Keeping up with the Kimptons: A Photo Tour of Kimpton Hotels

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Colorado August--summer comes to a crescendo as high as the Rocky Mountain peaks. You'll be glad you saved those vacation days.

1. Time for a Climb
   This is prime time for attempting 14,255-foot Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park. The wise start the eight-mile ascent before sunrise. Call the park at 970-586-1206.
2. Join the Pumphouse Gang
   August is a superior month for fly fishing around the Pumphouse Recreation area near State Bridge. On the Fly can arrange a trip; call 970-827-9390
3. Fly Like an Eagle
   Sign on for a tandem paraglide from Aspen Mountain to the valley far below. A trained pilot controls the bird while you enjoy the flight. Call 970-925-7625 or visit www.aspenparagliding.com.
4. Wonders of Waterton
   Just southwest of Denver, Waterton Canyon is the jumping-off point for the Colorado Trail (485 miles to Durango), as well as less ambitious hikes, horseback trips, and bike rides. Bonus: The South Platte River offers excellent trout fishing.
5. Terrific Tent Camping
   Two excellent tent-only campgrounds grace Ridgway State Park, just south of Montrose. On hand are the Uncompahgre River, the San Juan and Sneffels ranges, and the 1,000-acre reservoir. Call 800-697-2267 for reservations.
6. Follow the Leader
   Guides from the Beaver Creek Hiking Center lead gentle naturalist hikes daily on a high plateau of Beaver Creek Mountain. Call 970-845-9090 or visit www.beavercreek.com.
7. Learn to Kayak
   August, when rivers run lower and the water is warmer, is a fab time to pick up some kayak lessons. Learn to paddle, roll, and strategize on whitewater. Sign up with one of the kayak schools sprinkled around the state.
8. Mega Mountain Bike
   If you're strong of leg and lung and hankering for a seven-day, six-night adventure, ride the 206-mile San Juan Hut System route from Telluride to Moab, Utah. You can do it on your own or inquire about guides. Call 970-728-6935.
9. Get a Lift
   Most ski resorts charge for summer chairlift rides. But at Copper Mountain, they're free. Once at 11,000 feet, take a hike, a wildflower walk, or dig into a mountaintop barbecue. Call 800-458-8386.
10. Pedal the Park
    Winter Park and Fraser boast 600 miles of varied off-road bike trails. Call 800-729-5821 or visit www.grand-county.com.