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LODGING CALENDAR ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
This is a reminder that you are receiving this email because you signed up to receive communications from Spanish Peaks Country, through the Colorado Tourism Office.
Millions of Years in the Making Long before Colorado was settled by homesteaders, the Spanish Peaks, located in south-central Colorado, were held as sacred by the Natives of the region. In fact, these stunning, twin-peaks were thought to be the abode of the Gods and have long served as navigational landmarks for all who pass within sight of them. So much Native American folklore has developed around these formations that the Scenic Byway encircling them has been named the Scenic Highway of Legends. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Colorado’s Scenic Byways and it is the ideal time for you to experience what brought Native Americans, Spanish Conquistadors, early Mexican farmers, trappers and mine workers from 32 foreign countries to live, work and explore in Spanish Peaks Country. You won’t soon forget our unique geological formations, star-studded skies, clean fresh air and small town charm. To explore the road less traveled, exit I-25 at Walsenburg or Trinidad and look for the Scenic Byway signs with the blue Columbine flower – Scenic Highway of Legends (Highway 12). Total distance is 82 miles of all-season roads, connecting Trinidad and La Veta. Be sure to bring a camera and a guidebook on the region’s geology.
Featured Events in 2014 June 14 Cuchara Country Music Festival July 5-6 La Veta Art in the Park & Celebration September 25-28 10th Annual Spanish Peaks Celtic Festival and Retreat throughout the county October 4 La Veta Oktoberfest FREE
Click here to reserve your 2014 guide or view the 2013 guide online NOW!
See complete events calendar
Video: Scenic Highway of Legends Part 4
Paradise Enough In 1861, Colonel John Francisco first gazed over the valley in the shadows of the Spanish Peaks, and exclaimed, “This is paradise enough for me”. He purchased 48,000 acres, partnered with Henry Daigre to work and manage the ranch and built his dream home in the center of it all. The house was patterned after an adobe military fort and became known as Francisco Plaza as it also served as a trading post, fort and stopping place for trappers, prospectors and scouts. Less than a decade later, the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad pushed westward and Francisco Plaza became the center of the boisterous town of La Veta. Francisco’s original adobe home continues to greet thousands of history enthusiasts each summer as the Francisco Fort Museum, where you will find displays, artifacts and collections from Native American traditions, Hispanic legacy, ranching, coal mining and more.
The Francisco Fort Museum is located in La Veta, Colorado, on Highway 12. The building is the original fort build by Colonel John Francisco in 1862.
Paradise Enough Explore a land rich in history, natural wonders and artistic inspiration. Experience the small town charm of Walsenburg, La Veta, Gardner and Cuchara. Spanish Peaks Country also offers world-class golf, art & history museums, a water park, shopping, Lathrop State Park and more. At the cross roads of Southern Colorado you will also find many other outdoor activities available in San Isabel National Forest and the Spanish Peaks Wilderness area.
LODGING
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS
CALENDAR