Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Idaho Springs has long been a beacon for adventurers and those seeking solace from the demands of modern life. This historic town, once a booming center of the Colorado Gold Rush, now offers a different kind of treasure—tranquility and the promise of breathtaking outdoor experiences.
Named for it's hot springs, Idaho Springs quickly became an old west kind of rest and relaxation hub for miners seeking fortune in the rich veins of gold that had been discovered by George A. Jackson. The prosperity in the area was bolstered by the establishment of the long defunct Argo Tunnel and Mill, which facilitated ore extraction and processing and led to a swift surge in population and excessive spending on supplies, liquor and other human interests. Over the years, Idaho Springs has evolved from a bustling mining camp to a charming mountain town that has carefully preserved its historic character while offering a myriad of recreational opportunities such as hiking, cycling, white water rafting, and of course, soaking in the famous hot springs.
For our summer photoshoot we decided to make camp for our models at the Water and Stone Retreat (mention Pactimo when you book your stay and get $20 off per night), just outside of town on Highway 103. The cabins, built nearly a hundred years ago when the rise in automobile ownership led to the invention of "road tripping", stand as a testament to timeless craftsmanship and Colorado's rugged history. Rustic wood and stone exteriors clearly speak to a reminiscent past when families piled into chugging Model T's. Today, the interiors have been luxuriously restored with sparkling tiles, polished wood and every possible modern amenity. It would not only become the ideal locale and home base for the two couples, but an integral focal point of the shoot.
It's a beautiful valley there along Highway 103. When we arrive the setting sun is creating long shadows and whispery hues of soft gold amongst the pines and rising hills. If you stand still to take it all in, you'll also become aware of stream behind the cabins. It's the cool, crisp runoff from Mt. Blue Sky (formerly Mt. Evans), just up the road and cherished as one of Colorado's highest peaks at 14,265 feet. It might be July, but there's still plenty of snow up there yet to melt. The warm richness of the setting couldn't convey the theme for our shoot move clearly, enduring friendship and camaraderie.
The next morning, with the first light of dawn, they kit-up in layers. Summer in Colorado's high-country means they will encounter a myriad of temperatures and conditions, especially as they ascend 10,600 feet to Echo Lake at the base of Mt. Blue Sky. It's a steady climb with each pedal stroke, each breath, reminding them they are heading up, up, and up. They pause a few times, not out of necessity but to take in the majestic views; peaks and valleys as far as the eye can see. Before long they reach the shimmering lake. It's a jewel at the base of the ominous, bald peak. The descent will be cool, especially now that they've encountered rain on the way up and were soaked form their effort before that. Jackets go on. Zipped to the neck. It's time to head down.
The couples opt to enjoy dinner in the open behind the cabins, featuring freshly baked pizza from BeauJo's, a local institution famed for its hearty, mountain-style pies. Soon the gentle murmur of the stream joined by voices sharing ambitions and heartfelt stories. One of them will be racing track at the Paris Olympics. Another details the challenges of working in hospice care. Each shares their anxiety and hopes. But eventually, it's the sound of laughter that carries through the trees as their friendship takes them to memories of previous rides and the expectations for the next days' adventures. It's not long before they are bathed in purple twilight and eternally twinkling stars began to punctuate the sky.
The following day is punctuated by the crunch of tires on rock and the pacing of their own breaths. It's Little Bear Creek Road, a winding dirt noted for its twists and turns and heart stopping vistas. The couples can't help but pause to take in the entire front range as it unfolds before them in a stunning mosaic of greens, yellows, blues, and whites. Standing there, mesmerized by the enduring beauty, it's the second of them says, in and out, back and forth. Back on their bikes they agree it's and exhilarating ride. Humbling, one says. A powerful reminder of nature's enduring presence. A day that will be etched into memory.
The sun is long in the sky when they return to the Water and Stone Retreat. They're tired in that pleasant, satisfying way one feels after a big day. As they gather behind the cabins to share a beer and the day's moments, one of them plunges into the cool water. Then another, and soon all of them are laughing and soaking in the chilly stream. Once they've dried off, they find comfort in the warm, glow of the cabin lights against the encroaching darkness. The conversation, now idle, seems to reflect a shared recounting of the day's climbs and descents, the breathtaking views, and endlessly winding roads.
