It was snowing here in Summit County a few weeks ago, when I boarded the Colorado Bustang bus service at the Frisco Transit Center. I was heading west for a mud season break. It was me, my backpack, and my bike. My destination, Grand Junction. And after a few comfortable hours reading and napping, I arrived at the Grand Valley Transportation Station. There are timely bus connections to take you just about anywhere in the region, including Palisade and Fruita. The drivers are friendly and informative.

I took another bus to the hotel after cycling around downtown for a while enjoying a bite to eat and a beer. The riverfront recreation path provided tranquility, beauty and access to a wine loop and mountain biking trails. I will be back for a Palisade wine tour!

The next day I boarded the Outrider Bus Service from Road Runner Transportation and the experience was exceptional. I headed South to Ridgway to visit friends in a magnificent part of the State. Since this service goes all the way to Durango, I may head down there in the future for some cycling and brews.

My time on the bus gave me an opportunity to contemplate the environmental challenges we face. I considered the dynamic sustainable solutions being implemented in areas such as transportation, to combat global warming. The rivers and streams I encountered on this trip seemed weary, as the west continues its march toward aridification. A lot of work still needs to be done by all.

When I returned to Frisco, the free Summit Stage County Bus Service was there to take me to Copper, Silverthorne, Dillon or Breckenridge. This amazing system will take you close to your lodging, restaurants, shops and even hiking trails. I chose to simply take it to Main Street Frisco, close to home. As I unpacked, I contemplated the challenges ahead for our land and water and thought about more scalable sustainable solutions.

As you wait for the snow to melt for your high-country adventure, consider taking Bustang from the Denver region to Summit County and beyond. Your summer fun awaits in a more sustainable, environmentally supportive way.

Tom Koehler
Sustainable Hiker