Classes are getting more difficult, stress levels are rising, it is time for an escape. Make a retreat this weekend to one of these fantastic locations.

Ouray, CO – Too many adventures, so little time 

Nestled in a valley and shadowed by the towering Mount Sneffels and Uncompahgre Peak, Ouray is one of Colorado’s most beautiful mountain towns. Less than a two hour drive from Grand Junction, and packed with adventures, it is the perfect weekend getaway.

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The valley is a hub of activities from world-class jeeping and ice climbing to its brewery and hot springs. Hiking in Ouray is also spectacular, an entire summer could be spent hiking any of the beautiful waterfall trails or the nearby fourteeners.

The hardest part about a weekend getaway to Ouray is deciding what to do over just one weekend.

The Grand Mesa – Don’t waste your weekend sitting in a car

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Sometimes you don’t have to look far for a spectacular spot. In one hour after your last Friday class, you could have driven to the Grand Mesa, set up camp and already be roasting marshmallows on top of the largest flat-topped mountain in the world.

Covered in small lakes and overlooks with beautiful views of the Grand Valley, the Mesa is the perfect weekend getaway for the CMU student – and you won’t even need a half a tank of gas to get there.

Crested Butte, CO – Here comes shredding season

Winter is coming. Wax your skis, grab a friend, and head to Crested Butte to shred some gnar. Powder Magazine, calls Crested Butte “the best ski town in North America” and I’d say they are correct.

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Extensive and uncrowded, the Crested Butte mountain is famous for its challenging off-piste terrain but it is also a suitable resort for the less experienced skier.

The excellent skiing and mountain town vibe, along with the lack of congestion from Denver tourists, make Crested Butte the perfect weekend getaway when the snow comes.

Zion National Park, UT – A once in a lifetime adventure   

Towering red sandstone cliffs, mind boggling canyons, and roaring rivers and falls make Zion National Park a beautiful playground for the outdoor explorer. Every hike in Zion is a new adventure, from the head-spinning height of the iconic Angel’s Landing to the Narrows, a wet canyon hike literally through the Virgin River.

If you enjoy rock climbing too then Zion is your paradise. The unique area and stunning views of Zion National Park make it worth more than the 5 hour drive.