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Cultural Travel Expert

Julian Thorne

A historian and local historian who explores the rich cultural heritage of Colorado, from ancient Ute trails to the gold rush era, providing deep historical context for modern travelers.

Writing about travel
7+ years
Covers
hiking, mountaineering, outdoor gear, adventure travel
Languages
en

Stories by Julian Thorne

ยท 14 min read

The Bright Side of Colorado Springs

America the Beautiful, a park given free forever, the highest rack railway and a Santa tracker: what Colorado Springs gave the world, and where to see it.

ยท 11 min read

The Dark Side of Denver

Gold-rush hangings, Sand Creek, a Chinatown riot, a cemetery under a park and a city run by the Klan: the history beneath the Mile High City, and where to find it

ยท 4 min read

Coloradoโ€™s Best Hiking Trails for Beginners

Easy foothill trails near Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins and Colorado Springs, plus a first mountain walk

ยท 4 min read

Denverโ€™s Museum Mile

A walking guide to the museums of Denver's Golden Triangle, with notes on passes and how to plan your day.

ยท 4 min read

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Colorado in Winter

High country sun, safety protocols, and gear for winter travel in Colorado

ยท 4 min read

The Ultimate 7-Day Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary

A day-by-day week in Rocky Mountain National Park that builds elevation gradually, with wildlife-watching and storm-timing advice.

ยท 4 min read

Coloradoโ€™s Best Wildflower Trails

Specific locations, trail details, and bloom timing for Colorado high alpine wildflowers

ยท 4 min read

Coloradoโ€™s Best Hiking Trails

High-altitude trails, altitude considerations, and specific route details for hikers

ยท 4 min read

Climbing the Front Range

Key gear, essential safety checks, and local gym recommendations for beginners

ยท 4 min read

The Best Ghost Towns in Colorado

A guide to the best ghost towns in Colorado's high country

ยท 11 min read

Colorado Ski Resorts 2026/27: Opening Dates, Passes & Where to Go

Announced opening dates, Epic vs Ikon vs independents, the nearest skiing to Pueblo and Colorado Springs, and how to get up from Denver

ยท 4 min read

Coloradoโ€™s Best Beer Trails

A brewery route along the Front Range from Fort Collins to Denver, with named breweries and tasting tips