Hey folks, thanks much for the tips/comments. I'll read up on Bike Touring 101 and AdventureCycling.

Syke, one of my sisters who now lives here in Parker used to live in Montpelier, then Burlington. After her husband passed away and she moved out West. I just got here a couple of months ago from Upstate NY. I think your advice on "stealth" camping is right on. Thx.

Valygirl, thanks for the local (Colorado) tips. My main route into the mountains (as far as I know) is via Woodland Park and some co-workers have been telling me not to go up that way 'cause it's crazy (the drivers). I'll start small (short distances) and see how that goes. I'm planning a short (2-3 day) tour to get me started. Probably July.

Pan, having lived in NYC and coming from NY (Upstate but still) I just had to ask... there are some sick people out there. I know you can't think about that all the time and go touring but I just want to have an idea what safety precautions I need to take.

All: My wife and kids (14 and 12) are into riding, camping, and photography, and just hanging out together. So I was thinking/hoping that we can do some touring together; I believe Trek (?) even offers touring vacation packages... perhaps I can save the cost of guides and just do it myself like I've read many stories here and crazydudesonbikes (or something like that). I just need to get the logistics down and if I pick a good route then we should have a good time.

GreenAnvil