What could be better than a weekend road trip with your mom?! Not too much! Toyota was kind enough to reach out to collaborate on a post. They lent me their amazing RAV4 to test drive during our road trip. The RAV4 was a perfect choice since we decided to road trip through the Rocky Mountains up to Glenwood Springs and Aspen. Colorado is such a beautiful state, with so many places to explore and discover. Each mountain town is different, has a unique feel and each has its own sites to see. We decided to head towards Glenwood Springs and Aspen because my mother-in-law lives in Glenwood and it was time for a visit. I've loved Glenwood springs since I was a kid and was excited to explore Aspen for the second time. The first time I went to Aspen it was the dead of winter, freezing and not much was open, so this was practically my first time going. Glenwood Springs to Aspen is about an hour drive, roughly 45 miles. The drive between the two towns is beautiful so I would suggest going during the day. Since we went on this road trip in October, we still caught some fall foliage, although the colors are best in mid to late September. In this post I will share some photos from our fun Rocky Mountain weekend and I will share a few things about each stop we made on our road trip. I hope you enjoy this post and I hope it inspires you to go out on an adventure, even if it's a local one.

Glenwood Springs

Like I said before, I've loved Glenwood Springs since I was a little kid. My mom used to take us up there to visit the hot springs pools that are unique to Glenwood. The town is so quaint with a touch of wild wild west. Like most mountain towns, there are great shops and places to eat, but what makes this town extra special is the hot springs pool. It's a bit pricey for admission, but well worth it. It's relaxing for adults since it has the huge natural springs hot tubs and there is also a cold water pool for kids to play in as well. I have been to the hot springs pool during just about every season, and it's great year round. Even in the dead of winter you can throw your suit on and hop in the hot tubs (bring a few quarters for the bubbly massage chairs in them). Another thing that makes Glenwood Springs so special is the bright red canyon rock that covers some of the surrounding mountains. It is so beautiful and is unique to this town. Another favorite of mine in Glenwood Springs is the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. I have been to this several times, however we didn't make it up there this time. You can tour caves, ride rides, etc. My favorite ride they have is the Alpine Coaster, which is similar to an alpine slide and is going down the side of the mountain. It's such a thrill! The final thing I would suggest doing while in Glenwood, and of course another one of my favorites is the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue. I had no clue what a vaudeville show was before this trip. My mother-in-law got us tickets to this and I am so grateful she did because this was one of my favorite nights I've had in a long time. The show is an absolute blast, the performers are hilarious and incredibly talented. They serve dinner and drinks which is part of the fun. Gosh I just love Glenwood. There is so much to do in this town, it is an amazing place for families to visit and have a wonderful time.

Aspen & The Maroon Bells

If you get the chance to go to Aspen, do. It is so stunning up there with the mountains and ski slopes surrounding the quaint town. My best friend is from Aspen, so don't believe people when they say everyone from there is snooty and rude... it's not true. The town has so many great spots to eat, drink and shop. If you're a big spender, you'll love the shopping in Aspen. They have shops like Dior, Burberry, Gucci, etc. While you are in Aspen, I suggest taking a stop at the Maroon Bells. This is a scenic spot just ten miles west of Aspen. It is a beautiful lake with two giant peaks behind it. The Maroon Bells are photographed a lot because of the way the mountains reflect on the lake. This was my first time visiting the Maroon Bells, so glad we went!

Rest Stop Off I-70

Right after Glenwood Springs as you are heading back towards Denver through Glenwood Canyon, you will see an exit for a rest stop/scenic view. This is such a great stop and I highly recommend it. I believe it is the first rest stop exit after leaving Glenwood Springs. There was a stunning river, a walking path, bathrooms and tons of views to take photos of. I am so glad we pulled off to see it.

I want to give a huge thank you to Toyota for lending me the RAV4. My mom and I had a blast on the road trip and the car was so great driving through the mountains. I would absolutely suggest a Toyota RAV4 to anyone. In fact, I am strongly considering it as my "parent car" one of these days, I loved the amount of room it had and also I was obsessed with a few of its safety features. Thanks again Toyota for reaching out and lending me the car, I loved collaborating!