Birding Hike and Hot Spring Soak From Denver

The Birding Hike and Hot Spring Soak from Denver presents an enticing opportunity for nature enthusiasts seeking a well-rounded outdoor adventure. Blending an invigorating hike through a subalpine ecosystem with a soothing mineral water soak, this guided experience promises a day of rejuvenation and exploration. Under the watchful eye of a professional naturalist, participants can expect to spot diverse wildlife and learn about the local flora, making it an ideal way to appreciate Colorado’s natural beauty. What makes this outing truly remarkable, however, is the chance to unwind in a swimming pool fed by mineral-rich waters after the hike, providing a refreshing end to the day’s activities.

Key Points

• A 7-hour guided birding hike and hot spring soak tour from Denver, featuring a scenic drive, hiking in a spruce-fir forest, and a relaxing soak in mineral-rich waters.
• The tour is priced at €366.34 per group (up to 2 people), with additional costs for extra passengers, and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional naturalist guide, and necessary equipment.
• Participants can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including Pine Marten, Snowshoe Hare, Clark’s Nutcracker, Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, and Yellow-bellied Marmot, while learning about the subalpine ecosystem.
• The hiking portion is moderately challenging due to the high elevation, but the experience is tailored to provide an immersive and educational nature experience.
• The tour offers flexibility in accommodating various dietary needs and provides recommendations for appropriate clothing and gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The activity on offer is a Birding Hike and Hot Spring Soak from Denver, priced at €366.34 per group of up to 2 people, with a duration of 7 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is available in both Spanish and English. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional naturalist guide, binoculars, snacks, water, and a hot drink. Plus, entry to a mineral water swimming pool for 2 people is included.

Additional costs include $25 for each extra passenger for hot spring entry, alcohol, and gratuities.

Please note that the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Itinerary Details

The tour kicks off with pickup from your Denver hotel, departing approximately 5 minutes before the scheduled time. Guests then embark on a 45-minute Jeep/SUV transfer to Clear Creek County, where the birding hike and hot spring soak experience begins.

Activity	Duration
Sightseeing and hiking	2.5 hours
Lunch at a local restaurant	1 hour (optional extra fee)
Guided tour at hot spring	2 hours
Return to Denver	40 minutes

After the scenic drive, guests enjoy a 2.5-hour sightseeing and hiking experience, followed by an optional 1-hour lunch at a local restaurant. The tour then includes a 2-hour guided tour at the hot spring before the 40-minute return to Denver.

Guided Hiking Experience

After the scenic drive, the guided hiking experience takes participants through the spruce-fir forest to a lake and active glacier, where they’ll learn about the subalpine ecology and search for wildlife like Pine Marten and Snowshoe Hare.

Led by a Ph.D. ecologist, the hike covers less than 2 miles round trip, with a moderately challenging level of difficulty due to the high elevation.

The highlights of the hike include:

1. Taking in the serene and picturesque subalpine environment.

2. Spotting elusive mountain wildlife like the Pine Marten and Snowshoe Hare.

3. Learning about the unique flora and fauna of the region from the expert guide.

4. Enjoying hot drinks while taking in the stunning mountain views.

Wildlife Sightings

While hiking through the spruce-fir forest, participants may spot elusive mountain wildlife like the Pine Marten and Snowshoe Hare. The knowledgeable guide will share insights about the unique flora and fauna of the subalpine ecosystem.

Intrepid explorers can keep an eye out for these fascinating creatures:

Animal	Description	Habitat
Pine Marten	Agile, weasel-like mammal	Old-growth forests
Snowshoe Hare	Large hind legs, seasonal fur	Dense, shrubby areas
Clark’s Nutcracker	Intelligent bird	Coniferous forests
Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep	Impressive horns	Alpine meadows
Yellow-bellied Marmot	Burrowing rodent	Rocky slopes

With the guide’s expertise, hikers can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse alpine environment.

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Mineral Water Swimming

Following the guided hike, participants can indulge in a relaxing soak at the mineral water swimming pool.

The natural hot springs offer restorative properties and stunning mountain views, providing a perfect end to the day’s adventure.

Within the geothermal pool, guests can:

1. Soak in the soothing, mineral-rich waters heated by the earth’s natural processes.

2. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance and take in the breathtaking mountain panorama surrounding the springs.

3. Unwind and rejuvenate both body and mind after an invigorating day of hiking and wildlife spotting.

4. Rinse off with a complimentary towel rental, available for just $3.50, before heading back to Denver.

Dietary Accommodations

The tour operator accommodates various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, upon request. Guests can enjoy a delightful local lunch that caters to their dietary needs. The following table outlines the available dietary accommodations:

Dietary Requirement	Accommodated
Vegetarian	Yes
Vegan	Yes
Gluten-free	Yes
Kosher	No
Halal	No

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing day, the Birding Hike and Hot Spring Soak from Denver has you covered, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

Packing Recommendations

Participants’ packing list should include a swimsuit and towel for the mineral water swimming pool, as well as warm layers for the hiking portion of the tour. The chilly mountain air and high elevation require careful preparation to ensure a comfortable experience.

Recommended items include:

1. Sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots or shoes

2. Breathable, moisture-wicking base layers

3. Insulating mid-layers like fleece or sweaters

4. A waterproof, wind-resistant outer shell

Bringing these essential items will help you stay warm, dry, and protected as you explore the scenic spruce-fir forest and search for wildlife.

With the right gear, you’ll be ready to fully learn about the natural beauty of the Colorado landscape.

Customer Reviews

Glowing reviews from previous participants highlight the tour’s success in seamlessly blending nature, education, and relaxation.

One customer raved, ‘Ryan was flexible with plans due to weather, knowledgeable about birding and geology, and provided a great blend of learning, hiking, and relaxation.’

With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, the experience seems to have consistently exceeded expectations.

Customers appreciated the guided hike through the spruce-fir forest, the chance to spot unique wildlife, and the rejuvenating soak in the hot springs after an active day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation Provided to and From the Activity Location?

Yes, transportation is provided. According to the itinerary, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off as well as a jeep/SUV transfer to the activity location, which is 45 minutes from Denver.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is up to 2 people. The activity is priced at €366.34 per group, allowing for a small group experience with the provided hotel pickup and drop-off services.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks. The tour includes snacks and a hot drink, but additional meals and beverages are allowed. Guests may want to pack a lunch or snacks for the hike.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Activity?

There are no age restrictions for this activity. However, it may not be suitable for young children or individuals with mobility impairments, as the hike is moderately challenging and covers uneven terrain at high elevation.

Is There Flexibility to Adjust the Itinerary Based on Participants’ Interests?

The tour typically follows a set itinerary, but the guide is flexible and can adjust the activities based on participants’ interests and abilities. Requests for modifications can be accommodated if discussed in advance with the operator.

Recap

This guided adventure offers an exceptional opportunity to take in Colorado’s natural wonders.

The Birding Hike and Hot Spring Soak combines the thrill of wildlife viewing with the rejuvenation of a soothing mineral soak, creating an unparalleled day trip from Denver.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a refreshing escape, this experience promises to leave you invigorated and connected to the beauty of the Rocky Mountain region.

You can check if your dates are available here: