Summer is almost here! We made a short trip out the Western Slope in April to enjoy the spring weather before the summer heat set in. Rifle Falls State Park is beautiful this time of year and offers great variety in small package. There is a small campground, waterfalls, cascades, caves, a hatchery, and hiking trails.

Spring is my favorite time of year to explore Colorado National Monument due to the cooler temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and lower crowds. This is one of the oldest federal parks in Colorado and boasts a similar experience to the canyonlands with grand views along rimrock drive and a good mix of short or long hikes.

Check out new images in the Colorful Colorado Gallery.

We will be heading out on a California road trip for most of the month of June to finish off the last of the national parks in the Western 48 states. The next update should come sometime in late June or July once I've waded through the mass of images!