Colorado High on Memorial Day weekend

Freedom means many different things to different people. For us, on this 2010 Memorial Day Weekend, it means a motorcycle ride in the Colorado Rockies with great friends including Veterans that we love and appreciate.

Our trip, 146 miles (actual was 164 miles because of several side trips), takes us from Boulder to Golden to Peak-to-Peak Highway (Highway 119), Estes Park via Nederland, and then on to Lyons before returning to Boulder.

Two magnificent canyons, Golden Gate (from Golden to Highway 119) to Peak to Peak Highway and South St. Vrain (Highway 7 leading into Lyons), separated by about 32 miles of Peak to Peak Highway (in spots, higher than 9,000 feet in elevation), and a jaunt into Estes Park.

From Estes Park and if schedule allows, go on up Trail Ridge Road which, as the highest continuously paved highway in the world, tops out at 12,183 feet.

Having traversed Trail Ridge Road on numerous occasions, we will save this ride to Grand Lake, Colorado for later this summer.

Motorcyclists can easily spend one day and more touring in and around Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Certainly more if shopping is on your schedule. The lakes, peaks and valleys, and rock formations are a must see.

Be certain to add Devils Gulch Road from Estes Park to Drake via Glen Haven to your itinerary. Once you have traveled the route, you will know exactly why this is recommended.

View from Smokin' Dave's BBQ & Taphouse...

On this day our stay in Estes Park was limited to lunch at Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Taphouse. Food, atmosphere, and service was great!

Click here for more information on Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Taphouse.

The route is never flat providing mile after mile of sweeping curves and vistas you must see to believe. Notably, Longs Peak at 14,255 ft. in Rocky Mountain National Park and in view for nearly 35 miles of the ride.

At times the canyons’ rock walls serve as visual barriers to the rest of the world while providing stereo report of your motorcycle’s rumble as you pass through.

Following is a brief photo essay of attractions and vistas along the way.