Here is a short summary of all the places shown in the pictures of Colorado above and in my profile...

Adams Falls is a good drive no matter which direction you come from, but if you have an entire day to explore, the jump-off points are easy to get to.  Either head north from Empire or west out of Estes Park and you'll find your way to misty Rocky mountain scenery.

The Crags (west side of Pikes Peak, south out of Divide heading towards Cripple Creek) were awesome!***** Yes, that's five stars.  The climb up ot the top was a little steep if you follow the stream, but I believe there's a less adventurous route around the other way.

The drive to the ghost town of St. Elmo is totally worth the time, and the drive up to Hwy. 24 is worth it even if you decide not to go up the mountain once you get to Buena Vista.

If you decide to go west out of Rollinsville up to the old pass, be prepared for a bumpy 11 mile ride to the end of the road.  Don't forget your camera, because the views are breathtaking!

Clear Creek is easily accessible, and there are many places where you can pull over and hike out into Jefferson County Open Space.  Not too far from Denver, yet far enough to get away from the city for a real quick adventure.

Bear Creek Canyon drops off steeply almost as soon as you get out of Morrison headed west towards Evergreen.  When you start getting closer to Kittredge there will be several parks like Lair O' The Bear, Corwina and O'Fallon, where you can stop and see the creek, hike, have a picnic or catch-and-release fish.

The eighth and ninth pictures of I. Pass and Hell's Hole are not mentioned above... use your connection, and find out for yourself about these places if you're interested.

K