colorado fun EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE GREATER PIKES PEAK REGION & BEYOND
2018 ANNUAL GUIDE
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LIVE! YOUR GUIDE TO COLORADO’S YEAR-ROUND MUSIC SCENE
DESTINATION WEDDING
TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR COLORADO EVENT
HIKING ESSENTIALS WHAT TO PACK FOR HIKING
CULTURAL CRAVINGS DISCOVERING ETHNIC FOODS
HOWL WITH THE WOLVES
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LeTTeR FrOm The
PUBLISheR
OUR TEAM PUBLISHER Karen Hazlehurst EDITOR Lindsay Tallman ASSISTANT EDITOR Gillian Sheehan ART DIRECTOR & DESIGNER Jewels Burdick, SuperFine Designs
Welcome to the Summer 2018-Spring 2019 edition of Colorado Fun, your definitive guide for things to do, places to see, events to attend, trips to take, and everything else that’s exciting and fun in the greater Pikes Peak Region and beyond. Comprising an area larger than Delaware or Rhode Island, the region includes bustling cities, quiet towns, secluded wilderness areas, and free-flowing rivers. You can take a trip on a restored historic railroad, visit a casino in Cripple Creek, climb Pikes Peak, enjoy music festivals, raft the Arkansas, fish for cutthroat trout in a pristine mountain lake, enjoy award-winning craft beer and spirits—and that’s just a start. Our magnificent home has always attracted folks in search of a quieter, less stressful environment. Putting down roots here has never been easier, thanks to the region’s extraordinarily healthy economy. You’ll find caring, community-minded neighbors and businesses throughout the region. Visitors are often surprised by the region’s variety and diversity. We’re home to some of the most highly-rated colleges and universities in the country, including Colorado College and the United States Air Force Academy, as well as unmatched museums and performance venues. Don’t miss the rollicking melodramas at the Iron Springs Chateau in Manitou, or the exhibitions and performances at Pueblo’s Sangre de Cristo Arts Center. In Colorado Springs, be sure to visit the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College and the grandly situated downtown Pioneers Museum, one of the finest local history museums in the West. And don’t think that the greater Pikes Peak Region is confined to the eastern flanks of Pikes Peak. It includes the beautiful towns and spectacular landscapes of South Park and the Arkansas Valley, as well as the historic mining towns of Cripple Creek and Victor. Try following the river to Pueblo as it flows southward through Buena Vista, Salida, Cañon City, and Florence— it’s one of many amazing adventures that our region offers to residents and visitors alike. So enjoy, appreciate, and most of all have fun!
COVER ILLUSTRATION Juliette Hemingway EVENTS & LISTINGS Lindsay Tallman EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Melody Buschur “Hiking Bob” Falcone Spencer Hawthorne John Hazlehurst Melanie Hexter Kelsey Kennedy Bruce McClintock Caitlin Murphy Zach Reynolds Gillian Sheehan Ann-Noel Spencer Julie Martin Sunich CONTRIBUTING ARTIST Matt Brooker PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Devon Balet Jewels Burdick Marisa Jarae “Hiking Bob” Falcone Caitlin Murphy Steve Willis ADVERTISING SALES Connie Bair Karen Hazlehurst Mel Murry DISTRIBUTION Certified Folder INQUIRIES Karen@ColoradoFunGuide.com
ADVERTISE ON OUR WEBSITE! IT’S EASY! CLICK ON THE “ADVERTISING” TAB, SELECT THE SIZE AD AND LENGTH OF TIME YOU’D LIKE TO RUN, AND UPLOAD AND PAY. YOUR AD WILL INSTANTLY APPEAR ON THE SITE. COLORADOFUNGUIDE.COM
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FEATURE ARTICLES
CONTENTS
‘TIL GOLF COLORADO 12 courses 48 SHOP YOU SMILE take golf to
Places to visit for retail therapy
new heights
18 ENTREPENEURIAL ARTISTS in the Greater Pikes Peak Region
54
LIVE!
Your guide to Colorado music festivals
TO 23 MOVING COLORADO?
Tour these eclectic neighborhoods
KIDS 30 ACREATIVE guide to art programs for kids
61
40 CULTURAL CRAVINGS DESTINATION: DREAM WEDDING
Planning tips
Ethic restaurants to visit
72
RUN-DOWN TO RESTORED
Historic hotels in the region
80
COLORADO CANINES
Colorado-made dog goods
86
COLORS OF COLORADO
Finding the best outdoor colors of the season
91 An education in
LEGAL WEED
cannabinoids
OF 95 REVIVAL THE RIVERWALK Pueblo’s hot spot
TO 100 ADDICTED ADVENTURE Outdoor adrenaline activities
CRUISING THROUGH
106 COLORADO
Father & son bike adventures
LOOK BACK IN
114 RAIL TIME
A history of Colorado’s famous railroads
ESSENTIALS 120 FIVE OF HIKING Be prepared for your next hike
COLORADO FUN 9
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Downtown Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs is home to a unique downtown where something is always going on. Whether you’re looking for a taste of the West with a rodeo or hoping to brighten the holidays with a light parade, there’s something for everyone here. Additional events can be found at PeakRadar.com.
IMAGE COURTESY OF LANDER GALLERY // COLORADOSPRINGSSTOCK.COM
First Fridays
JuNe 20, 2018
July 6, 2018
December 1, 2018
DOWNTOWN FIRST FRIDAY 5-8 PM
WESTERN STREET BREAKFAST 5:30-9 AM
ART ON THE STREETS LAUNCH PARTY 5-8 PM
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE 5:50-8 PM
Come downtown for some free family fun and a $5 breakfast complete with pancakes, eggs, juice, coffee, and milk. The Pikes Peak Range Riders will head out on horseback at 8 am.
Art on the Streets turns the streets of downtown Colorado Springs into a year-long sculpture gallery. Since its beginning in 1999, over 200 artworks have been exhibited.
Weekly event features new art, live music, and special events on the first Friday of every month. It includes participation from dozens of galleries, retailers, and nonprofits throughout downtown Colorado Springs. From April to December there will be a free First Friday shuttle bus that runs from Downtown to Old Colorado City to Manitou Springs so you can catch the First Friday Art Walk at all three locations. DOWNTOWNCS.COM
Year Round DOWNTOWN WALKING TOURS 10-11 AM Downtown walking tours offer an insider’s guide to family fun. Meet the faces behind family-friendly programs and amenities, sample products from family-owned businesses, and learn about fun, free cultural activities year round. DOWNTOWNCS.COM
DOWNTOWNCS.COM
COLORADOSPRINGSFESTIVAL OFLIGHTS.COM
September 1-3, 2018
December 5, 2018
LABOR DAY LIFT OFF SAT/SUN 6 AM-10 PM MON 6-10 AM
DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY STROLL 5-8 PM
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June 30-July 1, 2018 COLORADO SPRINGS ART AND MUSIC FESTIVAL SAT 10 AM-7 PM SUN 10 AM-4 PM Held at America the Beautiful Park, this festival features local and national juried artists, kids activities, live music, and food. Leashed pets are welcome and admission is free. COLORADOEVENTSAND FESTIVALS.COM
July 4, 2018 SUMMER SYMPHONY 5:30-9:30 PM Join the Colorado Springs Philharmonic under the night sky in Memorial Park for food, fireworks, and family fun. CSPHILHARMONIC.ORG
The 34th Festival of Lights Parade is an annual holiday tradition. Bundle up and bring your hot chocolate to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.
Memorial Park hosts this annual event featuring a hot air balloon ascension of over 70 balloons. Other activities will take place throughout the day including skydiving demonstrations, wakeboarding exhibitions, paddle boarding, and live entertainment. Dusk marks the start of the hot air balloon glow. COLORADOSPRINGSLABOR DAYLIFTOFF.COM
Come out for this fun annual shopping event including holiday carolers, shopping specials, festive lights, food, and drinks. Stores stay open late. DOWNTOWNCS.COM
November to January SKATE IN THE PARK Enjoy the cold weather and some family fun at Acacia Park’s outdoor ice rink when it opens for the season. Watch the website for hours and special events. DOWNTOWNCS.COM
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COLOraDO COUrSeS Take GOLF TO NeW heIGhTS WORDS BY: ANN-NOEL SPENCER
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DOWNTOWN // COLORADO SPRINGS
When booking your next golf vacation, where will you think of first? Top picks usually include South Carolina featuring lush, manicured courses on Hilton Head Island, North Myrtle Beach, and Kiawah Island; or California, with beautiful and challenging locations such as Pebble Beach and Palm Springs. Boasting the #5 golf resort in the country (The Broadmoor Golf Course and Hotel in Colorado Springs), the state of Colorado has much to offer golfers of every skill level. Colorado's golf destinations can be separated into three areas: The Front Range, the mountains (or, the "high country" as locals refer to it), and Southern Colorado (affectionately called SoCO). There are distinct advantages to each region.
PHOTO: RED SKY RANCH MEMBERS CLUB BY VAIL RESORTS.
RED SKY RANCH & GOLF CLUB Red Sky Golf Courses consistently rank among the top 100 courses to play in America by Golf Digest, GolfWeek and Golf Magazine receiving the 2017 accolade from Golf Digest as “America’s 100 Greatest Courses You Can Play.”
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DOWNTOWN // COLORADO SPRINGS
HIGH COUNTRY Without a doubt, the mountains offer the best views and, in most cases, incorporate the rocky terrain into the golf experience. Raven at Three Peaks in Silverthorne is a notable mountain course. Built on an old ski hill, the ninth hole features a 500-yard par 4 that travels down the side of the mountain, offering one of the most unique golf experiences anywhere. As is typical for mountain courses, Red Sky Ranch and Golf Club is open for golf May through October only. Director of Golf, Jeff Hanson, highlights Red Sky as one of the top 100 courses in the United States. Featuring 36 well-manicured holes, club members and hotel guests alternate access between the two 18-hole courses daily. That way, guests who visit for a weekend have the advantage of playing both courses during their stay. Red
Sky welcomes PGA Tour Veteran, Larry Rinker, as Director of Instruction at the golf academy during the summer months. Nestled in the Vail Valley, players can enjoy a great wildlife experience as well. Guests routinely spot bobcats, deer, and elk during their rounds.
SOUTHERN COLORADO In contrast, Southern Colorado boasts warm temps and more than 300 days of sunshine, making this region a yearround golfing destination. Nate Erickson, Head Golf Professional at the Country Club of Colorado, will often organize member golf trips to southern Colorado. He notes that any city or surrounding area that features a large number of courses in close proximity is a great option for group (a.k.a. buddy) trips. The foursomes can take advantage of stay and play packages in which they gain
access to member-only courses by staying at hotels on the properties. Groups can venture beyond the exclusive clubs to the various public courses in the area. A great example of a southern course is Four Mile Ranch, just outside of Cañon City. Kyle Bryant, Regional Tournament Sales Director for Arcis Golf, describes Four Mile Ranch: “It is not like anything else I have ever played.”
BeLOW FOUR MILE RANCH GOLF CLUB features some of the most unique greens in Colorado. Many boast two to three tiers and elevation changes.
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The course is a Jim Engh design. Instead of placing bunkers throughout the course, Engh designed hazards that preserved the characteristics of the land on which the course was built. Every green has two to three different tiers, with some blind approaches and great elevation changes. “It is kind of like circus golf,” says Bryant, “but I love that course.” Other regional courses include the Trinidad Municipal Golf Course, recognized as the best value in SoCo golf, while the Cougar Canyon Golf Facility was named, “the best course to play in Colorado” by Golfweek magazine.
FRONT RANGE The Front Range is the largest, most diverse region in Colorado, and includes
the metropolitan areas of Denver, Boulder, Castle Rock, and Colorado Springs. Beyond offering dozens of top-notch golf courses, these cities offer access to local art, theaters, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Nate Erickson, Head Golf Professional at the Country Club of Colorado in Colorado Springs remarks, “Besides the course itself, what is [located at] or near a particular course is what makes it stand out [among the rest].” The Cheyenne Mountain Resort— located on the same property as the Country Club of Colorado—offers stay and play packages that include access to the exclusive course designed by Pete Dye, as well as tennis, water sports, fine dining, and a full-service spa. Minutes from downtown Colorado Springs and historic
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Old Colorado City, and just a short “hike” from the majestic Pikes Peak, guests at the resort enjoy a golf getaway like no other! Just west of the Denver skyline, Arrowhead Golf Club is located in Littleton. According to Director of Tournament Sales Kyle Bryant, Arrowhead is one of the top three most-photographed golf courses in the country. A Robert Trent Jones Jr. design, the course is a colorful masterpiece. From the majestic red sandstone rock formations framing the manicured emerald greens to the striking blue water features, the course boasts both strategic diversity and a stunning backdrop for golf. Bryant shares an insider tip for playing the Arrowhead course: “Every green, despite what it looks like it might be doing, will break away from the foothills and toward downtown Denver.” Up and down the Front Range, visitors and locals alike have an abundant selection of public and municipal courses. Established in 1898, Patty Jewett in Colorado Springs is the oldest course this side of the Mississippi. It features 27 holes, many with stunning views of Pikes Peak. Patrons of the course also rave about the prime rib special at the Patty Jewett Bar & Grill. Closer to Denver, both the South Suburban Golf Course and Lone Tree Golf Course come highly recommended by locals. Whether you are a visitor scheduling your next stay-and-play trip, or a local planning a stay-cay, Colorado has tons to offer every golfer, from recreational to experienced. Colorado certainly takes the golfing experience to new heights!
17 COLORADO FUN
Entrepreneurial Artists Thrive in Pikes Peak Region The Pikes Peak Region is home to thousands of competent artists, working in every conceivable medium. Many exhibit at local galleries, with varying degrees of success. Most have other jobs, but a few are so persistent, talented, and inventive that art is their sole source of income. We talked to three of these artist entrepreneurs, women who have built lasting professional success in the local arts community. WORDS BY: JOHN HAZLEHURST //
JEWELS BURDICK
DOWNTOWN // COLORADO SPRINGS
Julia Wright
that year, she was the main festival coordinator. “I helped these festivals change and grow,” she recalled, “evolving from a group of hippies who loved and respected hand-crafted art to more of a business venture. It still allows only artwork created and shown by the artists to be sold at the Festival.” A recent opening at Commonwheel
MANITOU SPRINGS
featured Wright’s colorful feather masks and altered photographs which are all modestly priced and (like Wright herself) lots of fun. “With photography I want people to look deeply, to use their imaginations, and discover a myriad of images within each image. I enjoy asking if they can see the starting image or if it just all melts into one new piece of art. Nature is my most powerful inspiration. I really enjoy finding a piece of a photo to twist and turn into a new image. I love watching people look deeply into the images, point out what they see, and get a conversation going,” says Wright. PICTURED: JULIA WRIGHT
Julia Wright has spent most of her adult life as a professional artist and arts entrepreneur in Manitou Springs. She has directed the Commonwheel Summer Art Festival in Manitou for 40 years, has written a dozen books, and has created works in many different mediums. Wright came to Manitou Springs in 1975 to participate in the Commonwheel Labor Day Art Festival, moved to Manitou in 1976, and joined the Commonwheel Artists Co-op. By the end of
COLORADO FUN 19
Lori Hannan RYE, COLORADO Lori Hannan lives with her family in the Greenhorn Valley near Rye, a small town west of Pueblo. She has been a potter for more than 30 years. On her website RedCloudPottery.com she notes that her pottery is, “inspired by the Colorado landscape and nature’s own works of art.” “I love making pots!” she wrote in an artist’s statement. “I can’t imagine my life otherwise. I am so grateful to be able to do this creative work and hope that the people who have my pieces in their home can feel the joy.” Hannan’s pots are simple, functional, and masterful. They’re so quietly conceived that it takes a moment to realize how good they are. Glazes flow, mix, diverge, and collide, and the results seem natural and inevitable. A bowl’s classic shape is subtly tweaked and part of its exterior is left unglazed. You don’t have to analyze Hannan’s ceramics—you just look and like. Her pottery is available at more than a dozen regional galleries, including 45 Degree in Old Colorado City. “Lori’s pottery is really very popular,” said Reed Fair, who with his spouse Emily owns 45 Degree (and are also ceramic artists). “We try to have potters with individual styles who don’t directly compete with each other so they’ll each have a unique niche.” Best of all from a buyers standpoint, Hannan’s work is comparatively inexpensive. It’s easy to like, easy to buy, and a joy to use.
ABOVE: This serving bowl is hand carved and hand painted on the outside with its own unique design, and the inside has a smooth, layered glaze creating a fully-functional piece.
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PICTURED: LORI HANNAN
Maria Batista OLD COLORADO CITY “Art is my vocation and my spiritual practice,” Maria Batista said. “This means that I spend my life working to see with more clarity and honesty, and with joyful awareness that I will never master this task.” Looking at Batista’s extraordinary work in jewelry, sculpture and life drawing it’s clear that she’s being overly modest. Her technical skills in those three very different media are at the very highest level, supporting and enhancing the deeply spiritual quality of her work. “I was a public school teacher in District 20 when I met Bud Stafford,” she said. “He was the only person in the city willing to train jewelers, and I apprenticed with him for three years.” Stafford, who died in 2013, was a legendary teacher and master craftsman.
DOWNTOWN // COLORADO SPRINGS
Batista became a professional goldsmith in 1992, and eventually left teaching completely. But in 2002, she decided to broaden her horizons. “I went to the MARBLE/marble Symposium near Marble, Colorado to explore stone carving,” she said. “They give you a 500-pound block of Colorado Yule marble, instructors, tools, and I loved it, even the stone dust—it’s just calcium carbonate. So off I went to Italy—as a teacher, I love to learn.” Six years ago, Batista branched out to an even more demanding discipline, and learned to create figurative bronze sculptures using the ancient lost-wax process. She learned quickly—her bronze sculpture “Calypso” was on the cover of the 2015 Colorado Journeys magazine. “I am dedicated to carving stone and to sculpting figures in bronze,” she wrote on her website, “working from live models in the old-master tradition.” Batista’s work can be seen at the Hunter-Wolff pendent be st of 201City. pendent be st of 2017 7 inde Gallery in Old Colorado inde
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22 COLORADO FUN
WORDS BY: JOHN HAZLEHURST
MOVING TO COLORADO? Eclectic Neighborhoods Offer Lifestyle Opportunities It’s scarcely news that the greater Pikes Peak region is home to scores of beautiful historic and contemporary neighborhoods. Visitors are often first drawn here by the region’s extraordinary recreational and scenic amenities and then think about living here. If such thoughts cross your mind, here are some of our favorite neighborhoods. It’s an eclectic mix, ranging from Colorado’s largest Victorian Era neighborhood on the Westside of Colorado Springs to a seven-house street in Pueblo known as the Pitkin Place Historic District. It’s a story that we couldn’t write if we were real estate professionals, because we could be accused of “steering” our readers. That’s not our intention—we’re not selling anything. Space and reader attention spans permitting, we would have featured many more areas.
I
So consider this a purely idiosyncratic list. Some of our faves are relatively inexpensive and some aren’t. One dates from the 1890s, one from the 2010s and the rest are somewhere in between.
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PHOTOS PICTURED: PITKIN PLACE HISTORIC DISTRICT
Colorado Springs
The Westside is the best side! At least, that’s what residents and business owners believe about this vast and eclectic assortment of homes and commercial buildings that date from the 1870s to the present day. Old Colorado City, the National Register listed commercial hub of the Westside, was incorporated as Colorado City in 1859. The Westside is home to turn of
24 COLORADO FUN
the century neighborhoods. Thousands of homes were built between 1880 and 1910, including 500 in 1899 alone. Most still stand, a consequence of a long period of economic stagnation and decline that ended in the 1970s. The slow renaissance of the Westside has accelerated in recent years, but it’s still one of the most affordable large neighborhoods in Colorado Springs. On any given block, you’ll find 600-square-foot shotgun cottages, substantial brick and stone homes, and graceful three-story corner residences. Many once-dilapidated houses have been carefully restored, and enterprising builders have erected new
houses on the vacant lots that once dotted the area. Stop in at the Old Colorado City History Center, located in the former Bethany Baptist Church at 24th and Pikes Peak Ave. to find out more about Westside history. Pick up a copy of Cathleen Norman’s “In and Around Old Colorado City—A Walking Tour,” or just wander the neighborhood.
TIP:
FOR AN INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE, DOWNLOAD THE OLD COLORADO CITY APP FROM THE ITUNES STORE! WATCH THE WEBSITE FOR EVENTS HAPPENING IN OCC: SHOPOLDCOLORADOCITY.COM
DOWNTOWN // COLORADO SPRINGS
Pueblo In the early 1890s, Pueblo was the largest and arguably the most prosperous city in Colorado, nicknamed “The Pittsburgh of the Rockies.” Thousands worked in the steel mills of Colorado Fuel & Iron and in the immense rail yards that bordered the Arkansas River. Workers, company executives, and capitalists all needed housing. Entire neighborhoods were created in a few years. By 1900, city boosters called Pueblo “The Prosperous City with a Lasting Legacy,” and set to work building neighborhood parks, grand municipal
buildings and fine, harmonious commercial districts. Their legacy remains in dozens of interesting, diverse, and egalitarian neighborhoods, where modest cottages are sometimes found next to soaring 19th-century palaces. The seven houses in the Pitkin Place Historic District in Pueblo are elegant and beautiful. They’re not imposing mansions, but warm, open, and inviting middle-class family residences. They’re all very different, so much so that it’s hard to believe that the same architect designed all but one. Built in the early 1890s by the architect-contractor team of George Roe and E.W. Shutt to house the managers of
the Colorado Fuel & Iron Company, this gorgeous linear neighborhood hasn’t changed much since. The saplings that the developers planted 125 years ago are now towering trees and the once isolated subdivision is now surrounded by other neighborhoods. Yet it’s still a highly desirable single-family street, a tranquil oasis that was put on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. The houses are located on the south side of Pitkin Avenue in the 300 block.
Cañon City This city of more than 15,000 inhabitants is bigger and more varied than
PICTURE
YOURSELF HERE
learn more at VISITCOS.COM #visitcos COLORADO FUN
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SALIDA’S HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOOD
you’d imagine. Downtown Cañon City is a few steps away from walkable, historic neighborhoods, while spacious modern homes and acreages dot the surrounding countryside. It’s a western city with a Midwestern feel—unpretentious, friendly, and still reasonably affordable. It’s an easy commute from Pueblo or Colorado Springs, and winters are mild and relatively dry. The real estate market is strong, but not as overheated as in Colorado Springs, Manitou, and Salida. So if you’re on the way to the Royal Gorge or any one of the city’s many attractions, take a moment and venture off U.S. 50. You won’t be disappointed and you might even want to stay.
Salida Our favorite neighborhood in Salida? That would be Salida’s historic heart, the modestly scaled neighborhoods that circle the Arkansas Valley town that began
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life in 1880 as a division point of Denver & the Rio Grande railroad. Salida grew and prospered in subsequent decades, becoming the seat of Chaffee County and benefitting from a regional economy centered on agriculture and mining. As these sectors waned in the 20th century, the visitor industry and automobile tourism helped support the economy. Sometime in the 1980s, Salida became cool—a place where adventurous, artistic and entrepreneurial young folks wanted to stay, not flee. It’s kind of a time capsule, with a lively downtown full of locally owned shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars surrounded by walkable neighborhoods. You’ll be enchanted by this riverfront city, but it’s no longer the “Bargain on the Arkansas.” Is it overpriced? That depends upon your point of view. Compared to crowded mountain ski towns like Aspen, Vail and Breckenridge, real estate in Salida and Chaffee County is insanely cheap. Compared to other cities in the greater Pikes Peak Region, it’s somewhat expensive.
Cripple Creek and Victor If you’re looking for underpriced and undiscovered, look to Victor, an intact Colorado mining town with a fascinating history and hundreds of 19th century homes. There’s also an intact Victorian downtown, a couple of great bars and a vibrant arts scene. You can still pick up a serviceable little cottage for less than $60,000! There’s just one catch. Victor is still home to the gigantic Cresson Mine. It’s just over the hill from downtown Victor, operating 24/7/365. Even though the mine workings cover several square miles, they’re not visible from town. For folks used to picturesque resorts unburdened with actual industrial activity, Victor is an acquired taste. But if you like toughness, authenticity, and lack of pretension, Victor’s your town. Cripple Creek, where casino gambling was legalized in 1991, has a lot in common with Victor. It’s somewhat more
DOWNTOWN // COLORADO SPRINGS
expensive, but still eminently affordable. Houses and lots in the surrounding countryside vary wildly in price, depending on access, utility availability, views, and (of course!) location. Cripple Creek is still a working person’s town, whose residents may commute to the Victor mine or work a shift at one of the Bennett Avenue casinos. It’s amazingly friendly and picturesque, with interesting year-round visitor-related activities. Outside the city, off the two-lane highways that lead to Divide and Florissant, you’ll see scores of substantial mountain homes with great views and country solitude. And if you get tired of all that beauty and tranquility, the casinos are only a short drive away.
Manitou Springs and its neighbors What’s not to like about Manitou? Nothing, if you’re drawn to historic mountain towns with liberal politics, a strong business community, great bars and restaurants, beautiful hillside neighborhoods, and an amazing local arts scene. Founded in 1872 as a health spa/resort for wealthy easterners, Manitou soon became a center of the local visitor industry. Entrepreneurial residents created tourist attractions such as the Cog Railway (currently closed indefinitely), the Cliff Dwellings, and the Cave of the Winds, while businesses along Manitou Avenue catered to summer visitors. Unlikely neighborhoods were carved out of the surrounding foothills, some connected to downtown via winding stone staircases.
Manitou has long been a refuge for freethinking souls who may have felt stifled by the conservative culture of neighboring Colorado Springs. The city voted overwhelmingly to legalize retail marijuana, becoming the only jurisdiction in El Paso County to do so. Manitou Springs (pop. 4,700) thereby secured a monopoly in the county (pop. 685,000), bringing a tax bonanza to city coffers. That’s allowed the city to make major infrastructure upgrades, and further enhance its appeal to visitors and new residents. Once less expensive than Colorado Springs, Manitou has become fairly pricey. The housing stock is diverse, with everything from tiny cottages to 19th century mansions, but there isn’t much availability. Our suggestion: If you can’t find what you’re looking for in Manitou, consider heading a few miles west to Green Mountain Falls, Cascade, and Woodland Park. You’ll love the small town feeling, the lack of pretension, and the beautiful surroundings. Or, you can go a few blocks east from downtown Manitou to the Pleasant Valley neighborhood, a modernist development just south of the Garden of the Gods. Modest 1950s and 1960s ranchers line the quiet streets of this lovely subdivision, one that’s popular with millennial and GenX families. It’s within the boundaries of Colorado Springs, but happily infected with the lively spirit of Manitou and the Westside.
FINDING THE RIGHT HOME CAN BE TOUGH! HERE’S SOME RECOMMENDATIONS FOR REALTORS THAT CAN HELP! SHARANNE ROTHENBUCHER
BROKER ASSOCIATE Keller Williams Performance Realty CAÑON CITY 901 Main Street (C) 719-406-1141 (O) 719-269-7355x304 EMAIL: Sharanne@kw.com SHARANNE1.KW.COM
TONY GREER BROKER Keller Williams Performance Realty PUEBLO 1528 Fortino Blvd. 719-583-1100 PUEBLO WEST 356 S. McCulloch Blvd. 719-647-7252 CAÑON CITY 901 Main St. 719-269-7355 SALIDA 203 F St. 719-539-2512 EMAIL: Tony@TonyGreer.com TONYGREER.COM
JACKIE HARLOW BROKER ASSOCIATE Colorado Home Realty Serving Denver Metro, Colorado Springs, and surrounding areas. DENVER METRO: 720-261-5387 COLORADO SPRINGS: 719-650-4242 EMAIL: JackieHomeRealty@gmail.com COLORADOHOMEREALTY.COM
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CREATIVE KIDS A guide TO children’s programs
WORDS BY: GILLIAN SHEEHAN /
STEVE WILLIS PHOTOGRAPHY
LEFT: Josie Hawkins, 16 Practices 26 hours a week at the Colorado Ballet Society and has been training since she was seven.
T
he arts are proven to support whole child development by encouraging fine motor skills, building self-confidence, expressing creativity and increasing problem solving abilities. When kids are exposed to an environment that nourishes creativity, they flourish. The following listing provides a compilation of dance, music, theatre, and visual art opportunities for children in the greater Pikes Peak Region, including classes, lessons, camps, and workshops.
Buena Vista
Castle Rock Dance Academy
Brooke Stroud Dance
Revolution Dance Academy
BROOKESTROUDDANCE.COM
REVOLUTIONDANCECS.COM
DANCE
CASTLEROCKDANCE ACADEMY.COM
Celtic Steps
Celtic Steps
Springs City Dance Force
CELTICSTEPS.ORG
SPRINGSCITYDANCEFORCE.COM
Buena Vista REC
CELTICSTEPS.ORG
Danza Dance Academy
Cindy’s Dance Factory
Springs Dance Academy of Dance
BUENAVISTACO.GOV
CINDYSDANCEFACTORY.COM
SPRINGSDANCE.COM
Colorado Ballet Society
Summit Dance Works
DANCEINTHESPRINGS.COM
SUMMITDANCEWORKS.COM
Offering a range of training from introductory (ages 2.5+) to preprofessional, the Colorado Ballet Society strives for a balance of dance, heath, and excellence in a state-of-the-art facility. A variety of summer workshops, camps, and master classes are available to aspiring young dancers.
Synergy Dance Academy
DANZADANCEACADEMY.COM
VISUAL ARTS
JoAnne’s Dance Studio
Buena Vista Public Library
JOANNESDANCESTUDIO.COM
BUENAVISTALIBRARY.ORG
La Roche Academy of Dance
CaÑon City DANCE
LAROCHEACADEMYOFDANCE.COM
Town of Castle Rock–Parks and Recreation RECCART.CRGOV.COM
School of Ballet Arts
MUSIC
ON FACEBOOK
Castle Rock Music
The B. Box School of Dance & Kinetic Expression
CASTLEROCKMUSIC.COM
ON FACEBOOK
Children’s Music Academy CHILDRENSMUSICACADEMY.ORG
DanceArt Academy DANCEARTACAD.COM
DanceArt Academy Studio– Fountain Arts Center
Trevarah Studio
Music Together of Castle Rock
ON FACEBOOK
MTOCR.COM
THEATRE
THEATRE
Fremont Civic Theatre
Spotlight Theatre
FREMONTCIVICTHEATRE.ORG
SPOTLIGHTTHEATER-CR.COM
VISUAL ARTS
Town of Castle Rock–Parks and Recreation
Fremont Center for the Arts
RECCART.CRGOV.COM
J & J Hip Hop Dance and Performing Arts Company
VISUAL ARTS
Jillian’s School of Dance
Arts on Fire
JILLIANSDANCE.COM
ARTSONFIRESTUDIO.COM
Kemper Dance Academy
Town of Castle Rock–Parks and Recreation
La Danse Classique
FREMONTARTS.ORG/KIDS
This summer, in addition to weekly drop-in art classes, the FCA will provide summer entertainment by way of their Clay Summer Camp (ages 6+) and their Public Mural Project (ages 10+.) The Center also offers creative sessions for homeschooled students.
Castle Rock DANCE Boutique Dance Academy BOUTIQUEDANCEACADEMY.COM
RECCART.CRGOV.COM
Colorado Springs
FOUNTAINARTSCENTER.COM
Dance Unlimited DANCEU.COM
Genesis Dance Conservatory GENESISDANCE CONSERVATORY.COM
JANDJHIPHOPDANCE.COM
KEMPERDANCEACADEMY.COM LADANSECLASSIQUELLC.COM
Let’s Dance! LETSDANCECOS.COM
Natyasangam Dance Academy
DANCE
NATYASANGAMDANCE ACADEMY.COM
Artistry in Motion
Northridge Dance Center
ARTISTRYINMOTION-DANCE.COM
Barbara Ellis Studio of Dance BARBARAELLISSTUDIO OFDANCE.COM
NORTHRIDGEDANCE.COM
Ormao Dance Company ORMAODANCE.ORG
SYNERGYDANCEACADEMY COLORADO.COM
The Dance Center of Colorado Springs THEDANCECENTER.NET
The Little Gym THELITTLEGYM.COM
The PEAK School of Dance THEPEAKSCHOOLOFDANCE.COM
Turning Pointe TURNINGPOINTESCHOOL OFDANCE.COM
Westside Community Center OURWESTSIDE.ORG
YMCA Youth Dance Classes PPYMCA.ORG
Zamuel Ballet School ZAMUELBALLET.COM
MUSIC 232 Music Studios 232MUSICSTUDIOS.COM
Colorado Springs Children’s Chorale KIDSSING.ORG
Colorado Springs Conservatory COLORADOSPRINGS CONSERVATORY.ORG
As the region’s only performing arts conservatory, the Colorado Springs Conservatory offers a plethora of learning experiences for students aged 4-19 in areas such as instrumental music, theory, vocals, and composition. Summer programs include recording arts and musical theater camps.
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Discover over 40 local artists.
Gallery & Custom Framing
Come in, we’re awesome! 2528 W. Colorado Avenue, Suite B Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719.434.1214 | 45degreegallery.com 32 COLORADO FUN
est. 2010
DOWNTOWN // COLORADO SPRINGS
LEFT: Hazel Fair, 5 Has been painting since she could hold a brush. It runs in the family. Her parents own 45 Degree Gallery and hold MFA degrees. Visit 45 Degree in Old Colorado City to purchase Hazel’s framed art!
Colorado Springs Youth Symphony
STARZ Theatre Company
CSYSA.COM
STARZTHEATER.ORG
Kids’ Music Playground
THEATREWORKS
KIDSMUSICPLAYGROUND.NET
THEATREWORKSCS.ORG
Kindermusik with Miss Amy KINDERMUSIK.COM
VISUAL ARTS
Music Greenhouse
Alvarez Art School
MUSICGREENHOUSE.NET
ALVAREZSCHOOL.COM
Pikes Peak Music Together
Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center Bemis School of Art
PIKESPEAKMUSICTOGETHER.COM
Rocky Mountain Academy of Music ROCKYMOUNTAINACADEMY OFMUSIC.COM
Springboard Piano Lessons SPRINGBOARDPIANO.COM
Soul Rhythm African Drumming SOULRHYTHMAFRICAN DRUMMING.COM
The Childbloom Guitar Program CHILDBLOOMGUITAR.COM
THEATRE Academy of Children’s Theatre ACTCOLORADO.NET
Colorado School of Acting COLORADOSCHOOL OFACTING.COM
Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center Theatre School CSFINEARTSCENTER.ORG
Do you have an endeavoring young theatre artist who is interested in acting, musical theatre or design? Check out the summer classes and camps at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center Theatre School for ages 5-18! Millibo Art Theatre THEMAT.ORG
CSFINEARTSCENTER.ORG
Color Me Mine COLORADOSPRINGS. COLORMEMINE.COM
Cottonwood Center for the Arts COTTONWOODCENTER FORTHEARTS.COM
E11 Creative Workshop for Children E11CW.COM
Kids Art Colorado KIDSARTCOLORADO.COM
Kids Can Draw KIDSCANDRAW.COM
Studio 101 Art STUDIO101ART.COM
YMCA Youth Art Classes PPYMCA.ORG
Manitou Springs
Grupo Folklórico del Pueblo
Pikes Peak Studio
GFDELPUEBLO.ORG
PIKESPEAKSTUDIO.COM
Jeannie’s Academy of Dance ON FACEBOOK
THEATRE
Sarah Shaw Dance Studio
Manitou Springs Arts Academy
ON FACEBOOK
MANITOUSPRINGSARTS ACADEMY.COM
The Hip Hop Factory
VISUAL ARTS
Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center
E11 Creative Workshop for Children E11CW.COM
Monument DANCE A Time to Dance ATIMETODANCECOLORADO.COM
The SunDance Studio THESUNDANCESTUDIO.COM
VISUAL ARTS Monument School of Fine Arts STARTMYART.COM
YMCA Youth Art Classes
DANCE
Pueblo
CCPARKSANDRECREATION.COM
DREAMDANCERSPUEBLO.COM
DANCE
Cripple Creek Cripple Creek Parks and Recreation
Dream Dancers Academy of Music and Dance
PPYMCA.ORG
DANCE AscenDANCE SQUAREUP.COM/STORE/ ASCENDANCESTUDIOCO
ON FACEBOOK
SDC-ARTS.ORG
MUSIC City of Pueblo Parks and Recreation PUEBLO.US
Devenian School of Music DEVENIANSOM.ORG
Pueblo Children’s Chorale FREEWEBS.COM
Colorado State University Pueblo CSUPUEBLO.EDU
THEATRE Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center SDC-ARTS.ORG
The Sangre de Cristo Arts Center will once again host the Missoula Children’s Theatre summer camp for K-12 students. The Arts Center also offers incredible visual arts and dance opportunities for youth throughout the year. Steel City Theatre Company STEELCITYTHEATRE.ORG
COLORADO FUN 33
LEFT: Shreya Krishnan, 13 Learns dance, piano, voice, musical theater, and violin at the Colorado Springs Conservatory.
VISUAL ARTS Prairie Pine Pottery & Art Gallery PRAIRIEPINEPOTTERY.COM
Sage Art Academy SAGEARTACADEMY.COM
Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center SDC-ARTS.ORG
The Fire Playce THEFIREPLAYCE.COM
Salida DANCE Salida Dance Studio DANCESALIDA.COM
THEATRE Calliope! CALLIOPE-SALIDA.COM
VISUAL ARTS Box of Bubbles BOXOFBUBBLES.COM
Salida Creativity Lab SALIDACREATIVITYLAB.COM
Salida Rec SALIDAREC.COM
Woodland Park DANCE Dana’s Dance Studio DANASDANCESTUDIO.COM
Mountain Eire MOUNTAINEIRE.ORG
MUSIC Pikes Peak Arts Academy PIKESPEAKARTSACADEMY.COM
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WITH THE ARTS WE THRIVE MUSEUM
THEATRE
ART SCHOOL WE’RE MAKING IT EASIER THAN EVER TO ENJOY THE ARTS WITH: Extended Museum Hours Open late until 7:30 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday Museum Free Days Second Saturday and third Friday of each month Theatre Tickets starting at only $20
coloradocollege.edu/fac · (719) 634-5581 Downtown Colorado Springs – 30 W. Dale Street
Gather and share modern Mexican cuisine BREAKFAST
LUNCH
DI NNER
Provechocs.com | 3240 Centennial Blvd | 719-227-8525
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719.634.2727 Smorbrod.com 2727 N. Cascade Ave 36 COLORADO FUN
old colorado city Old Colorado City is a unique, eclectic neighborhood that was once the hub for mining supplies during the Pikes Peak Gold Rush. The gold rush may be over, but you’ll still find delightful restaurants, art, and shopping here. Visit ShopOldColoradoCity.com for more upcoming events. PHOTOGRAPHY BY ETHAN BEUTE. TAKEN OUTSIDE OF BOMBBOMB’S FORMER OFFICE IN OCC.
April 6-Dec. 7, 2018
June 9-Oct. 20, 2018
september 22, 2018
october 20, 2018
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK 4-8 PM
OLD COLORADO CITY FARMERS’ MARKET SATURDAYS 7 AM-1:30 PM
ASPENS ON THE AVENUE 10 AM-6 PM
GIANT PUMPKIN FESTIVAL 10 AM-3 PM
Meet amazing artists, learn from live demonstrations, and enjoy special activities, good food and fun!
The biggest pumpkins in Colorado will be rolling into Old Colorado City. Come see who wins the prize for the largest pumpkin in the territory and get into the Halloween spirit!
This self-guided visual art walking tour features over 400 artists, art galleries, and open studios. Art works are available for purchase. Come meet artists and enjoy live demonstrations in historic Old Colorado City.
The Old Colorado City Farmers’ Market, a great combination of fresh local produce and shopping, takes place at the intersection of West Colorado Avenue and 24th St., alongside Bancroft Park.
SHOPOLDCOLORADOCITY.COM
PIKESPEAKFARMERSMARKET.COM
may 25-28, 2018 TERRITORY DAYS 10 AM-6 PM Territory Days in Colorado Springs is held every Memorial Day weekend in historic Old Colorado City located on the west side of Colorado Springs. Enjoy over 180 food and craft booths, live music, a kids’ play area and petting zoo and much more. See the performances by Native American dancers, Wild West gunfight re-enactments and live blacksmith demonstrations. Territory Days in Colorado Springs has plenty of food and entertainment for the entire family. PRO-PROMOTIONS.COM
June 17, 2018 WESTFEST 11 AM-6 PM Come see what makes OCC special in Bancroft Park with a main stage programmed with local bands, an art stage with live demonstrations from local gallery artists, a kids zone, local artisans, breweries, and restaurants. OCCWESTFEST.COM
august 19, 2018 CUSTOMS & CLASSICS CAR SHOW 9 AM-3 PM
SHOPOLDCOLORADOCITY.COM
september 23, 2018 TASTE OF OCC 12-4 PM Taste of OCC is a celebration of food, beer, wine & live Music. This annual festival showcases Old Colorado City’s finest restaurants paired with wine & microbrews from the state of Colorado and beyond. TASTEOFOCC.COM
October 1-31, 2018 SCARECROW DAYS 10 AM-3 PM
After its inaugural success in 2017, the Customs & Classics Car Show is back for its second great year at Bancroft Park. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.
All merchants are asked to be a part of the annual Scarecrow Days. Each will craft their own Scarecrow to display outside their shop or restaurant. Scarecrows will be assessed by our judges who are to be announced.
ACEENT1.COM
SHOPOLDCOLORADOCITY.COM
SHOPOLDCOLORADOCITY.COM
November 24, 2018 SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY 10 AM-8 PM Support your local business owners and get bargains galore on this special day of savings in Old Colorado City. CHRISTMAS STROLL 5-8 PM Walk the holiday streets of days gone by with the best Victorian Christmas celebration. Join Christmas Carolers as they entertain with song and plays. Pikes Peak Youth Bell Ringers will be ringing in the Christmas spirit. PICTURES WITH SANTA SEE ONLINE SCHEDULE Beat the crowds to Santa’s Cabin in Bancroft Park’s opening day of the season. Have your pictures taken with a Victorian Santa Claus. SHOPOLDCOLORADOCITY.COM
COLORADO FUN 37
n’s sit ma ot Vi Gar e fo : r ty l ae qua ci ! ich s re n M 00 iatu Tow 3,0min gic a M
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JEWELRY RENOVATIONS • REPAIRS
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12 ART
41
SHOPS &
BOUTIQUES
GALLERIES
2 MILES WEST of Downtown COS on Colorado Avenue between 22nd & 27th
38 COLORADO FUN
VAIL & COLORADO SPRINGS
23 12 RESTAURANTS & WINE BARS
OUTDOOR
PATIOS
art &
10
culture
FREE PARKING LOTS
3 MILES WEST of Manitou Springs on Colorado Avenue between 22nd & 27th
HAPPY HUMANS. HAPPY(ER) DOGS.
Sweet or Savory?
Join playtime for adults and their well-behaved dogs in Colorado’s only “doggie-approved” restaurant and bar. Dine indoors with your dog year round. Enjoy our huge patio and off leash area. Local craft beer on tap, homemade infused cocktails, great food, and a dog menu for your furry friends. Open 7 days a week. Join our dog friendly community.
Why choose when you can have both! We stock Healthy nut mixes, snacks, chocolates and a wide variety of candy too! GIFT BASKETS FOR ALL OCCASSIONS!
2616 W Colorado Ave #9 (719) 635-9880
Come play with me! * Room For Private Parties * 2207 BOTT AVENUE | COLORADO SPRINGS PubDogColorado.com | 719.375.0771 | FB, INSTA & YELP
book your tour! BIKEPIKESPEAK.COM
Call or text: 719.337.5311 Socialize with us:
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CULTURAL CRAVINGS
Discovering ETHNIC foods IN the Pikes Peak Region Ask just about anyone in Colorado Springs where to find the best hiking trail and you’ll get an earful of suggestions and a hiking guide. Ask for the best ethnic restaurants in town and you’ll get a shrug, a sigh, and maybe even some eye rolling. Admittedly, the Springs is not New York City, Chicago, or San Francisco on the culinary scale. In many large cities when lunchtime rolls around, the first question is not “Where do you want to eat?” but instead, “What are you in the mood for—Asian, Italian, German, or Indian?” Perhaps the trend towards ethnic and diverse food offerings has been slow to the table, but Colorado Springs is picking up both pace and promise in dishing it out. WORDS BY JULIE MARTIN SUNICH /
JEWELS BURDICK
OLD COLORADO CITY Old Colorado City (or OCC as the locals call it) is Colorado Springs historic district—founded in the late 1800s as Colorado’s first state capital, it flourished during prohibition from the Named the best Italian restaurant in Colorado in 2017 by MSN Lifestyle, Paravicini's Italian Bistro takes its home country allegiance quite seriously. At dusk, the two-story brick portico is illuminated with the tri-colors of the Italian flag. Inside, a series of cozy dining rooms bring warmth to old school Italian favorites like manicotti, chicken marsala, and seafood fra diavolo. Take a seat on the outdoor patio or venture upstairs to Paravicini’s sister restaurant, Sopra—an antipasto and wine bar with a distinct urban loft feel.
sale of alcohol and was considered by many to be the “Wild West.” Today it’s a gastro-hub of diverse food where holsters have been traded for hummus and ammunition for antipasto.
Paravicini’s Italian Bistro >>
Paravicinis.com
Jake and Telly’s Greek Taverna >>
As the crow flies south and east of Italy, so does Jake and Telly's Taverna, just a short stroll down the street from Paravicini’s. Replete with a Grecian motif, a spacious upstairs deck with a view of Pikes Peak, and exclamations of “Opa!’ emanating from within, you know when you’ve crossed the border. Sample a mezze platter of dolmádes (stuffed grape leaves), souzoutkakia (baked meatballs), spanakopita, (spinach pie), saganaki (imported kasseri cheese)—flambé, of course—and finish with an array of sun-splashed seasoned meats as only the Greeks can prepare. JakeandTellys.com
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The BEST place to meat up for lunch or dinner!
Tues - Sat 11am - 2pm, 4pm - 9pm Open Til 10pm Friday & Saturday Sunday 12pm-9pm Closed Monday’s
VOTED “BEST RESTAURANT FOR TOURISTS”
2628 W Colorado Ave. 719-634-5025 AWARD WINNING Ell Cllll lllll lllllll lll llll llllll
Home cooked Greek delicacies made from recipes passed down from generations!
ThunderandButtons.com // 2415 W. Colorado Ave // 447.9888
Open for Lunch & Dinner Daily. We Cater! In Historic Old Colorado City: 2616 West Colorado Ave. (719) 633-0406 | JakeandTellys.com
ThunderandButtons.com // 2415 W. Colorado Ave // 447.9888
HAPPY HOUR IN ENOTECA WINE BAR UPSTAIRS
Experience Authenticity. FRESH, CLASSIC DISHES, CHOICE LOCAL AND IMPORTED INGREDIENTS.
2527 W COLORADO AVE PIZZERIARUSTICA.COM 719.632.8121
42 COLORADO FUN
CALL AHEAD
2607 W COLORADO AVE TAPATERIA.COM 719.471.TAPA
OLD COLORADO CITY
>> Monse’s Pupuseria
One of the new kids on the OCC block is Monse's Pupuseria, an eatery that specializes in El Salvador’s most beloved native dish— the pupusa. Not quite a taco, not necessarily a quesadilla, this thick, doughy pocket of pure joy takes corn tortillas to a new level. Choose from fillings of beans, cheese, corn, and poblano peppers, and pair them with a side order of curdito—a sweet and sour pickled cabbage relish. Finish with a cold, milky rice horchata, and enjoy the mountain air on Monse’s bamboo-screened patio. Healthy-TasteofElSalvador.com
Quietly tucked in a strip shopping mall, Wild Ginger's cuisine speaks volumes with its fragrant Thai spices and attention to detail. Here’s the place to indulge in curries—both red and green—at any and every temperature on the Fahrenheit scale. The house favorites include the seafood curry with an ample amount of prawns, squid, and scallops in silky sweet coconut milk. Wild Ginger’s peanut sauce is good enough to eat with a spoon, but we like it best over an appetizer of fried tofu.
<< Wild Ginger
Facebook.com/WildGingerThai Restaurant
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COLORADO SPRINGS If you happen to be strolling downtown and hunger strikes, fear not; there are restaurants aplenty for a diverse range of palates. If the sun is shining, snag a seat on one of the many patios for This exclusively gluten-free eatery is a rare gem. Located just south of downtown, Coquette's sleek, almost industrial-look neutrals are a stark contrast to the sparkling array of bakery confections that greet you at the door. Turn the corner into an expansive dining area and lounge bar with a fireplace flanked by soaring windows and enter a theme park of gluten-free breakfast, lunch and dinner entrees serving American classics that all family members will love—fried chicken, pot pies, and corn dogs. Coquette’s weekend brunch is not to be missed with over-the-top almond milk French toast, biscuit benedict, omelets, and sweet and savory crepes. If we hadn’t told you it’s gluten free, you may have never known!
some extra rays to pair with your eats. Thirsty? A pint of something hoppy, smooth, or sour from one of the local breweries just might help do the trick.
Coquette’s Bistro & Bakery >>
CoquettesBistro.com
Fujiyama SUSHI >>
As lovely as it is in Colorado Springs, we are far, far, away from the ocean or any large body of water—aside from the Pueblo Reservoir. At least the oh-somodern sushi bar at Fujiyama offers an opportunity for the land-locked to reminisce and rejoice in the prospect of fresh fish. Nosh on chirashi, sashimi, or contemplate the daily reef-worthy specials with playful names like Sugar Daddy, When Tuna Met Salmon, and Oh My God; a deep-fried California roll, with cream cheese, masago, spicy mayo, and eel sauce. FujiyamaSushi.com
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<< Provecho Fresh Mexican Cuisine
In Colorado’s Pikes Peak region we like to make the most of the spectacular area in which we live. In Mexico, they have a word for that—“aprovechar,” meaning, well, making the most of it. Provecho is the shorthand version heard frequently before eating or drinking. It’s also a fitting name for this Yucatan-influenced Mexican restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a flourish of lime and fresh ingredients. Exotic tacos abound in a variety of choices—organic chicken, shrimp, fish, and carne asada— and for the vegetarian, the fiesta taco features cactus sautéed with onions. Taste the Caribbean by sipping on Provecho's Cozumel Colada. Provechocs.com
MANITOU SPRINGS In this mountain town at the base of Pikes Peak, almost anything goes. Bikers mix with Incline hikers, who mix with children The cuisine vibe is eclectic as well, and Mavi Kebab and Turkish Doner is culinary proof. Half gift store, half café, this Middle Eastern menagerie blends aromatic spices with handmade Turkish crafts. Amidst decorative stoneware and jewelry lives the Turkish Doner, the lesser known, but proclaimed ancestor of the Greek gyros. For the best buzz in town, order an authentic Turkish coffee. This powerfully sweet, almost mud-like brew will get you where you’re going—quickly.
grasping penny arcade tickets in one hand and an ice cream cone in the other.
<< Mavi Kebab and Turkish Doner
Facebook.com/ Mavi-Kebab-and-Turkish-Doner
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CAÑON CITY Gorges are common in Colorado. These remarkably steep and rocky canyons embrace our rivers and elicit “oohs” and “aahs” You can visit the famous Royal Gorge or you can gorge on home-style Italian food at DiRito's. One is synonymous with towering canyons, the other with towering pizzas. Both are tried and true mainstays. Reputed for their signature roasted garlic, homemade bread and “Dats a Gooda Pasta”—sausage tossed with penne pasta and Gouda cheese baked on top—DiRito’s promises you won’t leave on empty.
from spectators from top to bottom. In Cañon City, gorge is both a noun and a verb.
DiRito’s Italian Restaurant >>
GoToDiritos.com Yes, the Pikes Peak region has come a long way from the gold miner’s daily menu of beans, flapjacks, and sourdough bread. And while the gold rush is over, these restaurant gems are well worth digging into.
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OLD COLORADO CITY
GOING AU NATURAL with
JEWELS BURDICK
of the house. I wanted to develop products that could have multiple uses. For instance, I have one body wash. I use it on my face, hands and all over in the shower. There’s one healing stick for everything! I believe a simple beauty routine helps you stay consistent and that’s really important with skin care.
<< SIMPLE BODY PRODUCTS >> WORDS BY: CASEY MARSDEN
Jewels Burdick, founder of Simple Body, uses natural and nourishing ingredients to create skin care products that work— so safe they’re edible! Q: HOW DID YOU BEGIN YOUR HANDMADE JOURNEY? A: Seven years ago, we had an Alzheimer’s scare in my family. I went searching for a natural deodorant because of the connection between aluminum chloride and brain function. I tried everything. EVERYTHING. I couldn’t find one that worked and had spent a lot of money on natural moisturizers and other natural products that didn’t work either. I decided to go to my kitchen and get to work!
Q: WHAT EXCITES YOU FOR THE FUTURE? One of my goals for the future is to educate our next generation. I believe they can be the ones to inspire change in the cosmetic industry. I encourage them to vote with their dollars, to be smarter about their choices and to demand change. . . . TO READ MORE Q & A with Jewels visit ColoradoFunGuide.com/Blog
Q: INSPIRATION COMES FROM WHERE? A: Everywhere! My customers, my friends, my family, reading, traveling, searching! I’ve been teaching DIY classes and it’s been so inspiring to listen to my students share their personal experiences. I feel like I’m constantly learning something new and wanting to incorporate it into my line!
Q: WHAT LEAD YOU TO YOUR CURRENT LINE OF GOODS? A: I like a very simple routine in the morning. I’m always rushing to get out
Simple Body Products 2616 W. Colorado Ave., #5 Colorado Springs, CO 80904 SimpleBodyProducts.com Instagram: @SimpleBodyProducts Facebook.com/SimpleBodyProducts 917-607-0935 Monday-Friday: 10 am-6 pm Saturday: 10-5 pm
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Febra’s
Shop Jen’ ’s P lace
Terree Verd
‘Til you Smile WORDS BY: MELANIE HEXTER JEWELS BURDICK
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Opal Boutique
OLD COLORADO CITY
WE’RE OPEN! With over 300 sunny days per year, it’s easy to feel happy in Colorado. But what do you do when life gives you lemons? Give yourself a bit of retail therapy and shop ’til you smile.
SHOP LOCAL!
Seabel ’s ’ Clothing If unique clothes and shoes are what you need, head to Seabel’s in Pueblo. Just steps from the Historic Arkansas River Project, this boutique has some of the cutest cowboy-inspired boots around! If you are really down, why not put together a Seabel’s gift basket for gifting to a friend as an act of kindness? Jen’s Place is an adorable boutique in Old Colorado City that offers affordable women’s casual wear. Treat yourself to some new workout capris or a stylish cotton tunic by Fresh Produce. Browsing the Terra Verde Boutique in downtown Colorado Springs might be just the therapy you need. When you first walk in, it’s bigger than you’d imagine. Their on-trend fashions include casual Friday wearables and embroidered pieces for an evening on the town. You might walk out hours later, feeling refreshed. How about treating yourself to a whole new outfit at Opal Boutique in Salida ? This shop offers trendy, affordable pieces and is like shopping in a friend’s closet! Couture buying ensures you won’t see these pieces on everyone in town!
Boutique? Art gallery? Febra’s in Old Colorado City offers both in an inviting atmosphere. Try on some moto boots, distressed jeans, or a floral maxi dress after you browse handmade jewelry, watercolor paintings and geode pieces. The quaint storefront will draw you in and the owner’s friendly customer service will bring you back. The Outlets at Castle Rock might be the granddaddy of all retail therapy locations. The 100+ stores offer big box deals that can’t be beat. Ranked as the #5 tourist location in the state, it’s pedestrian-friendly so you’ll feel like you spent the day in a small community.
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✽ Fresh Produce Clothing ✽ Mud Pie Home Decor & Clothing ✽ Heritage Lace Window & Decor ✽ Park Designs Home Decor
✽ Lotion Bar Cafe ✽ Anju Mixed Metal Jewelry ✽ Lenny & Eva Sentiments & Cuffs ✽ Greeting Cards
NEW BRANDS:
A Boutique & Gallery
j Chala Handbags j Simply Noelle
Where Art, Fun & Fashion Come Together In Old Colorado City!
Clothing
j Michel Design Works
“Poppies” By Artist Eric Fetsch FEATURING: Clothing in Small to Plus Sizes, Mountain & Lodge Themes, Unique Kitchen & Home Linens. 2532 W Colorado Ave. (Free Parking in Rear)
719-635-4466 shopfebras.com
Open by 11AM Mon-Sun
2514 W. Colorado Ave, Ste 101, Colorado Springs, CO (719) 635-9560 //www.jensplace.biz
ALL ABOUT OLORADO
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2508 West Colorado Avenue Old Colorado City 719-633-8295
COLORADO’S BEST
T-shirts t Gifts t Souvenirs
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Pink Cadillac BOUTIQUE Fashions fade, style is eternal.. CASUAL TO FORMAL WEAR . LINGERIE . VINTAGE TURQUOISE JEWELRY . NAVAJO JEWELRY . STERLING SILVER . JADE . ORIGINAL ART BY STEVEN SEMCO 1635 W Colorado Ave CO Springs 719-684-6502 pinkcaddyboutique.com
exceptional
Clothing iJewelry i Accessories new old colorado city location! 2511 w. colorado avenue (719) 237.2796 | texytile@msn.com
Fashion Forward, Edgy, & One of a Kind Style
Visit us in Old Colorado Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art District
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At Cañon City’s A Borgata, you’ll find 70+ shops stocked with an incredible variety of home decor, wearable art, tourist souveniers, and much more.
Unlisted Market Pelindaba Lavender How would essential oils, skin care products, and home goods made from organic lavender make you feel right about now? Drop by Pelindaba Lavender in Manitou Springs for a sensory escape. They will teach you how to soothe yourself with lavender—and even cook with it! PelindabaLavender.com
If you’re looking for an all-in-one shopping experience, head to Unlisted Market in Denver. There’s over 100 artisan vendor booths to browse. You’ll find gifts, handcrafted items, vintage finds, refurbished furniture, home decor, fabulous fashion, and specialty goods. TheUnlistedMarket.com
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Pikes Peak Market The Pikes Peak Market in downtown Colorado Springs will soothe your soul as it offers healthy food options and a growing community of artists. Enjoy a COS ‘bucha or a pickup one of Della’s home baked pies. PikesPeakMarket.com
Silver Sparrow Beads
Simple Body Head to Old Colorado City for Simple Body Products’ amazing selection of natural moisturizers, scrubs, creams, serums, and even deodorants. If it goes on your body, they probably have it in an all-natural, handmade version. Some products are designed just for babies while others are nut free. Stop in to browse and leave refreshed.
Silver Sparrow Beads in Old Colorado City is the perfect stop if you want a little DIY project! They offer everything you need for jewelry making. They also have handmade jewelry to inspire your creativity!
SimpleBodyProducts.com
Find them on Etsy!
When you need a pick-me-up, shopping can satisfy you. Grab a friend, shop one of these great Pikes Peak area boutiques and put a smile back on your face.
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! E LIV YOUR GUIDE TO COLORADO’S YEAR-ROUND MUSIC SCENE
PHOTO: NANCY ISAAC
WORDS BY: GILLIAN SHEEHAN
Avon
Beaver Creek Buena Vista
COVER ROCK FESTIVAL
BLUES, BREWS & BBQ FESTIVAL
CAMP OUT FOR THE CAUSE
June 22-23, 2018
May 26-27, 2018
June 1-3, 2018
A two-day tribute band extravaganza, this year’s theme is “Made in the USA” and will include first-rate covers of songs from some of the best American Rock & Roll bands.
Top notch BBQ eats and blues music are superimposed at this long running festival. Come celebrate summer in the mountains!
With an emphasis on the evolution of human connection, this music and yoga festival will hit you right in the feels. A portion of this year’s proceeds will go to support the medical expenses for a young girl with a rare form of childhood cancer.
THE COLORADO MUSIC SCENE is without question wonderfully diverse. From bluegrass to reggae, jazz to country, and everything in between, Colorado festivals weave multiple genres together in harmonious fashion. The laid-back attitude of the concert-goers, the Rocky Mountain fresh air, and the pride for the musical talent all make for an exceptional atmosphere in which the creativity of the artists can flourish. Stevie Wonder described it best when he sang, “music is a world within itself with a language we all understand.” We’ve compiled a list of festivals for this year. With this much variety, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
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COVERROCK FESTIVAL.COM
BEAVERCREEK.COM
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rocking through the afternoon and evening.
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This festival is a showcase of Fremont County’s river and land-based outdoor activities. After a day of fun and fresh air, kick back and relax to the sounds of talented music acts.
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Country music lovers, rejoice! This brand new music and camping festival will take place over Labor Day weekend at the Meadows, in Buena Vista, and will be curated by none other than Dierks Bentley!
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With over 45 craft breweries and camping on site, the banks of the Arkansas River will come alive to the sound of bluegrass music for this second annual festival.
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June 29-July 1, 2018
Main Street in Buena Vista and mingle over some excellent musical entertainment.
CRGOV.COM
BREW FEST UNDER THE STARS Aug. 25, 2018
Castle Rock
14ER FEST Sept. 28-30, 2018
CASTLE ROCK SUMMER JAM
After a day of excitement and trail-based events in Chaffee County, come back to
July 29, 2018 With national and regional acts, this event is sure to keep you
Looking for a perfect date night or evening out? Head to Castle Rock for a one-of-akind atmosphere with amazing local craft brews, bites, and jams!
Colorado Springs
RENDEZVOUSAT THEROCK.NET
MEADOWGRASS MUSIC FESTIVAL May 25-27, 2018 Relax to the tune of fabulous music performances in Black Forest over Memorial Day weekend. This diverse festival is the perfect getaway for music aficionados and families alike.
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Did you know that Old Colorado City was the first capital of the Colorado territory in 1861? Territory Days honors this distinction in grandiose fashion, including historic reenactments, exhibits, and an extensive lineup of free live music performances over three days.
June 15-17, 2018 With traditional music, pipe bands and Celtic rock groups, Celtic music lovers will find a home at the annual Pikes Peak Celtic Fest. Other events include Highland athletics and a whiskey/ scotch tasting. PIKESPEAK CELTICFESTIVAL.COM
COLORADO SPRINGS ART & MUSIC FESTIVAL June 30-July 1, 2018 Bring the whole family for free for two days of live music with exhibits from national juried fine artists and activities for all ages. COLORADOEVENTS ANDFESTIVALS.COM
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BLUES UNDER THE BRIDGE
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Produced by 91.5 KRCC, this 12th annual event has a lineup comprised of national and local blues genre musicians that is set to impress!
Fountain
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July 7, 2018
Sept. 21-22, 2018 This hot rod and rockabilly festival will include two stages for live music performances at the Pikes Peak International Raceway. HOTRODROCK.COM
July 29, 2018
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In its ninth year, this festival showcases exceptional bluegrass and folk music. This family-friendly event is centered on community growth and includes on-site camping options.
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June 15-17, 2018
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Deemed by many a Labor Day weekend tradition, this free festival includes a diverse range of music acts, an artisan festival, and activities for the kids.
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Bring your appetite for food and music to the 25th annual BBQ Challenge, featuring all day music and scrumptious snacks. The town of Frisco proudly partners with six non-profit organizations.
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This free music festival at Copper Mountain comes complete with workshops and jam sessions. The singer-songwriter vibe found at this event is a magnet for creativity and summer fun.
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In its 14th year, this bluegrass and culinary arts festival welcomes a recent Missouri music hall of fame inductee and the winner of the 2017 Freshgrass Band Award. Proceeds benefit the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site.
BACON & BOURBON FESTIVAL June 23-24, 2018 LOTS of bacon and free live music. Sound appealing? Visit Keystone for an experience that your taste buds (and ears) won’t want to miss. KEYSTONE FESTIVALS.COM
WINE & JAZZ FESTIVAL July 14-15, 2018 Classy wine seminars, chic food pairings, and exquisite jazz performances blend together to create a smooth and relaxing vibe at this annual Keystone festival. KEYSTONE FESTIVALS.COM
BLUEGRASS & BEER FESTIVAL Aug. 4-5, 2018 This year’s festival welcomes 14 national
and regional bluegrass groups, and pairs the sweet sound of mountain music with delicious libations from over 40 craft breweries.
landscape set the tone for this two day country and rock festival in La Veta. Bring the whole family without breaking the bank.
KEYSTONE FESTIVALS.COM
SPANISHPEAKS MUSICFESTIVAL.COM
MOUNTAIN TOWN MUSIC FESTIVAL Aug. 17-18, 2018 Colorado sunshine + free live music + harvest favorites = summer bliss. Make it your summer tradition and you won’t be disappointed. KEYSTONE FESTIVALS.COM
La Veta SPANISH PEAKS MUSIC FESTIVAL July 6-7, 2018 Beautiful sunsets and a breathtaking
Manitou Springs HERITAGE BREW FESTIVAL Sept. 29, 2018 Back for its fourth year and hosted by the Manitou Springs Heritage Center, this 21+ event is known for its terrific live music and craft beer tasting experience. MANITOUSPRINGS HERITAGE CENTER.ORG
Monument PICKIN’ ON THE DIVIDE Aug. 18, 2018 This annual bluegrass festival is deeply rooted in family. A benefit for the community, this event proudly presents local bands and also includes a tasty chili cook-off. PICKINONTHE DIVIDE.COM
Pueblo COLORADO STATE FAIR Aug. 24-Sept. 3, 2018 In addition to the ticketed headliner performances, the fair offers two free entertainment stages throughout its eleven-day run. COLORADOSTATE FAIR.COM
OLD COLORADO CITY
SALIDA FINE ARTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
Vail
July 21-22, 2018 Family fun is the vibe at this festival. Back for its 10th year, this free two-day event features live music, local food vendors, a creation station for all ages and beautiful art exhibits. Y C AN :N TO O PH
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Sept. 21-23, 2018 Celebrate the end of summer to the smell of roasting chilies at Pueblo’s annual harvest celebration. With multiple entertainment tents, live music is abundant throughout the festival. FESTIVAL.PUEBLO CHAMBER.ORG
NEW MEX FEST Oct. 6, 2018 This festival celebrates the unique
genre of New Mexico music pioneered by the late Al Hurricane. Extremely talented musicians fuse culture and tradition into their sound. NEWMEXMUSICFEST. COM
free, with donations going to the Salida Rotary Club. Superb music performances are a highlight at this event. BLUEGRASSON THEARKANSAS.ORG
FIBARK
Salida BLUEGRASS ON THE ARKANSAS May 26-27, 2018 This annual familyfriendly weekend is
June 7-10, 2018 As Vail’s largest event of the year, the four-day GoPro Mountain Games include free live music at the Mountains of Music concert series in the evenings. MOUNTAINGAMES.COM
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June 14-17, 2018 The FIBArk is the national, original whitewater festival. After a day on the river, make sure to take in the talented music acts at Riverside Park. FIBARK.COM
Spanish Peaks COUNTRY SONIC BLOOM FESTIVAL June 14-18, 2018 This intimate four-day electronic music and camping extravaganza in Spanish Peaks Country prides itself on caring for the environment. SONICBLOOM FESTIVAL.COM
HIGH MOUNTAIN HAY FEVER BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL July 12-15, 2018 The Sangre de Cristo Mountains provide a stunning background for this festival. In its 16th year, this event boasts highly talented performers and multiple music workshops over four days.
Westcliffe
HIGHMOUNTAIN HAYFEVER.ORG
CUSTER COUNTY COWBOY GATHERING
Woodland Park
Aug. 18-19, 2018 This festival is as authentic as it gets! Listen to live country western music and cowboy poetry from talented artists and experience a genuine chuck wagon dinner. CUSTERCOUNTY COWBOY GATHERING.COM
VINO & NOTES Aug. 4, 2018 In its 11th year, this benefit for the Teller County Habitat for Humanity will feature smooth jazz and delicious wines from over 20 Colorado wineries. VINOANDNOTES.COM
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Beautiful beads of all shapes, sizes, and colors! Jewelry making supplies & beautiful jewelry, ready to wear!
NEW to Old Colorado City! 2501 W Colorado Avenue (719) 685-1226 | 11am - 6pm Daily | Socialize with us!
FINE JEWELRY GEMSTONES CERTIFIED DIAMONDS JEWELRY DESIGN CAD/CAM DESIGN 3D PRINTING JEWELRY REPAIR GEMSTONE CUTTING MINERAL SPECIMENS WATCH BATTERIES 2520 ½ W Colorado Ave. Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904 719-634-7973 www.bydesigngems.com
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45 Degree Gallery Arati Artists Gallery By Design Gems Colorado Creative Co-op Colorado Fine Art Works Chavez Gallery Cucuru Gallery Cafe EXCITING Febra’s LOCATIONS Hunter-Wolff Gallery Laura Reilly Fine Arts Gallery Oaks Glass Running Wolf Gallery Safron of Manitou Springs Second Floor Studios Silver Sparrow The Squash Blossom Thunder Mountain Trading Company
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capturing a creative
portraits. These young adults are at the starting line of leaving youth behind and becoming adults. And with this in mind, I’m striving to create portraits
<< STEVE WILLIS PHOTOGRAPHY >> BY JEWELS BURDICK //
STEVE WILLIS
Q: How long have you been doing photography and what inspires you? A: I’ve been in the creative media industry for 25 years, but I’ve been a fulltime creative fine portrait and event photographer photographer for 12 years now. I actually find inspiration in my clients. I love discovering their personalities, hearing their stories, and seeing what they are passionate about. I’m of the opinion that portraiture is the highest form of photography. Everyone is so unique and beautiful in ways that only they can be. And for me to capture this essence inspires me to serve them with creative excellence.
that are bolder, more mature, and hopefully capturing not who they were but who they are becoming. To serve them is a creative photo adventure.
Q: In addition to location shooting, do you have a studio space? A: I do. I searched high and low for studio and found an amazing place in Old Colorado City. I love the location and I have the very best neighbors. I do a fair amount of high school senior portraits and corporate headshots in my studio. It’s a wonderful environment for creativity. . . . TO READ MORE Q & A with Steve visit ColoradoFunGuide.com/Blog
Q: What photography do you enjoy the most? A: While I love capturing wedding day stories and getting creative with brides, I’d have to say that I’ve really enjoyed doing high school senior
Steve Willis Photography 2616 W. Colorado Ave., #5 SteveWillisPhoto.com Instagram: @SteveWillisPhoto 719-220-0990 By appointment only.
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PHOTO: MARIANNE BROWN
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DESTINATION: DREAM WEDDING Couples from across the country are hard-pressed to find a more stunning backdrop to celebrate their love than Colorado. Enchanting fields of wildflowers in the summer and glistening peaks of the Rocky Mountains in the winter draw couples to the Centennial State year round. Outdoorsy yet glamorous, Colorado has something to offer every couple, no matter how you envision tying the knot. Dozens of stunning venues across the state are ready to soar above your expectations for your dream destination wedding. WORDS BY: KELSEY KENNEDY
months, but Colorado weather can change on a dime. Ileen Hoekman, a Colorado native and wedding planner in Colorado Springs, admits she’s seen her fair share of crazy weather, but always discusses contingency options with her clients. “We try our best to be one step ahead and monitor the weather on the big day. Occasionally, we will have to delay a ceremony by a few minutes or move to plan B.” She’s also had brides that insist on being outside, regardless of the weather. “If a client feels this strongly about their ceremony being outside, I recommend forward thinking and providing comfort items such as umbrellas or cozy throw blankets.”
PHOTO: MARIANNE BROWN
PHOTO: MARIANNE BROWN
ONCE YOU'VE FOLLOWED YOUR HEART TO COLORADO, it may be tempting to dive right into finding the perfect venue. But working though some logistics first will make planning your destination wedding much easier. Consider your budget, the size of your guest list, and overall vision for your big day.
Colorado’s seasons are each uniquely gorgeous and often drastically different. Some couples choose a specific wedding date for sentimental reasons, while others settle first on the time of year. Summer is the most popular wedding season in Colorado and nationwide, according to the Denver Post. June through September are the hottest and brightest
Summer is the most popular wedding season in Colorado and nationwide
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In the fall, a gold rush of aspen leaves make a mountain backdrop even more breathtaking. Crisp temperatures and dry air are the norm, but snowfall isn’t unheard of. If you plan to capture the fall colors in your wedding photos, don’t forget the leaves change more quickly at higher elevations. Peak color is usually September through October. If a winter wonderland wedding is what you dream of, Colorado’s peaks are coated in powder from November until as late as April. Even if your celebration is inside, be sure to grin and bear the cold for a few fabulous photo ops in the glistening snow. Hoekman reminds her clients that some venues can only be accessed by one highway in the winter. She recommends advising guests to fly in early. “You never know when a snowstorm will close the
OLD COLORADO CITY
Having a vision of how you want your big day to look and feel says a lot about you as a couple. pass or very seriously delay travelers,” she says. “If you’re leery of this and still want a Colorado winter wedding, consider opting out of the snowy mountain locations for a spot in the foothills or in a city with a mountain view.” Having a vision of how you want your big day to look and feel says a lot about you as a couple. “Your venue becomes the third character in the narrative of your wedding story. The best advice we can give you is to choose a place that feels like coming home,” say the pros at The Venue Report.
If a cozy yet casual day of visiting with friends and family is your style, pavilion rentals at city and county parks in Colorado make for extremely affordable yet stunning wedding venues. El Paso county and the city of Colorado Springs offer 15 beautiful parks from which to choose. Let Buffalo Gals Grilling & Catering Company, based in Colorado Springs take your outdoorsy affair to the next level with dozens of fresh and delicious menus. Aiming for intimate mountain nuptials? Leanne and Mike Yobs of Albuquerque, New Mexico, found Pagosa Springs,
Colorado, an obvious choice for their April 2018 wedding. The location also conveniently split the distance between them and their families. “I am originally from Colorado Springs and Mike is from Raton, so we have both been spoiled with the mountains that we grew up around,” Leann said. “When Mike and I were talking about where to host the wedding, we knew it had to be somewhere scenic in the mountains and that Colorado was going to be the ideal spot.”
FAR LEFT: Have some fun with your wedding! Vintage Scooter Adventures in Manitou Springs can get you down the aisle, in style! LEFT: Try a non-traditional wedding dessert! Buffalo Gals Grilling and Catering Company in Colorado Springs offers many exciting options for desserts, like this fabulous chocolate covered strawberry tower!
PHOTO: ALI HORNER
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The couple hosted 40 of their closest friends and family at the Cabins at Hartland Ranch. “The cabins, although ten years old, look brand new and have an authentic mountain charm that we fell in love with. The ranch has five cabins that are perfect for lodging our family,” said Leann.
themselves. “We really wanted it to be an intimate event so we kept everything as simple as we wanted,” Leann said. “If you end up with too many people, the planning gets out of control. Mike and I wanted to keep the day about our new life together, and a destination wedding is allowing us to do so.”
Mike and Leann had envisioned a simple celebration that they could plan
A “do-it-yourself” wedding in a place you’ve only visited may have its
challenges when it comes to finding vendors. “Since we are not from the area, we have relied heavily on word of mouth and the internet to get anything booked,” Leann added. While it’s not absolutely necessary to visit venues before deciding on the perfect location for your wedding, it can be a highlight of the planning experience, as it was for Leann and Mike. “So far, the best part of the destination wedding has been getting to tour the area of Pagosa Springs and Durango,” Leann said. It’s the mountain charm that really draws you in and makes you say, ‘Yeah, this is the spot’.” If like Leann and Mike, you’re looking for a venue with rustic flare, but have always dreamt of hosting a larger group of friends and family, check out Flying Horse Ranch. Located just north of Colorado Springs, Flying Horse Ranch offers two venue spaces including a beautiful rustic barn and multiple wedding package options. Melissa and Adam fell in love with Colorado while they fell in love with each other. They made multiple trips to visit friends in Colorado from 850 miles away while dating. “My now husband proposed on a gondola ride,” Melissa said. “When we began looking at locations, we knew we wanted to get married in the mountains of Colorado.” The couple finally visited their venue just four months before their big day.
PICTURED: SPRUCE MOUNTAIN
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“The biggest challenge was not seeing the venue before we booked it,” Melissa said. “I remember turning into Mountain Village
the vendors were amazing and seemed to know exactly what I wanted and it took my breath away. I realized then that, yes, it was all going to work out.” While a destination wedding in Colorado might be your idea of a dream day, keep in mind that some guests might not be willing or able to travel. If you’ve always dreamt of a large wedding with hundreds of your closest friends and family by your side, aim for a convenient guest experience. According to wedding planner, Ileen Hoekman, your venue should be near appealing lodging and dining options. “Cozy mountain towns are a great place to start your search. There are many stunning locations within driving range of towns like Keystone, Vail, or Breckenridge,” she says. “A location like this would not only provide conveniences that your guests appreciate but amenities and entertainment to bring a couple’s friends and families together.” The more traditional bride dreaming of a fairy tale Colorado wedding will be blown away by the conveniences of the fabulous hotel options in downtown Colorado Springs, just minutes from the Colorado Springs Airport. The Antlers Hotel can accommodate your lavish celebration for up to 650 guests. Also in downtown Colorado Springs, The Mining Exchange, A Wyndham Grand Hotel and Spa, is a gorgeous blend of historical intrigue and modern charm. With eight separate ceremony and reception spaces, and stunning historic features original to 1902, The Mining Exchange
provides a striking backdrop for wedding ceremonies, celebrations and photographs. They also offer award winning packages and day of amenities meant to put the destination bride’s mind at ease. “We believe that the special couple should spend the day exhilarated from the anticipation of marrying their person rather than nail-biting from the stress of planning,” said Hanne Murray, the Wedding and Event Manager at The Mining Exchange. Prepare to tie the knot by relaxing in the spa, having lunch with your bridal party, and get the party started with complimentary mimosas. When your special day comes to an end, the newlyweds will enjoy a complimentary night in a Junior Suite at The Mining Exchange. When you’ve decided on a date and venue, Hoekman recommends sending out your save the dates about 12 months in advance of your wedding to give your guests time to save and plan for the trip. “Additionally, I highly advise building a wedding website where guests can view travel information and things to do in the area,” Hoekman says. “These two little things can really simplify things for your loved ones.” Destination weddings can be planned without a professional wedding planner, though using one can put your mind at ease from thousands of miles away. Consider how hands on you’d like to be during the planning process. If you’d prefer to hand over your vision and show up to see it come to life, a wedding planner may be
the way to go. “When you are planning a destination wedding, hiring a reputable planner that can be your advocate can be a life saver,” said Hoekman. “Since you don’t have knowledge of the area or local professionals, a planner can alleviate a lot of stress and uncertainty.” If you decide not to hire a wedding planner, many venues offer coordinators, trusted vendor lists, and dayof planners to ensure your day is everything you’d imagined. During Melissa and Adam’s visit to The Peaks Resort and Spa, a few months before their wedding, they met with their selected vendors to go over the details. “It probably was not necessary to do all of that, as the vendors were amazing and seemed to know exactly what I wanted,” Melissa said. “It did help that The Peaks had a coordinator, Gigi. We also worked with Amy of Polished Fun. They were both amazing and I don’t think we could have done it without them.” Looking back, Melissa says there wasn’t much she’d change about her Telluride wedding. “I feel like I was much less stressed having a destination wedding than I would have been had we had one locally,” said Melissa. “You realize there are things that you can control and some that you can’t. With a destination wedding you really stop worrying about those things that you can’t control.” Brides and grooms have a lot to look forward to when planning a destination wedding in Colorado.
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OUR DREAMY WEDDING PICKS!
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SPRUCE MOUNTAIN
COQUETTE’S BAKERY
A. A perfect blend of rustic elegance, Spruce Mountain Ranch is a 450-acre premier mountain venue, located just outside of the city. Offering two separate properties located over a mile apart, each offering magnificent handcrafted detail and state-of-the-art conveniences. Spruce Mountain is a breathtaking setting for any wedding or event.
D. Nine award winning years of creative baking with love and Coquette’s own flour. 100% GF and 100% delicious. Reception rooms available.
14771 Spruce Mountain Road
VINTAGE SCOOTER ADVENTURES
Larkspur, CO 80118 719-484-0800 SpruceMountainEvents.com
By Design Gems B.
Something unique, created just for you. A ring expresses your everlasting love and promise. Something of great importance deserves to reflect your taste and style. By Design Gems will custom cut your gemstones or assist in your selection of the finest certified diamonds. Choose a custom handcrafted band, a standard mounting, or a custom CAD/CAM design and 3D printing. Select your choice of metal and watch as your ring comes to life. Designed by us. Created for you. 2520 ½ W. Colorado Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80904 791-634-7973 ByDesignGems.com
SCENT OF HEAVEN MASSAGE C.
Book relaxing treatments and massages for the wedding party! This helps everyone to relax, enjoy, and get their skin glowing for the big day! 3215 Austin Bluffs Pkwy, Suite C Colorado Springs, CO 80917 719-231-9093 ScentofHeavenMassage.com
616 S. Tejon St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903 719-685-2420 CoquettesBistro.com
E.
Rent gas powered 50CC vintage scooters for self-guided tours around Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, and Old Colorado City. GPS guided, affordable scooters for fun and adventure! Great for bachelorette parties! 3314 W. Colorado Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719-235-6501 VintageScooterAdventures.com
LANE MITCHELL F. Discover the perfect engagement and wedding rings uniquely for you. Lane Mitchell Jewelers specializes in custom designed jewelry as well as antique and estate jewelry. The ring pictured is from 1850s! We combine old world craftsmanship with the most modern technology. Lane Mitchell has been a jeweler for over 40 years, and understands how important jewelry is for such a special occasion! At Lane Mitchell Jewelers, you can choose something that is already made, you can start from scratch with an idea or a picture, or you can recreate something you already have from a family heirloom. We can do it all. We are also the premiere store for vintage and estate jewelry, so if your fiancée desires not simply a ring, but a piece of history, we have from rings and
jewelry from 1850s–1900s–today, and everything in between. Whether you desire something made especially for you and your fiancée or something that’s uniquely vintage from the 1900s, we have it. She will be thrilled with the quality, craftsmanship, and service. Our goal is to exceed your expectations with exceptional designs and unique styles from contemporary to antique. Creating special moments and lasting memories. Come in and check us out! 737 Manitou Ave. Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719-685-2441 AND 102 E. Pikes Peak Ave., #303 Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719-632-1170 LaneMitchellJewelers.com
twigs & posies G.
Twigs & Posies is a floral design studio located in Colorado Springs that specializes in modern design and distinct arrangements using a creative collection of stylish color palettes and earthy, textured botanicals. We are dedicated to bringing our clients artful floral designs for weddings and special events. 2227 N. Weber St. Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-632-4477 TwigsandPosies.com
Colorado Party Rentals H.
Colorado’s premier rental company offers the finest wedding, party, tent and event rentals by providing superior, high-quality equipment, friendly and knowledgeable customer service, and prompt delivery and setup by a professional staff to help make
your event special! With two convenient locations in Denver and Colorado Springs, no party or wedding is too big or small for personalized attention. We work with you step-by-step to provide your choice of the broadest range of equipment in the region at affordable pricing. • • • • • • • • •
Bar & Accessories Catering Equipment Chairs & Barstools Concessions & Games Linens & Dance Floor Dinnerware Lighting Pipe & Drape and Tents Heaters & Decor
Have a few ideas, but you’re not sure how it will all come together? Schedule a visit to one of our showrooms! We have working design tables which allow you to actually see how all the table top elements of your event come together. Can’t make it into one of the showrooms? We can come to you! While you’re in the planning phase of your event, just give us a call to schedule a site visit with one of our event specialists. Part of our job involves understanding your needs, and sometimes one of the best ways we can do that is to meet you at the place where your event is being held. Whether at your home, workplace, or chosen venue, we want to have the opportunity to see your space first-hand to help you select the perfect combination of rentals. When it comes to event services, we have you covered! LOCATIONS IN DENVER AND COLORADO SPRINGS 890 Elkton Dr., Suite 101 Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719-425-2637 AND 5005 Ironton St. Denver, CO 80239 303-781-1111 CPartyRentals.com
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Authentic + Mindful+ Simple
A CORPORATE & WEDDING EVENT VENUE
* Premier Food & Beverage Options * Indoor & Outdoor Space with Tables & Chairs Included * Ceremony Site Included. Ceremony Only Packages Available * Includes Beautiful Bridal Cottage/Loft & Groomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lounge * 11 Hours of Exclusive Use of 225 gorgeous acres! * Spruce Mountain is conveniently and centrally located, only 25 minutes South of Denver & North of Colorado Springs SpruceMountainEvents.com // 719-484-0800 // Larkspur, Colorado
Justyna Butler Photography
weddings & events
studioqevents.com
BuffaloGalsGrilling.com A Preferred Caterer for Spruce Mountain
Specializing in Santa Maria style BBQ, we travel the Pikes Peak Region with our custom made grills to bring a Colorado experience to you and your guests.
Rustic elegance with true Colorado Style Catering! 719-635-0200 BuffaloGalsGrilling.com
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MANITOU SPRINGS Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs has a vibe all its own. From quaint shops, to historic mansions, this small community in the foothills is the perfect way to spend a day. Visit ManitouSprings.org for upcoming events.
PHOTO: ANNA MEEKEL
June 2, 2018 MANITOU SPRINGS COLORADO WINE FESTIVAL
August 18-19, 2018
octoBer 27, 2018
PPIHC.COM
PIKES PEAK ASCENT/ MARATHON
July 2, 2018
This race leads to the top of Pikes Peak at 14,115 ft. The race begins in historic downtown Manitou Springs.
EMMA CRAWFORD COFFIN RACES & FESTIVAL 12 PM
ICE CREAM SOCIAL AND PIE BAKING CONTEST
PIKESPEAKMARATHON.ORG
Highway. The Pikes Peak Highway will be CLOSED to non-race visitors for that day only.
11 AM-5 PM Spend your day in Manitou Springs enjoying generous tastings from 30 Colorado wineries. Listen to live music by Flatirons Jazz Orchestra, Tenderfoot Bluegrass, and Edison. Enjoy food and gift vendors while you stroll through Memorial Park. MANITOUSPRINGS.ORG
June 16, 2018
5:30 PM-8 PM Join us at Soda Springs Park for an old-fashioned ice cream social and pie baking contest. The event will be a gathering of friendly competition and ice cream enjoyment for all. MANITOUSPRINGS.ORG
SILENT DISCO AND FOOD TRUCK RALLY 6-10 PM Come down to Soda Springs Park Pavilion, dance to three different DJ’s, and enjoy drinks from Black Bear Distillery and Tivoli Brewery. The food truck rally will be in the park along with vendors, activities, and more. MANITOUSPRINGS.ORG
June 24, 2018 PIKES PEAK INTERNATIONAL HILLCLIMB 8 AM-12 PM Take part in the second oldest race in the U.S. on Pikes Peak
July 4, 2018 MSVFD FIREWORKS FROM HIGGINBOTHAM FLATS 8-9 PM The Manitou Springs Volunteer Fire Department is proud to display the Fourth of July Fireworks once again. Magnificent views of the fireworks can take place in downtown Manitou Springs. The fireworks will be shot off from Higginbotham Flats at dark. MANITOUSPRINGS.ORG
Parade starts at 12:00 pm followed by up to 70 teams racing coffins down Manitou Avenue for the ultimate victory! Each team consists of one Emma and four runners dressed in costume.
SEPTEMBER 1-3, 2018
MANITOUSPRINGS.ORG
COMMONWHEEL ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL
DECEMBER 24, 2018
10-5 PM Visit Memorial Park in Manitou Springs to enjoy arts, crafts, food, and entertainment. COMMONWHEEL.COM
SEPTEMBER 29, 2018 MANITOU SPRINGS HERITAGE BREW FEST 12-5 PM Located in Memorial Park in Manitou Springs, the Heritage Brew Fest features tastings from featured brewers, commemorative tasting glass, live music all day, food vendors, and non-alcoholic offerings, as well. MANITOUSPRINGSHERITAGE CENTER.ORG
SANTA AT THE TOWN CLOCK 6-7 PM Come enjoy this Christmas Eve tradition. Santa is escorted to the town clock at Manitou Ave. and Canon Ave. to receive any last minute requests. MANITOUSPRINGS.ORG
DECEMBER 31, 2018 ADAMAN FIREWORKS MIDNIGHT Since 1922, the Pikes Peak AdAmAn Club has been a New Year’s Eve tradition. After climbing Barr Trail to the top of Pikes Peak, the group sets off fireworks at midnight from the summit. ADAMAN.ORG
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MANITOU CLIFF DWELLINGS
FUN FOR
ALL AGES
OPEN
5
7
DAYS A WEEK (weather permitting)
MILES WEST OF
COLORADO SPRINGS
OFF HWY 24
(800) 354.9971 CLIFFDWELLINGS.ORG
COUPONS AND INFO
CLIFFDWELLINGS.ORG
FOR EVENTS AND MORE
/MANITOUCLIFFDWELLINGS
Iron Springs Chateau Coloradoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fun Melodrama
444 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Spgs, CO (719) 685-5104
CHEER THE HERO!
BOO THE VILLAIN!
JOIN US FOR DINNER AND A SHOW
A comedy filled melodrama where the good guys always win! Followed by a sing-along Intermission & Vaudeville style Musical Revue.
RESERVATIONS: (719) 685-5104 FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! Open Tuesday-Saturday per reservations Closed Sunday and Monday Senior, Military and Group Rates Available
http://ironspringschateau.com 70 COLORADO FUN
Escape and enjoy manitou springs
Plan your Stay in the heart of the Pikes Peak Region Nestled between Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs is centrally located to the attractions of the Pikes Peak Region. Our walkable small town is the perfect place to stay while you stroll the newly-designated creative district, sip the cold-water mineral drinking springs and explore unique shopping and dining.
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Call 800-642-2567 or visit MANITOUSPRINGS.ORG for more info
OLD COLORADO CITY / WESTSIDE
RUN-DOWN TO ReSTOReD A GUIDe TO The HISTORIC hOTeLS OF ThE PIkeS PeaK ReGION WORDS BY: JOHN HAZLEHURST
The Pikes Peak region attracts visitors from around the world, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not surprising then that the region has a rich selection of historic hotels. Some are in their original buildings, some in repurposed historic buildings, and others have endured fire, demolition, and rebirth.
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PHOTO: VAN LOPIK, ART W. COURTESY OF SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, PIKES PEAK LIBRARY DISTRICT, 001-5168. YEAR: 1945
ThE BROADMOOR HOTEL Color print of long view of the Broadmoor Hotel from across the lake, with bridge at right and small island with trees in center.
Colorado Springs
upgraded dining and off-site recreational options. Thanks to Anschutz, the Broadmoor has regained its place as one of the finest resort hotels in the world.
THE BROADMOOR Conceived by Cripple Creek mining magnate Spencer Penrose as a hotel that would outstrip every other hotel in the world, the Broadmoor will celebrate its 100th anniversary on June 1, 2018. Now owned by multi-billionaire entrepreneur Phil Anschutz, the Broadmoor hasn’t just aged well—it has been reborn. When Anschutz bought it several years ago, he immediately launched a program of renovations and new construction. He transformed the dreary 1970s Broadmoor West building into a showplace and
THE MINING EXCHANGE HOTEL Local attorney/entrepreneur Perry Sanders acquired the dilapidated five-story 1902 Mining Exchange Building in 2010 and spent more than 30 million to recreate it as a luxury boutique hotel. Originally built by Cripple Creek millionaire and civic benefactor Winfield Scott Stratton to house the Colorado Springs Mining Stock Exchange, the grand Italian Renaissance
structure emphasized the solidity and permanence of its tenants. But the gold rush ended, the tenants went broke, and the city moved on. By the end of the 20th century, the building was just a shabby survivor of the city’s greatest era. Sanders restored the building to its original grandeur. It includes a luxury spa, a performance space, meeting rooms, a New Orleans themed restaurant, and a comfortable lobby bar. The hotel retains much of its historic character, including the 19th century safes that once held the cash, gold, and stock certificates of its original tenants. Sanders also acquired two adjacent historic buildings that are part of the hotel complex, which now offers 119 well-appointed rooms.
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Manitou Springs THE CLIFF HOUSE The Cliff House began as a rough and tumble 20-room boarding house at the foot of Ute Pass. It was a stagecoach for travelers and adventurers heading west from the plains to the central Rockies. In 1886, the present building was erected, designed to appeal to health-seekers who were attracted by Manitou’s mineral springs and climate. President Theodore Roosevelt stayed there, as did many notables of the era. But as Manitou’s popularity as a resort destination waned, the hotel essentially ceased operations, becoming a military barracks and eventually a rundown apartment complex. In 1982, a catastrophic fire gutted the building, which remained boarded up until 1997 when owner Jim Morley embarked on a two year 10.5 million dollar restoration. It reopened in 1999, and has since won recognition as one of the nation’s most romantic historic hotels. Tucked on Canon Avenue, just a block from Manitou’s bustling main drag, the Cliff House features themed rooms.
Cripple Creek and Victor THE VICTOR HOTEL Built in 1899 to replace a wooden structure that had burned to the ground, the four-story brick and stone building
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has more than stood the test of time. The recently renovated hotel at 4th Street and Victor Avenue features 20 modern rooms with private baths and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The hotel also has its original birdcage elevator that, like the hotel itself, is said to be haunted.
CARR MANOR AND THE HOTEL ST. NICHOLAS These two small hotels, located a couple of blocks apart just steps from the Bennett Avenue casino district, are located in historic Cripple Creek buildings. The St. Nicholas, a 1898 hospital was renovated in 1996 into a 15-room hotel that incorporates 19th century details in a comfortably modern hotel. There’s a rooftop Jacuzzi, outdoor decks, and the boiler room tavern, named for the massive cast iron front plate from the building’s original coal-fired furnace that now serves as the tavern’s back bar. Perched on a hill overlooking downtown, the St. Nicholas offers expansive views and quiet, private rooms. Carr Manor, the former Cripple Creek High School building, is now an elegant 14-room boutique hotel. The hotel is open seven days a week from May 15 to October 15, and on weekends for the other seven months of the year. The rooms are large and fairly luxurious, and the hotel is oriented to adult visitors.
Buena Vista MT. PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS This comfortable little resort next to Chalk Creek stream that flows into the Arkansas at Nathrop, a few miles
MANITOU SPRINGS
COURTESY OF SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, PIKES PEAK LIBRARY DISTRICT, 208-9718.
ThE CLIFF HOUSE The Cliff House for over fifty years has been the most famous hotel in Manitou and one of the best known in the state.
south of Buena Vista on Highway 24. The resort’s hot springs are entirely natural, maintaining a constant temperature of 120 degrees. Several natural pools at creekside are available when the creek’s flow is low enough, but there are also six outdoor hot pools. There’s been a hotel on the site since the late 19th century, but today’s buildings are modern and comfortable.
Guests can stay in private luxury cabins, in the main lodge, or in two detached multi-room buildings. From about 1915 until the mid-1920s, Mt. Princeton was one of America’s premier hot springs resorts. The fourfloor hotel included towers that reached more than 100 feet into the sky. Guests
arrived on railroad spur that brought them directly to the hotel, where dining tables were set with heavy silver and fine china in the hotel’s exclusive pattern. But all good things must come to an end. The railroad discontinued service in 1926, the Great Depression shuttered the hotel, and in 1950, the hotel was disassembled and the lumber was used to build a Texas subdivision. COLORADO FUN
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LEFT PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE SALIDA REGIONAL LIBRARY, BOB RUSH COLLECTION: PALACE HOTEL, 1920 TOP PHOTOS: COURTESY OF SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, PIKES PEAK LIBRARY DISTRICT: ANTLERS HOTEL AND MINING EXCHANGE, 1950
Today’s Mt. Princeton is once again thriving thanks to its inexhaustible hot springs. If you’re thinking of bagging one or two of the Sawatch Range 14ers, make the healing waters of Mt. Princeton your base camp.
Salida PALACE HOTEL The 1909 Palace Hotel is in the heart of Salida’s magnificently preserved and restored downtown and in easy walking distance of great bars, restaurants, and shops. Fifteen spacious suites, all named and uniquely decorated, await the weary traveler. And, unless you reserve a
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first-floor suite, you’ll access your room just as did guests in 1909, via a wide staircase to the second and third floors. Rooms are spacious, light-filled, and comfortable as well as eminently affordable. We recommend the second-floor DR&GW Suite, which memorializes the historic railroad that long served Salida and the Arkansas Valley.
CaÑon City THE ROBISON MANSION A fully restored three-story brick and stone 1884 mansion in Cañon City is a spectacular events center that also offers overnight accommodations for parties of up to ten people. It’s not a hotel in the
ordinary sense of the word, but nothing about the Robison Mansion is ordinary. From the Austrian-made original mahogany spiral staircase, to the amazing 19th century interior detailing, it’s available for a price. You can rent the entire 6,500 square foot mansion, which can house up to ten guests in baronial style for $1,500 a night. For a couple, that’s a lot more than the Broadmoor, but you won’t have to share the experience with hundreds of other visitors. If you’re planning a company event, a wedding or a family reunion, the mansion is a perfect fit and you can likely arrange for an overnight stay as well.
REIGNITE THE FLAME — WITH A —
ROMANTIC
GETAWAY (719) 685-1277
|
avenuehotelbandb.com
since 1903
|
711 Manitou Avenue
If You Haven’t Been To Patsy’s, You Haven’t Been To Manitou! • HOMEMADE FUDGE • SALT WATER TAFFY • 15-20 FLAVORS OF ASSORTED POPCORN • FINE ASSORTED CHOCOLATES • NATHAN’S ALL BEEF • HOMEMADE FUNNEL CAKES • HOMEMADE ICE CREAM & SOFT SERVE
Manitou’s Original Concession & Gift Shop • 930 MANITOU AVENUE • 719.685.9437 • 719.685.0250
Enjoy all the Seasons at the Wines of Colorado and The Winery at Pikes Peak.
5/1/19
Expires: 5/1/19
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SWIRL
locally & family owned restaurant in... historic district of manitou springs 717 manitou ave -swirlismybar.com Est. 2008
We brew on site 18 Taps House + Guest Beer Food Served All Day Dog Friendly Patio Wine, Cider & Spirits
wine bar, craft beer, cocktails, amazing food, desserts, patio, live music, good times, good times
725 MANITOU AVE | 719.282.7709 MANITOU-BREWING.COM
*NEW* Fair Trade Blessing Baskets: Reducing poverty in developing countries by paying higher wages to artisans. Buy a basket, meet the artist!
THEWHICKERBILL.COM 906 MANITOU AVE 685-1540
10 BUCKS OFF 78 COLORADO FUN
OF YOUR $50 + PURCHASE Manitou only. Expires 4/2018
Relax. Replenish. Renew. Vintage S coote r Adv e n tu r e s 3314 W. Colorado Avenue, Colorado Springs
Vintage Scooter Adventures is designed to enhance your destination getaway and guide you through some of the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences of your life in Historic Manitou Springs, Old Colorado City, and Garden of the Gods Park. We offer hourly and daily 50cc Vintage Scooter rentals all year! For more information and reservations call or text, 7 days a week @ 719.235.6501
vintagescooteradventures.com With an abundance of yoga classes, spa services, and soaking tubs fed by the healing mineral waters of the historic Seven Minute Spring, you’ll find SunWater Spa is the ideal location to treat yourself — mind, body, and soul.
ENJOY 10% OFF ANY SPA SERVICE Give us a call at (719) 695-7007 and mention COFUN10 to book. We’ll see you soon!
ONLY $10! WHERE FASHION ACCESSORIES ARE
906 Manitou Ave. #104 | Manitou Springs / The-Ten-Spot 719.685.1545 |
514 El Paso Boulevard • Manitou Springs, Colorado call (719) 695-7007 • S U N W E L L N E S S . N E T Mention this ad at time of payment. May not be combined with any other offers. Offer limited to single service per guest. Offer valid through 4/30/19. COFUN10
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Colorado Canines Meet Kona!
She’s a 1-year-old English Cream Golden Retriever
Pooch. Canine. Puppy. Whatever you call your four-legged friend, dogs rule across southern Colorado. From Pueblo to Cañon City, there are countless bark parks, dog-friendly restaurant patios, and pet-oriented hiking trails so your dog can join you on outings. Colorado companies are also a leader in creating food, treats, and innovative gear to pamper your pooch. Here’s a shopping list for a few of the best items, uniquely made in the Pikes Peak region. WORDS BY: MELANIE HEXTER //
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JEWELS BURDICK
DOG KARMA Dog Karma makes high-quality leashes, collars, harnesses, bandanas and “dog clothing” from unique fabrics. Their lines feature artisan fabrics to highlight Colorado’s outdoorsy lifestyle. DogKarmaClothing.com
COLORADO HEMP HONEY
NULEAF NATURALS
U.S. military veteran and local beekeeper Nick French combines raw Rocky Mountain honey and cannabinoid (CBD) to improve the health of humans and their fourfooted companions. His Colorado Hemp Honey, made in Parker, contains omega-3 and over six essential oils.
NuLeaf Naturals are an all-natural, CBD oil produced in Denver. Used as a pet dietary supplement, it’s sold in a .5ml liquid dropper for $38.99. Bottles are kept behind the Republic of Paws register so you’ll have to request them at the register.
ColoradoHempHoney.com
DOWN DOG SNACKS A former ad executive and current yoga instructor founded Down Dog Snacks, baked right in Denver. These healthy treats use local, all-natural, and gluten-free ingredients! DownDogSnacks.com
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NuleafNaturals.com
UNIQUE If you need cleaning products for indoor accidents, try Unique Natural Products’ Pet Odor and Stain Eliminator. “Made in Colorful Colorado,” it overcomes the odor of dog urine, vomit, and feces. UniqueDistributing.com
ZUKE’S Made in Durango, Zuke’s offers natural dog treats with hip and joint support. They even make 10-calorie “Skinny Bakes” for furry friends in need of weight control. ZUKES.COM
Meet Sophie!
She’s a Coton De Tulear and she steals the show wherever she goes!
PAWSITIVELY COLORADO These canine cookies are baked from sweet potatoes in their Colorado Springs ovens. They are iced with an adorable paw print and the colorful “C” from the Colorado state flag. Think of them as upscale pastries for your pooch. Find these treats at Gigi’s in Manitou. GIGISSHOP.COM
ENDURA PET FINDING COLORADO MADE GOODS! Gigi’s in Manitou Springs offers a wide variety of pet products that are made in Colorado! It’s also the go-to pet shop for canine art, such as stepping stones in the shape of a paw, inlaid with your dog’s name, or a custom pet portrait by Simone Farley. Visit Gigi’s for more info!
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Inside and out, our fourlegged friends need our help to stay healthy. One Colorado-based company, Endura Pets, offers allnatural flea and tick prevention and an herbal ear wash they say is safe enough for humans to use. ENDURAPET.COM
WALK-E-WOO With styles designed and printed exclusively in Colorado, Walk-e-Woo makes durable and funky dog collars, leashes, and harnesses. From tie dye to camo, “martini” to plaid, dog owners have enjoyed their innovative prints since 2002. WALKEWOO.COM
COLORADO DAWG These 100% natural treats are produced without hormones, fillers, antibiotics, or artificial ingredients. Meats are sourced from select ranches and include elk, venison, bison, wild boar, kangaroo, and beef. COLORADODAWG.COM
PAXBOWL For your dog on-the-go, grab a PaxBowl. Uniquely designed to hug a 32-oz Nalgene or HydroFlask, this BPA- free bowl insulates a water bottle as you hike or run errands, keeping the liquid cold. Then it unfolds with a wide opening so Fido can easily drink. RYKOPETGEAR.COM
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M eet Rye!
e!
v o l f o ll a B b He’s a 1 50l
Manitou Hair Emporium
A full-service family hair salon and day spa conveniently located in Manitou Springs.
hair care weddings manicures pedicures skin care
massage waxing make overs special events
65 Beckers Ln, Manitou Springs CO, 80829 (719) 685-9606 manitouhairemporium.com
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COLORADO FUN
COLORADO PROUD!
PUEBLO Pueblo offers year-round activities for both the traveler and the local. Take in the Riverwalk, catch an art walk, or find stores and restaurants to suit a variety of styles and tastes. Plan your next adventure by visiting Pueblo.org.
PHOTO: STEVEN ELLER
FIRST fridays
june 22-24, 2018
july 14-19, 2018
SePT. 22-23, 2018
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK 5-8 PM
ROCKY MOUNTAIN STREET ROD NATIONALS FRI-SAT 8 AM-5 PM SUN 8 AM-12 PM
PUEBLO SUMMER MUSICAL 11 AM-5 PM
RAIL JAM 5-11 PM
In August of 1959 a tradition in Pueblo was born, the Summer Musical. What began as a chance for kids to do musical theater has continued and in July the Summer Musical will celebrate a remarkable milestone: 60 years of bringing unique performances to Pueblo!
Come see wakeboarders compete on the Pueblo Riverwalk.
Take a stroll in the Creative Corridor and see what the galleries, restaurants, and businesses have to offer!
In its 34th year, this event will host vehicles of 1988 and earlier manufacture at the State Fairgrounds.
PUEBLOARTS.ORG
NSRA-USA.COM
June 2-SePT. 23, 2018 JULY 4, 2018 IMAGIMATION: 100 YEARS OF ANIMATION ART FROM AROUND THE WORLD MON-SAT 10 AM-5 PM SUN 12-4 PM (SUMMER HOURS) A Journey into IMAGIMATION: A Hundred Years of Animation Art From Around the World celebrates the ongoing 100+ year history of original rare animation production artwork since the creation of this magical art form. Visit this exhibit at the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center. SDC-ARTS.ORG
ROLLIN’ ON THE RIVERWALK 8 AM-5 PM Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks on the Riverwalk. PUEBLO.ORG
JULY 13, 2018 WINE ON THE WATER 6-9 PM Big Bear Wine & Liquor’s inaugural Wine on the Water Wine Festival is sure to be a hit at the Riverwalk!
PUEBLO.ORG
Nov. 24-dec. 15, 2018
PUEBLO.ORG
HOLIDAY BOAT RIDES WITH SANTA
Aug. 24-sept. 3, 2018 COLORADO STATE FAIR MON-THU 12-11 PM FRI-SUN 10 AM-11 PM LABOR DAY 10 AM-11 PM
Kick off the holiday season on the Riverwalk! Join Santa Claus on the Riverwalk boat rides this winter. We will have Santa with us on Friday and Saturday nights in November and December. PUEBLO.ORG
Get your fill of concerts, rodeo, livestock shows, carnival rides, food vendors, and more at the 11-day State Fair! COLORADOSTATEFAIR.COM
LIQUORSTOREPUEBLO.COM
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One of the nicest things about living or visiting Colorado is that it has great year-round scenery. Blankets of snow on our highest peaks give way to colorful wildflowers, which then yield to stunning fall colors and finally back to the winter snowscapes.
Insider Secrets to Capturing the Colors of Colorado WORDS AND
BY: “HIKING BOB” FALCONE
Colorado’s wildflower season lasts several months, starting with the pasque flower, which shows up around Easter. Often times even poking up from under a late snow, the appearance of these sturdy purplish blooms means spring is finally here. A few weeks later, more wildflowers start to appear, with flowers at lower elevations blooming first followed by higher elevations into late summer. Some flowers continue to bloom all the way into September, barely getting out of the way for the fall colors season. As a photographer and hiker, a long wildflower season presents almost endless opportunities for great treks and photos. And, as you can imagine, I have preferred locations to see and photograph Colorado’s wildflowers. Although not an exhaustive list, and certainly not the only
places you’ll find wildflowers, these are my favorite places. In the Colorado Springs area, Red Rocks Canyon Open Space, just off U.S. 24 on the border between Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs is a treasure trove of prickly pear cactus blossoms. Varying in color from pale yellow to pink—and sometimes both colors—you can find cacti in the southwest part of the park, along the Sand Canyon Trail. Park near the west end of the first parking lot, and hike the Contemplative Trail to the Sand Canyon Trail and then turn right and continue towards the back of the park. PRO TIP: On days when the wind is blowing and most flowers are moving too much to get a picture, cactus blossoms don’t move at all.
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Cactus blossoms usually show up in late May and last into mid-June. You can also find some mariposa lilies, a beautiful flower that may bloom as a white, yellow, or pale to deep blue or purple if you hike toward the far southwestern part of the park, near the Intemann Trail. If you’re driving up the Pikes Peak Highway, it’s easy to be focused on just getting to the top and miss some nice sights along the way. For wildflowers, one of the best places on Pikes Peak is the Crow Gulch Trail, just a few miles from the Pikes Peak Highway gate. Look for the Crow Gulch picnic area on the right side of the road. Park there and take the trail that cuts off to the left. You don’t have to hike too far to run into some nice patches of wildflowers mixed in with aspen trees,
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later in the summer. In the fall, this trail is also a nice place to find great colors. Hartenstein and Ptarmigan Lakes on Cottonwood Pass, west of Buena Vista and Grizzly Lake near the St. Elmo ghost town southwest of Buena Vista, are not only great hikes, but in late June and early July you’ll often find them surrounded by beautiful marsh marigolds. Colorado’s state flower, the columbine, and its less common tiny cousin, the red columbine, can often be found in nearby higher elevation streams and lakes. These mountain lake hikes are moderate in difficulty and at 7.5 miles round trip, Hartenstein Lake is the longest of the trio. One of the consistently best places in the state to find wildflowers is on Shrine Pass
just east of Vail. Best in late July and early August, the Shrine Pass Road that starts just off I-70 at the top of Vail pass is a nice drive with great views and plenty of wildflowers, many right on the roadside. For the best views and photographs, you’ll want to hike up to Shrine Mountain. A moderate 5 mile round trip hike, the entire trail has many different types of wildflowers and once at the summit, you can get the iconic views of vast expanses of wildflowers and high mountain peaks in the distance. If you only get to shoot wildflowers once while in Colorado, this is the place to do it. Colorado’s “quaking” aspens bring a beautiful gold to our mountains, parks, and towns each fall. While there are a smattering of oaks and maples in
PUEBLO
FAR LEFT: At 11,800 feet, Lost Lake is an attractive high-altitude alpine lake located south of Cottonwood Pass. The trailhead area can be found about 18 miles from Buena Vista; from there, it’s about a mile hike to the lake.
Colorado’s “quaking” aspens bring a beautiful gold to our mountains, parks and towns each fall. Colorado, the aspens reign supreme. There is no shortage of places to see aspens in their full fall glory, but these are my favorite places for fall colors viewing, photos, and hikes. North Cheyenne Canon Park on the west side of Colorado Springs doesn’t have a lot of aspens, but it does have a multitude of other colors, thanks to a concentration of oaks, maples, and other trees and shrubs. Park at the entrance of the park and take the Lower Columbine Trail. This area is best for tighter, close-up photos of fall colors, instead of big vistas. Mueller State Park, on Highway 67 between the towns of Divide and Cripple Creek, has a great combination of hiking trails and fall colors. In fact, all of Highway 67 is wonderfully colorful during the
LEFT: Approximately 20 miles from Lake City, the American Basin showcases captivating vertical cliffs and vibrant wildflowers in the midst of the San Juan Mountains. BELOW: A gem in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, Hartenstein Lake sits just shy of 11,500 feet. Access to this alpine lake is via a 7.5 mile round-trip hike from the Denny Creek Trailhead, about 12 miles east of Buena Vista.
fall season. My favorite trails in Mueller are the Cahill Pond, Cheesman Ranch, and Buffalo Rock trails on the north end of the park. They are easy to moderate trails and offer views of Pikes Peak, lots of aspens and the old buildings at the Cheesman Ranch site. Nearby Dome Rock State Wildlife Area is another great place for fall colors, especially the moderate to difficult Willow Creek Trail. About 20 miles north of the crossroads town of Fairplay on Highway 285, Kenosha Pass is another great place for fall colors. The Colorado Trail crosses over the pass, providing plenty of hiking opportunities. Start with these places and then branch out on your own and discover your favorite places. Happy Trails!
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A Beginnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to Legal Medical Cannabis WORDS BY: SPENCER HAWTHORNE ILLUSTRATION: MATT BROOKER
Cannabinoids are the group of chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that have physical and mental effects when they interact with cannabinoid receptors in your cells.
C
olorado is currently the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading cannabis industry. Legalization of both recreational and medicinal cannabis has attracted a variety of people to the state. While many come to partake in recreation use, there are a large number that are enticed by the medicinal properties of the plant and come seeking a treatment for a variety of ailments. Unfortunately, the foreign word jumble of strains, acronyms, and delivery methods that are commonly found in a dispensary often overwhelms those new to legal medical cannabis.
trichomes. These trichomes contain compounds known as cannabinoids and fragrant oils called terpenes or terpenoids. The first identified, best known, and most psychoactive cannabinoid is THC. CBD or cannabidiol is another well-known medicinal cannabinoid that does not have the psychoactive effects of THC. In all, there are more than 85 different kinds of cannabinoids that are currently known. Hemp on the other hand is a type of
Cannabis is a flowering plant that comes in two main strains, cannabis sativa and cannabis indica. Once the plant is mature, it is covered in resinous glands called
cannabis sativa that is bred predominantly for its fibrous stalk and seeds. Each flowering plant, be it a sativa or indica strain has a unique combination of cannabinoids and
By law, hemp has to contain less than 0.3% THC.
terpenes. The vast amount of these combinations is only half the story however. Our body naturally makes compounds similar to the cannabinoids known as endocannabinoids. These chemicals have corresponding receptors called CB1 and CB2 receptors that are found throughout the body and the brain. This network of receptors and compounds is collectively known as the endocannabinoid system. To simplify, this system is thought to generally mediate the health and stability of a variety of functions of the body and brain. When the cannabinoids from the cannabis plant are taken into the body, the endocannabinoid system is activated in a variety of ways that modern science is just starting to understand.
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The way the different strains, cannabinoids, and terpenes interact with our endocannabinoid system is fairly complex. Modern medicine has a tendency to think about drugs and therapeutics in a reductionist way. For example, we know penicillin comes from a fungus and we can extract the drug from the fungus, however consuming the whole fungus would not offer any additional benefits and would likely be dangerous. Cannabis is not the same, and follows a concept known as “whole plant medicine.” The “entourage effect” is the interactive synergy between the different cannabis compounds and the physiologic effect they have on the body. Simply creating a synthetic THC such as the drug Marinol that is used for cancerrelated nausea fails to take this into account. Different combinations of terpenes and cannabinoids can have a wide-ranging physiologic effect. Some compounds are inhibiting, while some are activating to the endocannabinoid system. In a simple example, a strain with a high concentration of THC with a moderate concentration of CBD will not be as psychoactive if it only had the THC alone. A 2011 survey This is also an found that 1.8% important point of 95 patients when considering preferred synthetic pharmaceutical cannabis for pain THC to whole management. Typiplant cannabis ¹. cally different ratios of THC/CBD and other cannabinoids will have different effects for a variety of conditions. Hemp, although potentially high in CBD, does not contain THC and some of the other cannabinoids possibly needed to
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induce the entourage effect. Ultimately, it is advised that if you are seeking out cannabis for its medicinal properties to consult with a clinician well educated in cannabinoid medicine. It can also be very helpful to keep a journal to document the different effects that the various combinations of cannabinoid compounds have on you. Besides having an appreciation for the cannabis varieties and the possible medicinal effects, it is important to have an understanding of the different ways to consume cannabis. Deciding on a delivery mechanism greatly depends on how quickly or how long you are seeking relief. Inhalation mechanisms will deliver a faster onset, but will be shorter lasting. Vaporizing is becoming the preferred method of inhalation and is thought to possibly be healthier than smoking. Smoking or combusting cannabis uses high heat. This heat, in combination with burnt particles, is postulated by some in the medical community to have to adverse health effects on lung function 2. Vaporizing however uses sub-combustible temperatures. The hope being that only the cannabinoids and supporting compounds are inhaled. Edibles, capsules, and tinctures provide longer lasting relief, but these methods may also take several hours to take effect. To achieve immediate and long-term dosing there is a method known as “stacking” in which you take two methods at the same time. Vaporizing and an edible together could provide immediate and longer duration relief.
In regards to dosing cannabis a couple simple rules are advised. The first is to start low and go slow. This is especially true for those new to cannabis. Some of the concentrations on the market are quite high and can result in undesired side effects. Edibles and tinctures are often more reliable to measure dosing as opposed to inhalation, which can be hard to measure given the variability in the amount of each inhale, time in lungs, etc. It is often found in cannabinoid medicine that experienced users have exceeded their therapeutic dosage window and actually reducing their dosage can have a greater therapeutic effect. As previously mentioned, keeping a journal is highly advised to finding not only your optimal cannabinoid combination, but dosage as well. For more information about safe cannabis use and advocacy check out the group Americans For Safe Access at SafeAccessNow.org. 1 Hazecamp, A. (2013). The medicinal use of cannabis and cannabinoids—an international cross-sectional survey on administration forms. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 45, 199-210. 2Smoking Marijuana and the Lungs. (2017). American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care, 195, 5-6.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information contained in this article is for general information purposes only. Always consult a doctor before making any health changes, especially any changes related to a specific diagnosis or condition.
HemP THE HEMP DERIVED ROUTE: Many merchants, both online and brick and mortar, sell a wide variety of easily accessible hemp derived CBD products. By law, these products must contain less than 0.3%THC which is how these retailers are able bring such products to their customers.
A Quick Guide to Purchasing CBD WORDS AND
Customers lucky enough to find themselves in Colorado (and who are 21 years or older) have the privilege of legally accessing CBD and other marijuana products at any retail dispensary. If you are new to legal cannabis, visiting a dispensary can benefit you for multiple reasons. ACCESS TO "BUDTENDERS" A well-established industry designation, Budtenders attend to your needs once inside a dispensary. If you have questions about the numerous CBD products available to you, find the nearest budtender! These attendants are specialists in their industry and take pride in guiding customers through their experience. Looking for a great retail dispensary with friendly, experienced budtenders? Check out Emerald Fields in Manitou Springs. This centrally-located shop has a thoughtful, open floor plan that makes consumer
BY: CAITLIN MURPHY
If you’re looking for a new, local place to shop for hemp derived CBD products, get out and find Hemplements—a unique mobile retailer of premium hemp products serving the greater Colorado Springs area.
engagement with budtenders feel natural and easy. PLENTY OF OPTIONS If you choose the dispensary route, you’ll quickly notice you’ve got a considerable number of options! Edibles, topicals, patches, tinctures, and flower are all methods of delivery for CBD—but don’t be intimidated by the many choices. Instead, have fun exploring the wide variety of innovative products available to you and ask lots of questions! If you are looking for a retail dispensary that carries a huge selection of CBD products, look no further than The Spot 420 in Pueblo (748 E. Industrial Blvd., Pueblo). This southern Colorado dispensary prides itself on having a massive selection of cannabisinfused products, including many amazing CBD options.
Wana’s Strawberry Lemonade Gummies each contain 10 mg of CBD and 10 mg of THC for a scrumptious and potent experience. All natural flavors and colors; gluten-free and vegan ingredients.
Wana’s Strawberry Gummies are made with CBD derived from organically grown hemp, and taste as juicy as the real thing. All natural flavors and colors; gluten-free and vegan ingredients.
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PUEBLO
WORDS BY JOHN HAZLEHURST //
JEWELS BURDICK
RIVeRWaLK BRINGS ReVIVAL Take a walk along Pueblo’s Historic Riverwalk and you’ll be surprised what you find!
B
y the early 20th century, Pueblo was a prosperous and powerful industrial city. The Arkansas’s abundant water nourished irrigated farmlands in the lower valley, and provided water to city residents as well as to the city’s sprawling steel mills and vast rail yards. But in June 1921, torrential rains west and north of Pueblo caused catastrophic flooding on the Arkansas and Fountain Creek, destroying much of the downtown. The course of the river was changed and subsequent flood control measures diverted the river from downtown. Seventy years later, Pueblo’s economy was weak and its historic downtown lacked
investment and focus. The solution: bring Arkansas River water back to central downtown and create a safe, beautiful, pedestrian-friendly riverwalk. It was an expensive, audacious plan that took years to plan, design, construct, and refine. The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo (HARP) opened 18 years ago. It has grown and expanded since, activating downtown businesses and catalyzing downtown development. A dreary industrial wasteland has been transformed into a community gem, providing a safe, friendly environment for residents and visitors alike.
As its designers intended, HARP is seamlessly integrated into downtown Pueblo. Graceful bridges link its banks and multiple easy access points guide pedestrians into the extensive park/ promenade/Riverwalk and business district. You can stroll happily along the paved riverside paths, but you’ll be tempted to stop from time to time, as businesses like Brues Alehouse beckon. Located in the renovated and repurposed former downtown police station, Brues has a riverside café, a bar/restaurant, a brewery, performance spaces, and even a hotel that was once the city jail.
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You might also consider Angelo's Pizza, Papa Joe's Union Café, Bingo Burger, the B Street Café, Graham's Grill, Nacho's Restaurant, The Pantry, La Forchetta da Massi, The Pass Key Restaurant, Tsunami Sushi, Magpie's, or the Gold Dust Saloon. Some are directly linked to the Riverwalk, while others are a few steps away. They’re locally owned and operated—no suburban chains here! There are events throughout the year including Boats, Bands & Brews and Rollin’ on the Riverwalk on July 4. The annual Chile and Frijoles festival is September 21-23 on Union Avenue and
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the Riverwalk and is expected to bring in over 100,000 visitors to Pueblo. The Riverwalk may soon add another vibrant business; a partnership that includes an iconic Denver preservationist, Dana Crawford. She’s putting together a deal aimed at transforming the vacant 1920s power station on HARP’s northern edge into a destination hotel and meeting center, using recycled Pullman cars as suites. Absent HARP, the beautiful old structures would probably have been pulled down. But HARP has transformed the area, demonstrating once more that water is life.
RIVERWALK FUN FACTS • Construction was inspired by the success of the San Antonio Riverwalk. • Sandstone from the original riverbed was repurposed for urban design improvements. • The Farley/Reilly Fountain required more than 17 tons of granite. • Four nations have claimed ownership over the Arkansas River at the Riverwalk’s current location. • For a contribution to the Veteran’s Bridge fund, names of honorably discharged or active service veterans can be engraved on the bridge. • Pedal boat rentals and excursion boat and gondola rides are available. LEARN MORE: PUEBLORIVERWALK.ORG
CAÑON CITY Home to the Royal Gorge and Royal Gorge Route Railroad, this charming small town offers many activities for visitors to enjoy. Try rafting down the Arkansas River or take a Jeep tour to discover the region’s unique geography. Visit CanonCity.com to find out more.
ROYAL GORGE REGION
first FRIDAYS
July 14, 2018
SePTeMBeR14-15, 2018 OCTOBeR 6, 2018
FIRST FRIDAYS 11 AM-5 PM
PARK AFTER DARK CONCERT 6-10:30 PM
PIONEER DAYS 8 AM-5 PM
APPLE DAY 7 AM-4 PM
Come down to Main Street every first Friday of the month to enjoy music, art, food, and shopping!
Featuring the Grammy-nominated band The Record Company, you will not want to miss this evening of power rock and blues at the Elk Park Amphitheater. Tickets are $45 and include all-day park admission.
In 1928, the first Florence Pioneer days festival was held. Since then, the lineup of events and activities has expanded to include antique sales, a parade, music in the park, and a tractor pull. Please join us this year as we celebrate the 90th annual festival honoring our heritage.
Join us for our annual Apple Day festival! The whole town comes alive with activities from dawn to dusk. You will find everything from a fun run and kids’ games to parades and pie contests. Don’t forget the shopping, apple picking, and tournaments.
CANONCITY.COM
June 2, 2018 HARDSCRABBLE MOUNTAIN TRAIL RUN 10 AM-1 PM Participate in the 5K run/walk or challenge yourself in the 10K run. The race starts at the Bear Basin Ranch, 16 miles east of Westcliffe. Entry fee includes a lunch, prizes, drawings, and live entertainment. SANISABEL.ORG
June 22-23, 2018 ROYAL GORGE WHITEWATER FESTIVAL FRI 3-11 PM SAT 11 AM-11 PM This 10th annual festival features whitewater competitions along with other land-based events to promote the outdoors and an active lifestyle celebrating the Arkansas River. ROYALGORGEWHITEWATER FESTIVAL.COM
ROYALGORGEBRIDGE.COM
August 11, 2018 PARK AFTER DARK CONCERT 6-10:30 PM Make the second Park After Dark Concert Series presentation your mid-summer getaway! Tickets include all-day park admission. Visit the website for the featured artist! ROYALGORGEBRIDGE.COM
SePTeMBeR 8, 2018 PARK AFTER DARK CONCERT 6-10:30 PM The final Park After Dark Concert Series presentation will be a memorable event. Tickets include all-day park admission. Visit the website for the featured artist!
WWW.FLORENCEPIONEERDAYS.COM
SePTeMBeR 30, 2018 HARVEST FEST 5:30 PM-8 PM Wine, artisans, food, and entertainment come together the last weekend of September at the annual Harvest Festival on the grounds at the Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. This is a wonderful way to spend a beautiful fall day. Discover our award-winning wines including the limited release of Harvest Fest’s Merlot and Riesling. Enjoy food selections from local produce and cheeses to crepes, fajitas, roasted chilies, and freshly baked breads.
CANONCITY.COM
November 15december 30, 2018 SANTA EXPRESS TRAIN Experience the train that takes you to meet Santa Claus himself at the magical North Pole. The Santa Express Train is a winter wonderland, where children of all ages are encouraged to wear cozy pajamas and relax with family and friends. Check website for specific dates and times. ROYALGORGEROUTE.COM
ABBEYWINERY.COM
ROYALGORGEBRIDGE.COM
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COLORADO PRISO
COME DO TIME WITH US
COME DO TIME WITH US •MUSEUM•
+++ DO TIME IN THE HISTORIC WOMEN’S CELL HOUSE + +++ SEE THE LAST GAS CHAMBER AND HANGMAN’S NOOS +++ EXPERIENCE THE SUPERNATURAL ON OUR HAUNTED GRO
AT THE
OF
AT THE AT THE MUSEUM OF COLORADO PRISONS
ONE O F C MOST OLOR UN FAMIL Y DAYIQ T
COLORADO PRISONS MUSEUM OF COLORADO PRISONS
•MUSEUM•
OPEN WED TO SUN 10 AM - 5 PM
+++ DO TIME IN THE HISTORIC WOMEN’S CELL HOUSE +++ +++ SEE THE LAST GAS CHAMBER AND HANGMAN’S NOOSEOF +++ +++ EXPERIENCE THE SUPERNATURAL ON OUR HAUNTED GROUNDS +++
35 MINUTES FROM COLORADO SPRINGS & PUEBLO ON THE WEST END OF CAÑON CITY. LOOK FOR THE OLD COLORADO TERRITORIAL PRISON.
201 1ST STREET, CAÑON CITY, COLORADO
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COLORADO PRISONS ONE O F COL ORAD MO MUSEUM OF FAMIL ST UNIQUE O’S Y DAY TRIPS! COLORADO PRISONS OPEN WED TO SUN 10 AM - 5 PM 35 MINUTES FROM COLORADO SPRINGS & PUEBLO ON THE WEST END OF CAÑON CITY. LOOK FOR THE OLD COLORADO TERRITORIAL PRISON.
+++ DO TIME IN THE HISTORIC WOMEN’S CELL HOUSE +++ +++ SEE THE LAST GAS CHAMBER AND HANGMAN’S NOOSE +++ +++ EXPERIENCE THE SUPERNATURAL ON OUR HAUNTED GROUNDS +++
201 1ST STREET, CAÑON CITY, COLORADO
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ONE O F C MOST OLORADO’S UN MUSEUM OF FAMIL Y DAYIQUE TRIPS! COLORADO PRISONS OPEN WED TO SUN 10 AM - 5 PM 35 MINUTES FROM COLORADO SPRINGS & PUEBLO ON THE WEST END OF CAÑON CITY. LOOK FOR THE OLD COLORADO TERRITORIAL PRISON.
We Are Colorado Gorgeous 201 1ST STREET, CAÑON CITY, COLORADO
719-269-3015 | PRISONMUSEUM.ORG
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MOVING DINOSAURS
EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES
INTERACTIVE MUSEUM DISCOVER WHY OUR AREA IS FAMOUS FOR DINOSAURS + AERIAL ADVENTURE PARK, GUIDED TOURS, OUTDOOR PLAY AREA, & MORE
EXPERIENCE COLORADO’S JURASSIC PAST
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WORDS BY: MELODY BUSCHUR
Addicted to Adventure utdoor adventure is officially trending and the movement to get outside and explore has swept across the nation. From single track and off-roading recreation to whitewater entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy in any season as long as people look to the great outdoors as their source. As a state that offers a wide-array of family-friendly activities, Colorado has become the leading destination locale for all things adventure; and businesses all around the state are gearing up to provide tourists and locals alike with the ultimate summer season.
available for all ages and offer half-day, full-day and even multi-day adventures including rafting sections of Clear Creek and the Arkansas River, Jeep tours, ziplining and even the historic Royal Gorge Route Railroad. For more information or reservation inquiries please visit their website.
MANITOU SPRINGS ADVENTIURES
Another way to get that history fix in the area is by visiting the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Known as the Grand Canyon of the Arkansas River, each day the whitewater continues to carve out the bottom of the
ROYAL GORGE RAFTING
FOR THE HISTORY BUFF History buffs looking for a getaway filled with antiquities can look no further than Raft Masters historic Jeep tours and whitewater expeditions out of Cañon City. Since 1989, this company has been offering multisport adventure tours around the state to offer an unforgettable day of learning about the state’s affluent past and enjoying the thrills of the river. They provide Jeep tours through Red Canyon and its vibrant red towering spires and monoliths or the more popular Royal Gorge Loop venturing into the overhangs and sheered rock walls looming over the Arkansas River. They have packages
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gorge increasing the Royal Gorge’s 1,000+ foot depth by around twelve inches every 2,500 years. It is truly witnessing history in the making! The bridge and park are open daily and feature a lineup of unique ways to experience the gorge: there is a gondola,
CAÑON CITY
ROYAL GORGE BRIDGE & PARK
ziplining, sky coaster, theater, children’s play land, visitor’s center and even a water clock. The mighty gorge is filled with historical evidence of dinosaur fossils, remnants of Native American culture, Spanish fur traders, as well as records of the first European adventurer Zebulon Pike, namesake of Pikes Peak, and his explorations of the canyon. A complete schedule, rates and times for the park can be found at their website.
Throughout the state, networks of dirt trails and rocky loops wait to be traversed by hikers, horseback riders, OHVs and mountain bikers. As a sport that is only gaining momentum in popularity, mountain biking offers trails suited for beginners and some geared for the notso-faint-of-heart. As one way to justify the adrenaline junkie in us all, mountain bike rentals along with the proper safety gear can be found at various locations throughout Colorado. Red Canyon Cycles out of Cañon City is more than just an ordinary bike shop. They offer bike maintenance and rental needs along with rock climbing merchandise and rentals, maps and updated trail conditions. As a business committed to building a greater bicycling community, Red Canyon Cycles specializes in all thing outdoors in the Royal Gorge region and they can assist you in planning a mountain bike excursion. They even offer cruiser bicycle rentals CAPTAIN ZIPLINE
FOR THE THRILL SEEKERS Soaring high above the single-track trails in the valley is a riveting eagle’s eye point-of-view for those thrill seekers in your family to enjoy. Ziplining and aerial park courses have made an impact all over the world in picturesque vacation havens and Salida’s Captain Zipline is no stranger to the fun as the first ziplining tour of its kind in the area. Operating daily since 2005, Captain Zipline offers over 20 different ziplining tours for all ages and abilities. They have the largest aerial course in the state and a climbing course that provides adventurers who want to scale cliffs and span natural rock walls without all the equipment or education a peek into a captivating hobby. From their no-sweat adrenaline style ziplining tour to their Lost Canyon jungle gym in the sky, the professionals at Captain Zipline are invested in giving a memorable, safe experience in the air. They also offer partnerships with a number of rafting companies, local eateries, and hot springs to complete a perfectly packaged day high in the Rocky Mountains. Reservations and details can be found on their website.
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for the family that wants to bike together while enjoying the scenic trails! West of Cañon City nestled along the Collegiate Peaks mountain range is Salida, Colorado and the premier bike shop of the area, Absolute Bikes. Their fullservice bike shop offers everything a cyclist in the mountains or on the road would need. Absolute also offers guided mountain bike trips for couples, families, and riders new to the area who want a trained expert to show them the trails. Along with rentals, bike maintenance, trail updates, gear, and local maps, Absolute provides shuttles to and from the premier trail systems around Salida. Bike shop manager, James Haarmeyer is gearing up There is no limit for the busy months ahead and is excited to showcase to our age demoAbsolute’s bicycle knowledge and expertise. “We have graphic—we help the largest fleet of rental and demo bikes in Chaffee our older clients County. We do all manner of bike maintenance with trikes and and repairs, generally same day or the next day turnelectric bikes and around. There is no limit to our age demographic—we our youngest help our older clients with trikes and electric bikes and customers are two or three years old. our youngest customers are two or three years old,” says Haarmeyer. “We have trips for all levels of riders from novice to advanced, and most of our groups are families.” FOR THE SIGHTSEERS With so many attractions to see and activities to do, it can be difficult to find the time to fit it all in. And sometimes we go on vacation to get a break from the action. Steve Pierson with Vintage Scooter Adventures and Manitou Jeep Tours has discovered ways to tour the region on and off the beaten path while taking a relaxing approach to the adventure. In its first year of business, Vintage Scooter Adventures is making its mark as an international flair to
RED CANYON CYCLES
self-touring. Because of their central location midway between Manitou Springs, Old Colorado City and Garden of the Gods, the hourly or daily scooter rentals can cover a wide-range of flexible touring. Each scooter is equipped with a Garmin GPS and training is provided to ensure a safe venture. They are low power, low speed, and an easy-to-handle mode of transportation that do not require a special license. “I personally love to see people smile and have a good time. These scooters are so much fun, and seeing people go out, and come back with that smile on their face - just amazing to me.” “Bringing a unique adventure to a place is fun to do, and it is very rewarding to see it come together. They will bring you back into your childhood days, and we all need a little of that,” said Pierson. Drivers need to be 21 or older for the vintage scooters, but Pierson has found a way to offer a more family-friendly approach to adventure touring. His original business, Manitou Springs Adventures accommodates fun for all ages in personalized guided Jeep tours and high country excursions. The Jeep Wranglers are current models and fully enclosed for comfortable year-round entertainment. Some of the specialty trips offered include: Pikes Peak Highway and Summit, Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center, Quartz Mines, Cripple Creek and Victor Historic Mine. Pierson’s guided Jeep tours are a no hassle way to enjoy the sights. FOR THE RIVER JUNKIES Last but not least, the roaring rapids of Colorado bestow an experience like no other. As a must-do item on the vacation agenda, rafting has become a staple on the rivers throughout the state. There are paddle boards, canoes, kayaks and inflatable duckies for the solo whitewater missions, but for an unforgettable family adventure look no COLORADO FUN 103
further than whitewater rafting. From calm floating stretches to monster class V rapids there are sections of river to entertain everyone.
as the summer breeze. There are packages available with half-day and full-day rafting and ziplining plus lodging and dining at their famous Whitewater Located Just West of Cañon City is the Royal Gorge Rafting Company Bar and Grill. The best part of the river is getting which offers an array of packages for rafting and ziplining. As yet another to share the memorable stories for years to come, company dedicated to outdoor adventure entertainment Royal Gorge Rafting so give Royal Gorge Rafting a call and be sure to offers half-day and full-day trips on the Royal Gorge and Bighorn Sheep include them in your next Rocky Mountain Canyon stretches of the Arkansas River. The Royal Gorge stretch provides an adventure. Below is contact information for our exhilarating, world-renowned ride through tall canyon walls and class IV/V featured business. Please be sure to visit their rapids spanned beneath the world’s highest suspension bridge while Bighorn websites to help you get your next Rocky Mountain Sheep Canyon showcases a more family-friendly section for new paddlers and adventure under way! all ages to enjoy class III rapids and the beautiful scenery with the addition of many bighorn sheep that call the canyon home. The company has put together a variety of packaged specials to make vacationing in the Rockies as easy
50 September 22, 2018 RIDE THE ROYAL GORGE PARK TRAILS AND ENJOY A POST-RIDE FESTIVAL AT THE ROYAL GORGE BRIDGE & PARK
PLAN YOUR TRIP! ABSOLUTE BIKES AbsoluteBikes.com CAPTAIN ZIPLINE CaptainZipline.com MANITOU SPRINGS ADVENTURES AND HIGH-COUNTRY EXCURSIONS Manitou-Springs-Adventures.com ROYAL GORGE RAFTING AND ZIPLINE TOURS RoyalGorgeRafting.net RAFT MASTERS HISTORIC JEEP TOURS & WHITEWATER EXPEDITIONS Raftmasters.com RED CANYON CYCLES RedCanyonCycles.com ROYAL GORGE BRIDGE AND PARK RoyalGorgeBridge.com
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CAÑON CITY
ART & AUTISM
with
JULIETTE HEMINGWAY
Q: How does someone go about commissioning you or purchasing your art? A: People typically find me through my Instagram (@juliettehemingway) or at shows. My art can also be purchased on my website: HemingwayStudios.com.
<< HEMINGWAY STUDIOS >> WORDS BY GILLIAN SHEEHAN //
JULIETTE HEMINGWAY
Q: What is the title of the cover piece of this magazine? A: “Heart Strings.” Q: What inspires your art? A: My artwork touches a lot of different things; it’s usually pretty personal. All of my art is dedicated to my son, who has autism. In fact, that’s why all of the people in my artwork are blue. A lot of the pieces that I create are with him in mind, and this one is specifically dedicated to him because he’s
Q. Do you have any upcoming shows? A: Yes. I have upcoming shows towards the end of this year at Gallery Art Nou Mil·lenni in Barcelona (artnoumillenni.com), and at the START 2018 European Contemporary Art Fair in Strasbourg, France (st-art.com). I will also be in Beijing in early 2019.
Q: Do you have any guilty pleasures or interests? A: I’m expanding into digital sculpting right now. I also have these grandiose dreams of becoming a Pixar movie artist—my son and I have seen all of those movies. . . . TO READ MORE Q & A with Juliette visit ColoradoFunGuide.com/Blog always pulling at my heartstrings. The moment my son’s life began was the moment my art took meaning. As a mother of an autistic child, one can assume the impact of autism in our daily lives. It is ever present in my life, so therefore it is ever present in my work.
Juliette Hemingway Instagram: @juliettehemingway Facebook: @hemingwaystudios HemingwayStudios.com
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C RU I S I N G T HRO U G H C O LO RAD O WORDS BY: ZACH REYNOLDS DEVON BALET MEDIA
I first rode Crested Butteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic 401 Trail in the early 1990s, and rode it enough times since then to know its surprises. My dad, however, had only mountain biked a few times. Sure, the same guy who had ages ago taught me to ride a bike was now the guy I was guiding down this famous trail, but he had been a dirt bike trail rider for decades, and was no stranger to this setting. I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worried.
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WELL, NOT TOO MUCH, I THOUGHT, AS WE STARTED WHIPPING OUR WHEELS AROUND THE TIGHT AND TREACHEROUS RUNOFF GULLY-CROSSINGS THAT PERIODICALLY CREASE THE MASSIVE SLOPE. THERE’S HARDLY A BETTER WAY TO SEE THE RUGGED PARTS OF COLORADO THEN FROM A MOUNTAIN BIKE. Colorado is a state that has a vast and varied collection of terrain and climate zones. Among the plains, valleys, deserts, and mountains, are scenes so unique and breathtaking that you can wonder how you’ve lived so long and not known this kind of place can even exist. Surely, you wonder, you should have seen a photo of this in a magazine by now. And indeed, many of the great state’s idyllic scenes have been displayed in thousands upon thousands of published photos. But there is no replacing being there in person to see it, smell it, and experience it for yourself. And where cars can’t go, mountain bikes often can. Colorado is crisscrossed by a massive network of trails that range
PHOTO: DEVON BALET PHOTO
TIP: Peak season for blooming flowers at higher altitude is mid-July! Colorado flowers bloom later due to spring mountain snow. So, hit the trails from mid-June through July for peak colors.
from casually pedestrian to insane and death-defying. Whatever level you are ready and longing for, there is a trail here for you. And whether you’re a die-hard dirt rider or if you’re just looking for a jumping off point, a great place to start is at the many ski areas in the state that offer lift-served summer bike access to manicured and well-crafted trails that come in all shapes and sizes, complete with trail difficulty ratings, signage, and maps to help you navigate. Of course, there’s nothing like setting off on an adventure either, heading into pristine national forest to get away from the crowds (be sure to stick to the legal-to-ride trails, as you cannot ride in wilderness designated areas). It’s there that you might find the Colorado you’ve been seeking. Loamy, pine needle covered rich soil in the shade canopy of giant trees makes for a cool and quiet trail setting that pairs perfectly with the hot afternoon sun. Or maybe your mountain bike dream moment is a long, twisting trail in the fall through the changing leaves of iconic aspen trees. For some, it’s the rocky, technical trails, in a steady afternoon drizzle
FIND YOUR TRAIL TRAILLINK.COM Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors to build healthier places for healthier people. Search their site for recommended trails, photos, reviews, and more!
MTBPROJECT.COM Download this great app and take the trails with you! Connect with other riders through classes, outings, and events. Their website is full of great resources, like how to ship a bike, what to pack for your adventure, and tips for riding in the dark!
AMERICANTRAILS.ORG American trails is a huge nationwide resource for finding trails. There are additional resources for classes, conventions, safety training, and education.
COMBA.ORG The Colorado Mountain Bike Association (COMBA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization whose mission is the development and preservation of great mountain biking experiences in Colorado. Their site is helpful and includes a “projects” tab that allows you to view new trails in the region and the status of the project.
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that’s finished with a mud-covered grin. Chances are that once you get into mountain biking, you’re going to start seeking more trails. And doing so will likely make you feel akin to a modern day frontier explorer as you leave the sights and sounds of civilization (briefly) behind. After having cruised down the smooth upper side hill section of the 401 Trail, my dad and I had entered the increasingly technical section of trail below that does some swooping switchbacks toward the stream-cut floor of the high-mountain valley, when I heard a familiar oomph sound comprised of air exiting the lungs and fine dust entering the lower atmosphere.
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“I’m okay,” I heard my dad say apologetically as I turned my bike back around to investigate. While an occasional mid-ride dismount can be considered inevitable, some do better with them than others, and my dad has always seemed to be a pretty good sport considering he’s had a heaping share of them. Taking a moment to rest in the shade, we grinned at each other, delighted by the thrill of speeding through high-alpine nature’s glory. It’s an addicting way to see the best our state has to offer, even if it occasionally comes with some dirt between the teeth.
PHOTOS: DEVON BALET PHOTO DEVONBALETMEDIA.COM
BELOW Linden Carlson and Darin Binion look over the map before summiting Gun Sight Pass under moody skies only to have the clouds clear for a sunny, wildflower filled ride off the backside.
CAÑON CITY
Breaking Bread with
What can we get locally? We sometimes joke about someone coming in and stealing our recipe book because we don’t have one.
David McInnis
<< NIGHTINGALE BREAD >> WORDS BY GILLIAN SHEEHAN //
JEWELS BURDICK
Q: What was the inspiration for the name and logo? A: The Nightingale goes out in the middle of the night to do its work, and so does the baker. The logo was really based around the business card.
Q: How is your bread making different? A: As a society, we’ve normalized bread as being the sliced bread found in grocery stores, and on the other end of the spectrum is this “fancy” artisan bread. Things have kind of gotten switched around! Part of what drew to me
Q: Where are your ingredients sourced? A: We get stuff from all over, all the while striving for authenticity. Essentially, part of the reason that I started this bakery was to make something that felt real and whole, not just a little part of a big process that no one is able to see. We try to connect ourselves to the larger agricultural world. Most of the grain that we use comes from a tiny little farm in the northwest corner of Kansas. We get a lot of produce through the Arkansas Valley Organic Growers cooperative (AVOG). We mill a lot of the grain in the shop, which allows us to get a little closer to the origin. . . . TO READ MORE Q & A with David visit ColoradoFunGuide.com/Blog
to making this kind of bread is that it felt continuous with history. Historically speaking, I didn’t want it to be different; I wanted to make bread that was normal 500+ years ago. It is how bread was made for a long time. One thing that is a little different is that our production tends to be pretty improvisational. What’s in season? What do we have on hand?
Nightingale Bakery 2727 N. Cascade Ave. NightingaleBread.com Instagram: @nightingalebread 719-465-1856 Wednesday-Friday: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. (pizzas from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.)
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WAYS YOU CAN HELP: Take a tour of the center Shop at the Visitor Center, Retail shop & gallery Donateâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;any amount helps Volunteer at the Center Sponsor a wolf Plan your next event at CWWC
GOING, GOING, GONE
THE POPULATION HAS DROPPED TO ONE PERCENT OF THE PREVIOUS CENTURY’S TOTALS: FROM 500,000 TO 5,000. ONCE WILD AND HEALTHY, THIS NATIVE NOW NEARS EXTINCTION. COLORADANS CHERISH MANY ASPECTS OF THEIR WILDERNESS, BUT THESE BEAUTIES HAVE BEEN SLANDERED, ATTACKED, AND DIMINISHED. Timber wolves are a species native to Colorado. In the 1800s they freely roamed their home territory, but no longer. The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center aims to change not only the public’s perception of wolves but also their very future. The Center sits an hour from Colorado Springs just outside Divide. The CWWC keeps elite company as the only AZA facility in Colorado. The Association of Zoos and Aquarium is the standard of care for animals in the care of conservation, education, and science. In addition to providing a lifelong home for the creatures in its care, the CWWC offers curious humans the opportunity to interact with threatened and misunderstood animals; 18 wolves, 4 swift foxes, 3 red foxes, and 4 coyotes call the sanctuary home, while small mammals that will be released back into the wild live in the rehabilitation center. Visitors experience the animals through standard, interactive, and feeding tours conducted several days a week. To the caretakers, these interactions are an important to way preserve our wildlife; their mission of conservation, education, and preservation seeks to teach how critical wolves are to both the natural world and the human world. For many, wolves are a touchy subject. Ranchers across the West have long viewed them as a threat to livestock and livelihood. CWWC CEO Darlene Kobobel explains that misinformation has significantly contributed to the wolves’ fate; for example, respiratory disease poses a bigger danger to cattle populations than wolves do. She contends that ranchers who embrace the potential opportunities afforded by wolf tourism could turn their perceived enemy into an economic boon. Colorado last boasted a pack of wolves
in 1945; in 1973, the US Fish and Wildlife Service designated three recovery areas for wolves from the northern Rocky Mountains. Yellowstone National Park was one of those areas, and in 1995 wolves were reintroduced to the park. The population has fluctuated since its reintroduction, but Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho have removed wolves from their endangered species list. Wolves remain a protected species in Wyoming, and Darlene believes the danger has not passed. In addition to the gray or timber wolves of the Rocky Mountains, she also strives to protect the Mexican gray wolf—an incredibly rare subspecies of the gray wolf. Her goal remains moving beyond education into application: not just saying, but doing.
4729 Twin Rocks Road Divide, CO 719.687.9742 WolfEducation.org Facebook.com/CoWolfCenter Twitter: @Wolves_at_CWWC Instagram: @CoWolfCenter Check out our YouTube Channel
Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center Want to experience something truly unique? STANDARD TOURS
One-hour educational tour of the sanctuary. $ 15 per adult (12+) · $10 per child (3-11)
FEEDING TOURS
Enjoy this one-hour educational tour while your guide feeds the wolves! $ 20 per adult (12+) · $12 per child (3-11) Not available on Thursdays
FOX PHOTOS
Have your picture taken with our red fox! $ 50 per person up to 4 people minimum of 2 people, max 4. MUST BE 8 OR OLDER
ALPHA TOUR
Get up close and personal with our wolves. Not only will you be able to interact with our wolves, but a staff photographer will also capture this once in a lifetime experience. Each group will receive up to 15 photos on a flash drive to take home. $ 300 for the first two guests, and $ 150 for each additional guest, up to 4 total. MUST BE 18 OR OLDER
ASK US ABOUT BOOKING YOUR Birthdays
Senior Photos Engagements Or Your Own Personal Occasion
Ask about our Full Moon Tours, Special Events, and Off-Site Programs!
E D U C AT I O N · C O N S E RVAT I O N · P R E S E RVAT I O N
MY FAMILY IS. . . CURIOUS
CULTURED
PLAYFUL
Butterfly Pavilion
Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum of Denver
Academy Riding Stables
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Colorado Springs Fine Art Center
Adventures Out West
Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center
Ghost Town Museum
Cave of the Winds
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
Elitch Gardens Theme Park
Denver Zoo
Michael Garman Museum & Gallery
Manitou Springs Penny Arcade
Downtown Aquarium
Peterson Air & Space Museum
Play Dirty ATV Tour
Garden of the Gods Nature Center
ProRodeo Hall of Fame
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
May Natural History Museum
U.S. Olympics Training Center
Royal Gorge Rafting
Nature and Raptor Center
Western Museum of Mining
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Wild Animal Sanctuary
World Figure Skating Hall of Fame
Water World Colorado
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cripple creek Once the home of the gold rush, Cripple Creek is now a destination for tourists and casino lovers. With nine casinos in town and a restored main street, Cripple Creek offers fun and entertainment along with shops, restaurants, and hotels. Check out upcoming events at: VisitCrippleCreek.com
June 8-10, 2018 TOP OF THE WORLD RODEO 11 AM-5 PM Cripple Creek boasts the highest elevation rodeo in the world at 9,640 feet. Watch three days of rodeo competition, take in a street dance, mutton busting and more. Awarded “The Best New Rodeo in Colorado” in 2013 by the CPRA. VISITCRIPPLECREEK.COM
June 22-JULY 5, 2018 ONCE UPON A TIME FESTIVAL IN THE WEST ART SHOW 9 AM-5 PM Cripple Creek presents this annual show featuring beautiful works of western art from talented artists. Ten percent of sales will be donated to support art education at the high school level. VISITCRIPPLECREEK.COM
june 22-24, 2018
all over the world descend on downtown, drawn by a chance to watch a race inspired by the town’s resident donkey herd, believed to be distant relatives of the original donkeys from the town’s Gold Rush days. Enjoy games, live entertainment, heritage competitions and don’t miss meeting our new baby donkeys! VISITCRIPPLECREEK.COM
july 4, 2018 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION 12-10 PM This year’s 4th of July Celebration will feature live entertainment in the Brass Ass parking lot at the corner of Bennett Avenue and 3rd Street. Starting at noon, live bands will be providing your favorite hits until 4:00 pm. From 6-10 pm, another great live band will play you into the evening with fireworks at 9:30 pm. Food vendors and a beer garden will be available, so come for a fun and relaxing 4th of July in Cripple Creek’s cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery. VISITCRIPPLECREEK.COM
DONKEY DERBY DAYS 8 AM-5 PM Now in its 87th year, Donkey Derby Days tops the list of favorite Cripple Creek events. People from
september 22-23, 2018 DeCemBer 7-8, 2018 2 MILE HIGH CLUB’S ASPEN TOURS 9 AM-3 PM The 2 Mile High Club’s annual aspen tour event will begin at the Cripple Creek District Museum. Come see the beautiful fall colors as Colorado showcases the World’s Greatest Gold Camp! Tours are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and reservations will not be accepted. VISITCRIPPLECREEK.COM
september 29-30, 2018 THE BIG ASPEN HAPPENIN’ FALL FESTIVAL 9 AM-7 PM There’s no better place to see the golden aspen leaves than on the roads to Cripple Creek. So why not add onto the spectacle? There will be a huge street party with an entire city block of inflatable fun featuring a massive slide, a gigantic obstacle course, bounce houses, live music, plenty of street vendors, and art inspired by Mother Nature’s fine fall handiwork.
GOLD CAMP CHRISTMAS Escape from the modern distractions, and celebrate an old-fashioned Christmas in Cripple Creek and Victor. Holiday activities will kick off with the nightly Gold Camp Christmas Holiday Headframe Lighting throughout Cripple Creek and Victor. While activities will be happening all month long, our main event weekend is packed full of fun activities that are too good to miss! Stop by the Christmas Craft Fair where you can find items made by local crafters and win prizes! Decorated Christmas trees, available for purchase through the Live Tree Auction, will be on display for your enjoyment and holiday decorating inspiration. Don’t miss our Christmas Parade with appearances from Santa, as well as several parade participants who will be showing off their interpretation of this year’s theme. Festive activities for children include gift making, crafts, a scavenger hunt, skating around the Christmas Tree, and gingerbread ornament decorating. VISITCRIPPLECREEK.COM
VISITCRIPPLECREEK.COM
COLORADO FUN 113
WORDS BY: JOHN HAZLEHURST
A Look Back in Rail Time The Denver & Rio Grande, the Florence & Cripple Creek, the Denver, South Park & Pacific, the Colorado Springs & Cripple Creek, and the Midland—do the names sound familiar? These pioneering railways loom large in Colorado’s colorful history. Museums statewide celebrate them, and visitor-oriented passenger lines still operate. Rail buffs love them all, but let’s start with the big one . . . . . .
Thanks to “Hiking Bob” Falcone for the photos. LEFT: The 473 was one of ten K-28 locomotives built by the American Locomotive Works in Schenectady, New York in 1923 for the narrow gauge D&RGW. All ten engines which were called the Sport Models, were sold to the Rio Grande Railroad.
of narrow gauge track extending through the Colorado Rockies all the way to Salt Lake City. He launched steelmaking in Pueblo, founded Durango, Salida and Alamosa, and engaged in pitched battle with his bitter rival, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe, over a prized western route from Pueblo to Leadville and the mountain west. THE ROYAL GORGE WAR Both the Santa Fe and the Rio Grande sought to build a line through the Royal Gorge and up the Arkansas Valley to Leadville. The Gorge was narrow and constricted. Rival work crews began work on their respective lines, while the courts were overwhelmed by “a blizzard of writs, processes, opinions, judgments, subpoenas, injunctions, court orders, briefs and decisions.” The Rio Grande concentrated on building its line west of the Gorge, while the Santa Fe worked to finish construction through the narrowest part of the canyon. THE DENVER & RIO GRANDE General William Palmer, only 34 when he launched the Denver & Rio Grande railroad in 1870, was as tough, combative, and ruthlessly entrepreneurial as any modern-day mogul. Palmer’s railroad may have been the most significant business venture in Colorado history. Without the Rio Grande, Colorado Springs and Salida wouldn’t exist, Pueblo wouldn’t have become the ”Pittsburg of the West,” and the Pikes Peak Region might have remained isolated and bucolic, a footnote to a larger history. After his distinguished service in the Civil War (for which he would eventually be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor) Palmer put away his uniform and went to work for the Kansas Pacific Railroad. Although only 30, he had spent several years in the railroad business before the war. He was bursting with ideas, but his staid employers weren’t interested. So like any youthful entrepreneur, he raised money and started his own company.
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Unlike its competitors, the D&RG wouldn’t use wide, standard-gauge tracks, but three-foot narrow gauge. Laying track would be faster and cheaper, and the narrow cars and light locomotives would be able to tackle steeper grades and negotiate tighter curves than standard-gauge competitors. According to the mischievous rail historian Lucius Beebe, “Palmer felt that narrow gauge was morally superior.” The universal practice of the time was to sell space for not one, but two occupants of the lower berths of sleeping cars of conventional dimensions”, Beebe wrote. “(For the straitlaced General) this arrangement was unthinkable, and the narrow gauge solved all problems. It was impossible for more than a single occupant to occupy a narrow gauge berth.” The DR&G was founded on Oct. 27, 1870 and reached Colorado Springs exactly one year later, speedily completing the 76 mile mainline from Denver. Palmer was just getting started. By 1884 the Rio Grande was operating more than 1,600 miles
As the lawyers battled politely in stately courtrooms, grading crews and working parties clashed violently. Storage sheds burned in the night and thunderous explosions sent rockslides tumbling down the abyss, burying equipment, and wiping out rights of way. In June of 1879, fearing that the courts were about to settle the dispute in favor of the Rio Grande, the Santa Fe recruited an army of toughs from Kansas led by legendary hard guys Bat Masterson, Doc Holliday, and Ben Thompson. They arrived in Pueblo aboard a special armored train and holed up in the easily defended Santa Fe roundhouse. Meanwhile, the D&RG had their own enforcers, and the two sides traded threats. Idled in Pueblo, the Santa Fe’s so-called “Army of Kansas” came apart at the seams, surrendering to the city’s bars, gambling parlors, and bawdy houses. The management of the Rio Grande passed the word to the proprietors of such establishments that the fix was in—the law wouldn’t interfere, as long the Santa Fe
CRIPPLE CREEK
By the late 1880s, Pueblo was the most prosperous city in Colorado. gangsters were kept busy. The Rio Grande won in the courts, settled the dispute, and drove through the Gorge and up the Arkansas, reaching Leadville in 1880. The cities that the Rio Grande had created grew and flourished. By the late 1880s, Pueblo was the most prosperous city in Colorado. Colorado Springs was a cultured city of opera houses and tree-lined boulevards, and Palmer held court in a splendid mansion. Palmer’s narrow-gauge legacy is still alive and vibrant. The famous Durango & Silverton railroad still carries passengers between the two cities, which it has served since the 19th century. In 1997, the Union Pacific sold the historic track segment through the Royal Gorge to the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, a heritage line that now operates a 1950s-era passenger train that departs daily from the Santa Fe Depot in Cañon City. The train passes over the famous 1880 hanging bridge, offering passengers the kind of luxurious train travel that once characterized American rail. It’s an amazing ride at any time of year, one that now attracts not only rail buffs but also travelers from all over the world. Is it too much to hope that the noble old iron horse will one day pull a string of passenger cars up the Royal Gorge Route to Salida and Buena Vista? Who knows, but if so, I’ll see you aboard!
were staked, scores of grandly named mining companies were incorporated, eager investors provided capital, and some of the miners struck it rich. Getting to Cripple Creek wasn’t easy though. Residents of the freshly minted boomtown had to import food, drink, construction materials, mining equipment, and all matter of supplies. North of Cripple Creek, the Midland Railroad could carry goods as far as Divide, but the remaining 18 miles to the gold camp was via horse-drawn wagons. The road was rough and narrow, ill suited to the volume of goods that had to be transported over it. To the south, the Denver & Rio Grande’s Royal Gorge route paralleled the Arkansas, but there was no rail connection route to the gold fields. That didn’t deter David Moffat, the Colorado railroad pioneer who laid out and built the narrow-gauge Florence & Cripple Creek Railroad. Moffat chose to follow the wagon tracks of the Florence & Cripple free road, a precarious shelf route along Phantom Canyon. Built at the then outrageous cost of $500,000, the F&CC reached the mining district on July 1, 1894. As the first railroad to serve the district, the F&CC enjoyed a monopoly that ended 18 months later when
the standard gauge Midland Terminal Railway arrived from Divide. Mine owners expected that competition would drive down freight rates, but the two companies quickly made a deal to divide the traffic and kept rates high. A few years later, Colorado Springs entrepreneurs built the standard gauge Colorado Springs and Cripple Creek District Railway, directly connecting Colorado City mills and refineries with the mining district. Looping around the south slope of Pikes Peak, the railroad’s investors believed that the new line would put its competitors out of business. Two of the three railroads flourished for years. The Denver Republican claimed that the F&CC paid for its construction every three weeks during 1894, while at its height the Midland Terminal ran ten passenger trains daily to Cripple Creek. But the CS & CCD was never profitable, having opened just as the Cripple Creek bonanza began to fade. Today, the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad runs from Memorial Day to mid-October, with departures every 40 minutes from the historic Midland depot at the head of Bennett Avenue in downtown Cripple Creek. Three vintage coal-burning locomotives pull the railroad’s period coaches, taking passengers on a four mile out and back tour of the mining district. It’s a cheerful, fun trip.
THE CRIPPLE CREEK TRIFECTA The discovery of gold in Cripple Creek in 1891 triggered the last great gold rush in the continental United States. The once placid ranchland west of Pikes Peak soon became home to thousands of fortune hunters, job seekers, card sharks, con artists, assayers, barkeepers, miners, and capitalists. Hundreds of claims
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Serving Awesome
COFFEE, TEA, PASTRIES & LUNCHES for over 20 years!
SALIDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PREMIER HISTORIC HOTEL
salida, colorado
Located alongside the banks of the ark ansas River, the newly renovated Palace Hotel offers boutique lodging within footsteps to shopping, dining, hiking, biking, and fly-fishing.
204 NORTH F ST, SALIDA, CO 81201 719-207-4175 . SALIDAPALACEHOTEL.COM
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2 locations!
Buena Vista
713 S. U.S. Hwy 24 Buena Vista, 81211 719.395.2634
Salida
105 F. St., Salida, 81201 719.539.4337
Coffee beans available online at browndogcoffee.com
salida & buena vista Buena Vista and Salida are surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest and offer an outdoor playground for adventure seekers. Enjoy hot springs, climb a 14er, and experience a variety of dining and shopping opportunities. Discover more to do at: SalidaChamber.org PHOTO: SCOTT PETERSON
June 2, 2018 BUENA VISTA BIKE FEST 6 AM-5 PM Enjoy the magnificient scenery on this biking route with options of 35, 50, 62, or 97 mile rides. After the ride, there is a post ride party in McPhelemy Park with beverages, food, and music. BVBF.ORG
June 14-17, 2018 FIBARK SEE ONLINE SCHEDULE The world’s finest whitewater competitors will come to Colorado for the festival to compete in kayak, raft, SUP, and other water sports. In addition, there’s a parade, Hooligan Race, bicycle races, carnival, live music, food and much more. FIBARK.COM
june 22-24, 2018 ARTWALK SEE ONLINE SCHEDULE The Salida Creative District showcases the artistry of local painters, photographers, jewelry makers,
potters, sculptors, and other creators. There will be numerous art receptions, live music, entertainment, and artist demonstrations in participating venues around Salida. SALIDAARTWALK.COM
juNe 30-JULY 1, 2018 SALIDA ARTS FESTIVAL SEE ONLINE SCHEDULE The Salida Arts Fair is one of the premier art destinations in Colorado. The festival will feature approximately 100 juried artists and is located next to a natural hot springs swimming pool. SALIDAARTSFESTIVAL.COM
JULY 14, 2018 22ND ANNUAL COLORADO BREWERS RENDEZVOUS 1 PM - 5PM The 22nd Annual Colorado Brewers Rendezvous takes place at Riverside Park in historic downtown Salida. You will enjoy live music throughout the event with great food vendors. The event features over 70 Colorado Breweries with over 300 samplings of beer offered. SALIDACHAMBER.ORG
JULY 21-22, 2018 RIVERSIDE FINE ARTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL SEE ONLINE SCHEDULE This festival features both national and local juried fine artists. Live music, delicious food, along with a kid’s art booth, face painting, and free admission.
the regions mining history with unique vendor goods, food, music and the beer garden. Fun for the whole family including historical re-enactments, kids’ games, and the infamous toilet seat races. BUENAVISTACOLORADO.ORG
SePTeMBeR 8, 2018
COLORADOEVENTSAND FESTIVALS.COM
APPLE FEST AT HISTORIC TURNER FARM AND APPLE ORCHARD 10 AM-3PM
AUGUST 9-12, 2018
Visit Buena Vista and tour the historic farm to enjoy apple pie contests, demonstrations of historic trades, and old-time entertainment including pony rides and games.
BUENA VISTA CONTIN-TAIL ROCK & MINERAL SHOW 9 AM-5 PM
BUENAVISTACOLORADO.ORG
Come check out Colorado’s largest outdoor rock and mineral show with over 100 dealers, gemstones, mineral speciments, and much more. Free admission and parking is available.
September 13-16, 2018
BUENAVISTACOLORADO.ORG
SALIDA BIKE FEST
August 11-12, 2018 GOLD RUSH DAYS 10 AM-5 PM Held in Buena Vista’s McPhelemy Park, Gold Rush Days celebrates
Salida Bike Fest is a four-day festival celebrating bicycles of all kinds! Free group rides, bike-related travelogue, the chainless race, a kick-off party at Soulcraft Brewing a bike parade, the Banana Belt Mountain Bike Race, the 20th Annual Monarch Crest Crank, and much more! SALIDABIKEFEST.COM
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five
Essentials OF Hiking WORDS BY: BRUCE MCCLINTOCK FOUNDER, HIKE FOR LIFE
For the uninitiated, the language of outdoor recreation can sometimes seem confusing and even intimidating. Experienced outdoor enthusiasts, ranging from hikers, campers, climbers and back country skiers, casually use terms like “ten essentials” and “leave no trace” often assuming others know what they mean. We want to simplify and demystify one of the most important aspects of safe outdoor activity—ensuring you have appropriate gear for the planned trip. When it comes to hiking, outdoor judgment is acquired over time and through personal or shared outdoor experiences. The trick is to build your own judgement by learning from the experiences of others rather than having to learn everything yourself. If you are new to outdoor activities, consider the discussion here and then tailor our recommendations to your own environment and circumstances. You will learn that you do not need everything on the lists for a typical day hike and there are items not listed that are necessities on more advanced or challenging hikes (like a winter ascent of a 14er, for instance). For
your first few outings, ask a friend for feedback on what you are bringing—and not bringing. Over time you will develop your own preferences and guidelines for any outing, short or long, summer or winter. Now, let’s get started demystifying the ten essentials. The original ten essentials list (map, compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing, headlamp or flashlight, first-aid supplies, fire starter, matches, knife, and extra food) was created by The Mountaineers, an outdoor mountaineering organization, in the 1930s to help people be prepared for emergency situations in the outdoors. In 2003, the group introduced a systems
approach that used functional systems and added hydration and emergency shelter. To further simplify the ten essentials systems approach we use just five categories that are easier to remember and allow users to tailor their equipment list for the given activity.
Nutrition For a day hike, bring food for twice the planned trip duration. If you are taking a half-day hike you should at least carry a nutrition bar and maybe some dried fruit and nuts in case you wander off the trail and are out longer than planned. A mix of nuts and sweets is popular with hikers because it provides energy for the hike, is lightweight, and does not require cooking. A nutrition bar is compact and can easily fit in a small pocket. Outdoor activity expends energy and you will be glad to have the small snacks when you begin to feel fatigued.
Hydration An adult should drink eight glasses of water per day. That works out to about 2 liters of water each day. For a day hike, bring water for twice the planned trip duration. If you plan a half-day hike, you would want to have a full day of water available, plus some additional amount to account for your extra water loss due to exertion, temperature, relative humidity, and elevation. Hydration is even more important in Colorado due to the combination of higher elevations and temperatures and low humidity. Even on the shortest hikes you should carry some water.
Navigation For navigating, day hikers need to bring a primary, practiced means of navigation and a back-up system. You should not expect or depend on trail markings or signs on even the most frequently traveled day hike trails. Some trails do not have signs and others have signs that are confusing because there are multiple trails. For most day hikes, it is reasonable to use a smart phone application that shows your trail and provides navigation tips and even trail photos. You should also have a back-up means of navigation available in case your app fails or your cell phone battery dies. Your back up can be someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s phone or a paper map. Whether you use an app or a map and compassâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;you should practice using your navigation tools before the hike so you are proficient. If you are not comfortable using apps or maps consider hiring a guide to show you how to use them.
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Protection Bring clothing and protection appropriate for the expected environment. Many experienced guides and trip leaders include this general statement in their trip planning notes, so what does it mean? You should always bring sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, headgear, and clothing) to shield you from the sun, layers of clothing appropriate for the worst-case temperatures, footwear appropriate for the activity and some form of insect repellant. We distinguish between clothing for sun and layers for cold to reinforce the point that even in the heat of summer it is a good idea to have long sleeves and perhaps even pants to protect your skin from the sun. In summer, two layers of clothing are usually adequate. In winter, three layers are the norm: a base (inner) layer for warmth, a mid-layer to retain heat and an outer layer to block wind. Footwear should be appropriate for the length of the hike and the expected conditions. Tennis shoes are fine for short hikes in some city parks in Colorado, but most hikes warrant some form of trail or hiking shoes. Many summer day hikers prefer lightweight trail shoes.
Insurance Insurance means the things you should carry to provide provisions when the unexpected happens. This list should always include a basic first aid kit, emergency signaling methods (ranging from whistles and mirrors or cell phones for day trips to satellite phones for back country trips), illumination (headlamp or flashlight), and shelter. For more extensive outings, you should also carry materials to start a fire (matches/lighter/candle), a multitool with a knife, and perhaps even an emergency shelter. This list can sound excessive but there are many variations and reasons to include some of these items on even the shortest trip. If you or someone in your group has a headache or muscle pain, pain reliever from a first aid kit is very helpful. If someone in your group wanders off the trail, a whistle (sometimes built into a pack strap) is ideal for getting reconnected. Most outdoor stores sell versions of small emergency kits that can stay in the bottom of a lightweight daypack. If you are part of a group, then each member can have their own kit, or you can coordinate to ensure the group have all of these items between them.
Hike for Life exists to nurture our community spirit and to inspire others to appreciate and care for our great outdoors. We do this by providing carefully curated guided hikes for residents and visitors to the Pikes Peak region. Our hikes are designed to be educationally enhanced, environmentally aware and safety conscious. We believe that teaching and helping others explore safely and with an emphasis on stewardship strengthens our community and helps protect our limited natural resources. To learn more visit our website at HikeForLife.co, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
For an in-depth description of the ten essentials see â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mountaineering, The Freedom of the Hills.â&#x20AC;? Mountaineers Books, Washington, 2010, pgs. 34-38.
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BUENA VISTA & SALIDA COLORFULCOLORADO.COM
Plan your next adventure with us hiking • biking • shopping • dining Where will your feet take you? ColoradoFunGuide.com
BROWNS CANYON NATIONAL MONUMENT
ColoradoFunGuide.com Tag us with your adventure photos on Facebook & Instagram
OPAL BOUTIQUE
Your one stop shop fashion boutique located in downtown Salida, Colorado. WOMEN'S APPAREL • ACCESSORIES • JEWELRY • SHOES
128 F St. Salida, CO
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OpalBoutiqueSalida @OpalBoutiqueSalida
LET’S
EAT PROVECHO
Colorado Springs COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY INTERQUEST LOCATION Come experience the true taste of Colorado! Whether you’re craving a crisp salmon salad, a juicy bison burger or our award winning beer cheese soup, you are sure to find an original flavor worthy of Colorado. Pair your meal with one of our unique craft brews and enjoy the beautiful Rocky Mountains as you sit on the patio. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have a true Colorado experience!
JOHNNY MARTIN’S
N3 TAPHOUSE
Part automotive showcase, part private club, and all passion-driven: Johnny Martin’s Car Central is an exclusive membership club in downtown Colorado Springs. Johnny Martin’s presents a comfortable yet sophisticated setting in which to appreciate rare, custom automobiles along with exceptional food and spirits. Offering a wide variety of amenities, benefits, and event options for all our members.
We preserve character of the original building, built in the early 1900s as a fire station No. 3. It was important to us to stay true to the elements of the structure and to minimize our waste during the renovation by reusing materials whenever possible. At N3 Taphouse we believe an inspired atmosphere, flavorful, indulgent food, craft beverages, and mindful, attentive service, all weave together to create curated moments to be shared.
1 S. NEVADA AVE., SUITE 110 COLORADO SPRINGS 719-999-5996 JOHNNYMARTINS.COM
JOHNNY’S NAVAJO HOGAN 1110 INTERQUEST PARKWAY COLORADO SPRINGS 719-434-5750 CMBREW.COM
THE FAMOUS STEAKHOUSE Independently and locally owned since 2002. Winner of multiple people’s choice and food writers’ awards for steak, service, bar, and lunch. Dine in an elegant, classic steakhouse environment at Colorado Springs’ finest upscale steak house and piano lounge. Easy access from I-25 and Bijou; ample parking in the nearby public garage on Kiowa St. is only $1.00, cash or card, after 2 p.m. 31 N. TEJON ST. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-227-7333 THE FAMOUSSTEAKHOUSE.NET
Owner, Nicholas Fontecchio built the Navajo Hogan as a roadhouse in 1935. Nicholas had a vision to provide a place for everyone from the region to gather together without affiliations, to meet as individuals and bond as friends and neighbors. In the tradition of Southside Johnny’s and Mr Fontecchio, our vision is to offer great food, service and entertainment. We are open seven days a week, serving lunch and dinner and providing live music on the weekends.
MONDAY-SUNDAY 11AM-2PM 2817 N. NEVADA AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-344-9593 JOHNNYSNAVAJOHOGAN.COM
SUN-THUR 11AM-11PM FRI AND SAT 11AM-1AM 817 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-444-8487 N3TAPHOUSE.COM
ODYSSEY GASTROPUB Odyssey Gastropub is Colorado Springs’ most awarded new restaurant since opening in November 2014. We’re a one of a kind local place that specializes in craft food, craft beer, and craft cocktails. Open for lunch and dinner daily and brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Come on in and treat yourself to a local Odyssey!
311 N. TEJON ST. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-999-5127 ODYSSEYGASTROPUB.COM
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SPORTIVO PRIMO/THE PICCADILLY BAR/DUCA’S The Antlers Hotel has recently introduced several new restaurants. The Piccadilly Bar, located in the main lobby, features 100 beers, 50 wines by the glass, a robust cocktail selection, and an exquisite small plates menu. Sportivo Primo, located in the south atrium, is open for lunch and dinner and offers a wide variety of sandwiches, burgers, and fresh, innovative entrées.
SPRINGS ORLEANS
OPEN TUES-THU 11 AM-8 PM SAT 11 AM-9PM & SUN 9:30 AM-7 PM 3240 CENTENNIAL BLVD. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-227-8525 PROVECHOCS.COM
RASTA PASTA
INSIDE THE ANTLERS HOTEL 4 S. CASCADE AVE. 719-955-5600
POOR RICHARD’S Poor Richard’s has provided downtown Colorado Springs with a funky local vibe for 40+ years. Hand-tossed pizza, great homemade soups/stews, and signature house salad dressing have won Poor Richard’s Restaurant the distinction of “Best Of” in Colorado Springs across several categories year after year. The menu also features wholesome options for many diets, including many vegan and gluten-free choices.
324 1/2 N. TEJON ST. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-578-5549 POORRICHARDS.BIZ
PROVECHO Provecho is the place where friends gather to share a unique experience with Mexico’s diverse culinary heritage and its home crafted food and drinks! We’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our cocktail menu is oneof-a-kind and we hand squeeze all of our limes for our margaritas! Our menu offers a wide range of dishes including Pescado a la Veracruzana, Chile en Nogada, and Brocheta de Camaron al Achiote! Wondering what those are? Dine with us and you’ll see how true Mexican food should be!
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Creative caribbean pasta, fresh and funky salads, and ridiculously good desserts. Our menu is a fusion of Caribbean and Italian flavors that includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. We have a full bar featuring Jamaican beer and rums with local beer on tap. We offer free Wi-Fi and a sidewalk patio with plenty of sunshine and downtown atmosphere. Relax, enjoy the reggae music, and let our friendly servers take excellent care of you.
OPEN DAILY AT 11AM 405 N. TEJON ST. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-481-6888 RASTAPASTACS.COM
Authentic Cajun & Creole in the heart of downtown. Enjoy shrimp étouffée, gumbo, and beignets plus some of the finest steaks and pastas in town. Winner of several reader’s choice awards for Best Cajun/Southern restaurant and perennial winner of the Manitou Gumbo Cookoff. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, as well as Sunday brunch.
123 E PIKES PEAK AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-520-0123 SPRINGSORLEANS.COM
WESTSIDE COLORADO MOUNTAIN BREWERY ROUNDHOUSE LOCATION Come experience the true taste of Colorado! Whether you’re craving a crisp salmon salad, a juicy bison burger or our award winning beer cheese soup, you are sure to find an original flavor worthy of Colorado. Pair your meal with one of our unique craft brews and enjoy the beautiful Rocky Mountains as you sit on the patio. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to have a true Colorado experience!
SMORBROD Smorbrod, a Scandinavian bistro within Lincoln Center features a menu of 20 hearty, openfaced sandwiches on local rugbrod rye bread. The dish, traditionally known by the same name, will be topped with fresh local and imported ingredients carefully assembled to create Nordic dining excellence.
THE LINCOLN CENTER 2727 N. CASCADE AVE. 719-634-2727
600 S. 21ST ST. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-466-8240 CMBREW.COM
PIZZERIA RUSTICA 5-stars: “As Good As It Gets”— Gazette. One of twenty 4-Star Certified Green Restaurants® in the world. TripAdvisor Award of Excellence 2013-2017. Named Best Pizzeria in Colorado by Tripping.com. Huge dog-friendly heated garden patio. Exceptional hand-stretched Neapolitan pizzas using local farmer/rancher products paired with choice imported and artisanal ingredients, including house-made mozzarella daily. Wood-fired pizzas, antipasti, and tasty desserts. Wine bar Enoteca Rustica located upstairs. Reservations highly recommended. VISA, MC, Amex, and Discover accepted.
PARAVICINI’S ITALIAN BISTRO
2527 W. COLORADO AVE COLORADO SPRINGS 719-632-8121 PIZZERIARUSTICA.COM
THUNDER & BUTTONS Thunder & Buttons food is prepared fresh in-house daily. We have daily food specials, drink specials, Happy Hour, trivia, an outdoor patio, and Karaoke four nights a week. Happy Hour is ALL day Sunday! Voted Best of Karaoke & Westside Bar 2014, 2015, 2016, & 2017 and 2015 & 2017 Best Wait Staff!
2415 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-447-9888 THUNDERANDBUTTONS.COM
503 WEST An award-winning restaurant and craft bar since 2014. We specialize in uniquely hand-crafted food and drinks using fresh, natural and local ingredients. Locally-minded. Locally owned.
2330 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-632-2596 FRBBQ.COM
Paravicini’s is a bustling Italian restaurant located in historic Old Colorado City. Chef Franco Pisani offers the city’s best Italian, bar none! Lofty claim, yes, but the award-winning food and service backs it up! A Gold Medalist for Best Italian by the Colorado Springs reader’s poll for over 10 years in a row!
JAKE & TELLY’S GREEK TAVERNA We have a large, creative menu with many vegetarian and gluten-free options, daily specials, extensive Wine Spectator awardwinning wine list, specialty cocktail and beer lists, happy hour specials, huge patio with views of Pikes Peak, monthly wine tasting dinners, accommodations for private parties, and professional catering.
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: SUN-THU 11 AM-9 PM FRI-SAT 11AM-10PM 2616 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-633-0406 JAKEANDTELLYS.COM
2802 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-471-8200 PARAVICINIS.COM
TAPATERIA Authentic Barcelona tapas and wine/cocktail bar in historic 1889 building in Old Colorado City. Voted Best in Colorado Springs 2013-2015. Trip Advisor Award of Excellence 2013-2017. Over 36 tapas to pair with 50+ wines, sherries, ports, and vermouths as well as signature cocktails and reserve wines. 100% gluten-free menu with 50% vegetarian and 25% vegan specialties. Spanish deli with meats and cheeses to enjoy in-house or take away for your picnic. Large dog-friendly covered and heated garden patio. VISA, MC, Amex, and Discover accepted.
WILD GINGER THAI RESTAURANT
OPEN MON - SUN BRUNCH ON SAT AND SUN 9AM 503 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-471-3370 503W.CO
Authentic Thai food made as spicy as you like! Incredible pad thai and chicken panang curry bring our loyal customers back for more. The eggplant tofu is a hit with vegetarians. Don’t forget a Thai iced tea to cool down the Thai hot!
2607 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-471-TAPA (8272) TAPATERIA.COM
FRONT RANGE BBQ Front Range Barbeque, located in Old Colorado City, serves up true Southern BBQ and homestyle cooking. Original live music venue on our outdoor patio. Full bar with a large selection of craft beers. Generations of family recipes along with some friendly Southern hospitality create a truly unique dining experience. Recently shown on Diner’s, Drive-In’s, and Dive’s for our “Sloppy Pig” sandwich. Locally owned and operated since 2000.
2628 W. COLORADO AVE. COLORADO SPRINGS 719-634-5025 FACEBOOK.COM/ WILDGINGERTHAIRESTAURANT
TAPATERIA
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The wine list is hand selected to complement the menu and the bar offers craft cocktails and Colorado beers on tap. Reservations encouraged/walk-ins welcomed.
PAPA JOSE’S UNION CAFE
MANITOU BREWING CO. The only brewery in Manitou Springs with beer brewed on-site, featuring our flagship Manitou Common and High Ground IPA. Pouring 18 taps, including guest beers and ciders from Colorado and around the country, also offering spirits and wine. All-day menu includes sandwiches, burgers, small bites, and GF options. One of the only dog-friendly patios in Manitou.
26 MANITOU AVE. MANITOU SPRINGS 719-685-1430 ADAMSMOUNTAIN.COM
CREATE CAFE 725 MANITOU AVE. MANITOU SPRINGS 719-282-7709 MANITOU-BREWING.COM
SWIRL WINE BAR Swirl Wine Bar is locally and family owned, yet kid operated. Our drink menu and wine list is carefully chosen by our in-house certified sommelier. ALL of our food is made from scratch, down to the bread, which is baked in-house along with our desserts. We never use a microwave or heat lamp. We source food that is local as much as possible. Our atmosphere is often regarded as eclectic, artistic, and inviting. Outdoor seating available. Happy Hour M-F 4-6 p.m., plus weekly events, wine classes, and live music on weekends.
717 MANITOU AVE. MANITOU SPRINGS 719-685-2294
CrEATe Café provides an outstanding dining experience through our commitment to customer service and our welcoming atmosphere. Our vibrant cuisine is locally-sourced as much as possible. Situated in the heart of the Manitou Art Center, CrEATe Café supports local food and sustainability, and builds community by serving healthy, fresh, and delicious meals. Real Food. Simply Prepared. Greatly Enjoyed. #enlightenedfood #eatlocal
MON - SAT 11 AM - 8 PM 320 SOUTH UNION AVENUE PUEBLO 719-545-7476 FACEBOOK.COM/PAPAJOSES
Cripple Creek HOME CAFE Made famous by their $3.99 steak and eggs, juicy hamburgers, delicious sandwiches, and tasty 49-cent breakfasts!
FRI - SUN OPEN 24 HOURS MON-THURS 6 AM-MIDNIGHT 233 E BENNETT AVE. CRIPPLE CREEK BRONCOBILLYSCASINO.COM 515 MANITOU AVE. MANITOU SPRINGS 719-963-6625 @CREATECAFEMANITOU
Pueblo
SWIRLISMYBAR.COM
BAJA BILLY’S CANTINA No need to go south of the border to get fresh Mexican food—you’re sure to enjoy the freshmade fajitas, burritos, fish tacos, beans, and more. Cozy up to the kiva fireplace only at Baja Billy’s. Hours are noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and noon to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
PAPA JOSE’S ADAM’S MOUNTAIN CAFE Serving global cuisine based on slow food principles, the Café emphasizes unique recipes prepared in-house using local and organic products whenever possible. The walls are adorned with original artwork by artist Charles H. Rockey which depict pastoral scenes of Manitou Springs.
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Offering inspiration to Pueblo’s historic downtown since 1998, this labor of love brings delicious Mexican food at great prices. Stop by to hear a good story or to try our even better green chili. Featuring Mexican food, burgers & fries, chicken fried steak, chicken planks, and corn dogs Monday through Saturday.
233 E BENNETT AVE. CRIPPLE CREEK BRONCOBILLYSCASINO.COM
THE STEAKHOUSE Choose from hand cut rib-eye steaks, stuffed lobster tail, fresh salmon, pasta, and more! Reservations are strongly recommended, but not required. Call 719-689-2909 during steakhouse hours or go online any time!
THU - FRI 4 PM-10 PM SAT 2 PM-10 PM SUN 1 PM-9 PM 233 E. BENNETT AVE. CRIPPLE CREEK BRONCOBILLYSCASINO.COM
Salida SOULCRAFT BREWING A full-service brewery located in the outdoor mecca of Salida, Colorado. Our focus is producing a wide array of fresh, craft beer. Our expansive taproom and outdoor beer garden provide a welcome space for enjoying the company of friends and family. Dine at our yummy food container for lunch and dinner. Open 7 days a week. Come join the rumpus!
Our coffee beans are roasted in-house daily! Homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, quiches, & baked goods. We make a wide variety of gourmet coffee drinks & smoothies, and offer vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. Catering available.
SUMMER HOURS 6:30 AM-8 PM WINTER HOURS 6:30 AM-6 PM BUENA VISTA 713 S. U.S. HWY 24 719-395-2634
THE CRIPPLED COW No packaged ingredients here! Taste the difference of our fresh made dough, marinara, fresh cut veggies, sliced pepperoni, salami and mozzarella cheese! They then bake to the perfect bubbly in thewood-fired oven-making this pizza the favorite of Cripple Creek! Pair the delicious pizza with with Peet’s Coffee or a craft beer! Join them Sundays-Thursdays for pizza, beer and coffee specials!
BROWN DOG COFFEE BUENA VISTA LOCATION
248 W. HWY 50 SALIDA 719-539-5428 SOULCRAFTBEER.COM
SALIDA 105 F. ST. 719-539-4337 BROWNDOGCOFFEE.COM
SUN–THU 6 AM–9 PM FRI & SAT 6 AM–11 PM 233 E. BENNETT AVE. CRIPPLE CREEK BRONCOBILLYSCASINO.COM
ADAMS MOUNTAIN CAFE
BROWN DOG COFFEE
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PARTING
SHOT 130 COLORADO FUN
“Treasure the moments of smallness, the infinite microseconds of breathless flutters. Drink in the thrill and fear and sucker-punching joy. Wipe your nose, and your eyes, liquid from cold and wind and effort. And know, without a shred of doubt, you are exactly where you’re supposed to be.”
Marisa was inspired to take up adventure photography after her first solo 14er. With Gladys, her Fujifilm XT1, she strives to weave the beauty of a landscape with the emotion of an experience. LOCATION: Dragon Tail Couloir, RMNP WEBSITE: gritandpixel.com INSTAGRAM: @marisajarae
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DISCOVER MORE AT 131 COLORADO FUN
to the
CLUB.
365GrandClub.com
31 N Tejon St., Suite 200 • Colorado Springs, CO 80903 • 719.482.5692
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C A N N A B O U T I Q U E
C O L O R A D O B E AU T Y W I N T E R . S P R I N G . S U M M E R . FA L L . A F O R C E O F N AT U R E .
10% OFF ANY ONE ITEM Must bring this page from Colorado Fun Guide. Offer Expires April 30, 2019.
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Must be 21 or older. Please enjoy responsibly.