News and Views from the Heart of Teller County.

Tag: Hiking

  • Family-Friendly Things to Do in Cripple Creek (Beyond the Casinos)

    Family-Friendly Things to Do in Cripple Creek (Beyond the Casinos)

    When many people hear the name Cripple Creek, they immediately think of casinos and gaming. While gambling is certainly part of the town’s identity, families may be surprised to discover that this historic mining community offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages.

    From steam trains and free-roaming donkeys to museums and outdoor adventures, Cripple Creek makes a great family day trip or weekend destination.

    Ride the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad

    Few attractions capture the spirit of Colorado’s mining history quite like the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

    This authentic steam locomotive takes passengers on a narrated 45-minute journey through the hills surrounding Cripple Creek. Along the route, visitors enjoy scenic mountain views, historic mining sites, and stories from the area’s colorful past.

    Children often enjoy the sights, sounds, and occasional whistle blasts of the vintage train, while adults appreciate the history and scenery.

    Meet the Famous Cripple Creek Donkeys

    One of Cripple Creek’s most beloved attractions doesn’t require a ticket.

    Throughout the warmer months, visitors can often spot the town’s famous free-roaming donkeys wandering the streets. These animals are descendants of the burros once used by miners to haul supplies through the district.

    Today, they are cared for and protected by the Cripple Creek Donkeys – Two Mile High Club and have become one of the town’s most photographed attractions.

    For many children, seeing a donkey casually strolling down the sidewalk becomes a highlight of the trip.

    Visit the Cripple Creek Heritage Center

    Before exploring town, families should consider making a stop at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center.

    Admission is free, and the center offers exhibits covering the region’s rich mining history, local wildlife, and geology. Visitors can explore displays featuring historic artifacts, taxidermy exhibits, and a detailed cutaway model of the famous Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine.

    The center also provides one of the best panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and mining district.

    Take a Short Trip to See Rita the Troll

    Just four miles south of Cripple Creek lies the historic town of Victor, home to one of the region’s most unusual attractions.

    Rita the Rock Planter is a massive wooden troll sculpture created by internationally renowned artist Thomas Dambo. Standing among the trees outside Victor, Rita has quickly become a popular destination for families, photographers, and road-trippers.

    Kids love searching for the giant troll, while adults appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity behind the installation.

    Explore Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

    Located roughly 15 miles north of Cripple Creek, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument makes an excellent addition to any family itinerary.

    The monument preserves one of the world’s richest fossil deposits and features enormous petrified redwood stumps that have remained in place for millions of years. Families can enjoy easy walking trails, educational exhibits, and an indoor discovery area where children can learn about ancient plants and animals that once inhabited the region.

    It’s an ideal stop for young explorers with an interest in science and natural history.

    Visit the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center

    A short drive away in Divide, the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center offers guided educational tours featuring wolves, foxes, and other rescued animals.

    Unlike a traditional zoo, the center focuses on conservation and education, giving visitors a chance to learn about wildlife behavior and habitat preservation while observing the animals up close.

    The tours are informative, engaging, and often become one of the most memorable parts of a family’s visit to the area.

    A Different Side of Cripple Creek

    Cripple Creek may be famous for its casinos, but families who look beyond the gaming floors will discover a community rich with history, wildlife, unique attractions, and mountain scenery.

    Whether you’re riding a steam train, feeding your curiosity at a museum, searching for a giant troll, or spotting a wandering donkey downtown, there is plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained.

    For families looking for a Colorado mountain getaway with a little history, a little adventure, and a lot of character, Cripple Creek deserves a spot on the itinerary.

  • Family-Friendly Things to Do Near Woodland Park, Colorado

    Family-Friendly Things to Do Near Woodland Park, Colorado

    When most people think of Woodland Park, they think of mountain views, cool summer temperatures, and easy access to the outdoors. But for families visiting the Pikes Peak region, the area also offers a surprising variety of attractions that can keep kids entertained for an entire weekend.

    Whether you’re traveling with future paleontologists, aspiring adventurers, animal lovers, or simply looking for a place where the kids can burn off some energy, here are some of the best family-friendly attractions in and around Woodland Park.

    Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center

    One of Woodland Park’s most popular attractions is the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center. This world-class museum focuses on dinosaurs, pterosaurs, marine reptiles, and other creatures that lived during the Late Cretaceous Period.

    Families can explore fossil skeletons, life-sized reconstructions, interactive exhibits, and even watch real fossil preparation work taking place in the museum’s laboratory.

    For dinosaur-loving kids, this is often the highlight of a Woodland Park vacation.

    The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop

    Christmas comes early every day at The North Pole – Santa’s Workshop.

    Located near the base of Pikes Peak, this longtime attraction combines amusement park rides, festive entertainment, and opportunities to meet Santa Claus himself. The park has delighted generations of Colorado families and remains one of the region’s most unique destinations.

    Children can enjoy rides, visit Santa’s village, and experience a little holiday magic no matter what month they visit.

    Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center

    Just a short drive from Woodland Park in Divide, the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center offers educational walking tours that allow visitors to observe wolves, foxes, and other rescued wildlife up close.

    The center focuses on education and conservation, helping visitors better understand these often misunderstood animals. Guided tours provide plenty of opportunities to learn while seeing wolves in a setting far different from a traditional zoo.

    Animal-loving children often leave with a newfound appreciation for wildlife and conservation efforts.

    Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

    A visit to Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument feels like stepping back in time.

    The monument is home to one of the world’s richest fossil deposits and features massive petrified redwood stumps that have remained preserved for millions of years. Families can walk easy trails, explore the visitor center, and participate in educational programs designed for children.

    The discovery area inside the visitor center is especially popular with young visitors interested in fossils and natural history.

    Memorial Park

    Located in the heart of Woodland Park, Memorial Park is one of the community’s most family-friendly gathering places.

    The park features a large playground, fishing pond, pavilions, open green space, and a creek running through the property. During the summer months, families can often be found fishing, picnicking, playing, or simply enjoying the mountain weather.

    It is also home to many community events throughout the year.

    Explore the Outdoors

    Woodland Park provides easy access to some of the most scenic outdoor recreation in the Pikes Peak region.

    Mule Creek Trail offers a relatively easy hiking experience suitable for many families, while Rampart Reservoir provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The reservoir’s shoreline trail offers beautiful mountain scenery without requiring a strenuous climb.

    For families looking to introduce children to hiking or fishing, these locations make excellent starting points.

    Stop by Zebz OutFooter

    Before heading out on an adventure, families may want to visit Zebz OutFooter in Woodland Park.

    The local outdoor shop carries hiking essentials, trail gear, gifts, and outdoor accessories that can make a day in the mountains a little easier. It’s also a fun place to browse before setting out for a hike, fishing trip, or camping excursion.

    A Mountain Getaway for the Whole Family

    One of Woodland Park’s greatest strengths is its variety. In a single day, families can see dinosaur fossils, visit wolves, enjoy a mountain hike, play at the park, and still have time for ice cream before heading back to their hotel.

    With cool mountain temperatures and attractions that appeal to a wide range of ages, Woodland Park continues to be one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Pikes Peak region.

  • The Leaf Peeper’s Guide to Teller County, Colorado

    The Leaf Peeper’s Guide to Teller County, Colorado

    Every fall, the mountains of Teller County, just west of Colorado Springs, transform into a patchwork of golden aspens framed by rugged peaks and deep evergreen forests. From September 25 through October 7, the colors are expected to reach their peak, painting the hillsides in brilliant shades of yellow and gold. For those looking to soak in the sights, Teller County offers one of the most scenic drives close to Colorado Springs, with plenty of small-town charm, hearty food, and hidden gems along the way.

    Starting in Colorado Springs, here’s a full-day itinerary that pairs breathtaking foliage with memorable stops, perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned leaf peepers alike.

    Woodland Park – A Mountain Town Welcome
    After winding your way up Ute Pass on Highway 24, your first stop is Woodland Park, known as “The City Above the Clouds.” The air is a little crisper here, and the mountain views begin to open up. Before continuing deeper into the forest, stop at Café Leo, a cozy local favorite. A warm latte or chai makes the perfect start, and their baked goods — especially the house-made pastry that tastes like an elevated version of a childhood “pop tart” — are worth the indulgence. It’s also a good spot to stretch your legs, stock up on road snacks, and settle into mountain time.

    Divide & Mueller State Park – Aspen Gold at Its Best
    From Woodland Park, head west to Divide, where Highway 67 splits south toward Cripple Creek. This stretch of road is a leaf-peeper’s dream. Golden aspen groves blanket the rolling hillsides, and the higher elevation means the colors often come early and stay vibrant.

    Just a few miles down the road lies Mueller State Park, one of Teller County’s crown jewels. With more than 5,000 acres and 55 miles of trails, the park offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the colors. Even if you don’t have time for a long hike, the park has scenic pull-offs where you can capture sweeping photos of gold against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. For a quick, rewarding stroll, try the Outlook Ridge Trail, which leads to panoramic views perfect for fall photos.

    Mueller State Park

    Cripple Creek – History and a Hearty Meal
    Continue south to Cripple Creek, a historic mining town where Victorian architecture meets the buzz of modern casinos. The drive itself is spectacular, with bursts of aspen lining the hillsides and occasional wildlife sightings.

    Once you arrive, fuel up with lunch at The District Kitchen & Saloon, a modern spot with a hearty menu. Their “Best in the West Hot Chicken Sandwich” has earned a loyal following for good reason — it’s crispy, spicy, and perfectly satisfying after a mountain drive. After lunch, stroll the downtown streets where old brick buildings and historic markers tell the story of Colorado’s gold rush era. If you’re feeling adventurous, step into one of the casinos and test your luck before heading back out to the open road.

    “Best In The West Hot Chicken” Sandwich, The District Saloon

    Victor – A Step Back in Time
    Just a short drive from Cripple Creek lies Victor, a quieter, less touristy mining town that feels frozen in time. Along the way, you’ll pass Rita the Troll, a quirky roadside sculpture that’s become a local landmark — the perfect photo-op for your road trip scrapbook.

    In town, pop into Gold Camp Bakery Café & Deli, where the scent of fresh bread and pastries fills the air. For those seeking something stronger, the 1899 Mining Claim and Saloon serves craft beers and cocktails in a setting that channels the rugged spirit of the mining era. If you’re lucky enough to find the Victor Trading Co & Manufacturing Works open, don’t miss it. This old-fashioned shop sells hand-pressed postcards, hand-made brooms, and unique keepsakes that make for truly memorable souvenirs.

    Victor Trading Co & Manufacturing Works

    The Perfect Ending in Green Mountain Falls (We Know, It’s Not In Teller County)
    As the day winds down, make your way back toward Colorado Springs. Before you descend fully into the Front Range, stop in Green Mountain Falls, a small mountain village that feels tucked away from the world. Here, Cantina Verde serves some of the best Mexican fare in the region. Their queso and house margaritas are the ideal way to toast a successful day of leaf peeping before heading back to the city.

  • Explore the Ancient Wonders of the Florissant Fossil Beds

    Explore the Ancient Wonders of the Florissant Fossil Beds

    Redwoods, fossils, and hiking trails bring prehistoric Colorado to life

    Just outside of Florissant, tucked into a quiet mountain valley, lies one of the most fascinating natural sites in the country. The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument offers visitors a chance to step back 34 million years and experience a Colorado that once looked a whole lot different.

    FLORISSANT FOSSIL BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT

    This area is home to one of the richest fossil deposits in the world. Scattered throughout the park, you’ll find massive petrified redwood stumps, some reaching up to 14 feet wide, along with finely detailed fossils of ancient insects, leaves, and other plant life. It’s a landscape shaped by time, volcanic eruptions, and layers of ash and mud that preserved these relics in stunning detail.

    Start your visit at the Visitor Center, where you’ll find hands-on exhibits, a fossil display, and a short film titled Shadows of the Past. It’s also where you can talk with a ranger, pick up a map, and plan your visit. Don’t skip the Fossil Learning Lab in the yurt near the picnic area during summer months — it’s a hit with kids and curious adults alike, offering a chance to get up close with fossil replicas using magnifying glasses and microscopes.

    Outdoors, the park features several short, scenic trails, including the Petrified Forest Loop, Ponderosa Loop, and the Geologic Trail, all of which offer interpretive signs and impressive views of the ancient stumps. For those looking to spend more time on the trail, the monument offers 14 miles of hiking through beautiful ponderosa pine forests and open meadows.

    History buffs should swing by the Hornbek Homestead, a preserved 1878 log home that tells the story of early settlers in the region. Exhibit panels around the site offer a glimpse into the life of pioneer Adeline Hornbek and her family.

    FLORISSANT FOSSIL BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT

    During the summer, the park hosts ranger-led programs like Art in the Park, Skulls and Tracks hikes, and Meet a Geologist sessions. Whether you’re interested in science, nature, history, or just a peaceful day outside, there’s something here for everyone.

    The Florissant Fossil Beds are a true gem of Teller County, offering visitors a mix of prehistoric wonder, outdoor adventure, and local history. If you haven’t visited yet, or if it’s been a while, it’s well worth adding to your summer plans.

  • Great Places to Go For a Hike This Father’s Day

    Great Places to Go For a Hike This Father’s Day

    Fresh air, good views, and trails built for dad-level adventure throughout Teller County.

    Father’s Day is this Sunday, and if you’re looking to swap neckties for trail miles, you’re in the right place. Teller County is packed with hiking spots that offer everything from calm pond loops to elevation-gaining leg-burners. All within an easy drive from the backyard barbecue.

    Whether you’re planning a full-day trek with your old man or just looking for a low-key morning stroll before firing up the grill, here are five local hikes that’ll make this Father’s Day one to remember.

    1. Manitou Lake Nature Loop

    Location: Hwy 67, 7 miles north of Woodland Park
    Distance: 1 mile
    Difficulty: Easy

    If dad’s more into laid-back walks than steep climbs, this loop around Manitou Lake is an ideal pick. It’s a flat, scenic trail with big mountain views, the occasional osprey overhead, and plenty of spots to stop for a snack or sandwich. Small bridges with informational plaques surround the lake. Bring a folding chair, binoculars, and a thermos of coffee. You might just stay a while, especially if dad wants to cast a fishing line. Note: There is an $11 day use fee per vehicle.

    2. The Crags Trail

    Location: Near Divide, off CO-67 and FS Road 383
    Distance: ~5 miles round trip
    Difficulty: Moderate

    This one’s a Teller County classic. The Crags Trail winds through shady forest and opens up to massive granite spires and sweeping views of the western slope of Pikes Peak. It’s the kind of trail where you catch your breath not just from the altitude, but from the views.

    3. Horsethief Falls + Pancake Rocks

    Location: Cripple Creek, Off Hwy 67
    Distance: ~7–8 miles round trip
    Difficulty: Intermediate

    This two-for-one hike starts with a gentle climb to Horsethief Falls and continues to Pancake Rocks. These are named for their wild, flat rock formations that look like a stack of flapjacks. Expect a decent workout and plenty of brag-worthy views. Bonus points if you actually bring pancakes for the top.

    4. Lost Pond Loop

    Location: Mueller State Park
    Distance: ~3.3 miles
    Difficulty: Easy

    A peaceful option tucked into Mueller State Park, this loop offers dense forest, wide meadows, and, if you’re lucky, some surprise wildlife sightings. Elk, turkey, and even the occasional bear wander this area, so keep your camera (and your trail snacks) ready.

    5. Outlook Ridge Trail

    Location: Mueller State Park
    Distance: 3.7 miles
    Difficulty: Moderate

    Outlook Ridge is a solid pick if you’re looking to pair sweeping views with the chance to explore a few hidden gems along the way. The main trail connects with three short spurs—Raven Ridge, Red Tail Overlook, and Lone Eagle—each leading to huge granite outcrops that overlook Rock and Brook Ponds far below. You can see for miles to the south and west, making this a top-notch spot to stop, breathe, and take it all in.

    There’s drinking water, vault toilets, and picnic tables at the trailhead parking lot during summer months. No pets are allowed in Mueller, so leave the pup at home for this one. And fair warning, the return trip is uphill, but it’s worth every step.

    After the Hike

    Cap off the day with a cold one from a local favorite like BierWerks in Woodland Park or Paradox in Divide. Or swing through historic Victor and let dad talk your ear off about mining history. Either way, you’ve earned it.

    Here’s to hitting the trail, making memories, and giving dad the gift of a day well spent.