Best of Fort Collins: Spring Creek Trail</h1> <article> <h1>Best of Fort Collins: Spring Creek Trail</h1> <p>Amber — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:43:01 +0000</p> <p><em>This series is dedicated to the very best [running trails, restaurants, shops, pubs, parks, etc] of Fort Collins. Of course “the best” carries a tad bias as they are my absolute favorite places in Fort Collins, but I know I’m not alone in my love for these fine establishments. Enjoy!</em></p> <p><strong>Best Multi-Use Trail:</strong> <a href="http://www.fcgov.com/parks/trails.php" target="_blank">Spring Creek Trail</a><br /> Spring Creek Trail is a biking, running, and walking path extending from the intersection of the Poudre Trail near East Drake all the way to Spring Canyon Park (Ava’s favorite <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/best-of-fort-collins-spring-canyon-dog-park/" target="_blank">dog park</a>!). The trail is nearly 7 miles long and connects with many of FoCo’s other trails along the way. I love the Spring Creek Trail because it is centrally located, easily accessible, and runs alongside Spring Creek making for a peaceful and pleasant trail experience. </p> <p><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/CIMG3562.jpg"></a></p> <p>While there are numerous trails in Fort Collins, I certainly prefer Spring Creek. Cyclists are generally courteous of pedestrians and travel at a safe speed, and there is minimal interference from road traffic. Spring Creek is perhaps the most popular trail in Fort Collins, but the path traffic is definitely manageable. The trail is mostly made of cement with occasional pavement and dirt paths. A nice diversity of material, especially for runners! </p> </article> <article> <h1>Best of Fort Collins: Odell Brewing Co</h1> <p>Amber — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:30:10 +0000</p> <p><em>This series is dedicated to the very best [running trails, restaurants, shops, pubs, parks, etc] of Fort Collins. Of course “the best” carries a tad bias as they are my absolute favorite places in Fort Collins, but I know I’m not alone in my love for these fine establishments. Enjoy!</em></p> <p><strong>Best Brewery:</strong> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/taste-testing-at-odell-brewing-co-one-of-colorados-finest-beweries/" target="_blank">Odell Brewing Co</a><br /> Fort Collins offers no shortage of local breweries, but I happen to believe Odell brews the best beer! The brews are always spot on delicious, the employees are knowledgable and friendly, and the tap room provides ample space to sample new and classic brews. Besides providing the community with awesome beer, Odell also donates a portion of monthly proceeds to a charity of the month among other philanthropic efforts. In addition, they encourage sustainability and practice environmentally sound brewing. And they keep things fresh – Odell just released several new beers including the Double Pilsner, a wonderfully light beer perfect for warm Colorado summers. </p> <p><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/CIMG3539.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN0274.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/DSCN0271.jpg"></a></p> <p><strong><em>Check it out:</em></strong><br /> Odell Brewing Co.<br /> 800 East Lincoln Avenue Map<br /> Fort Collins, CO 80524<br /> (970) 498-9070<br /> (888) 887-2797</p> <p><em>Tap room hours</em><br /> Mon-Thurs 11-6pm<br /> Fri-Sat 11-7pm</p> </article> <article> <h1>Best of Fort Collins: Spring Canyon Dog Park</h1> <p>Amber — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 15:38:44 +0000</p> <p><em>This series is dedicated to the very best [running trails, restaurants, shops, pubs, parks, etc] of Fort Collins. Of course “the best” carries a tad bias as they are my absolute favorite places in Fort Collins, but I know I’m not alone in my love for these fine establishments. Enjoy!</em></p> <p>While I am fond of the <a href="http://www.fcgov.com/parks/dog-park.php" target="_blank">Spring Canyon Dog Park</a>, I know know that Ava is absolutely IN LOVE with this dog park. So much, in fact, that we cannot even say the words “dog park” within earshot of the dog. We lovingly call Spring Canyon the “dp” to avoid overly exciting Ava if we can’t actually go to the dog park.</p> <p><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0260.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC05153.jpg"></a></p> <p>Spring Canyon is located at the west end of Horsetooth Road and offers ample space for dogs to run, play, jump, and even swim in the summer. There’s even a small fenced-off area for small or shy dogs. We enjoy going early in the morning (especially on weekends). The dog crowd seems a bit more mellow, but still excited and willing to play. Afternoons and early evening sometimes brings out the more aggressive dogs. Be sure to follow posted rules and please be a responsible owner. </p> <p><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC05139.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC05142.jpg"></a></p> <p><strong>DOG PARK RULES:</strong><br /> Owners must clean up after their pets.<br /> No aggressive dogs allowed.<br /> Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated.<br /> Puppies under 4 months prohibited.<br /> Spayed/Neutered Animals recommended.<br /> Leaving dogs unattended prohibited.<br /> Limit 3 dogs per visit.<br /> Dogs in heat prohibited.<br /> Young children must be supervised.<br /> Owners must carry a leash at all times.<br /> Please keep gates closed.</p> <p>Questions: Contact the Parkshop at 970-221-6660</p> </article> <article> <h1>155 Things to do in Colorado!</h1> <p>Amber — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 22:03:38 +0000</p> <p>While we’re already a few months into 2012, the fun is just beginning! Summer is right around the corner, which means long, sunny days to get out and explore the great state of Colorado. If you need help filling your planner with fun activities around the state, check out 5280′s <a href="http://www.5280.com/magazine/2012/01/155-things-do-year" target="_blank">155 Things to do in Colorado</a>. You’re sure to find something to fit your fancy!<br /> <a href="http://www.5280.com/magazine/2012/01/155-things-do-year"></a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Thank Goodness for Running Shoes!</h1> <p>Amber — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 02:22:50 +0000</p> <p>I will be the first to admit that I totally feel off the running (and blogging…) bandwagon after Christmas. Life gets busy, grading piles up, and short days leave me feeling less than motivated. Not to mention that I was in desperate need of new running shoes…</p> <p>Well, the running gods heard me (and probably my creaky old knees) and with a little extra money I earned at work I was able to buy a shiny new pair of kicks: the <a href="http://www.brooksrunning.com/Brooks-Adrenaline-GTS-12-Womens-Running-Shoe/120100,default,pd.html" target="_blank">Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12</a>! </p> <p><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0250.jpg"></a></p> <p>I wear a whooping size 12 running shoe and thus I usually have to special order my shoes. After a bit of hassel attempting to order my shoes from one of my favorite local running companies (which will remain nameless…), I was able to *finally* get my hands on a pair at <a href="http://www.runnersroost.com/" target="_blank">Runner’s Roost</a> (which is a local company…I had no idea!). </p> <p>New running shoes are like Christmas for my knees. I could hardly wait to get the shoes out of the box and on my feet for a run. I even made the dog come with me. She was a willing running partner and has grown leaps and bounds from last year when I tried to take her running. </p> <p><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN02531.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0258.jpg"></a></p> <p>I haven’t made official arrangements for a race, yet…but I have my eye on a 5K at the end of April. Stay tuned! For now, I’m pleased as punch to be out running again and soaking up every last ounce of sunshine as each day grows gloriously longer. </p> </article> <article> <h1>Best of Fort Collins: Bike Co-op</h1> <p>Amber — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 23:51:03 +0000</p> <p><em>This series is dedicated to the very best [running trails, restaurants, shops, pubs, parks, etc] of Fort Collins. Of course “the best” carries a tad bias as they are my absolute favorite places in Fort Collins, but I know I’m not alone in my love for these fine establishments. Enjoy!</em></p> <p><strong>Best Bike Resource:</strong> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/fort-collins-bike-co-op/" target="_blank">Fort Collins Bicycle Co-op</a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC05064.jpg"></a><br /> As the weather heats up, I see more and more bikers out on the road. Before you haul your bike out to log in some saddle time, consider taking your bike in to the <a href="http://fcbikecoop.org/" target="_blank">Fort Collins Bicycle Co-op</a> for a quick tune up. The bike co-op provides the Fort Collins community with a place to not only talk to professionals about bike issues, but to learn how to perform general bike maintenance yourself! And all of the parts are donated or used, so it’s a nice way to practice sustainability. Volunteers are on hand to assist with any questions about bike tune up or repairs, but you save a bundle doing the work yourself. Plus, it’s a huge advantage to know how to tune or fix your bike if you happen to run into a snag while out for a ride!<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC05071.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC05066.jpg"></a></p> <p><strong>Check it out</strong><em><br /> 331 North College Avenue<br /> Fort Collins, CO 80524<br /> (970)484-3804</p> <p><strong>Website</strong> <a href="http://fcbikecoop.org/" target="_blank">Fort Collins Bicycle Co-op</a> </p> </article> <article> <h1>Best of Fort Collins: The Cupboard</h1> <p>Amber — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 19:19:03 +0000</p> <p><em>This series is dedicated to the very best [running trails, restaurants, shops, pubs, parks, etc] of Fort Collins. Of course “the best” carries a tad bias as they are my absolute favorite places in Fort Collins, but I know I’m not alone in my love for these fine establishments. Enjoy!</em></p> <p><strong>Best Culinary Shop:</strong> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/find-it-in-the-cupboard-fort-collins-kitchen-specialty-store/" target="_blank">The Cupboard</a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/CIMG3589.jpg"></a><br /> The Cupboard is a locally owned kitchen specialty and supply shop in Fort Collins. The Cupboard is not only the best culinary shop in Fort Collins, it is arguably the best culinary shop in Colorado! The shelves are stocked with kitchen gadgets and culinary delights to suit every fancy and the exotic collection of treats from around the world present a unique opportunity to the adventurous cook. Pour a free sample of locally-brewed coffee and peruse the bright displays decorating the store from top to bottom. You’re sure to find something to fill your heart, and your kitchen, with joy!<br /> <div id="attachment_4651" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 170px"><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Cupboardkitchen.jpg"></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Courtesy of The Cupboard</p></div><div id="attachment_4650" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 170px"><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Cupboardcoffee.jpg"></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Courtesy of The Cupboard</p></div><div id="attachment_4652" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 170px"><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Cupboardpots.jpg"></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Courtesy of The Cupboard</p></div></p> <p><strong><em>Check it out:</em></strong><br /> 152 South College Ave.<br /> Fort Collins, CO 80524<br /> (970) 493-8585<br /> (800) 569-1873</p> <p><em>Hours of Operation</em><br /> Monday-Friday 9:30 to 8:00<br /> Saturday 9:30 to 6:00<br /> Sunday 12:00 to 5:00</p> <p>Website: <a href="http://thecupboard.net/" target="_blank">thecupboard.net</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Best of Fort Collins: Breakfast at Lucile’s</h1> <p>Amber — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 21:12:25 +0000</p> <p>In roughly two months, my husband (Ian) and I will be moving from our beloved home in Fort Collins down to the Denver area. The move is bittersweet as we have absolutely fallen in love with the charming and friendly city of Fort Collins; but we are certainly excited to move to an area that is more central to many of our family and friends. Plus, Ian will be working! </p> <p>As we prepare to bid our final goodbye to the Fort, I will pay tribute to this lovely town with a <strong>“Best of Fort Collins”</strong> series over the next 10 weeks. I’ll feature running trails, restaurants, shops, pubs, and parks. Of course these will be a tad biased as they are my absolute favorite places in Fort Collins, but I know I’m not alone in my love for these fine establishments. Without further adieu, please allow me to debut the Best of Fort Collins!</p> <p><strong>Best Breakfast</strong>: <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/date-breakfast-a-new-twist-on-an-old-classic/" target="_blank">Lucile’s Creole Cafe</a><br /> <a href="http://www.luciles.com/"></a><br /> While Lucile’s is not specific to Fort Collins (there are several locations throughout Colorado), there truly is no better breakfast in town! The crowds of locals loitering on the front porch anxiously awaiting a <strong>delicious brunch</strong> will attest to Lucile’s many delights. The New Orleans-style food is fresh and tasty and sure to satisfy even the hungriest belly! Arrive early (i.e., before 10 am ) if you don’t want to wait – the small house fills up fast. </p> <p><em>My favorites include:</em> </p> <p><strong>Beignets</strong>, New Orleans style donuts<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC00665.jpg"></a><br /> <strong>Hank’s Eggs</strong>, a scramble of potatoes, onions, peppers, cheddar cheese and three eggs topped with avocado and tomato<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC00667.jpg"></a><br /> And, of course, the melt-in-your-mouth <strong>buttermilk biscuit</strong>. ‘Nuff said!<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC00672.jpg"></a><br /> <em><strong>Check it out:</strong></em><br /> 400 South Meldrum<br /> Fort Collins, CO 80521<br /> 970-224-5464</p> <p><em>Hours of Operation</em><br /> 7am-2pm Monday through Friday<br /> 8am-2pm Saturday and Sunday<br /> Call-ahead seating accepted Monday through Friday</p> </article> <article> <h1>Estes Park Weekend Getaway</h1> <p>Amber — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 17:12:48 +0000</p> <p>March in Colorado never ceases to amaze me. I remember learning back in elementary school, “March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb.” But that phrase never seems to apply to Colorado. The proof is in this week’s cooky weather: 75 degrees with bright, sunny skies on Tuesday followed by a cold and gray 40 degree Wednesday. Times, ahem <em>weather</em> like this leaves me pining for summer and in desperate need of a getaway. With spring break still a month out (hooray for teaching!), I needed a quick weekend getaway to refresh my spirits. Enter beautiful and delightfully in off-season <a href="http://www.estesparkcvb.com/" target="_blank">Estes Park</a>!<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0120.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0118.jpg"></a><br /> Estes Park is nestled up against Rocky Mountain National Park. Summer proves to be a busy time of year for this tourist destination. Hikers, bikers, and families of all sizes swarm the main street of this cozy town. March seems to be a perfect time to visit for those of us looking more for relaxation and mountain rejuvenation than the hustle and bustle of tourism. (Not that I have anything against tourist whatsoever! I love to be a tourist in my great state, just not when I’m in need of some serious isolation.)<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0101.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0077.jpg"></a><br /> This time of year brings unpredictable weather. Our pre-booked 2-hour snowshoe tour was cancelled at the last minute due to a below-zero temperature and high winds (20-30 mph). With the blessing of the Park Ranger, we still attempted to snowshoe, but lasted all of 20 minutes. That wind is COLD! Despite not being able to blaze a trail in the park, we were nevertheless provided several spectacular views. Wildlife is abundant in Estes! I caught a glimpse of my very first elk (I know, I know…how can I call myself a Colorado native and claim to have never seen an elk in person. But it’s all remedied now!). We also saw a coyote. If you do catch a glimpse of wildlife, please remember, 1) if you’re driving, pull over to get a picture! and 2) these are WILD animals! Do not attempt to feed or approach them. Be safe and keep your distance. You’re sure to get a good shot and walk away unharmed.<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0078.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0094.jpg"></a><br /> I would highly recommend a trip to the <a href="http://www.rmnp.com/RMNP-Areas-HorseshoePark-AlluvialFan.html" target="_blank">alluvial fan</a>. The view is incredible!<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0089.jpg"></a><br /> Winter is off-season in Estes Park, so there are a few shops and restaurants “closed for the season.” For a delicious and jovial meal, head to local favorite <a href="http://www.rockinnestes.com/" target="_blank">Rock Inn Mountain Tavern</a>. In addition to hearty mountain food and local brews, the Rock Inn regularly features local musicians. We dinned to the beat of a classic rock cover artist offering a festive background to familial conversation.<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0061.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0064.jpg"></a><br /> Estes Park offers troves of delights for the off season traveler. Take a snowy trek, a windy snowshoe tour, a dip in a hot tub, or kick back and relax in a cozy coffee shop. Estes Park certainly provided a brief resuscitation of my soul and left me breathing a little deeper thanks to the good ol’ Rocky Mountain air.<br /> <strong><br /> A few favorites to check out:</strong><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0106.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0105.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCN0102.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.kindcoffee.com/" target="_blank">Kind Coffee</a><br /> 552 West Elkhorn Avenue<br /> Estes Park, CO 80517<br /> Serving up fair trade coffee and treats that are truly and environmentally “kind”!<br /> <a href="http://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm" text-align="left" target="_blank">Rocky Mountain National Park</a><br /> Featuring trails, wildlife, and sights galore! Explore to your heart’s content.<br /> <a href="http://longspeakguides.com/homepage.html" target="_blank">Long’s Peak Coffee and Paper House</a><br /> 150 E. Elkhorn Ave.<br /> Estes Park, Colorado 80517<br /> Unique cards, antique-esche postcards, fancy journals, and dependable coffee to boot. I never leave Estes without a visit to this marvelous papery.</p> </article> <article> <h1>Cupcake Cruiser in Northern Colorado</h1> <p>Amber — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 02:42:53 +0000</p> <p>In my quest to find the best cupcake in Fort Collins, I have been disappointed more times than I’ve been satisfied. Bakeries and cupcakeries have sprung up all over town, but most serve cupcakes leaving much to be desired. </p> <p>That is, until I discovered the <a href="http://gocupcakecruiser.com/" target="_blank">Cupcake Cruiser</a>!<br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/20120121_133118.jpg"></a><br /> <br /> For months the Cupcake Cruiser has eluded me. I’ve seen it parked in various lots throughout town, but never at an opportune time for me to stop and sample the intriguing cupcakes. The stars finally aligned this weekend and I experienced the delicious bliss of the Cupcake Cruiser.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/20120121_133141.jpg"></a><br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/20120121_132943.jpg"></a><br /> I was greeted by a smiling cupcake employee who enthusiastically reviewed current cupcake flavor offerings and deals. Each cupcake is $2.75, but she was offering four cupcakes for $10. I’m not one to turn down a deal (or four cupcakes!), so I sprung for the box. She even offered to throw in a FREE cupcake since it was my first time and I was clearly ridiculously excited. <a href="http://gocupcakecruiser.com/menu-2/" target="_blank">Flavors vary daily</a>, but here are the goodies I sampled: the Happy Hippie, Chocolate Loves Vanilla, Vanilla Loves Chocolate, Chocolate Chip Pancake, and Root Beer Float (adorably garnished with a bendy straw!).<br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/20120121_132910.jpg"></a></p> <p>Cupcake Cruiser’s cupcakes are perfectly soft and dense, not overly moist and not at all dry. They are topped with just the right amount of frosting and garnished with treats to intensify the flavor. Truly delectable! I couldn’t stop saying, “mmmmmm” after each bite.<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/20120121_152501.jpg"></a><br /> For locations, check out the Cupcake Cruiser <a href="http://gocupcakecruiser.com/ical/" target="_blank">calendar</a> or “like” them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thecupcakecruiser?sk=wall" target="_blank">Facebook</a>. Definitely give these cupcakes a go – they are so <em>sweet</em>!<br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.iheartcolorado.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/20120121_132846.jpg"></a></p> </article> </main></body></html>