Apr 10
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Redstone, Colorado
Redstone is a tiny mountain town that lies a little south of Carbondale, Colorado and west of Aspen as the crow flies. This Colorado mountain town is a hidden treasure and if you like quaint, scenic towns, you’ll love Redstone. Lying at 7,200′ elevation with the Crystal River happily making its way through town, you may be tempted to extend your vacation and get to know this town a little better. After the initial oohs and aahs you will most likely notice the friendliness of the towns merchants and locals. Redstone gives new meaning to the phrase “good things come in small packages!”
Often described as romantic, unspoiled and enchanting, Redstone boasts a castle and a benevolent forefather by the name of John Osgood. Osgood was a turn of the century industrialist who built 84 cottages and a 40 room inn for his coal miners and cokers on the site that is modern day Redstone. Many of the cottages are still used as homes to this day. You can take castle tours, fish in the Crystal River, shop, white water raft, take a jeep tour and enjoy a variety of hikes to please any level of hiker. If you’re up for it, Mt. Sopris is an intense local hike that can be accessed nearby.
While in Redstone make sure to stop by the Hightower Trading Post and Cafe for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The outdoor patio is a lovely place to dally while listening to the rhythms of the Crystal River. The Redstone Inn, Amanda’s Hideaway and Crystal Dreams B&B are just a few of the prime accommodations Redstone has to offer.
Redstone in Winter
If you visit charming Redstone during the winter months you will be captivated by your surroundings. From sleigh rides to the castle, to snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ice climbing or hanging out in one of the towns welcoming establishments, fun and relaxation is king. Redstone hosts an annual sled dog race event that takes place in early January and if you are into it, you can help the owners hook up the dogs to the sleds. The dogs can’t wait for you to release them to run like the wind. While you are admiring the skill of the sled dog teams, keep warm with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or coffee and choose from delicious homemade treats made by locals in Redstone. A couple of events you shouldn’t miss are The Grand Illumination which is scheduled for November 27th where the town gets lit up for the holiday season followed by a bonfire and the Redstone Winterfest, held on the first weekend of February where you can participate in a snowshoe run or watch some ice climbing demos.
Redstone Lodging
Don’t let the size of Redstone fool you into believing there are limited options for accommodations. This small Colorado mountain town is full of pleasant surprises. There are cabin rentals, a beautiful inn, a ranch, b&b and several other options. Redstone is a wonderful place to celebrate an anniversary, honeymoon or just a weekend away. Amanda’s Hideaway is a romantic cozy cabin with its own hottub and fireplace. No matter what type of getaway you’re looking for, you’re bound to find it in Redstone, Colorado and I bet it will be an experience you’ll remember for years to come.
Redstone Restaurants
There is a nice variety of restaurants in Redstone from the charming and historical Redstone Inn to The Crystal Club & Cafe. The Redstone Inn is a warm and inviting place to eat for dinner or lunch and the main dining room offers even the most discriminating palate mouth-watering choices. Some of the best pizza I’ve had was baked and served at the Crystal Club & Cafe and for breakfast don’t miss the Hightower Trading Post & Cafe.
Redstone Activities
Redstone is surrounded by some of the most scenic beauty around and most activities are centered around the outdoors. Colorados renowned Maroon Bells wilderness is just over the mountains to the east and hiking opportunities abound. If you love to hike, fish, horseback ride, raft, snowshoe, cross country ski or just hang out on a patio overlooking the Crystal River, you need to visit Redstone and feel the magic.