Our Unwanted Guest (Mouse in the RV!)
The trip began with an unexpected visitor—a mouse in the RV! After hearing scratching noises, Tara discovered our uninvited guest scurrying across the dresser in the middle of the night! What followed were some intense moments (maybe a little screaming), a crash course in mouse trapping, and lessons learned about sealing entry points and staying vigilant with pest prevention.
Exploring Manitou Springs and Garden of the Gods
We spent a memorable day starting in the charming mountain town of Manitou Springs. The historic downtown was bustling with activity, offering a delightful mix of quirky shops, vintage arcades, and local breweries. We were fascinated to learn that the town’s natural mineral springs—each with a unique taste—contain traces of lithium, making them a historic draw for wellness seekers. The spring that Chad sampled was also naturally carbonated! We were also fascinated to learn (after our visit) that the unique huts (some containing businesses now), used to be tuberculosis huts! The town’s high altitude, abundant sunshine, and dry climate were believed to be beneficial for TB patients.
After lunch, we headed to the iconic Garden of the Gods. This breathtaking natural landmark features towering red rock formations, serene trails, and stunning vistas. Whether you’re exploring by bike, hiking, or simply driving through, there’s something for everyone here. We even spotted bighorn sheep grazing nearby, adding a touch of wildlife magic to the day.
Red Rocks Amphitheater and Being Kicked Off Base
The day of the USAFA graduation ceremonies brought an unexpected twist to our adventure. Due to air show preparations, we were asked to leave the base temporarily—a small inconvenience that led us to explore Red Rocks Amphitheater instead.
At Red Rocks, we ventured onto the Trading Post Trail, but just as we were soaking in the stunning scenery, a cold rainstorm rolled in. Soaked but smiling, we still marveled at the dramatic rock formations and the amphitheater’s rich history. The unexpected detour proved to be a memorable addition to our journey.
Related 🎥
- 2 Wheels, 2 Brakes, 2 Weeks (Roadside Issues Strike Again): youtu.be/MR7J0PMmVRo
- Colorado Springs RV Adventures: Our First Stay at a Military FAMCAMP!: youtu.be/IY9ohP8Z3_k
Links 🔗
- Manitou Springs: manitousprings.org/
- Garden of The Gods: gardenofgods.com/
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater: www.redrocksonline.com/
