Visitor Guide 2019 to Delta County, Colorado

Page 1

www.deltacounty independent.com


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WELCOME TO DELTA COUNTY

Under the majestic shadow of the Grand Mesa, Delta County is burgeoning with adventure and restful solitude. With elevations from 4,000 feet to 11,000 feet, the lands here reveal unparalleled outdoor adventure; sacred lands that time forgot; abundant tastes for your palate; and an invitation for you to find yourself. The cowboy, the angler, the chef and the dreamer — all can be found in the beauty and fresh air surrounding Delta County. If an outdoor adventure or a pleasant afternoon browsing art galleries and treasures in museums is what you seek, you’ll find what you’re looking for. Let this guide serve as your inspiration. Come and enjoy all that is Delta County, one of Colorado’s hidden treasures! ~Delta County Tourism Council

NEBRASKA

WYOMING

76

25

Craig

UTAH

40

Glenwood Springs Grand Junction

70

133

82

70

50

135

Gunnison

25

Leadville

Crested Butte

Montrose

DENVER

70

Aspen

24

Colorado Springs

COLORADO

50

Pueblo

50

550

Delta County, Colorado

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@DELTACOUNTYFAIR Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 3


CANYONS OFFER SOLITUDE

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From Delta, Highway 50 meanders toward Grand Junction. It’s a winding road with sweeping curves that closely mirror the path of the nearby Gunnison River. The river, which flows west of the roadway, is not visible from the pavement. It is just one of the region’s hidden features. An uninitiated traveler may consider the area unremarkable. But a few miles from this ordinary roadway sit the scenic treasures known as the DominguezEscalante National Conservation Area and the Dominguez Canyon Wilderness. Both the conservation area and the wilderness are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The conservation area encompasses 209,610 acres (about 327 square miles) including the 66,000-acre wilderness which is one of the state’s largest road-free regions. In other words, the place is huge, about a third the size of Rhode Island. In 1776, two Franciscan priests — Fathers Dominguez and Escalante — set out to explore New Mexico, Colorado, Utah and Arizona. Although their route did not include the sites that would eventually bear their names, their detailed journal describes topography similar to that included in the present-day conservation area: semi-arid land, large and small rivers, colorful vistas, and deep canyons. A more contemporary observer is Hotchkiss resident Joe Colwell, who is the conservation area’s first ever artist-in-residence. In this role Colwell recently published a book of original essays entitled “Echoes of Time: Reflections on the Mesas and Canyons of the DominguezEscalante National Conservation Area.” He emphasizes that his book is not a travelogue but rather a series of reflections on the area. For him, Dominguez-Escalante is more than a place. It is a sanctuary where a visitor can find solitude to contemplate the vast passage of geologic time as well as the more recent presence of humanity. “Echoes” celebrates the area’s diversity from prehistoric ocean sediments to dinosaur footprints, from Native American petroglyphs to signs left by early settlers. Colwell’s essays give a feel for the land’s visible features as well as a sense of the immense time and titanic forces involved in their formation. Where does he suggest starting? A map is an essential resource. Visitors can obtain an area brochure which includes a map at the Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center in Delta’s Confluence Park, or online by searching using the phrase: link to dominguez escalante brochure pdf. With map in hand, Colwell suggests a hike through Big Dominguez Canyon to gain an immediate sense of the place. The full journey is over 16 miles one way, but explorers can shorten the distance as they wish and still encounter spectacular scenery. Start at the Bridgeport Trailhead which can be reached by taking Bridgeport Road on the west side of Highway 50 near mile marker 52. Visitors can also access a scenic portion of the area by car. Take the Escalante Canyon Road on the west side of Highway 50 between mile markers 59-60. Barring heavy rain or snow, the dirt road is passable year-round with a passenger car but four-wheel drive is recommended beyond the first 17 miles where the roadway reaches Escalante Forks. Although the road passes through several miles of private property which are not accessible for hiking, there are viewpoints all along the road including historic cabins, spectacular red rocks, and occasional herds of desert bighorn sheep. And the Potholes Recreation Site area (12 miles in) offers camping, picnicking, hiking and seasonal swimming.

4 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 5


OFF THE BEATEN PATH

IN COLORADO WE STAY THE TRAIL The mission of the Thunder Mountain Wheelers is to reinforce and highlight responsible OHV use, and to modify and mitigate irresponsible use in an effort to minimize resource damage on public land. TMW’s goal is to create a statewide culture of responsible OHV use which will continue beyond the life of the project, effectively creating a stewardship ethic among all Colorado OHV recreationists. www.staythetrail.org

Delta County’s multi-use trails on the Grand Mesa offer plenty of off-the-beaten-path adventure and beautiful scenery for those OHV enthusiasts who wants to enjoy our public lands on ATVs, side by sides or motorcycles. Thunder Mountain Wheelers Club (an ATV club based in Delta, www.tmwatv.org) is a major contributor in helping to maintain many of these trails. Trail #1: W. Green Mountain Loop Trail # 719 & 734. This family-friendly 50” inch ATV/UTV trail is located on Forest Service lands 1⁄4 mile north of the Round Corrals on the Surface Creek Road above Cedaredge. It has an unloading area at the trailhead and is easily accessible. The route is technically easy for the most part but makes one reasonably steep vertical climb. If you’re looking to escape the heat of the lower valley, this is a very beautiful and scenic route that winds its way through aspen trees, traversing to higher elevations into the beautiful pine tree forest. The trail merges with the Eureka Trail #734 & 734.1A in the high pines and travels along several beautiful lakes completing a loop route of approximately 22 miles utilizing the Surface Creek Road back to the original trailhead. Trail #2: A fun place to ride your ATV is the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area (NCA) less than 10 miles east of Delta. The BLM has built two dedicated parking areas where you can unload your ATV. Even though there are no dedicated ATV trails, there are Jeep roads that take you to the rim of the Gunnison River Gorge with several scenic overlooks into the canyon. A loop can be made taking the Smith Mountain Jeep Road to where it intersects with a Jeep road that goes along the rim. You can then travel north along the rim to the confluence of the Gunnison River with the North Fork of the Gunnison River and follow the South River Road back to your truck. Trail #3: East Leon Trail on Leroux Creek for a more challenging loop(s) with dispersed camping on Leroux Creek. Come back on Leon Lake Road (FS #127 to the Round Corrals.

6 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


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Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide —7


GET AWAY TO GRAND MESA If you’re looking for a great place to “unplug,” consider a trip to one of the coolest areas around — Grand Mesa National Forest. With an average elevation of 10,000 feet, summer temperatures are considerably lower than those in the valley below. To reach this oasis of lakes, meadows and forests, take the Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway (Highway 65). From Grand Junction take Interstate-70 east to exit 49. From Delta, drive east on Highway 92 to the intersection with Highway 65. The Delta route will take you from fruit-laden orchards in the Surface Creek Valley through the small towns of Cory and Eckert to Cedaredge, the retail and arts hub of the valley and home to the Pioneer Town museums and historic village. North of Cedaredge you’ll travel to hillsides covered with piñon and juniper, to forests of spruce, fir and aspen. The forests and meadows provide food and cover for big game animals such as elk, deer and moose. Porcupine, snowshoe rabbits, pine squirrels, chipmunks and yellow-bellied marmots are some of the small mammals you might spot. Sun-splashed meadows filled with wildflowers line the highway. Along the route, you’ll find turnoffs to numerous picnic areas, cabins, lodges and lakes. Camping opportunities abound on Grand Mesa. In addition to privately operated cabins and lodges, the U.S. Forest Service offers cabin rentals, developed campgrounds and more isolated dispersed camping areas. Nearly every lake or pond on Grand Mesa offers good fishing opportunities. Many of the larger lakes and reservoirs are home to lake trout and northern pike. Hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders will find a variety of trails of varying length, although not all trails are open to all types of use. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Crag Crest National Recreation Trail, a 10-mile-long circular trail rising from east and west trailheads, with a 6.5-mile-long path stretching across the top of Crag Crest. At the crest, the trail is about three feet wide with steep drop-offs on both sides and awesome vistas. Equally spectacular views can be found on the Land O Lakes Overlook, a gentle hike with views of 13 lakes and the valley floor below. Stop by the Grand Mesa Visitor Center for brochures, maps and books detailing the many trails atop Grand Mesa. Forest Service staff can also tell you where the fish are biting. Grand Mesa Visitor Center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily during the summer.

HIKING ON GRAND MESA

With breathtaking mountain views and vast open spaces stretching out as far as the eye can see, you may feel as though you are standing at the top of the world when you hike the upper loop of the Crag Crest Trail on Grand Mesa. Crag Crest National Recreation Trail is a 10-mile-long circular trail rising from east and west trailheads, with a 6.5-mile-long path stretching across the top of Crag Crest. The east trailhead is adjacent to Eggleston Lake, accessible from Forest Road 121; the west trailhead is just off Highway 65, across from Island Lake. The crest portion of the lofty trail rises from 10,375 feet at the west trailhead, to 11,189 feet along its rocky crest, and down to 10,150 feet at Eggleston Lake. At the crest, the trail is about three feet wide with awesome vistas and steep drop-offs on both sides. Looking for a shorter hike? The half-mile Land-O-Lakes Trail is paved and provides outstanding views of several lakes from the ridge top. The Island Lake Trail connects the visitor center with campgrounds and the boat launch as it circles Island Lake. From the Grand Mesa Visitor Center, try the self-guided interpretive trail which is just .3 mile in length. Visit www. fs.fed.us/gmug and search “Recreation” for a guide to other short hikes on Grand Mesa. 8 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


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LAND A BIG ONE When it comes to fishing, local angler Don Benjamin recommends the Grand Mesa’s Ward Creek Reservoir. “I always catch fish there,” he says. Plus, it’s easy to get to — 8 1⁄2 miles north of Cedaredge, just off Highway 65. Actually, Benjamin says, you can catch fish on most of Grand Mesa’s lakes. There are over 300 lakes on the mesa and 100 of the most fishable are outlined in the Colorado Parks & Wildlife booklet “Fishing the Grand Mesa.” The booklets are available at the Grand Mesa Visitor Center at the intersection of Highway 65 and Forest Service Road 121 and also in Cedaredge at Pioneer Town and Leisure Time Sports. Colorado Parks & Wildlife regularly stocks several lakes on Grand Mesa. Island Lake, the largest lake on Grand Mesa, provides fishing for rainbow trout, brook trout, cutthroat and splake. The Colorado weight record for splake trout was caught at Island Lake — it weighed one ounce shy of 19 pounds! Stop by the Grand Mesa Visitor Center to get started on your next fishing adventure or use Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s website http://cpw.state. co.us/ where you’ll find the fishing and stocking report under the “Things to Do/Fishing” heading. Before the weather gets too hot in the valley, Benjamin heads to Confluence Park. Located in Delta, Confluence Lake is managed as both a seasonal trout fishery and a warm water fishery. CPW reports fishing is good for catchable-sized rainbow trout in the spring and fall, with fair fishing for naturally reproducing largemouth bass, sunfish and crappie in the spring and summer. Crawford Reservoir, located one mile south of the town of Crawford, is a popular fishery that provides angling opportunity for yellow perch, channel catfish, northern pike, rainbow trout, black crappie and largemouth bass. Crawford is also a popular ice fishing destination in winter. For a family outing close to town, check out Volunteer Park in Paonia or Sweitzer Lake just south of Delta. The kids will also enjoy a visit to the Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery, just a few miles west of Hotchkiss. The hatchery receives rainbow trout eggs from various sources throughout the U.S. After the eggs hatch, the young fish are placed into concrete tanks in the hatchery building. When they reach 1 1/2 to 2 inches in length, they’re moved to outside raceways where they grow to the proper size for stocking. The hatchery visitor center is open Monday-Saturday from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and the facility is open for self-guided visits during daylight hours seven days a week. For details call 970-872-3170.

GOLD MEDAL WATERS

The Gunnison River in the Black Canyon National Park and Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is a Gold Medal wild trout fishery that stretches over 28 miles from Crystal Reservoir to the town of Austin and provides many diverse wading and float fishing opportunities. In the Gorge, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife publications, the Gunnison River continues to be one of the highest quality Gold Medal fisheries in the west with 5,000 to 10,000 trout per mile over six inches long. Anglers can expect to catch rainbow and brown trout from 12 to 20 inches, with the possibility of larger fish. The easiest fishing access to the Gunnison River in the national park is via the East Portal Road. Float fishing access is available from varrious points in the Gunnison Gorge. Foot access is available but trails leading into the canyon in the national park are very steep and should only be attempted by those in excellent physical condition.Visit the Black Canyon website https://www.nps.gov/blca or the Gunnison Gorge website https://www.blm.gov/visit/gunnison-gorge-nca for additional information. 10 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


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RUN THE RIVER

The Gunnison River begins its journey where the East and Taylor rivers meet in Almont. West of Gunnison, the river broadens out into the three reservoirs that make up the Curecanti National Recreation Area — Blue Mesa, Morrow Point and Crystal. These reservoirs provide a variety of recreational opportunities, water storage and hydroelectric power. Below Crystal Dam, water is channeled through the Gunnison Tunnel to irrigate farms and ranches in the Uncompahgre Valley. Upstream from Delta, the narrow channel is dwarfed beneath the 2,000-foot volcanic rock walls of the Black Canyon National Park. Where the river narrows, rapids offer thrilling whitewater adventures. At other points the floor of the canyon widens and the river is characterized by shallow ripples.

NORTH FORK OF THE GUNNISON RIVER

Near the Gunnison Forks Day Use Area 13 miles east of Delta, the North Fork of the Gunnison River joins the Gunnison River. The North Fork flows from below Paonia Reservoir, through Somerset, Bowie and Hotchkiss during its 33-mile journey. You can access the “North Fork” at the Paonia River Park. Through a collaborative effort, a former in-stream gravel pit is now a public park with restored river banks, picnic areas and hiking trails. As the Gunnison River continues west, it slices through Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. The Gunnison Gorge Wilderness lies at the center of the conservation area. The Gunnison Gorge offers unsurpassed recreational opportunities, from whitewater rafting to big game hunting. Anglers from all over the world visit the Gunnison River for its outstanding Gold Medal trout fishing and annual stonefly hatch. Visit www.blm.gov or Recreation.gov for a detailed map.

DELTA-ESCALANTE-BRIDGEPORT

As the channel broadens, the river transitions to a placid, gentle float. Major river improvement projects between the Gunnison River Pleasure Park and Delta have enhanced fish passage and made the river safer to float, so those who wish may continue their journey downstream where the Uncompahgre River merges with the Gunnison River at Confluence Park in Delta. As it flows west to join the Colorado River some 40 miles downstream, the Gunnison cuts through the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area. Beautiful scenery, hidden rock art and solitude draw boaters to the lower stretch of the Gunnison River. Opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing and exploring abound. In this area, the river can be accessed at the Escalante Bridge. Take Highway 50 west from Delta, watching for the Escalante Road turnoff between mileposts 55 and 60. Turn left on the dirt road and travel three miles to the river. A popular downstream stop is Bridgeport. Primitive camping is available and a hike up Big Dominguez Canyon offers an opportunity to view bighorn sheep and visit a historic water wheel.

12 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


GUNNISON GORGE NATIONAL CONSERVATION AREA Large expanses of adobe hills, arroyos and piñon-juniper canyons and uplands comprise the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area (NCA), a 62,844-acre parcel of public land managed by the BLM Uncompahgre Field Office. At the heart of the NCA, the Gunnison Gorge Wilderness Area encompasses a spectacular black granite and red sandstone double canyon formed by the Gunnison River. The Gunnison Gorge Wilderness Area offers outstanding recreational opportunities such as world-class trout fishing, hunting, whitewater boating, and backcountry hiking and camping. It includes a 14-mile stretch of the Gunnison River extending from the northwestern boundary of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park to a point approximately one mile downstream from the confluence of the Smith Fork and the main stem of the Gunnison. While motorized travel in the wilderness area is limited to designated routes, the Peach Valley Recreation Area features a challenging single track and primitive dirt road trail system open to motorized recreation. You can access these “badlands” by taking 2200 Road south from Austin (about six miles east of Delta off Highway 92). Follow the signs for Peach Valley Road, which runs the entire length along the western edge of the NCA. The Sidewinder Trail, a 20-mile single-track trail suitable for hikers, equestrians, motorcyclists and mountain bikers, is one of the longest in the Gunnison Gorge. By linking to other routes, trail enthusiasts can enjoy sections of Sidewinder without committing to its entire length. Access the northern portion of the trail by taking 2200 Road and turning southeast on H-75 Road.

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Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 13


GRAND MESA, UNCOMPAHGRE AND GUNNISON NATIONAL FORESTS WILDERNESS AREAS The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest (GMUG) has a rich history of wilderness stewardship with over 10 congressionally designated wilderness areas covering about 20 percent of the three-million-acre forest. Timberline lakes and high mountain streams offer excellent fishing and spectacular scenery; needle-like peaks etch into a rugged skyline; rock, ice and snow blend into soft tundra mosses and lichens; gushing waterfalls and sparkling creeks are lined with a crayon box of wildflowers; elk and deer thrive in these places and healthy herds of mountain goats and bighorn sheep rule the rock cliffs. A full description of all 10 wilderness areas, including links to trailheads and trail access, can be found at www.fs.usda. gov/detail/gmug/specialplaces/.

If you’ve come to Colorado for the mountains, you’ve come to the right place. From any spot in Delta County, all points of the compass lead to the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests — a combination of three national forests which cover 3,161,912 acres of public land in the central and southern Rocky Mountains. The forests include spectacular features like Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain; the Uncompahgre Plateau — a high, almost level table broken by sharp, rugged canyons west of Delta; the West Elk Wilderness Area, with peaks reaching 13,000 feet in elevation; and the Raggeds Wilderness Area, encompassing more than 59,000 acres of the Gunnison and White River National Forests. Elevations range from 5,800 feet above sea level in Roubideau Creek Canyon to 14,309 feet on Uncompahgre Peak. Camping opportunities on the GMUG National Forest abound. While electric, sewer, water hook-ups and showers are not always available, most campgrounds have potable water, picnic tables, fire rings and vault toilets. Dispersed camping is an option in most areas. You can also experience life in a Forest Service ranger station by renting a cabin on Grand Mesa or in the Uncompahgre National Forest. Reservations are required; visit www.fs.fed.us/r2/gmug for more information. Several lodges and resorts offer all the comforts of home. Trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding are easily located using a gazetteer or U.S. Forest Service map. Over 3,000 miles of trails and routes provide access to areas of rugged beauty and solitude in the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests. Many were carved by indigenous peoples, early explorers and miners. Forest maps, literature and America the Beautiful passes are available at the Paonia Ranger District office at 403 N. Rio Grande Avenue in Paonia, or at Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center, 440 N. Palmer Street in Delta.

14 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


ESH GUIDE TO AREA R F M R FA FRUITS & VEGETABLES Welcome to the Delta County area, where you’ll find the

“Best Fruit and Vegetables in Colorado!” 0 Antelope Hill Orchards 22274 Antelope Hill Eckert/Orchard City 835-3111 or 835-3112

Sweet Cherries, Pie Cherries, Peaches, Nectarines. bingcherry.com Open 7 Days A Week.

0 Berg Harvest Mercantile 73 Samuel Wade Rd., Paonia (970) 527-6372

Organic cherries, peaches, apples and pears. Pizza, burgers, fries and great breakfasts, daily specials and other menu items. Freshly made fudge, coffee, soft-serve ice cream and more! Open seven days a week during the summer.

Big B’s Delicious Orchards, Juice and Hard Cider 39126 Hwy 133 • Paonia 970-527-1110 www.bigbs.com • info@bigbs.com

Local Organic Fruit & Produce U-Pick • Camping • Hard Cider & Wine Tasting • Cafe for Lunch and Bar Menu Open 7 Days a Week 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

0 Big B Fruit Stand

769 2075 Rd., Delta • 874-8136 Hwy 92 corner of Read

0 DeVries Fruit & Veggies

Red Shed Produce

The Friend ~ ly Farm South of Delta on Hwy. 50 between mile marker 85 & 86 • (970) 323-6559

Corner of 1800 Rd. & Hwy. 92 Delta • 970-874-8888

Open 9-6 Daily July thru Oct. Large variety of locally grown fruits & vegetables. Baked Goods & Frozen Yogurt. Oct. — Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch and Hayrides.

Tomatoes, Peaches, Olathe Sweet Corn, Sweet Cherries, Pickles, Peppers, Okra and Much More. Open Everyday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Corn Maze • Pumpkin Patch • Chili Roasting Follow Us On Facebook

Rogers Mesa Fruit

Orchards 0 Fritchman 13686 Hwy. 65 (3/4 mile north of Eckert)

Hwy. 92 & 3100 Rd. Hotchkiss, CO 81419 • 970-872-2155

Cherries, Apricots, Peaches, Nectarines, Pears & Apples. Organic & Conventional. Open Mon.-Fri. 8-5 • Sat. 8-12

Packing Shed 835-3628 or Erik 970-640-2925

Cherries • Peaches • Pears • Apples Open 7 Days A Week 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Sparky’s Farm Market

31164 Hwy 92 • 5 miles west of Hotchkiss • 970-872-7737

s Produce 0 Leon’ 19111 H Road • Delta • 874-4249

Tomatoes, Chili Peppers, Potatoes, Beans, Onions, Cantaloupe & Chili Roasting

0 Mattics Orchard

8163 High Mesa Rd. • Olathe, CO 970-323-5657

Open: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 7 days a week Family Owned & Operated Apples, Peaches, Pears, Tomatoes, Chile, Peppers, Squash, Cantaloupe, Sweet Corn, Watermelons, Eggplants & Much More.

Your local produce provider for over 35 years. Variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, beans, chilies, tomatoes, canned goods, homemade taffies, jams & jellies

Maxfield’s Market, at Waste Farms

Delta Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh, local fruit & produce - some organic! Hand crafted, organic coco based soil amendments (made here). Raw local honey, jams & jellies, coffee, pie cherries and handmade artisan crafts. Colorado organic grains & beans. Native, drought resistant plants & hardy seeds. Locally grown, organic CBD products, tinctures, salves, topicals, candies and capsules!

Downtown • Delta • 874-1240 at 5th & Meeker

June thru September, Every Saturday & Wednesday, 8:00 a.m.-12:00 noon. Everyone Welcome Check us out on Facebook

215 Silver St. • West of Hwy 50 bypass Formerly Hi-Quality • 970-874-7626

Open July-August Mon.-Sat. - All “in season” fresh fruits & vegetables. Call on U-Pik Fruit, Frozen Pie Cherries, Tart Cherry Juice, Local Honey, Jams & Jellies, Gift Shop, Fresh-Baked Fruit Pies. Picnic area. Educational Ops for Kids. A favorite place of local folks & tourists.

Wag’s World Orchards 20553 Nowhere Rd. • Eckert 1-888-604-4673 Wholesalers 970-778-5327

Fresh local peaches, apples, cherries, plums, nectarines, berries, pears, tomatoes, pie fills, jams, fresh-pressed 100% juices, dried fruit and veggies, raw local honey and all kinds of garden veggies and more! Thanks for your support of our farm and agriculture in beautiful Delta County!

Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 15


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Delta County Colorado

Welcome to Delta County! Delta County would like to extend a warm welcome; thank you for visiting the most beautiful County in Colorado. With 1,142 square miles, and 6 amazing and diverse communities, Delta County offers varied opportunities of exploration! With amazing weather and minimal traffic for travel, Delta County is quickly becoming one of the most sought after places to visit, live and play. Delta County is known for its rich agricultural heritage, which continues to grow and split off into new uncharted territories each year. With everything from ranching to wineries, Delta County truly offers the “farm to table” experience whether you live here, or are simply passing through. We love the 5 beautifully diverse communities of Delta County; Cedaredge, Crawford, Delta, Hotchkiss, Orchard City, and Paonia! On any given day in Delta County you can float the river, tour a winery, ride a mountain bike or ATV trail, tour an art district, brush up on your fishing skills, or enjoy a hike; there is truly something for everyone in Delta County! If you are planning an event, Delta County Fairgrounds has everything you need, from small to large groups; Delta County Fairgrounds can accommodate just about any event, whether it’s an inside or outside gathering, we’ve got you covered! For more information on Delta County, visit deltacounty.com or deltacountycolorado.com. 16 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide

LIVE LIFE OUTSIDE

Three large, state-operated reservoirs — Crawford, Paonia and Sweitzer — can be found in Delta County. These reservoirs are administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Great opportunities for picnicking, boating, water skiing, camping, swimming and fishing abound at all three areas. Sweitzer is day use only, but you can reserve camping spots in Crawford or Paonia on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website, www.parks.state.co.us. Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Colorado Department of Natural Resources recently released the Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX), the state’s official trails map. Use this app to discover and navigate trails on federal, state and local lands. The free web and mobile trails application details over 39,000 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and motorized recreation. 400 surface acres of water CRAWFORD andWith 337 land acres of recreation area, Reservoir is popular with RESERVOIR Crawford local fishermen, boaters, water skiers and campers. Picnic areas, over 60 campsites, nature trails, a swim beach and a playground can also be found at Crawford State Park. The park’s 6,600-foot elevation guarantees visitors a mild climate at any season. The spectacular north rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is only 12 miles from the park. Nearby are Needle Rock, Castle Rock and Saddle Mountain. To get to Crawford Reservoir State Recreation Area, travel south of Crawford one mile on Hwy. 92. Paonia State Park is located in PAONIA the shadow of the majestic Ragged about 16 miles northSTATE PARK Mountains, east of Paonia and five miles from Somerset on Hwy. 133. The steep mountainsides give this lake an alpine flavor. The 334-surface-acre reservoir offers water skiing, boating and fishing. There are no hiking trails at Paonia State Park, but during the summer months hikers will enjoy the trail systems in the Raggeds Wilderness Area nearby. Paonia State Park has 15 campsites, vault toilets and a concrete boat ramp. No drinking water is available, so be sure to bring your own.

SWEITZER STATE PARK

Located just one mile south of Delta on Hwy. 50, Sweitzer State Park is a day-use only area.

Views of the majestic San Juans, the Uncompahgre Plateau, Grand Mesa and the West Elks can be enjoyed from shady picnic areas. Playground equipment and a sandy beach lie adjacent to a protected swim area. Sweitzer Lake is considered a good fishing spot for youngsters with catfish, bluegill, green sunfish, and carp. Sweitzer Lake is a catch and release only lake. A waterfowl area on the east end of the lake provides a haven for many native birds and migratory waterfowl.


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A publication of the Delta County Independent 401 Meeker, Delta (970) 874-4421 Visit us at www.deltacounty independent.com

We offer a selection of rustic cabins and RV hookups. Each cabin is unique, all offering comfortable sleeping arrangements, a hot shower, access to the central outdoor area, and access to the main lodge.

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The cabins sleep 2-10 people, and we offer single communal beds in our main lodge. Close to fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

If you arc interested in renting out the whole property please reach out to us at book @kiscrcrcckcabins.com and we will work to set up the 1Jcrfcct package for your needs.

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Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 17


FORT UNCOMPAHGRE

Fort Uncompahgre Interpretive Center, located on the northeastern corner of Confluence Park in Delta, is a re-creation of Antoine Roubidoux’s 1828-1844 fur trapping and trading post. The fort has been faithfully replicated, from the dirt floors in the rough-hewn log buildings to the beads, furs and other trade goods on display. Fort Uncompahgre also serves as an interpretive center for the Old Spanish Trail, remnants of which are still visible just outside of town. The original fort was located along the North Branch, which served as a trade route for early explorers, trappers and traders who bartered with the native Ute tribes of Colorado. Self-guided tours of the fort are available year-round from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday. There is an admission fee. Additionally, the visitor center provides information about public lands in the area. Western Colorado is the only place in the West boasting three BLM National Conservation Areas — Gunnison Gorge, Dominguez-Escalante and McInnis Canyons — within an hour’s drive of one another. Permits, maps, park passes and literature for the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests are also available at the fort. Stop by to learn about trails, roads and campgrounds on the surrounding forests and public land. Learn more by calling 970-874-8349 or online at http:// fortuncompahgre.org/.

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Cedaredge, Colorado | cristeemeade.com | 970-856-3711 Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 19


BIRD WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND

Bird watchers and photographers are in for a treat when they get off the beaten path and travel along the county’s numerous rural roads. Depending on the season and time of day, bird enthusiasts can view anything from stately sandhill cranes to pint-sized boreal owls and tiny hummingbirds and every feathered friend in between including raptors, shorebirds, bluebirds, wrens, woodpeckers, swallows and warblers. Three websites provide an abundance of information: The Black Canyon Audubon Society lists several bird-watching sites along with maps, directions and tips on birds that are likely to be seen in the area during various seasons of the year. Go to www.blackcanyonaudubon.org and click on “Birding.” Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) includes Delta County in its list of state birding trails. A website map shows specific areas and including viewing tips. Go to https://cpw. state.co.us and click on “Places to go.” Then select “Trails” and follow the links to Colorado Birding Trails, Western, Fruitgrowers Trail. Colorado Field Ornithologists (CFO) is a nonprofit volunteer organization devoted to the study, conservation and enjoyment of the state’s birds. CFO publishes a journal entitled “Colorado Birds” which is available to those who join the organization. Members and non-members alike can access their helpful website which includes maps and bird checklists. Go to https://cobirds.org and select Delta County.

Photos by Sandy Wilt

BERG HARVEST MERCANTILE 73 Samuel Wade Road • Paonia, CO 81428 970-527-MERC (6372) • Open 7 days a week! • berghaNest.com

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Pizza,Burgers and Fries Freshlymade fudge Coffee Great menu items Soft-serve ice cream Shakes and frappes Local products Vintage candy ...and more!

20 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


ROCK SHOP!

Thanks for visiting Delta County.

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HOSPITAL

THE CARE YOU NEED FROM THE PEOPLE YOU CAN TRUST, CLOSE TO HOME.

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PIONEER TOWN

Pioneer Town is a unique museum and historical village in Cedaredge just off Highway 65. A nominal fee is charged to tour the 25 buildings within the Pioneer Town complex. All are original restorations moved from nearby locations or authentic replicas. The buildings house objects and artifacts from early days with connections to the area’s pioneer families. Hours are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Applefest weekend, Oct. 5-6. For more information, call 970-856-7554, check out www. pioneertown.org or visit Facebook at Pioneer Town Museum Cedaredge Colorado.

DELTALOCATIONS Delta-Montrose Home Health Services 70 Stafford Lane 970.874.2463

Pulmonary Cllnlc 1450 Burgess St 970.399.2635

Grand Mesa Oncology & Infusion Center 1501 E 3rd St 970.399.2895

Family Medicine 555 Meeker St 970.874.5777

Premier Women's Healthcare 236 Cottonwood St 970.874.7930

Internal Medicine Associates 1450 Burgess St 970.874.7668

Grand Mesa Rheumatology 1501 E 3rd St 970.399.2890

Urgent Care 155 Stafford Ln 970.874.7696

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22 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide

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CHURCH DIRECTORY Your Guide to Delta County Houses of Worship

DELTA CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH (SBC)

1290 A St. • Delta • 970-874-9497 www.calvarydelta.org office@calvarydelta.org Sunday Bible Study 9:00 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 a.m. Childcare Services Provided

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CHRISTIAN SCIENCE SOCIETY

751 Meeker St. • Delta • 874-8083 Sunday: Bible Lesson Sermon 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10:00 a.m. 2nd & 4th Wednesday Testimony Meeting April-Oct. 7:00 p.m. Nov.-March 4:00 p.m. Everyone Welcome ———————————————————————————————————————————————————

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

1679 Pioneer Road, Delta, CO 81416 Uncompahgre Ward Sacrament Meeting 10:30 a.m. Delta Ward Sacrament Meeting 9:00 a.m.

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DELTA CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Reaching the children and youth of Western Delta County I Rd. & 1600 Rd. • North Delta • 874-4322 Worship 10:00 a.m. Children’s Church Age 3 thru 5th grade Childcare - (infant thru preschool) all services www.deltachristianchurch.org ———————————————————————————————————————————————————

DELTA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

417 Meeker, Delta, CO • (970) 874-9501 www.deltamethodist.org Pastor: Tom Hazelwood Contemporary Worship Service 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 10:45 a.m. • NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE •

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FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF DELTA

1250 Pioneer Rd. • Delta • 874-3847 deltafirstbaptistchurch.com deltafbc@yahoo.com Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. Karen Worship 12:30 p.m. Wed. AWANA Club (Sept.-April) 6:00 p.m.

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GARNET MESA BAPTIST CHURCH

863 “A” Street • Delta • 874-4837 Pastor Jerry Hilterbrand Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship Services 11:00 a.m. & 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Family Night 7:00 p.m. Independent Baptist

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PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF DELTA

4th and Meeker • Delta • 874-4893 http://www.deltapres.org Find us on Facebook Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:30 a.m.

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REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH & TINY TREASURES PRESCHOOL

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

41006 Lamborn Dr. • Paonia • 527-5683 Pastor Eliezer Roque Cisneros • 404-391-9240 Saturday Worship 9:00 a.m. Sabbath School Saturday 10:00 a.m. Prayer Meeting Wednesday 6:00 p.m.

1000 Pioneer Road, Delta, CO (970) 874-3052 Reverend Kurt A. Van Fossan Worship Service 9:00 a.m. Bible Class, Sunday School 10:30 a.m. Missouri Synod www.deltalutheran.org

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ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE ORTHODOX CHURCH

298 Bert Street, Delta, CO • (970) 874-5225 Father Benjamin Huggins SaintAndrewsDelta.org Saturday Great Vespers 5:00 p.m. Sunday Divine Liturgy 9:30 a.m. Please call for festal and weekday services schedule

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SURFACE CREEK CEDAREDGE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

210 NW 3rd St. (P.O. Box 369) Cedaredge, CO 81413 Pastor Joe Agne — Church Phone 970-856-3696 www.cedaredgercumc.com Worship & Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Fellowship time immediately following service. ———————————————————————————————————————————————————

ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

5th & Palmer St. • Delta Rev. Lili Bush Interim Rector • Rector’s Office 874-9489 Holy Eucharist and Sunday School (Sunday) 10:15 a.m. Catch The Spirit ———————————————————————————————————————————————————

ST. MICHAEL CATHOLIC CHURCH

628 Meeker St. • Delta • 874-3300 Fr. Albeiro Herrera-Ciro Deacon Price Hatcher Saturday English Mass 5:00 p.m. Spanish Mass 7:00 p.m. Sunday English Mass 10:00 a.m. Spanish Mass 12:00 noon

ST. PHILIP BENIZI CATHOLIC CHURCH

290 N.W. Cedar Ave., Cedaredge, CO 81413 970-856-6495 Fr. Albeiro Herrera-Ciro Deacon Price Hatcher Sunday Mass 8:00 a.m. Tuesday Adoration 12:00 noon-6:00 p.m. Tuesday Mass 6:00 p.m.

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SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

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290 S.W. 2nd Ave. • Cedaredge Pastor Eliezer Roque Cisneros • 856-6863 Sabbath School Saturday 9:15 a.m. Morning Worship Saturday 10:50 a.m. Prayer Meeting Wednesday 4:15 p.m.

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SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

763 Meeker St. • Delta Pastor Eliezer Roque Cisneros • 874-9482 Sabbath School Saturday 9:20 a.m. Morning Worship 11:00 a.m. Prayer Meeting Wednesday 6:00 p.m.

TRUE LIFE CHURCH

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NORTH FORK

1507 S.W. 9th St. • Cedaredge, CO 81413 • 856-3586 Rev. Bob Hillyer, Pastor Sunday: Worship Service 10:00 a.m. Adult Studies 9:00 a.m. Children’s Church 10:30 a.m. Youth 6:00 p.m. Nursery Provided ———————————————————————————————————————————————————

Delta County places of worship welcome you.

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

511 Oak Avenue, Paonia, CO 81428 Sacrament Meeting 10:00 a.m.

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HOTCHKISS FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Jake DeField Youth Pastor James Parks 203 W. Main St. • Hotchkiss • 970-872-3313 Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship Service 11:00 a.m. Sunday Evening 5:00 p.m. Wednesday Awana 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Adult Bible & Prayer 7:00 p.m. Wednesday Youth Group 7:00 p.m.

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MOUNTAIN VIEW BIBLE CHURCH

871 3100 Rd. (P.O. Box 74), Lazear, CO • 872-2139 Pastor Jim Jesser Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Morning Service 11:00 a.m. Sunday Evening Service 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study & Prayer 7:00 p.m. ———————————————————————————————————————————————————

Delta DeltaCounty CountyIndependent Independent2016 2011Visitor’s Visitor’sGuide Guide— —23 29


DELTA

Delta is the largest community in the county with a population of about 8,000. Another 5,000 people live in the unincorporated areas surrounding the city. The city’s rural atmosphere, friendly residents, mild climate and abundant natural resources contribute to the quality of life enjoyed by old-timers and newcomers alike. Delta is a year-round destination for travelers seeking an authentic, unique and off-the-beaten path visitor experience that includes rich history, robust culture and rugged adventure. No one does Colorado quite like Delta. It’s “Fiercely Colorado.” Whether it’s exploring nearby canyons, hiking or biking the extensive public lands surrounding the city, or paddling the rivers that flow through it, you’ll be embraced by a fierce love of adventure. Strolling downtown, shopping one-of-a-kind stores and dining in a locally-owned restaurants, you’ll feel the residents’ fierce commitment to community. Visiting historic Fort Uncompahgre, touring the famous murals or attending a cultural event, you’ll experience the city’s fierce pride in its heritage. Playing the award-winning Devil’s Thumb Golf Course or pulling up to the nostalgic drive-in movie theater, you’ll sense a fierce appreciation for Delta’s unique quality of life. Get to know Delta and discover what it means by “Fiercely Colorado.”

CEDAREDGE

Nestled at the base of Grand Mesa, at “the edge of the cedars,” is the warm, friendly community of Cedaredge, population 2,300. With a variety of shops, art galleries, motels and restaurants, it’s a great place to launch your outdoor adventure. The town is the “Gateway to the Grand Mesa,” which offers fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, camping and hunting. Your first stop should be the Welcome Center, located just off Highway 65 (the Grand Mesa Scenic Byway) at Pioneer Town. Take time to tour the 19th century western village, which features 25 original or reconstructed buildings, including a jail, schoolhouse, saloon and blacksmith’s shop. The surrounding countryside features dozens of vineyards and orchards producing apples, pears, peaches, apricots and cherries. Cedaredge is the largest community in the Surface Creek Valley, named for the creek that flows from the abundant waters of Grand Mesa. From the walking trails along the creek, you can often glimpse deer, a variety of birds and the occasional fisherman. Other amenities include Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center, Cedaredge Golf Course, tennis courts, a skate park, and a climbing wall at Cedaredge Middle School that’s open to the public on Friday evenings 6-9 p.m. from August to May.

ORCHARD CITY Orchard City is the product of three small communities — Eckert, Austin and Cory — which banded together to construct a much-needed domestic pipeline to transport clean, fresh water from Grand Mesa. Each has separate post offices, separate zip codes, and separate histories, but all are part of one common entity. Orchard City retains a rural atmosphere, encompassing an 11-square-mile area in which over 3,100 residents make their homes. The area is dotted with farms, ranches, pastures and orchards. Fruitgrowers Reservoir is known as one of the best waterbirding spots on the Western Slope. Greater Sandhill Cranes come through in large numbers in the early spring and roost for the night in Hart’s Basin to the north of the reservoir. The town park at 11245 2100 Road features pavilions, a playground, 1.5-mile walking path, and softball/baseball/soccer fields. The ball fields are known as the Field of Dreams, in tribute to a large group of volunteers who banded together to make their dream a reality. 24 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


PAONIA

Located in the North Fork Valley just off Highway 133 and the Colorado Scenic Byway West Elk Loop, Paonia is a community of about 1,500 residents. Known for producing high-quality bituminous coal and home to one the highest concentrations of organic farmers and gardeners in the state, its agricultural and mining roots run four and five generations deep. Paonia is home to Slow Food Western Slope and has earned the title of Colorado’s farm-to-table capital. Its numerous orchards produce some of the finest fruits in the state, and its numerous vineyards go into making award-winning wines and spirits. Paonia is home to Big B’s Juices, Solar Energy International, and the Lands End Foundry. The state-designated North Fork Valley Creative District helps to support the area’s budding arts community, offering galleries, studios, literary programs, world-class music, culinary arts, textile arts, and a community-owned movie theatre. Take a challenging hike up 11,401-foot Mount Lamborn and experience the exquisite scenery below, stroll the banks of the North Fork of the Gunnison River at Paonia River Park, cruise miles and miles of mountain-biking trails, or simply stroll the historic downtown core and experience Paonia’s numerous shops and restaurants.

HOTCHKISS

There is a reason the signs that greet travelers at either end of town declare Hotchkiss to be the “Friendliest Town Around.” Take a walk around the charming small town and you’ll find friendliness at every corner. Located where Highway 92 intersects with Highway 133, Hotchkiss is long on hometown atmosphere and community spirit. By virtue of the town’s location at the natural crossroads of the North Fork Valley, Hotchkiss developed as a supply center for area settlers, many of whom had established cattle and sheep ranches, and extensive orchards, in the last two decades of the 19th century. Hotchkiss is still in the middle of it all — a great springboard for discoveries throughout the beautiful, historic, creative and innovative North Fork Valley! In the central business area, you’ll find numerous shops and restaurants, historic architecture and a museum. Located above the confluence of the Gunnison and North Fork rivers and surrounded by public lands, Hotchkiss is home to the Delta County Fairgrounds, Hotchkiss National Fish Hatchery and Gold Medal fishing opportunities. Special events include sheep dog trial and the annual Delta County Fair. This year, Hotchkiss also hosts the Ride the Rockies bicyclists and the Colorado Grand, which features 1960 and earlier sports and race cars of distinction.

CRAWFORD

The small community of Crawford is quintessential Americana: cowboys and artists, gunsmiths and poets all call it home, and newcomers are celebrated at an annual community potluck dinner. Founded in 1882, Crawford is nestled in a sweeping valley surrounded by the majestic West Elks mountain range. Crawford Country boasts breathtaking natural geological phenomena and sights, including the North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crawford State Park, historic Needle Rock, and the West Elk Wilderness. Each June Crawford celebrates its smalltown western charm with Pioneer Days. The home-town celebration culminates in one of the most spectacular fireworks displays on the Western Slope, where viewers experience the magic of sitting lakeside while colorful sparks reflect from the waters of Crawford Reservoir. Crawford Country boasts premier year-round outdoor activities including mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding in summer; snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing and more in winter. It even boasts its own public airport. Crawford’s blue skies and crisp, clean air are beckoning!

Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 25


HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD HISTORICAL MUSEUM

The Hotchkiss-Crawford Historical Museum, located at 180 S. 2nd Street in Hotchkiss, has exhibits showcasing historic venues, local clubs and organizations, historic photos of local coal mine towns and an old-time doctor’s office. Also, on display are enlarged photographs from the Danny Cotten collection, a chuck wagon, arrowhead collections and other Native American artifacts. The museum includes a bookstore, a research library featuring high school annuals, an obituary file, family histories, historic newspaper files, the local Veterans of Foreign Wars meeting room and a fully furnished cabin. The museum is open Friday and Saturday, 1-4 p.m. until Labor Day, then Saturday afternoons during the rest of the season. The Hotchkiss-Crawford Historical Society provides leadership and support for its members who preserve and interpret the history of Hotchkiss and Crawford and the surrounding area, in order to make the past more meaningful to all. For more information call the museum at 970-872-3780 (leave a message) or visit the museum’s Facebook page. Call Marilyn Tate (970-872-3693) or Karen Lacey (970872-2586) if you are interested in books of local history or to schedule a special visit during other hours.

PAONIA MUSEUM AND HISTORIC BOWIE SCHOOLHOUSE

Located at 700 Shady Lane at the entrance to Paonia River Park, the Paonia Museum consists of two history-packed buildings, the museum itself, and the Bowie Schoolhouse. A 1906 home originally built in the Midway area west of town and moved to town in 1998, the Paonia Museum is a treasure trove of local and regional artifacts including the original switchboards used by Paonia operators, a large collection of photographs dating back to the 1800s, and numerous special exhibits; and the Bowie Schoolhouse Museum, two rural 1907 schoolhouse rooms moved from the former mining community of Bowie north of Paonia, largely remain in their original condition, complete with desks, books, teaching artifacts, student photographs, maps and blackboards. To arrange a visit, call Judy Livingston at 970-527-3970.

DELTA COUNTY MUSEUM

Among the noteworthy exhibits at the Delta County Museum, located at 251 Meeker Street in Delta, are artifacts relating to the 1893 robbery of the Farmers & Merchants Bank in Delta, a world-class display of butterflies and moths from around the world, a diorama-type exhibit of two early stores in Delta, and a collection of dinosaur bones found in the Dry Mesa Quarry outside of Delta. Step into the courtyard to view the 1890 Delta city jail, an old homestead cabin, and a collection of 10 school, railroad, church and ship-related bells. The museum also includes an exhibit of cameras, an eight-foot-long case clock that once stood in the palace of King Louis XIV of France, and a King’s Robe, a gift from the King of Siam. Books on area history are available for sale. For those interested in research, the museum contains the county’s only microfilm file of all the newspapers which have been published in Delta County since 1883. The museum is staffed by volunteers Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. A small admission charge is required. To arrange a tour or a special opening, call the museum at 970-874-8721. 26 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


CEDAREDGE GOLF

Located on the south flank of the Grand Mesa at 6,100 feet in elevation, the Cedaredge Golf Club offers an affordable, enjoyable golf experience in a beautiful, quiet mountain setting. To recover from the drought of 2018, the golf course is using an aggressive recovery program. The back nine will be closed after Memorial Day weekend until sometime in August for reseeding. Those wishing to play 18 rounds will complete two rounds of the front nine, with two different tee times. A variety of clinics and youth programs will be offered throughout the summer to focus on player development. Clinics are open to the public. Youth programming includes a First Tee camp, junior golf tournament and free First Tee clinics. Come see why Cedaredge Golf Club has garnered a reputation for being “unique and challenging.” For more information, call 970-856-7781 or log on to www. cedaredgegolf.com.

DEVIL’S THUMB GOLF COURSE

Devil’s Thumb Golf Course offers both a spectacular golf experience and a panorama of the mountains surrounding the Uncompaghre Valley. This prairie style links is nestled into a swath of adobe hllls, which is why golfers describe a few holes as “playing golf on the moon.” Come discover this hidden gem for yourself, but don’t let the views fool you. Devil’s Thumb is consistently ranked in the Top #10 Golf Course in Colorado. To book a tee time, call 970-874-6262 or visit www. devilsthumbgolfcourse.net.

HELPFUL CONTACTS Community News/Events Delta County Independent 970-874-4421 deltacountyindependent.com Chambers/Visitor Info Cedaredge - 970-856-6961 www.cedaredgecolorado.com www.cedaredgechamber.com Crawford www.crawfordcountry.org Delta - 970-874-8616 www.deltacolorado.org Hotchkiss - 970-872-3226 www.hotchkisschamber.com Orchard City www.orchardcityco.org Paonia - 970-527-3886 www.paoniachamber.com Delta County www.deltacountycolorado.com Public Lands/Parks Colorado Parks & Wildlife www.parks.state.co.us U.S. Forest Service www.fs.usda.gov/gmug Bureau of Land Management www.blm.gov Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park www.nps.gov/blca/

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Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 27


TEST YOUR METTLE

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Delta County’s trails and peaceful, backcountry roads provide a multitude of options for bicyclists of all ages and abilities. Here are some new opportunities, along with some old favorites:

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CONFLUENCE PARK TRAIL

Delta Area Mountain Bikers have partnered with the City of Delta to build approximately six miles of single track mountain bike and hike trail at Confluence Park in Delta. Two miles have been completed and are usable. Volunteer work on the remaining four miles is ongoing. The trail is level and suitable for all skill levels and ages.

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PUMP TRACK AND TRAIL

In Hotchkiss, a pump track and single track mountain bike trail has been established at Crossroads Park, which also features a public pool, soccer field and future baseball field. The three miles of trail offer riding opportunities for varied skill levels. There are also trails in development on Hotchkiss High School property to the west. Signage is also under development. Improvements are ongoing at both areas, but the trails are presently being enjoyed by biking enthusiasts, both young and old.

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SIDEWINDER TRAIL

East of Delta in the Gunnison Gorge NCA is the challenging Sidewinder Trail. While this trail is rated difficult for most of its length, the north end, particularly that area that intersects the Powerline jeep road, is more moderate, and a good place to test your mettle. The entire trail is 22 miles in length, so many riders opt to take a section at a time, using intersecting jeep roads to return to base. Find a trail map at www.blm.gov, copmoba.org or at MTBproject.com.

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JUMBO MOUNTAIN

Located just east of Paonia, the single-track trails of scenic Jumbo Mountain are popular with all ages and levels for hiking, running and biking. A vertical climb of about 1,200 feet to the summit will take you to “The Hammock,” where eagles’ nests can be spotted in Jumbo Mountain’s rock face and the views encompass the North Fork Valley’s picturesque hills, farms and vineyards. The trails are on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management. You can find trail maps online at MTB Project or Trailforks, or by dropping by The Cirque Cyclery or SK Bikes in Paonia.

GRAND MESA

When the summer temperatures in Delta County approach triple digits, it’s time to head to Grand Mesa. Of the many trails open to mountain bikes on the Mesa, one is a project of the Delta Area Mountain Bikers — the County Line Trail. This is a moderate 6.5 mile loop that roughly follows the popular cross-country ski loop. The well-marked trailhead is easily found by driving up Highway 65 about 33 miles from Delta. 28 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide

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Grand Mesa Uncompahgre Gunnison

National Forest Headquarters

BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON NATIONAL PARK Hidden away in western Colorado is the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The park’s uniquely formidable landscape was slowly formed through erosion, as the Gunnison River cut through hard crystalline rock. The south rim of the park is 15 miles east of Montrose, via U.S. Hwy. 50 and Hwy. 347, while the north rim is located 11 miles south of Crawford, via Hwy. 92 and the Black Canyon Road. The last seven miles are unpaved and the North Rim is closed to vehicles in the winter. For more information, visit the park website at www.nps.gov/blca/.

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Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 29


2019 CALENDAR OF EVENTS JUNE 1 1 1 1-2 4 8 5-9 6-9

7-29 14 14-16 21-23 28 28-30 29

AUGUST

Wild Food Fest Weekend, Paonia (Begins May 31) Outdoor Heritage Day, Confluence Park, cityofdelta.net Art Walk/Flea Market, Cedaredge, theoldslaughterhousemusichall.com River Fest & Float, Paonia, westernslopeconservation.org Chapel of the Cross concerts begin, Cedaredge Sundays at 4, Thursdays at 7, deltacountyindependent.com Second Saturday Stroll, facebook/secondsaturdaystrolldelta Edge of the Cedars Art Exhibit, Cedaredge Middle School Salute to Armed Forces Festival, Confluence Park Crawford Pioneer Days: June 6-9 Old-fashioned melodrama, baking contest, auction, arts and crafts booths, food, live musical entertainment, parade, outhouse races, dance and fireworks. crawfordcountry.org Delta Fine Arts Annual Show, The Creamery, Hotchkiss Delta Proud at Fort Uncompahgre, deltacolorado.org North Fork Uncorked, westelksava.com Summer Solstice Mead Weekend, Paonia, deltacountycolorado.com Final Friday Frolics, northforkcreative.org Lavender Festival, Palisade/Paonia, coloradolavender.org Night on the Town, Pioneer Town, Cedaredge, pioneertown.org

JULY 3 4 4

6 13 18-21 20 26 27

Paonia Downtown Day, paoniachamber.com Fireworks - Confluence Park, Delta Fourth in the Park, cedaredgechamber.com Paonia Cherry Days: July 4-5 Live music, parade, pancake breakfast, family/class reunions, kids’ games, food vendors, arts and crafts booths, contests, rodeo, royalty, 5k paoniacherrydays.com Art Walk/Flea Market, Cedaredge, theoldslaughterhousemusichall.com Second Saturday Stroll, facebook/secondsaturdaystrolldelta Top O’ The Rockies BMW Motorcycle Rally, Paonia Ice Cream Social, pioneertown.org Final Friday Frolic, northforkcreative.org Saturday Trade Day at the Fort, www.fortuncompahgre.org Deltarado Days: July 25-28 Rodeo, farmer/rancher lunch, parade, kids’ activities, horseshoe/disc golf tournament, street dance, barbecues, beer garden, music, vendor village, car show. deltacolorado.org

A Utopia Of True Vintage & Antique Treasures �������������������������������������� �������������������������� ���������������������������������������

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1 1-4 3 3

Pickin’ in the Park, Paonia, pickinproductions.com Serenity Run, Cedaredge, internationalserenityrun.org Art Walk/Flea Market, Cedaredge, theoldslaughterhousemusichall.com Olathe Sweet Corn Festival, olathesweetcornfest.com Delta County Fair: August 3-11 Agricultural displays, livestock sale, Heritage Hall exhibits, demolition derby, ATV race, team roping, mutton bustin’, royalty, parade, tractor pull, food, live music deltacountyfair.com

4-5 8 10 15 22 30 31 31

West Elks Wine Trail, westelksava.com Pickin’ in the Park, Paonia, pickinproductions.com Second Saturday Stroll, facebook/secondsaturdaystrolldelta Pickin’ in the Park, Paonia, pickinproductions.com Pickin’ in the Park, Paonia, pickinproductions.com Final Friday Frolic, northforkcreative.org Labor Day Trap Shoot opens, deltatrapclub.org Art & Ag Tour, northforkcreative.org

SEPTEMBER 6 7 14 14 14 26-29 27

Art Walk/Flea Market, Cedaredge, theoldslaughterhousemusichall.com Symphony in the Park, cedaredgechamber.com Second Saturday Stroll, facebook/secondsaturdaystrolldelta Colorado Grand Car Tour, hotchkisschamber.com Mexican Heritage Day, fortuncompahgre.org Mountain Harvest Festival, Paonia, mountainharvestfestival.com Final Friday Frolic, northforkcreative.org

OCTOBER

5-6 26

Applefest: October 3-6 Apples, chili cook-off, music, food, art, classic car/antique tractor shows, 5k, Pioneer Town activities, 150 booths along the streets and in Cedaredge Town Park. cedaredgechamber.com Gears and Beers Fest, Paonia, paoniachamber.com Hard Cider Festival, bigbs.com

NOVEMBER 23 29 30 30

Hotchkiss Craft Fairs, hotchkisschamber.com Crawford Town Lighting, crawfordchamber.org Kickoff to Christmas, Parade of Lights, deltacolorado.org Christmas at the Fort, fortuncompahgre.org

DECEMBER 7 7 TBA

Holiday Craft Fair, Bill Heddles Recreation Center, Delta Parade of Lights, Cedaredge, cedaredgechamber.com Blue Sage Holiday Art Fair, Paonia, bluesage.org


EAGLE ROCK SHELTER

The Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area contains a number of prehistoric and historic sites, including rock art, cabins, campsites and mines. Thousands of years ago, some of the earliest humans known to inhabit North America found shelter on a ledge by what is now known as the Gunnison River. The southeastern exposure of the rock overhang offered not only shelter from rain, snow and wind, but cool shade in summer, warm sunshine in winter, and unlimited plant food, fish and game. The Eagle Rock Shelter site between Hotchkiss and Delta dates back almost 13,000 years and contains the most complete record of Paleo-Indian life known. To reach Eagle Rock, head east from Delta on Highway 92. At mile marker 13, you’ll see a sign on the south side of the highway. The improved dirt road leading to the trailhead winds for 3.7 miles through dry hilly country offering spectacular views of Lamborn Mountain and the West Elk Mountain Range as well as the Gunnison River. The road to the trailhead splits occasionally and drivers should take all the right-hand forks. The walk from the trailhead is not quite a mile and the trail also splits now and then but taking the right-hand forks will lead directly to the Eagle Rock Shelter site. Take plenty of water and be advised that the last third of the trail is extremely steep. If you follow the rustic stairs to the south of Eagle Rock Shelter, you can cross a bridge to take a side hike to the river below.

ADVERTISERS INDEX Antelope Hill Orchards . . . . . . . . . Berg Harvest Mercantile . . . . . . . . Big B Fruit Stand . . . . . . . . . . . . Big B’s Delicious Orchards . . . . . . . Bross Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cedaredge Chamber of Commerce . . Church Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . City of Delta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clubb’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clyde’s Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Colorado Crystal Curio . . . . . . . . . Creekside Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . Creekside Italian Cuisine & Wine Bar Cristee-Meade Building Company . . Davis Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deer Creek Village Realty, LLC . . . . Delta Area Chamber of Commerce . . Delta County Commissioners . . . . . Delta County Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . Delta County Independent . . . . . . . Delta County Memorial Hospital . . . Delta County Tourism . . . . . . . . . . Delta Farmers Market . . . . . . . . . Delta Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . Delta Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deltarado Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . Desperado . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Devil’s Thumb Golf Course . . . . . . . DeVries Fruit & Veggies . . . . . . . . Egyptian Theatre/Tru Vu Drive In . . . First State Bank of Colorado . . . . . Fort Uncompahgre/US Forest Service . 4th & Main Exchange . . . . . . . . . . Fritchman Orchards . . . . . . . . . . . Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center . .

15 20 15 15 11 . 9 23 . 27 18 . 7 21 19 . 9 19 . 16 . 9 . 16 16 . 3 21 22 . 5 15 22 16 . 7 . 28 21 15 29 31 . 29 30 15 . 9

Heirlooms for Hospice . . . . . . . . . . 7 Hitching Post Hotel & Feed Store . . . 11 Hotchkiss Chamber of Commerce . . 13 Hotchkiss Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Hub, The . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Inn on the Other Side . . . . . . . . . . 19 Kiser Creek Cabins . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Kwiki Tire Service . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Leon’s Produce . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Lost Mesa Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Mattics Orchard . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Maxfield’s Market at Waste Farms . . 15 Mesa Moon Motel . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Millennium Wellness . . . . . . . . . . 17 Mountain Harvest Festival . . . . . . . 11 Needlerock Mountain Realty & Land . 11 North Fork Valley Creative Coalition . . 32 North Fork Pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Old Slaughterhouse Music Hall, The . 17 Ollie’s Ice Cream . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Red Shed Produce . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Redwood Arms Motel . . . . . . . . . 28 Rocking W Cheese & Milk . . . . . . . . 7 Rogers Mesa Fruit . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Rogers Mesa Store . . . . . . . . . . . 13 RJ’s Land & Sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 SK Bikes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Sparky’s Farm Market . . . . . . . . . 15 Stacy’s on Main . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Starr’s Guitars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Stay Wise Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Storm Cellar, The . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Tayshen Automotive . . . . . . . . . . 18 United Country Real Estate . . . . . . 17 Wag’s World Orchards . . . . . . . . . 15

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HOMELQt.~S ICONSTRUCTION ~9:J\NS AGRICULJU~L LEN'DINdl PERSQNJ( ~~BANKING DELTAI HOTCHKISSI PAONIAICRAWFORD I DENVER FOUNTAINI WESTCLIFFE Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide — 31


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NORTH FORKCREATIVE.ORG 32 — Delta County Independent 2019 Visitor’s Guide


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