News and Views from the Heart of Teller County.

Tag: Teller County

  • A Basic Travel Guide to Teller County, Colorado

    A Basic Travel Guide to Teller County, Colorado

    Tucked along the western slope of Pikes Peak, Teller County is a mountain region full of small-town charm, rich history, and beautiful high-country scenery. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or just passing through, this guide will give you a quick look at the towns that make up Teller County and a few of the must-see spots along the way.

    A view of from Florissant, Colorado

    Woodland Park

    Known as “The City Above the Clouds,” Woodland Park is the largest town in Teller County. It’s home to shops, restaurants, breweries, and one of the best views of Pikes Peak anywhere in Colorado. It’s a great basecamp for exploring the region.

    Cripple Creek

    This historic mining town is famous for its preserved gold rush architecture, mountain casinos, and rich Wild West history. You can ride the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, tour real mines, or visit during one of the town’s many festivals.

    Victor

    Just down the road from Cripple Creek, Victor offers a quieter, more rustic experience. It’s a living ghost town with incredible views, historic buildings, and easy access to hiking trails and remnants of Colorado’s gold mining past.

    Florissant

    A small, scenic town known for wide-open skies and natural beauty. Florissant is home to the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, where visitors can explore prehistoric petrified redwoods and see some of the most diverse and well-preserved insect and plant fossils in the world.

    Divide

    This mountain community sits at the crossroads of Highway 24 and Highway 67. Divide is quiet and peaceful, with beautiful views and quick access to outdoor spots like Mueller State Park and Horsethief Falls.

    Must-See Highlights

    Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
    One of Colorado’s most unique natural landmarks. Walk among massive petrified stumps and explore scenic hiking trails while learning about the area’s prehistoric past.

    An image of Mueller State Park, in Divide Colorado
    A View From Mueller State Park

    Mueller State Park
    This expansive state park just south of Divide offers over 5,000 acres of forests, meadows, and mountain trails. It’s a great place for hiking, wildlife watching, camping, and snowshoeing in the winter.

    A view of Pikes Peak and Cascade
    A view of Pikes Peak and Cascade

    Pikes Peak Highway (Nearby)
    While technically just outside Teller County, the drive up Pikes Peak is a must if you’re in the area. The summit sits at 14,115 feet and offers views you won’t forget.

    Teller County is the kind of place where each small town has a story, and every road leads to a view worth stopping for. Whether you’re after history, hiking, or just some quiet time in the mountains, there’s something here for everyone.

  • 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.