By Heather M. Jarvis

northforkbluegrass.com June 8-10 Hotchkiss, Colo. In a small valley surrounded by mountains, this festival in Hotchkiss, Colo. is for all those looking for a laid-back weekend with an old-school western feel. Combining bluegrass, folk and acoustic blues, its music has something for everyone, along with a relaxed atmosphere that allows for the whole family. Its adult-sized “Sandbox” event center is the perfect playground for all those big kids looking to groove out to some impromptu jams, and with indoor and outdoor stages, festivarians will be covered, literally. TRAVEL TIME: (As calculated by mapquest.com from Denver, Colo. to Hotchkiss, Colo.) Total Est. Time: 4 hours, 35 minutes Total Est. Distance: 236.5 miles ALONG THE WAY: The three towns in the valley next to Mount Lamborn and Landsend Peak are filled with wineries, orchards and organic farms. Traveling won’t be a problem to get to the wine tasting in the new and improved Beer and Wine Garden, located right in Hotchkiss. PRICE: $$$ CAMPING: Yes