Letter from the Editor

What’s not to love about Colorado?

The scenery is spectacular with many miles of open space to explore. Native flora and fauna thrive in abundance on protected lands. Enriching cultural activities and traditions engage the community and bring them together. The opportunity to grow and learn is limitless. Every season presents endless ways to enjoy the abundance of the surrounding landscape. Summer is the season to camp under the stars, attend outdoor concerts and raft the Animas River. You can eat breakfast outside, hike to a mountain summit for a beautiful view and take an evening dip in the hot springs. Flipping through the Southwest Colorado Summer Guide, it’s easy to see activities and entertainment around every corner. It’s exciting to have places to go and people to see. Yet, what I love most about Colorado is the quiet sunrise. Each one is both a reminder and invitation to live in the moment.

Take a deep breath of fresh mountain air. Pause for every photo. Be open to new encounters. Most of all, enjoy all there is to love about Colorado.

STAY SAFE IN THE HIGH COUNTRY

ADJUST TO ALTITUDE: Drink more water, eat energizing foods and limit caffeine. Pace yourself and know your limits. Symptoms of high altitude sickness include irritability, loss of rationality, sluggishness, headaches and nausea.

PLAN YOUR TRIP: Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return before leaving, even as part of a group. Bring a map, and use it. Some roads in the high country are not suitable for standard vehicles, so do not rely on any GPS device for route-finding. BE PREPARED: Carry a backpack with first-aid supplies, even on short hikes. Bring along plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a compass, map and first aid kit. Extra apparel is also helpful in the event that weather changes quickly, such as rain gears and warm layers.

WATCH YOUR STEP: Be cautious on the uneven terrain. For your safety, don’t venture inside old, dilapidated structures, such as abandoned cabins and mines in nearby ghost towns. RESPECT WILDLIFE: Do not let pets harass or scare wildlife. Never feed wildlife, and don’t leave pet food outside. Limit the smell of any food, garbage or scented toiletries to avoid attracting critters, including bears.