BY JOHN MEYER, JMEYER@DENVERPOST.COM

Hey there, outdoors folks, and farewell.

After more than 50 years in journalism and 25 years at The Denver Post, I am retiring on Friday. It's been an unbelievable run that has taken me to Mount Everest, 12 Olympic Games, five world alpine ski championships and more than 100 World Cup races. I got paid to travel to 18 foreign countries. I got to cover the golden age of the U.S. Ski Team, from Bode Miller, Daron Rahlves and Picabo Street to Lindsey Vonn and Mikaela Shiffrin. I covered the great American distance runners of the modern era. Before all that, I had a sportswriting period that included covering eight Super Bowls, six World Series and many, many other major sports events. I've been very blessed.

Heads up

Another hot weekend for the metro area is on tap with high temperatures in the mid 90s on Saturday and Sunday. Mountain highs will be in the mid 60s.

Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, the two highest peaks in Colorado, are seen from the Leadville area. (Photo by R. Scott Rappold, Special to The Denver Post)

Your Weekly 5:

1. Lemonade stand atop state's highest peak educates hikers about backcountry safety
2. Summit County has ‘zero tolerance’ for campers who violate tightening fire restrictions
3. Half-ton boulder crushes man on Colorado mountain trail
4. Sylvan Lake among state parks experiencing water shortages, reduced boating access
5. Iconic Hanging Lake Trail now fully restored — and improved

Worth Your Time

Kayaker Dejan Smaic negotiates the chilly waters of the South Platte River at Confluence Park on January 23, 2021. (Andy Cross/The Denver Post)

A beginners guide to kayaking in Colorado

Get Yourself Outdoors

It’s a 3-mile hike to the first of the three Blue Lakes near Mount Sneffels. That’s the halfway point if you want to visit all three. (Tiney Ricciardi/The Denver Post)

Colorado summer travel ideas, from glamping and hot air balloons to swimming and fishing

City fishing, cozy retreats within driving distance and other regional travel ideas

MORE HEADLINES

• Whatever you call it, this wildflower is one of Colorado’s best
• Where to find, fly kites: ‘It’s one of life’s simple pleasures’
• Don’t touch the bat! Jefferson County officials warn of rabies exposure

DOG OF THE WEEK

Sammy

"This was taken in Steamboat," owner Antonella Waidler writes.

If you want your pup featured, email a photo and short description to tfries@denverpost.com.