Just returned from a day in the Rocky Mountains and was inspired to write a 5-star review (and no, there was zero pressure or even hint for us to do so…this is me reflecting on an incredible day!) I’ve been on many travel tours and this was the most excellent experience I’ve had.
I’m sure all of Aspire’s tour guides are fantastic, but I think our group lucked out with the best of the best. Aaron really helped the group gel together. About 10 minutes in, I already knew the tour cost was going to be well worth it. Aaron was everything you could ask for in a tour guide. Extremely knowledgeable, intelligent, enthusiastic, passionate about his job, welcoming, patient, flexible, and a safe driver to boot. He quickly made us feel at ease, and was always available for questions and sharing gems of wisdom from his plethora of life experiences and trove of Colorado knowledge with us. Seriously…is there a question that he can’t give a super informed and fascinating response to?! I learned not only about RMNP and its history, ecology, geography, and more, but also about Denver & Colorado - sights, culture, food recommendations, you name it. We even got to hear Rocky Mountain High in the van while driving through the Rockies. This tour was not just transportation, it was a fully narrated immersive experience.
The tour was so well run. New vans with huge, CLEAN windows (iykyk), and everything we needed to know shared proactively. We were never rushed and were regularly checked in with around our comfort level whether for potential altitude issues, A/C level in the van, etc. We were told where the restroom stops would be, where souvenirs would be available, and what to expect at each place which is so appreciated.
The itinerary was great. Lyons was a charming town with amazing coffee and pastries, we had time for a quick stroll around Lily Lake to get some steps in, went to several vistas and lookouts for stunning photo ops, and had multiple wildlife sightings. Aaron made sure we got our photo taken with the official RMNP welcome sign (per request!) and any other photos of us we wanted (solo travelers rejoice). I will be raving about this tour for a long time to come. THANK YOU Aspire & Aaron for an amazing experience!!!