News and Views from the Heart of Teller County.

Tag: Teller County

  • Columbine Pour House Opens Inside Green Mountain Falls Lodge

    Columbine Pour House Opens Inside Green Mountain Falls Lodge

    Green Mountain Falls has a new place to grab a bite, enjoy a drink, and spend some time in the heart of town.

    Columbine Pour House has opened inside the Green Mountain Falls Lodge at 10755 Ute Pass Avenue, bringing a new restaurant and bar to the small mountain community.

    The restaurant’s concept centers around creating a welcoming place for people to gather. Its tagline, “Small bites. Bold pours. Great company,” reflects an approach that puts as much emphasis on the experience as the food and drinks.

    Columbine Pour House offers both alcoholic and alcohol-free beverages, with craft cocktails alongside familiar favorites. The goal is to create a space where visitors can stop in for a drink, share some food, or settle in for a longer meal with friends and family.

    A Look at the Menu

    The restaurant has shared a preview of its menu, which features a mix of approachable dishes designed for both meals and sharing. The offerings include sandwiches, soups, salads, shareable boards, small bites, and desserts.

    Some of the menu highlights include a variety of sandwiches, cheese and charcuterie-style boards, seasonal salads, and rotating soup and dessert options. There are also choices for vegetarian and vegan diners, along with a children’s menu.

    The menu is expected to evolve with the restaurant, with seasonal ingredients and rotating selections adding some variety over time.

    A New Addition to Green Mountain Falls

    Located inside the Green Mountain Falls Lodge, Columbine Pour House gives visitors another reason to stop in the mountain town. The lodge provides a distinctive setting for the restaurant, while the Pour House brings a new food and drink option to the community.

    The restaurant describes itself as a place where everyone is a neighbor and there is always a seat at the table. That emphasis on hospitality seems fitting for a small community where restaurants and gathering places can become an important part of the local scene.

    Columbine Pour House is currently open Friday and Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m.

    The restaurant is located at 10755 Ute Pass Avenue inside the Green Mountain Falls Lodge. For more information, call (719) 210-8463.

  • Easy Hikes Near Woodland Park for Beginners

    Easy Hikes Near Woodland Park for Beginners

    Colorado hiking can look a little intimidating when you’re visiting from out of town. The mountains are big, the trails can climb quickly, and a trail labeled “easy” somewhere else in the country can feel very different at 8,000 or 9,000 feet.

    The good news is that you do not need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the scenery around Woodland Park. There are plenty of shorter trails and nature walks where you can get into the forest, see mountain scenery, and enjoy the outdoors without committing to an all-day adventure.

    Here are several good options for beginners, families, and visitors who simply want an easy introduction to hiking in the Woodland Park area.

    Before You Hit the Trail

    There is one important thing to understand about hiking around Woodland Park: altitude matters.

    Woodland Park sits at roughly 8,465 feet, so visitors coming from lower elevations may notice that even a relatively easy walk leaves them more winded than expected.

    Take your time, bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t feel like you need to hike quickly. Colorado weather can also change quickly, particularly during summer afternoons, so checking the forecast before heading out is worthwhile.

    And remember that “easy” does not necessarily mean paved or completely flat. Expect dirt trails, rocks, roots, and some hills on most of these walks.

    1. Rainbow Gulch Trail to Rampart Reservoir

    Distance: About 2.6 miles round trip
    Difficulty: Easy
    Scenery: Pine and aspen forest, creek, reservoir and mountain views
    Parking: Parking area along Rampart Range Road
    Good for: Beginners, families, wildlife viewing
    Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/rampart-reservoir-via-rainbow-gulch-trail

    If you want a relatively easy hike that still feels like a real Colorado adventure, Rainbow Gulch is a great place to start.

    The trail travels through wooded forest before reaching Rampart Reservoir. The approximately 2.6-mile round trip has about 284 feet of elevation gain and is considered an easy hike.

    Once you reach the reservoir, you can turn around and head back or spend some time enjoying the scenery. The surrounding recreation area also offers opportunities for fishing and picnicking.

    Keep in mind that the complete trail around Rampart Reservoir is much longer than the Rainbow Gulch hike. The Forest Service lists the shoreline trail at approximately 11.5 miles, so beginners should not confuse the short Rainbow Gulch outing with a full reservoir loop.

    2. Red Rocks Park Loop

    Distance: About 1 mile
    Difficulty: Easy
    Scenery: Pine forest and rocky terrain
    Parking: Parking area near the trail
    Good for: Beginners looking for a short loop
    Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/red-rocks-campground-loop

    Red Rocks Park offers an easy introduction to the trails around Woodland Park without taking you deep into the backcountry.

    The Red Rocks Campground Loop is approximately one mile with just over 100 feet of elevation gain and is generally considered easy. The trail travels through the forest and includes some rocky terrain.

    For visitors who want to experience a forest trail without dedicating half a day to hiking, this is a good option, especially as there are many additional short hikes in the area.

    3. Wapiti Self-Guided Nature Trail

    Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
    Difficulty: Easy
    Scenery: Forest, meadows and mountain views
    Parking: Mueller State Park Visitor Center parking lot
    Good for: Families, first-time hikers and anyone wanting a short walk
    Link: https://cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/mueller-state-park/mueller-state-park-activities-trails

    If two or three miles sounds like more than you want to tackle, Mueller State Park has several much shorter options.

    The Wapiti Self-Guided Nature Trail is just 0.8 miles round trip and begins at the east end of the Visitor Center parking lot. It is officially classified as an easy trail.

    Mueller is particularly appealing for beginners because you can make the outing as short or long as you want. The park has more than 44 miles of trails, ranging from short walks to challenging full-day hikes.

    The Wapiti Trail is a good way to get a taste of the park without committing to a long hike.

    Mueller State Park does charge an entrance fee, so check current park information before heading out.

  • 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.

  • Is Crystola Roadhouse Closed? New Owners Set the Record Straight

    Is Crystola Roadhouse Closed? New Owners Set the Record Straight

    A confusing situation has been unfolding around Crystola Roadhouse, leaving many locals unsure about the status of the longtime bar and gathering spot.

    Recently, a post began circulating in local Facebook groups claiming that Crystola Roadhouse would be “closed until further notice.” The message appeared to come from the business’s original Facebook presence and apologized to loyal customers while offering little additional explanation.

    The issue, however, is that Crystola Roadhouse is now under new ownership.

    According to the new owners, the post did not come from them. Instead, it appears that someone with access to the old Facebook page may have published the message, leading to confusion across the community. Whether the post was intended as a prank or something more disruptive remains unclear, but it has prompted concern among regulars and residents.

    In response, the new ownership group has created a new, official Facebook page and is encouraging the public to follow it for accurate updates moving forward.

    You can find their page here:
    https://www.facebook.com/people/Crystola-Roadhouse-LLC/61588713653166/

    UPDATE 4/25/2026:

    Following the confusion online, the former owners of Crystola Roadhouse have begun sharing their side of the situation.


    In recent statements, they say the Crystola Roadhouse business itself was not sold, but instead has closed after being required to leave the building. They also noted they are no longer associated with the property at that location.

    The disagreement appears to center around the use of the “Crystola Roadhouse” name, and the situation remains ongoing as details continue to emerge.

  • Don Juan’s Cocina Brings a New Mexican Dining Experience to Chamonix Casino Hotel

    Don Juan’s Cocina Brings a New Mexican Dining Experience to Chamonix Casino Hotel

    A new restaurant has joined the growing lineup of dining options in Cripple Creek. Don Juan’s Cocina has opened inside Chamonix Casino Hotel, introducing Mexican cuisine to one of the area’s newest resort destinations.

    The restaurant describes itself as a vibrant dining experience that blends traditional Mexican flavors with a more modern presentation. The goal is to offer something that feels both familiar and elevated, whether guests are stopping in after time on the casino floor or planning a sit-down meal with friends.

    The menu leans into classic dishes with bold flavors. Options include birria enchiladas made with slow-braised beef and rich chile-based sauces, as well as a carne asada burrito featuring char-grilled steak, rice, beans, and pico de gallo. A variety of tacos are also available, typically priced between $12 and $14 for two, giving diners a range of choices depending on appetite. A kid’s menu is offered as well, making it accessible for families visiting the resort.

    Don Juan’s Cocina adds another layer to the quietly growing food landscape in Cripple Creek, particularly within the Chamonix property, which continues to expand its offerings. As more visitors and locals explore the resort, the addition of a Mexican restaurant with a broad, approachable menu provides a balanced option to pair with its more upscale 980 Prime steakhouse concept.

  • Your Neighborhood Realty Begins Improvements at Woodland Village Mobile Home Park

    Your Neighborhood Realty Begins Improvements at Woodland Village Mobile Home Park

    A noticeable transformation is underway at the mobile home community near Walmart in Woodland Park, as Your Neighborhood Realty steps in to take over property management and begin a series of long-needed improvements.

    Working in coordination with the property owners, the local realty and property management company has already started addressing some of the most visible concerns on the property. As of now, six abandoned homes have been removed, with plans to clear five more in the near future. The effort is aimed at improving both the appearance and overall safety of the community.

    In addition to clearing unused structures, roadway improvements have already been made, with more work planned. Residents and those traveling through the area are already beginning to notice smoother, improved roadways and better overall access as work continues.

    Looking ahead, Your Neighborhood Realty also plans to focus on landscaping and general beautification. These upgrades are intended to create a cleaner, more welcoming environment for current residents while helping restore pride in the community.

    The work marks an ongoing effort to reinvest in the property and bring it up to a higher standard. While the process will take time, early progress suggests a clear direction focused on cleanup, maintenance, and long-term improvement.

    As changes continue, the project is expected to remain visible to the community, particularly given its location near one of Woodland Park’s busiest commercial areas.

  • Review: Tacos El Amigo #4

    Review: Tacos El Amigo #4

    With several established Mexican restaurants already in town, I was curious how this one would fit into the mix.

    The first thing I noticed was how welcoming the space felt. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, casual without feeling rushed. The staff was friendly and helpful, and our food came out quickly, which is always a plus.

    I made it a point to stop in and see how it stacked up. With several established Mexican restaurants already in town, I was curious how this one would fit into the mix.

    The menu is extensive, offering everything from tacos and burritos to more playful options like the Guadalajara Dog. It is the kind of place where you could visit multiple times and still have plenty left to try.

    The birria tacos were the clear standout. The meat was tender and flavorful, with just the right balance of richness and texture. They are easily something I would order again. Another detail I appreciated was the three bottled sauces brought directly to the table. Having different heat levels and flavor profiles ready to go makes it easy to customize each bite.

    Prices felt reasonable, especially considering portion sizes. It works well for a quick lunch but also feels comfortable enough for dinner with friends. They offer margaritas and buckets of beer, five for $20, which makes it a solid group spot. Non-alcoholic options like Mexican Coke are available as well.

    Overall, Tacos El Amigo adds a strong new option to Woodland Park’s already competitive Mexican food scene. Based on this first visit, it seems well positioned to build a loyal local following.

    5/5 Forks, Amazing!

    -B, The Food Reviewer

  • New Tech Repair Business Opens in Woodland Park

    New Tech Repair Business Opens in Woodland Park

    A new electronics repair shop has opened its doors in downtown Woodland Park, offering residents a local option for fixing damaged devices and replacing worn-out parts.

    Located at 109 W. Midland Ave., the shop provides professional repair services for phones, tablets, and computers. Services include screen repair, battery replacement, charging port repair, camera replacement, speaker and microphone fixes, water damage repair, and data recovery. Customers can also purchase accessories, with electronics sales expected to be added in the near future.

    The business encourages customers to stop by, book a repair, or reach out with questions.

    Location: 109 W Midland Ave, Woodland Park, CO 80863
    Phone: (719) 747-4911

    Website: https://www.onefixrepair.com

  • Chase Bank to Open in Former Snap Fitness Space in Woodland Park

    Chase Bank to Open in Former Snap Fitness Space in Woodland Park

    Chase Bank will be taking over the former Snap Fitness location, adding yet another financial institution to the city’s growing lineup of banks. There is currently no official opening date, and construction timelines have not been publicly announced.

    The move continues a noticeable trend in Woodland Park’s business landscape. In recent years, residents have joked that the city has no shortage of Mexican restaurants, tire shops, and banks. With Chase entering the market, the banking category is getting even more competitive.

    Chase, one of the largest banking institutions in the country, has been expanding its footprint across Colorado, and Woodland Park appears to be part of that growth strategy. The former gym location offers a visible, high traffic space that could serve both local residents and nearby communities.

    Although an opening date has not been set, job postings are already live for the Woodland Park branch. Most of the available positions appear to be part time roles. Interested applicants can view openings here:

    • Associate Relationship Banker Position
    • Part Time (30 hour) Associate Banker Position

    As development moves forward, more details about the branch’s opening timeline and services offered are expected to be announced.