The VanJulMan group decided to rendezvous in Colorado Springs, CO for their get-together. It had been a few years since these six had all been together, making this time extra special.

They had a great VRBO home to hang out in and made a lot of day trips. They spent a day at Garden of the Gods which was just stunning. Garden of the Gods boasts 300 million years of geological history which reveals one of the most extensive pictures of earth history found anywhere in the United States. It is a true geological wonder and a photographer’s paradise.

Another fabulous day was spent making the trek to Pikes Peak’s 14,115-foot summit. The fall colors did not disappoint. It was extremely convenient to be able to drive all the way to the summit. Once there, the beautiful day took on a wintry feel with the wind making it rather brisk.

At the US Air Force Academy, they took in several overlooks across the Academy and wondered through the museum/visitor’s center. Sadly, the Cadet Chapel was undergoing a multi-year renovation scheduled to be completed in 2027 and was closed.

A trip to Cave of the Winds featured a cave tour showing off amazing formations and stunning views from the bluff where it is located.

In Manitou Springs, they checked out shops and the Manitou Mineral Springs with 8 different mineral springs once thought to have healing powers. One is even naturally carbonated.

A day trip to Helen Hunt Falls showed them why this beautiful area is a popular hiking destination.

A short drive away led them to the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine where the tour descends about 1000 ft down into the shaft and has different displays of mining methods from the early 1890's. The tour guide demonstrated the air powered mining equipment of the time. Sadly, shortly after their visit, there was an accident with the cable cars they descended in, which resulted in a casualty and several injuries. They also stopped to take in a huge open pit mine operated by Newmont Mining in that area.

Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a rare historical treasure. Preserved under a protective red sandstone overhang, cliff dwellings over 800 years old were toured. These fascinating architectural remnants are from an American Indian culture that roamed the Four Corners area of the Southwest from 1200 B.C. to 1300 A.D.

The group enjoyed their time together catching up on family happening, playing games, eating too much and reconnecting.