Hashtag Colorado Life

Thinking of relocating to Colorado this year? Whether you’re moving back to Colorado after being gone, or moving across the country for the first time, there are some important things you need to know. Local Coloradan Ryan Nicholson talks about the journey of moving to Colorado and choosing the best place to live for both the money and lifestyle.

Ryan was born and raised in Colorado but he and his wife Carrie moved back to the state about 8 years ago and a lot has changed. They get questions all the time about what it’s like living in Colorado being a native and seeing so many newcomers. In this episode Ryan talks about the cost of living, the traffic and crowds, the job market, the weather in Colorado, local food scene and what it’s like to buy a house.

Here is exactly what to expect when making the move to Colorado in 2022. These are things that NO ONE tells you about living in Colorado, both the pros and the cons. For more information and resources about exploring Colorado, visit our website at HashtagColoradoLife.com or @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#61: Vista Verde Ranch is a luxury ranch vacation that will help you unplug and enjoy a bit of what the Old West is like in Colorado. And thanks to their Adult-Only Vacations you can book a romantic trip for two to rest, relax, and get away from it all.

The ranch was built in the early 1900’s and is steeped in the history and ways of the old cowboys. But it’s outfitted with every modern convenience of the 21st century. From chef-prepared meals, unlimited beer, wine and snacks to horseback riding, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and wine tasting, there is something for everyone and nearly every age at Vista Verde Ranch.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this all-inclusive destination is perfect for Valentine's Day, an anniversary, or a private honeymoon. Listen in to Ryan and Carrie’s personal experience of what to expect when staying at Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Colorado.

For more information and resources from this episode, visit our website HashtagColoradoLife.com or follow us on @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#60: A park built on top of a cemetery. Spirits that haunt one of the most historic hotels in Colorado. A ghostly apparition that plays slots at a casino even when it's closed. These are all unexplained reports of Colorado’s most haunted places.

With a history steeped in gold rushes and ghost towns, it’s no wonder that Colorado has some great paranormal activity. Ghostly sightings and haunted stories are reported at numerous locations across the state, both indoors and out!

Listen in as Ryan and Carrie dive into the supernatural side of Colorado and discover some of the most haunted places in the state. These places range from century-old mining towns and casinos, to spooky mansions.

For more information and resources from this episode, visit our website HashtagColoradoLife.com or follow us on @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#58: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park sits atop Iron Mountain perched at 7,100 feet in elevation. As “America's only mountain-top theme park!” this is a truly unique venue for an amusement park, and one you will probably never experience again.

It truly is worth the hype! Listen in as Ryan and Carrie tour the park and talk about their favorite things to do. In addition to main attractions, like the Cave Tours and the Gondola, there are tons of other things to do at the Glenwood Springs Adventure Park.

Kids and adults alike will love the Discovery Rock Gemstone Panning, Climbing Wall, Apline Coaster, Canyon Swing, Cliffhanger Roller Coaster, and the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride. Plus, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park has two different caves that are open to the public: King’s Row & The Fairy Caves.

Join Ryan and Carrie as they explore this epic adventure park near Glenwood Springs and discover all that the colorful state of Colorado has to offer.

For more information and resources about exploring Colorado, visit the website at HashtagColoradoLife.com or @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#56: Just west of Colorado Springs, at the foot of Pikes Peak, is the quirky mountain town of Manitou Springs. It’s known for its natural mineral springs, mountain landscapes, quaint shops, and beautiful parks.

From the Cliff House to the Penny Arcade and the Manitou Incline trail, there are endless things to do in this small town. In this episode, Ryan and Carrie share the top things to do and their favorite places to see in Manitou Springs, Colorado.

Many of the old 1900s buildings and homes in Manitou Springs are still standing, which gives the town an old, historic feel. If you’re looking for a unique walking tour with a laid-back vibe, then Manitou Springs is the town for you.

For more information and resources about exploring Colorado, visit the website at HashtagColoradoLife.com or @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#55: From vintage pinball machines to shooting galleries, the Penny Arcade in Manitou Springs is a magical walk back in time for everyone. This indoor/outdoor arcade features over 400 vintage games and outdoor rides.

And there is something for all ages with dozens of classic pinball machines that are a throwback to their generation. Some games even date back to the 1930’s with at least one game that is over 100 years old!

If you’re looking for a long-lost arcade game you haven’t played in years, or a unique vintage outdoor ride, you will love the Penny Arcade in Manitou Springs. Listen in as Ryan explains how to make the most out of your trip back in time.

For more information and resources about exploring Colorado, visit the website at HashtagColoradoLife.com or @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#53: Breckenridge is a ski resort town in the Summit County of Colorado providing year round activities. It is one of most well-known ski towns in the country.

And you can visit in the summer or fall without spending any money.  Yep, in this episode Ryan and Carrie talk about spending a day in Breckenridge for FREE.

During their trips to Breck they found some free activities that are big  favorites. From visiting the small historic downtown with lots of shops and good food to enjoying year round rides up and down the mountainside on the Breckenridge Gondola there are endless things to do.

They talk about seeing wildlife at the Cucumber Gulch Preserve, visiting Peak 7 and Peak 8 at the Breckenridge Ski Resort, and taking a photo with the 15ft tall Breckenridge Troll, Isak Heartstone.

Listen in as Ryan and Carrie share all of the FREE things you can do in Breckenridge right now. Whether you're a newcomer or a native, you'll love this episode.

For more information and resources about exploring Colorado, visit the website at HashtagColoradoLife.com or @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#52: Breckenridge has a troll problem! But thankfully he’s a lovable 15-foot sculpture named Isak Heartstone. In this episode, Ryan shares where to find the Breckenridge Troll and how to visit him. From his location in Breck, to the best place to park, Ryan will give the rundown on what to expect.

You can hike to visit the Troll all year round, anytime of day. But please know that this sculpture is Breckenridge’s most popular outdoor art exhibit. In fact, due to the sheer popularity in previous years, the Breckenridge Troll did not survive his first location.

Still, he still resides in Breckenridge, Colorado with a more secluded and wooded home. The hike to see him is very easy and great for all skill levels. This free outdoor activity is fun for the whole family.

As a bonus, you can also watch their latest video about the Breck Troll by following them on YouTube. Just search for Hashtag Colorado Life.

For more information and resources about exploring Colorado, visit the website at HashtagColoradoLife.com or @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#51: There are seemingly endless hiking spots and trails in Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. From beginner level hikes with relatively flat trails, to intense climbs that require expert hiking, and everything in between.

The best part about hiking in the Springs is that most trails are seldom crowded with tourists, and are loved by Colorado locals. All of the hikes listed are free to visit, offer something unique, and have a wide degree of difficulty.

If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle-and-bustle of the city, Ryan and Carrie are sharing their top 5 favorite hiking spots in Colorado Springs!

And in this extra special episode, Ryan and Carrie are celebrating two years of the Hashtag Colorado Life blog and podcast! As a bonus, you can also watch their latest video by following them on YouTube. Just search for Hashtag Colorado Life.

For more information and resources about exploring Colorado, visit the website at HashtagColoradoLife.com or @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.

#50: What’s so great about living in Colorado Springs? Well, Ryan & Carrie have found 50 things they love most about living here. In this extra special episode join them as they celebrate the 50th episode of the Hashtag Colorado Life podcast!

From loving the weather, to being snow bunnies, to the budding food scene and breweries, Colorado Springs has so much to offer. Listen in as they discuss their favorite things about living in the awesome square state.

As both a native of Colorado and a newcomer to the state, Ryan & Carrie share exactly what it’s like to live in Colorado Springs. Learn more about the cost of living here, what the pot culture is really like, the small business scene, and how everyone balances work and life.

If you have been thinking of moving to Colorado, then listen in! This Front Range Colorado city has so much to offer, whether you’re a young professional or family looking to expand, this could be the perfect place to put down roots.

And thank you to everyone who has listened and supported the podcast over the past 50 episodes! Ryan & Carrie are excited to continue on this journey with you.

For more information and resources about exploring Colorado, visit our website at HashtagColoradoLife.com or @HashtagColoradoLife on Instagram.