot of driving,18 hours over 4 days, we still had a great time.
It seemed that we just couldn't get away from the Overlook. One of the hikes in Steamboat Springs was called Overlook Trail. Hmmmmm....
I loved having this girl with us and hearing all of her college stories. Alli is so fun to have around...she makes us all laugh so hard.
Three darling girls with Fish Lake Falls in the background.
We went on this hike during the spring a few years ago.
Once a dancer...always a dancer!
Of course, we had to hike to the top of Fish Lake Falls...through a small steep trail. It was worth it with the autumn colors all around!
The top of the waterfall right before it plunges down over the steep cliff.
Colorado has some beautiful hikes!
Late night runs to Starbucks for the vanilla cake pops and vanilla bean caramel smoothies made everyone smile.
Most of Saturday afternoon was spent at
Strawberry Park Hot Springs.
These two challenged each other to jump into the cold river off the side of the hot pools.
After a few jumps, (I don't know how they did this more than once) they wanted to jump up for a picture. Remember, the water beneath them is freezing mountain river water. Brrrrr!
Ahhh, time to warm up in the 104 degree bath pool.
Alli takes the family selfie!
This is the closest Sara got to riding a horse this trip. Her desire was to go riding while we were here. When Derek checked into it, they said they weren't able to go because it is hunting season right now.
The girls were thrilled that their Dad ordered robes from the front desk for them to wear to the pool and steamroom...it's the simple things.
Our last night we went out late and made smores in the park right along the Yampa River. Derek thought ahead and packed the roasting sticks, lighter and charcoal.
It doesn't get much better than a nice evening together full of marshmallows, graham crackers and chocolate. :)
Today, they are all in costume for school and parties with friends tonight.
