Tag: nature

Glancing at the Garden of the Gods

Published on by Insider IreneLeave a comment

Colorado Springs is a peaceful and serene place, and while I nearly died on the Manitou Incline (Post here), I was blown away by the beauty of the Garden of the Gods. This natural rock formation evokes a type of Jurassic World meets Cars Lands (from Disneyland); It’s really a sight to see and these photos don’t do the attraction justice.   Visitors can choose to hike, drive, horseback ride, or bike around the mountain to admire the landscape. I came here twice during my Colorado trip and got to see it from various vantage points – up high and right at the base. Spanning a 1,367 acres the size alone would warrant a name worthy of the Gods – yet it was originally called the Red Rock Corral. The name was changed in 1859 from a group of surveyors who thought that was was a place fit for the Gods and since then the name stuck!

You honestly feel like you’re in another world, and even though I’m not really an outdoor girl, I can certainly appreciate the natural wonders!

How would you enjoy this park? Driving? Hiking? Horseback riding?

 

 

XOXO,

Rockstar

 

 

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center 
1805 N. 30th Street in Colorado Springs

Visiting California’s Eye-Popping Reserves at Antelope Valley, CA

Published on by Insider IreneLeave a comment

Recently, I’ve been seeing tons of flower photos through the various social media platforms and with abundant rainfall this year I was curious to check out “The Super Bloom” at at least one state park. My friend and I took two hour roadtrip from Orange County to Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve to see wild flowers in their glory. Suffice to say, we were not disappointed. The bright neon orange plants can be seen miles away.

Poppy Flowers

As you drive through Lancaster towards the park, you’ll be amazed by how far and wide the splatter of color reaches. Many people pulled over to take snap shots at the side of the road, but my friend and I drove into the park to learn a little bit about the state flower at the visitor center and took the official trails.

Panoramic Shot

There were a few trails that guests could explore, but for first timers like me I just wandered for about an hour or so admiring natures beautiful painting. I don’t typically gush at landscape, but the vividness is so surreal that it almost looks photoshopped.

More Photos from the Poppy Reserve

A trip to Lancaster isn’t typically a popular travel designation however if you plan to check out the Poppy Reserve this weekend (April 27th, 28th) you can also consider adding the California Poppy Festival presented by the City of Lancaster to your list. Admission is $10 and while I haven’t had the chance to visit, it might be a cool two-fer.

What’s one of the most beautiful places you’ve visited and why?

 

XOXO,

Rockstar