The Wheeler Geological Area is a hidden natural wonder in Colorado's Rio Grande National Forest.

It's filled with fantastical formations carved by wind and water out of thick ash deposited millions of years ago by a volcanic eruption. Named after Captain George Wheeler, an early explorer and surveyor, these badlands are something to behold.

Near Aspen, Colorado, I found the fascinating ghost town of Independence. Early settlers there had to be independent--at an elevation of 10,920 feet, the town is buried in snow from October through May!

One visit and you'll see why this Colorado town is known as the "Switzerland of America".

My husband, Myles, and I never really had a favorite vacation destination--until we visited Ouray, Colorado.

Some friends introduced us to this quaint Old West town in 1992, and since then we've returned every year or so. In fact, one year we even went twice!

For 30 years, I've been fascinated with Glen Eyrie, a magnificent old estate with a castle on a hill, set against a dramatic canyon wall backdrop here in Colorado Springs.

It's no wonder this southwest-Colorado route was one of the National Forest Service's first Scenic Byways. To call the San Juan Skyway one of America's most scenic drives may be an understatement. This 232-mile loop through the San Juan Mountains passes through a majestic landscape of alpine forests, lush ranch lands, quaint Old West towns and ancient Indian ruins.

Quite by accident, my husband, Ken, and I discovered one of the most breathtaking attractions in Colorado Springs, Colorado--the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun.

When my wife, Kathy, and I recently visited Golden, Colorado, we made tracks for the Colorado Railroad Museum--and we're glad we did! As longtime railroad fans, the quality of the museum and its collections thrilled us to no end.

When I first read about Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in southwest Colorado, I seriously doubted it would live up to its lofty billing.

When folks visit us in Ridgway, Colorado, they often say the stunning scenery looks familiar--and it's no wonder.

You see, Ridgway and the surrounding area appeared in several classic Western films, including True Grit and How the West Was Won. Several of the best film locations are located along well-maintained graded county roads, and visiting them takes you to some of the most beautiful scenery you'll ever see!

While on a recent trip to the West Coast, we traveled through Pagosa Springs, Colorado. We arrived in town about noon and discovered a natural hot spring in the center of town.