Colorado`s Spanish Peaks Country Visitor s Guide

Colorado’s Spanish Peaks Country
Visitor’s Guide
La Veta~Cuchara~Walsenburg~Trinidad~Scenic Hwy 12
2014
FREE
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Art Galleries
Shopping
Museums
Recreation
Events
Maps
Lodging
Real Estate
Published by
THE
SIGNATURE
NEWSPAPER
Local News on Thursdays
www.signaturenewspaper.com
2
2014 Visitor’s Guide
THE
SIGNATURE
One Stop for all your Grocery Needs
Walsenburg’s newest grocery store
Spor ting Goods
Hunting & Fishing
Licenses
FINE CIGARS
DVD Movie Rental
QUICK MEALS
DINE IN
OR
ALL
YOUR
TAKE OUT
Stone Oven
PEI ZtoZOAR D ER
AD
MA
FAVORITES FOR PICNICS AND BBQS
Flowers ~ Cards
Balloons
Fresh e
c
u
d
o
r
P
d
o
o
f
Sea
Everyday
Low
Prices
Locally Owned and Hometown Proud
Walsenburg’s First
OPEN: 7 AM—9 PM
7 DAYS A WEEK
Super Market
801 Walsen Ave. Walsenburg
719-738-3200
FirstChoiceMarket.com
THE
W
SIGNATURE
elcome to Spanish Peaks Country.
You’re about to discover one of the
most beautiful places in Colorado.
The area has been a getaway destination for over a century, attracting visitors to its unique natural beauty, outdoor recreation and rich history.
Enjoy the small town flavor of La
Veta, Cuchara, Walsenburg and
Gardner as well as the open ranges of
Huerfano County. As you travel the
Scenic Highway of Legends you will
also see Trinidad, Stonewall and other
small towns along the route.
The region is a crossroads… of cultures and peoples, of explorers and
adventurers, of settlers and travelers.
The rich history of the area has been
passed down both in legend and fact.
The Spanish Peaks (also known as
Wahatoya or “Breasts of the World”)
are a prominent feature with historical
significance and rank among the most
important
landmarks
of
the
Southwest.
The twin mountains had special
significance to the Ute, Apache,
Comanche and earlier tribes who lived
nearby. One of many Native American
legends says summer thunderstorms,
which cluster about the summits, were
evidence that the Rain God lived on
the Peaks. The Spanish Peaks were
guides for Native Americans, Spanish
and French explorers that lead to the
settlements of New Mexico.
As former volcanoes, the Spanish
Peaks are known to geologists world
wide, as prime examples of a “stock”
or large masses of igneous (molten)
rock. Among the most unusual features of the Spanish Peaks are the great
2014 Visitor’s Guide
Around the Spanish Peaks
dikes, which radiate out from the
mountains like spokes of a wheel.
Over 400 of these walls of hard rock
have been identified and can be from
one-foot to 100-feet wide, up to 100feet high and as long as 14 miles.
Circling the mountains on the
Scenic Highway of Legends (Hwy 12)
provides a great way to track the history, culture and geology of the region.
The western border of Huerfano
County follows the ridgeline of the
Sangre de Cristo (“Blood of Christ”)
mountain range, crossed by many historical figures as well.
No matter your interests,
Huerfano County will satisfy them.
Recreation options abound. We are
home to three National Forest
Wilderness Areas inside the San Isabel
National Forest. Lathrop State Park
lies just west of Walsenburg and offers
VISITOR INFORMATION
LA VETA:
~ The Signature Newspaper
124 N. Main St. (Sammie’s Bldg.)
~ Paradise Coffee
305 S. Main St.
~U.S. Forest Service
103 E. Field (at Main St.)
~ Kiosk at Main St. & Ryus Ave.
~ La Veta-Cuchara
Chamber of Commerce
www.lavetacucharachamber.com
WALSENBURG:
~ Huerfano County Chamber
in the Depot Bldg.
at Main St. & 4th St.
CUCHARA:
~ Dakota Dukes
~ Cuchara Country Store
~ Cuchara Rec. Center
AREA:
~ Lathrop State Park
Visitor Center
(Hwy 160 west of Walsenburg)
~Ask at a local business or library
THE SIGNATURE
Huerfano County’s Premier Newspaper
Huerfano
L A V ETA • C UCHARA • WALSENBURG • G ARDNER • H WY 12
2014 Visitor’s Guide
3
P.O. Box 154 124 N. Main Street
La Veta, CO 81055-0154
(719) 742-5591 Fax: (719) 742-3183
email: [email protected]
www.signaturenewspaper.com
Editors..................................................... Renee Rinehart, David Rinehart
Design & Production........................................................ Renee Rinehart
Advertising Design............................................................. ReneeRinehart
Photography....................Cathy Mullens, Renee Rinehart, David Rinehart
Contributors.................... Cathy Mullens, David Rinehart, Renee Rinehart
Advertising Sales............................................................... David Rinehart
The Signature Newspaper Visitor’s Guide is published annually by Rinehart Publishing,
Inc. Second Class postage paid at La Veta, CO, 81055 and additional mailing offices.
USPS 1453. All contents of the Visitor’s Guide are copyrighted 2014. Free distribution.
motorized and non-motorized boating, fishing and hiking opportunities.
Two Colorado Wildlife Areas provide
great fishing and wildlife viewing.
Discover our history at the Mining
Museum and Francisco Fort Museum.
Play Grandote Peaks, our championship golf course in La Veta, or our
one-of-a-kind 9-hole course inside
Lathrop State Park.
Nature is at our door; we have
bird watching (488 varieties have been
seen) and wildlife viewing as our wild
country is home to elk, deer, pronghorn, bear, mountain lion, bighorn
sheep, turkey and many others.
Shop the quaint Main Street art
galleries, gift shops and boutiques.
Great music is abundant during the
summer both at local venues and festivals and special events.
However you choose to spend
photo by Cathy Mullens
your vacation time, you’ll find something to enjoy here in this comprehensive Visitor’s Guide.
Local small businesses work
together to bring you this guide, and
will insure you have a wonderful visit.
Please patronize the restaurants,
shops and attractions inside this
guide.
Escape from the stress, hustle, bustle of daily life to a place where you
can still see the Milky Way, hear birds
singing or just the babble of a brook.
Enjoy Huerfano County, Colorado.
Enjoy your stay, but beware the
energy of the Spanish Peaks—it will
pull you back again and again.
David and Renee Rinehart
Publishers
The Signature Newspaper
[email protected]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome to Huerfano
Things to do Today
Lodging Directory
Fishing Holes
Mission:Wolf
Bear Awareness
Photography Tips
Art Galleries
Museums
Calendar of Events
Hiking Trails
Altitude Facts
Camping
Scenic Drives
Marijuana Information
Index to Advertisers
Maps of the Area
Page 3
Page 4
Page 5
Page 6
Page 6
Page 7
Page 8
Page 9
Page 11
Page 12
Page 15
Page 18
Page 19
Page 20
Page 21
Page 22
Page 23
On the cover: Spanish Peaks from CR510, Cuchara t-shirt, Robert Mirabal does ceremonial
dance at Francisco Fort, Cuchara Independence Day Parade by Renee Rinehart; Blondie the black
bear in Cuchara by Sheila Swan; Flowers at North Lake on Hwy. 12, by Renee Rinehart.
4
2014 Visitor’s Guide
THE
Village of Cuchara
The quaint Village of Cuchara offers
hours of family-friendly fun at high altitude. Cuchara is one street, lined on both
sides with shops and restaurants.
Get your photo taken with Dakota
Duke, lick an ice cream cone on the
boardwalk, play mini golf at the Bear’s
Den, or just dip your toes in the
Cucharas River.
Things To Do Today
La Veta hosts a
weekly Local
Market featuring
seasonal treats.
Horseback Riding
Take a trail ride leaving Yellow Pine
Guest Ranch in Cuchara to enjoy the
spectacular mountain scenery along the
Cucharas River. For information call 7423528.
Farmer’s Market
photo by Renee Rinehart
Gourmet
Beverages
Hot or Iced
La Veta hosts a Local Market on
Thursday afternoons in the courtyard by
the library on Main Street. Saturday
morning brings a farmer’s market to the
lot at Paradise Coffee on Main St.
Walsenburg hosts a Farmer’s Market
on Friday’s from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the
corner of Main St. and 6th St.
Espresso, Latte,
Coffee, Tea & Chai
paradisecoffeelaveta.com
Open daily, Walsenburg Wild Waters
offers two serpentine slides, a diving
pool, a meandering river and toddlers
activity pool. Enjoy the Colorado sunshine with a splash, and sunscreen.
You’ll see the water park on 7th St. in
Walsenburg, next to City Park.
Lathrop State Park
Colorado’s first state park is 1,594
acres of recreational enjoyment. The
park’s two lakes offer a variety of boating and angling opportunities for all
types of water recreation.
Martin Lake offers water skiing,
power and sail boating, and a swimming
beach. Horseshoe Lake is a peaceful
haven for canoeists, kayakers, sailors
and other boaters at wakeless speeds.
Fishing, hiking and picnicking
opportunities abound as well as a 9-hole
golf course.
Weekend evenings offer nature talks
at the outdoor amphitheater.
Located on Hwy. 160 just west of
Walsenburg.
Huerfano County’s Premier Newspaper
Huerfano
L A V ETA • C UCHARA • WALSENBURG • G ARDNER • H WY 12
Panini Sandwiches
Salads & Sweets
719-742-3680
Walsenburg Wild Waters
THE SIGNATURE
Homemade
305 S. Main
La Veta, Colorado
SIGNATURE
Award Winning Local News
Breakfast or Lunch
Keep up with the news of Huerfano County.
Serving You Daily
Subscribe to THE SIGNATURE NEWSPAPER today. Call 719-742-5591.
Sun. ~Thurs. 7 am to 3 pm
Fri. & Sat. 7 am to 4 pm
www.signaturenewspaper.com
Step back in time through the doors of an original 1862 adobe plaza!
MUSEUM
2014
Special Events
June 28th
Hispano Heritage Day
Featuring Music and
Dancing led by
LA VETA
Dr. Lorenzo A. Trujillo
Lectures ~Artisans
Hands-on Workshops
July 12th
Native American Heritage
Featuring Robert Mirabal
Special Guests:
Jicarilla Apache Tribe
Music~Dance~Storytelling
Historians~Lectures
July 26th
Francisco Fort Day
Mining Heritage Celebration
306 S. Main, La Veta, CO 719-742-5501
www.franciscofort.org
Stop in for
Open: Memorial Day Weekend-Labor Day Weekend
Hours: Tues – Sat. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Books &
Gifts
Music by Mark Ross
Lectures~Geologists~Historians
Interactive Demonstrations
Pancake Breakfast~Melodrama/Olio
Sponsored by Friends of Francisco Fort Museum
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Visitor’s Guide
5
Relax, Play & Stay
in Spanish Peaks Country
Spend the night after a day of
activities in Spanish Peaks Country.
Choose from a cabin on the creek, a
beautiful RV park, a quaint B&B, rent
a house, experience a guest ranch or
unwind in a luxury loft.
GUEST CABINS
HISTORIC LA PLAZA INN - WALSENBURG
RV PARKS
LA VETA OFFERS INNS, B&BS, RV PARKS,
MOTELS AND HOMES FOR RENT
WELCOME TRAVELERS
IN
CUCHARA
PORCH SWINGS BECKON VISITORS TO B&BS
HUERFANO COUNTY LODGING DIRECTORY
WALSENBURG
ALPHA MOTEL
ANCHOR MOTEL
BEST WESTERN RAMBLER
BUDGET HOST MOTEL & RV PARK
DAKOTA CAMPGROUND & RV SERVICE
LA PLAZA INN
SANDS MOTEL
THE SPANISH PEAKS INN
719-738-2890
719-738-2800
719-738-1121
719-738-3800
CTR. 719-738-9912
719-738-5700
719-738-3827
719-738-2167
LA VETA
1899 B&B INN
ADAGIO HOUSE
CIRCLE THE WAGONS RV PARK
ELK VALLEY FLY SHOP AND RV PARK
HARDINGS CORNER B&B
I LOVE LUCY’S PLACE RV PARK
INN AT THE SPANISH PEAKS B&B
LA VETA INN & RESTAURANT
LA VETA LAKEVIEW VACATION RENTAL
SAMMIE'S MOTEL & RV PARK
SULPHUR SPRINGS GUEST RANCH
THE OLIVE TREE B&B
THE RANCH HOUSE INN
TWO FOX CABINS & RVS
WAREHOUSE SUITE, THE
CUCHARA
CUCHARA CABINS & CONDO RENTALS
CUCHARA INN
CUCHARA MOUNTAIN ESCAPE
CUCHARA VACATION RENTALS
DODGETON CREEK INN
RIVERS EDGE B&B
YELLOW PINE GUEST RANCH
VAN LUE’S PROPERTY MGMT & CABINS
COUNTRY
715 WALSEN AVE.
1001 S. MAIN ST.
457 US HWY 85/87
553 US HWY 85/87
1079 US HWY 85/87
118 W. 6TH ST.
533 W. 7TH ST.
22808 US HWY 160
[email protected]
7 ROOMS - 15 BEDS
[email protected]
14 ROOMS - 21 BEDS
[email protected] 59 ROOMS - 82 BEDS
17 ROOMS,17 RV SITES
[email protected]
31 RV SITES, 10 TENT SITES
www.laplazainnwalsenburg.com 11 ROOMS, 22 BEDS
11 ROOMS, 12 APTS.
[email protected] 36 ROOMS
719-742-5435
719-742-5111
719-742-5778
719-742-5234
719-742-0260
719-742-5278
314 S. MAIN ST.
818 S. OAK ST.
126 SECOND ST.
5535 US HWY 12
140 W. GRAND
226 W. GRAND
310 E. FRANCISCO
103 W. RYUS
255 WILLIS DR.
PO BOX 617, 124 N. MAIN ST.
PO BOX 871, CR 421
902 S. OAK ST.
1012 S. CHERRY ST.
404 OAK ST.
200 S. MAIN, 2ND FLOOR
[email protected]
5 BEDROOMS & COTTAGE
[email protected]
4 BEDROOMS, 3 BATHS
[email protected]
41 FULL HOOK UPS
[email protected]
25 FULL HOOK UPS
[email protected]
5 BEDROOMS, 5 BATHS
[email protected] 27 FULL HOOK-UPS
www.innatthespanishpeaks.com 3 SUITES - 8 PEOPLE
[email protected]
10 ROOMS - 8 SUITES
[email protected]
PRIVATE HOME
[email protected]
12 ROOMS, 21 HOOK UPS
[email protected]
5 CABINS - 27 PEOPLE
[email protected]
2 BEDROOMS, 1 SUITE
WWW.theranchhouseinn.com
5 ROOMS-10 Q-BEDS
[email protected]
9 CABINS, 9 RV SITES
[email protected]
LUXURY 4 BEDROOM SUITE
719-742-3340
719-742-3685
719-742-3121
719-742-3960
719-742-5169
719-742-5169
719-742-3528
719-742-5490
PO BOX 823
73 CUCHARA AVE. EAST
33 PARK ROAD
35 SPRUCE TRAIL
137 CUCHARA AVE. EAST
90 CUCHARA AVE. EAST
15880 HIGHWAY 12
15880 HIGHWAY 12
719-742-5599
505-466-8385
719-742-3233
866-733-5533
719-742-5423
719-742-3252
719-742-5313
719-742-3700
[email protected]
WWW.thecucharainn.com
cucharamountainescape.com
cucharavacationrentals.com
[email protected]
www.sangres.com/riversedge
[email protected]
[email protected]
25+ CONDOS AND HOMES
44 ROOMS
5 PRIVATE HOMES
CABINS/CONDOS
8 ROOMS - 24 PILLOWS
5 ROOMS - 11 PILLOWS
9 CABINS, 1 LODGE
HOMES & CABINS
WWW.SPANISHPEAKSCOUNTRY.COM
6
2014 Visitor’s Guide
THE
Blue and Bear Lakes
Go Fishing
Recreation at 10,000’
photo by Cathy Mullens
Fishing Holes:
Lathrop State Park
Monument Lake
Trinidad Lake State Park
Offering two lakes, Martin (all motorboats) and Horseshoe (wakeless) Lakes.
Two miles west of Walsenburg on Hwy.
160.
100-acre lake stocked with browns, cutthroats, rainbows, kokanee salmon and
splake. On Hwy. 12—37 miles west of
Trinidad or 17 miles south of Cuchara.
Five miles west of Trinidad on Hwy. 12.
Wahatoya State Wildlife Area
North Lake
Wahatoya Lake and Daigre Reservoir. One
mile east of La Veta on Moore St.
Famous for being home to four species of
trout, cutthroat, rainbow, kokanee and
brown. 13 miles south of Cuchara on
Colorado Hwy. 12.
Blue Lake and Bear Lake
Flies or lures only. Three miles south of
Cuchara on Hwy. 12.
Bosque del Oso StateWildlife Area
Stream fishing when running. 21 miles
west of Trinidad on Colorado Hwy. 12.
Lily Lake
Strenuous hike to pristine lake in upper
Huerfano River area. Coldwater stream. 13
miles west of Gardner on County Road
580.
Don’t miss the
49th Annual
Cuchara Hermosa Art Show
• Over 100 artists and craftsmen!
• One of the finest shows in Colorado!
• Purchase Art, Pottery, Jewelry,
Textiles & More
Mission:Wolf
FRIDAY/SATURDAY:
10 AM - 5 PM
Open daily 9 a.m. to sundown
www.missionwolf.com
NO ADMISSION FEE
Cuchara Rec. Hall, Highway 12
SUMMER CHILDREN’S CLASSES
CASA de PAJAROS
GUATAMALAN IMPORTS
Clothing, Jewelry, Gifts
Come visit the talking Birds!
OPEN
Everyday
10 am - 6 pm
213 S. Main
La Veta
719-742-3417
THE BOOK NOOK
207 S. Main Street, La Veta, CO
SUMMER HOURS: TUESDAY—SATURDAY 10 AM—4 PM
USED BOOKS FOR SALE AT GREAT PRICES
We also carry NEW Local Interest Books
DONATE your gently read books
Owned and Operated by the Friends of the La Veta Library
with profits going to support
The Award Winning LA VETA PUBLIC LIBRARY
Whether you
are looking for
overnight camping
or just a day in the
great
outdoors,
Blue Lake and Bear
Lake are great destinations.
The U.S. Forest Service operates the two
facilities that are enjoyed for picnics, hiking,
fishing and camping.
Blue Lake is a lake located at 10,000’ elevation. The campground has 15 official sites.
There are rest rooms and drinking water available. The fishing is excellent and there are several trailheads leading into the Sangre de
Cristo Mountains nearby. There is a crossroad
at the campground and if you take the left,
you’ll be starting up the hill to Trinchera Peak.
Up about a mile-and-a-half is the northern end
of the North Fork Trail.
Bear Lake is about one mile further up the
road. Bear Lake Campground is located at
10,500’ elevation and has 14 official campsites.
There are rest rooms and drinking water available. Camping, picnicking, fishing, and parking are fee activities. There are also several hiking trailheads nearby.
In the early 1900’s, there was a large black
bear causing a lot of havoc in the area and one
of the Forest Rangers set a trap for it. The next
day he went to retrieve the trap but it was
gone. Later on, the trap was found in the middle of the lake, still attached to a bear. The bear
was so large that he had dragged the trap
cross-country and into the lake, that’s how
Bear Lake got the name.
Directions: From Highway 12 at Mile Marker 20,
hairpin turn, is the road to Blue and Bear Lake and the
entrance to the Cucharas River Recreation Area. Blue
Lake is 4 miles, and the campground is up the hill above
the lake. Bear Lake is one mile further up the dirt road.
July 10~11~12
THURS: Members Reception
5:30-7:30pm
SIGNATURE
FRIDAY’S FOR FUN
6/13
6/20
6/27
7/18
7/25
8/01
8/08
Sculpture -Amber Smelser
Batik Basics -Beth & Jonathan Evans
Jewelry -Mary Cooper
Painting with Tools -Rena Kaplowitz
Paint Yourself -Maggie McIndoe
Collage -Kate McCabe
Clay for All -Nicole Copel
THE LA VETA SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
105 W. Ryus/P.O. Box 33, La Veta, CO 81055
719-742-3083 [email protected]
www.theLVSA.org
THE LA VETA
SCHOOL
OF THE ARTS
Classes and Workshops for Everyone
THE LA VETA SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
105 W. Ryus/P.O. Box 33, La Veta, CO 81055
719-742-3083 [email protected]
www.theLVSA.org
Who’s afraid of the big bad wolf?
Fables and fairytales have long portrayed
the wolf as a stalker of humans and animals
and instilled fear in all who may encounter
the wild animal. But those who visit
Mission:Wolf, located 15 miles north of
Gardner, will leave with a deeper appreciation of this magnificent predator.
Kent Weber began rescuing wolves 25
years ago, and he and his wife, Tracy
Brooks, established Mission:Wolf in 1988 on
20 acres nestled at the base of Greenhorn
Mountain. The refuge is now home to
dozens of captive-born grey wolves and
wolf-dog crosses.
The refuge allows visitors to view the
animals from an elevated walkway. Many
of the fenced areas contain several acres for
the wolves to roam. Some may want to take
the unique opportunity to interact with
wolves, under supervision.
As a nonprofit organization, the refuge
operates completely on volunteer efforts
and cash donations.
They do not charge an admission fee,
but ask visitors to make a donation or purchase souvenirs from the gift shop.
Directions: From Gardner, follow Hwy. 69
north 1.5 miles. Turn right on Gardner Road.
Go north 13.5 miles and turn right at Blue
Spring after the cattle guard. Follow the driveway 1.5 miles along the fence. Four-wheel drive
is recommended November through May.
Drive time is approximately one hour from
Walsenburg.
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Visitor’s Guide
7
Be Bear Aware
Black bear encounters can occur
on the trail, in town or in your
own backyard
photo by Cathy Mullens
Tuesday through Sunday
2 Seatings — by Reservation Only
This black bear was taking a stroll down Ryus Ave. in La Veta during the day. Drought conditions have diminished their natural food sources, forcing them into town to look for alternatives.
Tips to keep bears wild and humans safe
Black bears are fairly common in the La Veta and
Cuchara area. It is estimated there are between 1618,000 bears in Colorado and while the colors vary
from honey-colored, brown, blonde, black or cinnamon — they are all black bears.
The black bear is an omnivore and will eat just
about anything. A bear’s natural diet is grasses,
berries, fruits, nuts and plants, as well as insects and
scavenged carcasses.
Follow a few simple tips if you are camping or
visiting in bear country so both people and bears
remain safe.
It’s important to stash your trash. Their noses
are very sensitive, about 100 times better than ours
and they can smell food five miles away. Use a bearproof garbage bin and don’t keep garbage or other
food stuffs in the garage.
Keep your camp clean. If you are camping in
bear country keep your camp clean. Double bag
your trash and put it in your RV or vehicle if there is
no bear-proof container near-by. Don’t leave your
coolers, bags or boxes outside.
Never feed a bear. There is a saying among
locals: A fed bear is a dead bear. It is against the law
to feed bears in Colorado.
Encountering a bear. When hiking in bear
country it is wise to have bear repellant with you
and be alert. Be extra cautious at dawn, when the
wind is in your face, visibility is limited or when
walking by a noisy stream. A firm clap or a quick
shout warns bears that people are around.
Pieces
Wild black bears seldom attack unless they feel
threatened, cornered or are provoked. If you surprise a bear on a trail, stand still, stay calm and let
the bear identify you, then leave. Talk in a normal
tone of voice, be sure the bear has an escape route.
Do not run. Back away from the bear and slowly
move away.
Gift Shop
You can make eye contact with the bear but
Mountain/Lodge Decor
don’t stare. Continue to watch to see what it is
Unique Gifts
doing. Never climb a tree to escape a bear. If you
see cubs, their mother is near and you need to leave
Handcrafted items by local residents
the area immediately.
Located within the Shops on the Boardwalk
Open Daily
A bear standing up is just trying to identify
in downtown Cuchara
what it’s seeing. It wants a better view and smell.
Come On In!
email: [email protected] 620-355-8168
Wave your arms slowly
overhead and talk calmly as
you are backing away.
Sometimes it may be aggressive but this is rare. If it
approaches to within 40 feet,
use the bear spray.
If you are attacked by a
black bear, do not play
Located on the Scenic
dead, fight back. Fight with
Highway of Legends
anything available. People
Always fully stocked for
have successfully defended
in Historic
year-round shopping
themselves with pen knives,
Cuchara, Colorado
trekking poles and even bare
convenience.
hands. Bears generally want
to avoid confrontations with
humans.
Convenience/Grocer y Store
Souvenirs • Toys
Sof t Drinks • Ice Cre am • Snacks
Wildlife T-Shirts • Fleece Jacke ts
La Veta/Cuchara Valley
2014 Summer Activities
Luncheon
July 11, 12 ~ Rec. Hall
NO ADMISSION FEE
49th Annual Art Show & Sale
August 14 ~ 11:45 am Rec. Hall
Luncheon &
Annual Meeting
Now on Sale: Cuchara Scenic Calendar & Cuchara Valley Directory
CALL 719-596-0339 OR GO TO www.cucharahermosa.org FOR INFORMATION
Open 7 Days a Week
10 am to 7 pm
(719) 742-5529
~ Gift
Come join us in maintaining the beauty of the
July 24 ~ 11:45 am at Rec. Hall
H eart
CUCHARA VALLEY’S BIGGEST “LITTLE” SHOP
Unique Gif ts for All!
“Welcome Back” Potluck
my
DAKOTA
DUKES
Do NOT Feed Wildlife
June 19 ~ 5:30 pm at Rec. Hall
of
This little den is
packed to the brim!
Mini Golf
Course
Shop ~
Jewelry, Scarves, Hats, Purses,
Home Decor, Kitchen Items,
T-Shirts, Toys, Antiques,
Painted Furniture,
Wood Carvings
N
THE BEAR’S DE
at CUCHARA
18-Holes
of FUN!
Shaved Ice
& Snacks
Open: 11am to 6pm Closed Monday
Cuchara, Colo. 719-742-3107
Available for Parties & Events by Reservation
Located at the bottom of the hill in Cuchara
8
2014 Visitor’s Guide
THE
SIGNATURE
Photography Tips
Today's digital cameras and even high-end "point and shoots" can turn out a nice snapshot. But if you want to put in a little time and up your game a bit, here are a few easy tips.
ANN GETHEN
OILS and WATERCOLORS
Botanical prints, Books and cards
STUDIO TOUR
August 2nd and 3rd
STUDIO
9.00 - 5.00 Sat
Noon to 4.00 Sunday
382 Willis Drive
La Veta CO 81055
call to visit any day
'Scotland, My Way'
719­742­3452
cell 719­248­0423
Exhibit at SPACe Gallery
in September
[email protected]
www.gethenstudio.com
ammie’s
S
Restaurant • Motel • RV Park
124 N. Main ~ La Veta ~ 719-742-5435
Great Food
Mexican Food served after 4 p.m.
Friendly Staff
Home-Made PIES
Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner / Dine-in or Carry-out
Tues.-Sat. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sun. 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Restaurant closed Monday
Full Bar Open Daily
Ryus
Sammies
Main
Train
Stop
Motel & RV Park
RV spaces from $25.00
Rooms $50.00
1. Be aware of the lighting and your
composition. Sometimes you want to take
a photograph but the light is wrong. Note
this location and come back in early morning or late afternoon to see if you like what
you see. Then take your shot.
Farley's Overlook, near the top of
Cordova Pass is a good place for wildflowers if you are here in season. The Pike-San
Isabel National Forest is also a prime place
for seeing elk, mule deer and a variety of
birds. Wahatoya and Daigre Lakes, near
town provide habitat for osprey, egrets,
cormorants, ducks and other waterbirds.
2. Depth of field determines if you
want everything in focus throughout the
photo or have a shallow depth of field to
focus on a single Iris. Don’t be afraid to
experiment. Find out what each of those
little symbols on your camera mean. Take
the same picture with several different settings and find out what pleases you. Read
through your instruction book but
more importantly,
take lots of photos.
You might head
up Hwy 12, the
Highway of Legends
and find some
mountain goats or a
scenic view that you
want to capture. The
Devil’s Stair Steps
are a geological feature you may want
to shoot, because you
won’t see anything
like it anywhere else.
3. Composition is important. Using
the Rule of Thirds, imagine there are nine
equally sized squares in your viewfinder.
Line up your subject on the intersections of
these lines. Usually, it makes for a more
interesting shot to have your subject matter offset from the center.
If you’re driving up Cuchara Pass, you
might pull off the side of the road to catch
a rare photo of a black bear. There are also
many scenic opportunities on this road.
4. Think about using a tripod. They
steady the camera and generally produce a
higher quality image than handhold shots.
Also study up on shutter speed and aperture.
Wander down to the Cuchara River
and try different settings as you shoot the
water flowing by. Can you get it to look
milky like those “pro’s” do?
5. Take your camera with you and try
to take photos daily. Learning about photography and how to
use your camera can
be almost as much
fun as taking the picture.
And, here in
Spanish
Peaks
Country, you will
have lots of great
choices of what to
shoot.
Cathy Mullens is a
local nature and
wildlife photographer.
Her work can be found
in the SPACe Gallery in
photo by Cathy Mullens La Veta.
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Visitor’s Guide
9
Art Galleries & Studios
˜ Hill
Pinon
Art Gallery
Art galleries in La Veta
and Cuchara include
pottery, photography,
fine art, jewelry and
other crafts.
Fine Art - Fine Craft
30 Local and Regional Artists
Openings and special
events are held
throughout the year.
Clay Workshops and Classes
9th Annual Pétanque Tournament
and Art Opening - July 12th!
Most galleries offer art
classes for adults and
children.
photo by Renee Rinehart
Kathy Hill’s Studio Gallery
Local artist Kathy Hill’s paintings
reflect the scenery and wildlife in the
Cuchara valley. You can get an original
piece, or pick up some note cards or
prints. Hill also paints commissions and
offers classes. Her studio gallery is located at 512 S. Spruce. Open daily. Call
719-742-5756.
Piñon Hill Art Gallery
Located on Main St. in La Veta, the
gallery features ceramic works, and fine
art and crafts from 30 local artists.
The studio and gallery offer a variety of collectible pieces, gifts and unique
items.
Shalawalla Gallery
Features Batik works from Beth and
Jonathan Evans plus work from local
artisans. Beautiful scarves and shawls.
Visit the gallery, studio and gift shop on
Ryus Ave. in La Veta.
Spanish Peaks Arts Council —
SPACe Gallery in the Park
Downtown La Veta
210 S. Main St.
(719) 742-3666
www.pinonhillartgallery.com
Located at the west end of La Veta
Town Park, is the gallery for the Spanish
Peaks Arts Council (SPACe). The nonprofit group is comprised of artists from
around the county and is host to numerous art shows year-round. Browse the
current art show in the gallery and shop
for unique gifts.
The Timbers Gallery
In Cuchara, you can enjoy works of
art while you dine. The entrance to the
restaurant is a gallery of art on two levels. Browse before dining, or request to
be seated in the gallery space.
Whitmore Gallery
Featuring fused glass art, jewelry
and wall art. You’ll find a co-op of local
artisians displayed, offering a variety of
art. Located on Main St. in La Veta.
De er pri nt Win e
& Bistro
~ Fine Wines
~ Artisan Beers
~ Cheeses & Salami
A va i l a b l e f o r a l l O c c a s i o n s
Just east of Main St. on Francisco
106 E. Francisco, La Veta
www.Deerprint.biz
10
2014 Visitor’s Guide
THE
SIGNATURE
Local History Museums
Walsenburg Mining Museum
See Inside an 1896 County Jail
Take in the Ludlow Massacre exhibit
Walk-in Coal Mine Replica
Striking Miner’s Tent
100th
Anniversary
1913-1914
Coal Strike
Ludlow
Massacre
May 1 though September 30
10-4 Monday-Friday 10-1 Saturday
Or by appointment 719-738-1992 or 719-738-2840
112 W. Fifth Street Walsenburg, CO 81089
(just west of the Courthouse, 1/2 block off Main St.)
FRANCISCO FORT MUSEUM
Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day
10-4 Tuesday through Saturday
Guided Tours, Historic Buildings, Gift Shop
Hispano Heritage Day – June 28
Native American Heritage – July 12
Mining Heritage Celebration – July 26
306 S. Main St. La Veta, CO 81055
719-742-5501
www.franciscofort.org
Tirey Local History Center
Check our
Historical
Tour Schedule
Newspaper and Historical Archives
201 E. Fifth Street Walsenburg, CO 81089
By appointment Monday through Thursday
719-738-2840 email: [email protected]
Huerfano County Historical Society
Huerfanohistory.org
Email: [email protected]
THE
SIGNATURE
Francisco Fort Museum
Francisco Fort is the oldest known
standing structure in Huerfano County,
built with adobe by La Veta founders
John Francisco and Henry Daigre in
1862. The Francisco Fort Museum
includes eight historic buildings and an
impressive variety of exhibits.
Weapons, wagons, saddles and
clothing used by pioneers are on display.
A saloon from old La Veta’s Main Street
contains the bullet scarred bar owned by
Bob Ford after he shot Jesse James. All
will enjoy the one-room schoolhouse.
Allow an hour or two to tour the
2014 Visitor’s Guide
buildings and to view the wide range of
artifacts. Located in La Veta. Entrance on
Main Street next to the library. Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 719742-5501.
Located in the historic jail next to
the county courthouse in Walsenburg,
the Mining Museum displays artifacts
that tell the story of king coal which
dominated the economy in Huerfano
County from the 1870’s through the
1930’s. This year features an exhibit
commemmorating 100 years since the
coal strike and massacre at nearby
Ludlow.
Exhibits offer a picture of the huge
volume of coal produced, the hardships
of the miners and the conflict between
mine owners and labor that led to deadly strikes.
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,
Sat. 10-1 p.m., Sunday by appointment.
Walsenburg, 112 W. 5th Street. 738-1992.
Located at 312 E. Main St. in
Trinidad, and contains three landmark
buildings and heritage gardens.
Includes Santa Fe Trail Museum. Open
Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 719-846-7217.
A.R. Mitchell Museum
of Western Art
photo by Renee Rinehart
History & Art Museums
Walsenburg Mining Museum
Trinidad History Museum
Events marking the 100th year since the
coal mine strikes and massacre at Ludlow
take place at area museums. Visit the site
off I-25 at exit 27.
11
Located at 150 E. Main St. in
Trinidad, features 350 paintings of western artists. Open Tues-Sat. 10 a.m. to 6
p.m., Sun. 12 pm. to 4 p.m. 719-846-4224.
Located at 600 Main St. in
Walsenburg, contains an eclectic personal collection of art, and special exhibits.
Museum of Friends
Families can enjoy
hands-on activities and exhibits at
local museums.
Above: Kids help
mix adobe to
repair the outside
walls at Francisco
Fort Museum in La
Veta.
photo by Renee Rinehart
THE
WAREHOUSE S UITE
La Veta’s premiere accommodation
Beautifully decorated…
4 bedrooms. 2 baths
Full Gourmet Kitchen
Washer/Dryer
Internet, Flat Screen TV
...Perfect for Families
NIGHTLY OR WE EKLY RATE S AVAILABLE
For Reservations contact
Don & Mitzi Keairns at: 719-742-5278 or [email protected]
Open
7 Days a Week
Mon.-Sat. 11-7
Sunday 12-7
Weather permitting
City Park
700 W. 7th St. (Hwy 160)
719-738-2628
www.cityofwalsenburg.com
FUN
FOR E VERYONE !
2 Spiral Slides ~ Diving Board
Lazy River Raft Ride
Seal Slide, Fountains & Sprays
Beach Entry, Shallow Play Areas
SNACK BAR
Skate
Pa r k
GRAB SOME AIR
Next Door in City Park
12
2014 Visitor’s Guide
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Event Calendar
MAY
AUGUST
May 20
Art Show: Art in Unexpected Places
Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe)
Runs through June 21
August 2
72nd Gardner Chuckwagon Supper
August 2
Studio and Gallery Tour:
Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe)
May 24-26
Picker’s Paradise-Route 160
Yard Sale, Walsenburg
August 2
2nd Annual Taste of Downtown
Walsenburg – Main St. & 6th St.
JULY
May 31
Francisco Fort Museum
Opening Day 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
August 26
Art Show: Fall Show.
Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe)
Runs through Oct. 5
July 4
Cuchara Family Run/Walk
8 a.m. at Cuchara Rec Center
July 4
Cuchara Independence Day Parade August 6-10
Huerfano County 4H Fair
11 a.m. on Cuchara’s main street
La Veta Fairgrounds
and Hwy. 12
August 22
La Veta Art Walk 5-7pm
July 5-6
Art in the Park 10am-5pm
La Veta Town Park
July 5
La Veta Independence Day Parade
11 am, Main St. La Veta
July 6
4-H Mud Bog 12 p.m.
La Veta Fairgrounds
JUNE
Rio Cucharas Veterinary Clinic established in 1980
is committed to providing the highest quality
primary care veterinary medicine for both large
and small animals.
Services Include:
DELUXE Boarding Kennel
• Examinations • Vaccinations
• In-House Laboratory Testing
Imaging
• Dentistry • Surgery
• Wound Management
• Nutrition Counseling
June 13-15
Santa Fe Trail Festival – Trinidad
June 14
Cuchara Country Music Fest
11am-11pm
June 24
Art Show: Colorado Show
Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe)
Runs through July 26
June 20-21
“Always, Patsy Cline”
Francisco Center for the Perf. Arts
June 27
La Veta Art Walk 5-7 pm
5 miles west of Walsenburg
22540 West US Highway 160
719-738-1427
June 27-29
“Always, Patsy Cline”
Francisco Center for the Perf. Arts
~ OPEN ~
Monday through Thursday 8 am to 4 pm
Friday 8 am to 2 pm Saturday 8 to 10 am
July 7-11
Children’s Art Workshop.
Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe)
June 28
Francisco Fort Museum: Hispano
Heritage Celebration
One Service at 11 am
from May 25 to June 23
Two Services at 9:30 and 11 am
from June 29 to August 31
September 12-14
ArtoCade Festival – Trinidad
July 11-12
49th Annual Art Show & Sale
Fri/Sat. 10 am – 5 pm Sun. 1-4 pm
Cuchara Rec. Hall
September 18-21
TrindieFest – Trinidad
September 20
Mining Parade - Walsenburg
July 12
Francisco Fort Museum: Native
American Heritage Celebration.
July 24-27
Melodrama: “The Treasure of
Shiver River” Francisco Center for
the Performing Arts
S
July 25
La Veta Art Walk 5-7 pm
July 29
Art Show: Photography Show
Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe)
Runs through August 23.
the
A Full Service Beauty
Sunday Services:
SEPTEMBER
September 25-28
Spanish Peaks International
Celtic Music Festival
OCTOBER
October 4
Oktoberfest - Main St. La Veta
alon
October 7
Art Show: Night Skies
Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe)
Runs through Oct. 4
LTD
alon & Boutique
Serving you with care…
Lluvia, Jennifer & Vanessa
Appointments Suggested … Boutique browsing WELCOME
208 South Main Street in La Veta
742-3019
Open Tuesday through Saturday
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Visitor’s Guide
13
Jerry Henson Presents Fine Mountain Property
It’s
Local Realtor - World Wide Market
719-742-5161
#1
Official!
2013
www.La Veta.com
JERRY HENSON
or
www.SouthernColoradoProperty.com
Top Producer
for Huerfano
www.CucharaRealEstate.com
County MLS
719-989-0999
www.ColoradoAcreage.com
-Again!
Wahatoya High Mesa Ranch
Spectacular custom log lodge-style home
on 94.76 acres with 6,241 SF, 3 bedrooms, 3-1/2 baths, media theater room
and wine cellar. Highest quality of material and craftsmanship. Incredible
views. Also included is separate guest
suite unit with oversized garage/ shop.
Priced at $3,500,000
Splendid log home in the tall pines, creek and
Beautiful two-story stucco home east of La Veta on
panoramic views of the Spanish Peaks. Sold completely furnished. Game room, work room, two car garage and a
guest/bunkhouse near the stream. Priced at $565,000
Big Views! No covenants. Custom designed home on 40+
acres. Great horse property with barn, studio, storage outbuildings, fences and clean pasture. Priced at $498,900
Custom Mediterranean home at Grandote Peaks Golf
Club. One-level with 3 bedrooms/3 baths and 2 car attached
garage. Viking appliances and granite countertops make this
home a "best value". Originally priced at $588,000 - Now
$375,000
Ideal horse property on nearly 4 acres on the Cuchara
River with barn, fences and workshop. Mature landscaping.
Cozy main house with bonus vintage cottage for guests. Priced
at $347,500
Wonderful family home or B&B with gourmet
kitchen, large patio with hot tub and firepit. Three bedrooms
and four baths. Close to the golf course. Priced at $348,500
Custom Designed Home on 3.85
acres with private lake off the Cuchara River.
Offered fully furnished. Breathtaking views!
Price Reduction at $848,000
35+ ac with amazing views of the Spanish Peaks. This home
offers 3,970 SF of incredible living area, fireplace and 3-car
attached garage. Lots of solar gain. Priced at $525,000
Privacy in this Cuchara Pass Ranch mountain
home on 37+ acres of forest. Huge sandstone fireplace and
Magical Old La Veta Pass
adjoining 211 acres to Uptop Ranch.
Colorado Rocky Mountain beauty and
views. A fabulous setting for a mountain ranch homesite or corporate retreat. Mineral Rights Included. Priced
at $695,000
offered fully furnished. Enjoy views from the deck. Priced at
$495,000
Pure Historical Magic! 42-acre
Uptop Ranch A preserved ghost town with
many restored buildings.Endless commercial possibilities and a mountain homesite. Mineral Rights
Included. Priced at $1,350,000
Mountain Log Home with 4,330 SF on
one acre on the river. Two story great room and
rock fireplace. Master suite with fireplace and
covered deck. Separate private wing with three
guest suites. Offered at $826,000
Classic La Veta beauty - 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on
five town lots, mature landscaping and walking distance to
downtown. Large sunny kitchen with wood burning stove, separate dining room and detached garage. Fully fenced for privacy. Priced at $329,000
Spacious home in Tres Valles with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths,
bonus room and 2 fully equipped kitchens. Furnishings included.
2600 acres of common area, underground utilities, community
water system and wildlife galore! Fantastically Priced at $319,000
Cuchara Pass Ranch Log Beauty One
level Douglas fir home on 37 timbered acres. Open
kitchen/dining room and stone fireplace in great
room. Enjoy southern views under covered decks or
walk over to a bubbling creek. Offered at $726,450
Raspberry Mountain Ranch&Cuchara River Estates
Premier Properties in gated community with views and privacy.
Tract 1 - 35.1 acres, w/ well - $329,000
Tract 13 - 38 acres, w/well & pond - $325,000
Silver Dollar Building—High profile location on Main
Street. A unique stone building for your own opportunity or retain current leases for immediate cash flow. Offered at $170,000
More Raspberry & CMR tracts available
Keene Ranch
Big Views-No Covenants-Existing Well! 96 acres
w/mix of small timber and grasses. Great horse property.
Priced at $120,000
Other Fine Acreages Available At:
Grandote Peaks Golf Course
Blackhawk Ranch ~ Majors Ranch
Paradise Acres ~ Piney Ridge
River Ridge ~ Tres Valles
Jerry Henson—Fine Mountain Property
One-of-a-Kind ranch with well-appointed home, indoor
222 So. Main St. La Veta, CO 81055
Real Estate - For a Real Escape
arena and studio all under one roof located on 188 acres
near Redwing. Turn-key equestrian ranch offers first-rate stables
and tack rooms. Ideal equestrian school or training facility.
Hay meadows and water rights. Priced at $739,000
14
2014 Visitor’s Guide
THE
SIGNATURE
THE
SIGNATURE
Join Us for Lunch, Dinner,
and Sunday Brunch
2014 Visitor’s Guide
Take a Hike
Gentle, Moderate and Difficult hikes
Gentle hikes
Cuerno Verde & Hogback Nature Trail
Both are located within Lathrop
State Park on Highway 160, two miles
west of Walsenburg. The Visitor’s
Center can provide detail on the hikes
and collect your fee.
Blue and Bear Lakes
Four miles off of Highway 12, south
of Cuchara. Hiking around and between
the lakes provides a taste of the surrounding wilderness and a hint of the
more strenuous hiking opportunities
available.
Moderate hikes
The Indian Creek Trail is a 13-mile
trail from Bear Lake to Sulphur Springs
off County Road 421.
Indian Creek Trail
Spring Creek Trail begins next to
Cuchara Sanitation and Water District
offices on Highway 12 in Cuchara. From
the trailhead, it is a moderate 1.5 mile
walk to Aspen Meadows, a wide-open
space perfect for a picnic. Just above the
meadow hikers can access the Dodgeton
Loop to the north, or Baker Creek trail to
the south. Both of these options lead up
to Indian Creek Trail.
Spring Creek Trail
From the village of Cuchara hikers
can access the Dike Trail by walking up
Oak Street to its terminus. Although you
will not be able to see the dikes, this 3.5
mile trail climbs, then traverses the
slope that separates the White Creek and
Cucharas River.
Dike Trail
Enjoy our locally famous reuben
or one of our great steaks on our
beautiful Back Deck.
Have a seat in our Tavern for a
fun, casual meal. Live music
throughout the season.
photo by Renee Rinehart
Cordova Pass offers the West Spanish
Peak trail covering forests and meadows.
Located on the Huerfano and Custer
County border, this trail can be accessed
from Highway 69, five miles south of
Westcliffe and then 10 miles south on
Custer County road 119.
Rainbow Trail
Difficult hikes
Trailhead begins at Cordova Pass.
Start early to get off the peak before
afternoon weather develops.
West Spanish Peak
Enjoy a special evening in our
quieter Dining Room.
For a romantic date night ask
for our new Gallery seating.
Happy Hour specials!
Full menu available throughout
the restaurant.
Browse through our collection
of works by local artists.
Go west from Gardner on CR 550.
Turn onto CR 580 at Red Wing and follow the road to the trailhead. The trail
begins at about 10,000’ and the lake is at
12,900’.
Lily Lake
Guided hikes are offered by
Cuchara Valley Recreation.
Info at the Recreation Center or
online at www.cucharavalleyrec.com.
Yellow Pine Guest Ranch
CUCHARA, COLORADO
on Highway 12
23 Cuchara Ave. E
719.742.3838
For seasonal hours, please call, visit our website or like us on facebook.
TimbersCuchara.com ~ [email protected] ~ facebook.com/TimbersCuchara
Located on the Scenic Highway of Legends
1/4 Mile North of the Village of Cuchara
15880 Highway 12, Cuchara, CO 81055
www.yellowpine.us
(719) 742-3528
Offering a relaxing, cool and refreshing stay with
views, from our 8,500-foot elevation,
of the majestic Sangre de Cristos.
On Site:
• Stocked pond (for guests only)
• Catch and Release Fishing in River
• Hiking
• Picnicking
• Campfire Barbecue
• Horseback Riding
Nearby:
• World Class Golf Course
• Tennis Courts
• Fishing and Hiking in
National Forest
15
1 LODGE (accommodates 15 people)
9 Clean and nicely FURNISHED CABINS
that accommodate 2 to 8 people.
Comfortable beds. Fully equipped
kitchens. Showers or tub-shower
combinations.
7 CABINS HAVE FIREPLACES.
To insure a restful stay, there
are no phones or televisions
in the cabins.
Summer Rates:
Lodge: $500/night
Cabins: $105 to $180 per night.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC:
Horseback Riding,
Private Rides, Riding Lessons
Barbecue Dinners with Entertainment
Thursdays Through Summer
Great place for wholesome family vacations and reunions.
Call Manager Jo Anne Van Lue to book your reservations. 719-742-3528
La Veta
*
Cuchara
Chamber of Commerce
Visit our website for a list
of member business
Lodging
Dining/Food
Galleries/Artists
Shopping
Real Estate/Builders
and more!
LaVetaCucharaChamber.com
LaVetaCucharaChamber.com
LaVetaCucharaChamber.com
LaVetaCucharaChamber.com
LaVetaCucharaChamber.com
16
Offering some of the most exceptional
properties in
Cuchara
2014 Visitor’s Guide
$325,000 River/Pond
$269,000 Views/Wooded
Whispering Creek Pedestal
Panadero Villa
Sun Mountain Condo
Sunwatcher Condo
Custom built in 2003 with only
a few months of occupancy.
The Concorde has been
drastically reduced for quick
sale. Spectacular views from
this unique piece of property.
2,880 sq. ft. of living space with
473 sq. ft. of deck. $275,000.
All offers considered.
Lots Available
Build Your Dream Home
THE
SIGNATURE
$339,000 Views/Wooded
Possible Owner Financing
$307,000
Wooded
$249,000
Views/Creek
$245,000
Village/Stream
$235,000
Wooded
$240,000
Wooded
$219,000
Historical Cabin in the Village
We have some incredible lots on the Cuchara River, views
of West Peak, views of picturesque valleys, situated in pine
forest and aspen groves.
You can visit our website for pictures and info on all our listings. We have adjoining lots available for purchase for larger
sites. Some of the lots already have water & sewer taps paid.
Spanish Peaks
Lot #9 $29,000.00
Lot #10 $29,000.00
Lot #32 $48,000.00
Lot #60 $25,000.00
Lot #76 $40,000.00
Lot #91 $45,000.00
Lot #68& 69 $140,000.00
Lot #104 $25,000.00
Panadero
Lot #8 $85,000.00 W&S
Lot #27 $68,000.00
Lot #41 $52,000.00
Lot #42 $29,000.00
Lot #63 $59,900.00
Lot #67 $75,000.00
Pinehaven
Lot #2 $75,000.00
Acres of Diamonds
Lot #22 $75,500.00
Water & Sewer
Development Property
Panadero Sunwatcher
4 units on each of 3 lots$165,000.00
Panadero Villas
3 units on 1 lot $39,000.00
Blackmer Addition
Lot #4&5 $54,900.00
Visit our office
in Cuchara
Aspen Leaf Condo
Office:
(719)742-3343 1-800-453-2241
Terri & Jimbo Wetsel
H: 719-742-3104
For more information on our properties and others, please give us a call, come by, or visit our website.
50 Cuchara Avenue East ~ Cuchara, Colorado 81055
Website: www.realestateincuchara.com
email:[email protected]
Luxury Residential and Commercial Property
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Visitor’s Guide
Grand Views
Stone waterfall, 5
bedrooms, 4 baths.
Fully furnished, 2
fireplaces. This 4,247 sq. ft. home sits on 1.33
acres. $595,000.
Cedar Log
River, trees and privacy are the setting for this
4 bedroom cedar log home bordering the
National Forest. $449,000.
Luxury Retreat
An executive retreat w/ complete separate unit on the basement level. Amazing views w/4,371 sq.ft. wrap around deck.
Amenities too numerous to list. Take a look at our website.
$777,000 furnished.
Great Small Business Opportunity
225 feet of Cuchara River frontage, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, detached garage, excellent
condition. Year-round easy access and great
rental history. $398,000 furnished.
Beautifully maintained log home on 1/2 acre
(+/-) lot. 3 Bedrooms, 3 bath, furnished with
big views. $385,000.
Dakota Dukes
$325,000
Commercial/Retail Shop
A well established business in operation since May 2001, consistently serving the area full-time year round. An exceptional
piece of property at the head of the village and heart of the
community. This location on Hwy. 12 with Dodgeton Creek as
the back boundary is perfect.
Charming cabin
on the river
w/extra large
deck overlooking
the river. Master
on the main
level. $395,000.
Cuchara Inn
Mountain Resort Hotel
Unlimited possibilities
and untapped opportunities are being offered
in the Cuchara Village.
Very private
cabin with great
views on 1.17
acres.
$329,000
Ample guest
parking with
easy entrance.
Hotel with 44 rooms,
many newly remodeled
and custom finished,
two conference rooms,
two laundry areas.
Retail space is
attached to the
hotel.
Hotel can be purchased
separately from the
Commercial Strip for
$678,000 turn key.
Entire Complex offered
at $789,000.
Check out our website for
more pictures, videos and
information.
Office:
(719)742-3343
1-800-453-2241
For more information on our properties and others, please give us a call, come by, or visit our website.
50 Cuchara Avenue East ~ Cuchara, Colorado 81055
Website: www.realestateincuchara.com
email:[email protected]
17
18
2014 Visitor’s Guide
High Altitude
Sickness:
The ups and downs of
visiting the mountains
THE
SIGNATURE
What’s the
People with underlying heart
Many visitors traveling to our
or lung diseases should avoid high
area who live at lower elevations
altitudes.
may experience altitude sickness.
Elevation
Early diagnosis is important.
People who normally live at or Location
Acute mountain sickness is easier
near sea level are more prone to
to treat in early stages.
acute mountain sickness, especially Walsenburg
6,171’
The main treatment for all
upon exertion.
forms of mountain sickness is to
Acute mountain sickness is Gardner
6,969’
descend to a lower altitude as rapbrought on by the combination of
idly and safely as possible. You
reduced air pressure and lower La Veta
7,037’
should not continue climbing if you
oxygen concentration that occur at
develop symptoms. Extra oxygen
high altitudes.
Cuchara
8,650’
should be given, if available.
Symptoms can range from
People with severe mountain
mild to life-threatening. In most La Veta Pass
9,413’
sickness may need to be admitted
cases the symptoms are mild.
to a hospital.
Approximately 20 percent of Bear & Blue Lake 10,000’
Call 911 or seek emergency
people will develop mild sympmedical assistance if severe diffitoms at altitudes between 6,300 to Cordova Pass
11,243’
culty breathing develops, or if you
9,700 feet.
Symptoms generally associat- Greenhorn
notice a lower level of alertness, or
ed with mild to moderate altitude
other severe symptoms such as
Mountain
12,334’
illness include:
confusion, coughing up blood, or
• Difficulty sleeping
E. Spanish Peak 12,683’ shortness of breath at rest.
Enjoy your visit to our valley.
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Fatigue
W. Spanish Peak 13,625’
Malea Schmidt, EMS Director
• Headache
Mt. Blanca
14,345’
La Veta Fire Protection District
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Rapid pulse (heart rate)
• Shortness of breath with exertion
Non-emergency contacts:
People with anemia have a reduced red blood
cell count, and therefore have a lower amount of
Sheriff’s Office
719-738-1044
oxygen carried in the blood. Those prone to aneLa Veta Marshal
719-742-3344
mia should consult a doctor regarding an iron supplement.
Walsenburg Police Dept. 719-738-1056
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, avoid
Spanish Peaks Hospital 719-738-5100
alcohol, and eat regularly. Foods should be relaParks & Wildlife Officer 719-989-1027
tively high in carbohydrates.
Altitude?
Dial 9-1-1 in an Emergency
River Wind Real Estate Presents...
201 High St.
La Veta
Colorado State Veterans Home
Walsenburg
• Physically connected to Spanish Peaks Hosptial
• Secure Care Alzheimer’s/Dementia Unit
• Restorative Therapies Available
• Medicaid and Private Pay Welcome
• Long and Short-Term Respite Care
• On campus dialysis, specialty, and laboratory clinics
• Activities such as games, shopping, dining out, & more
• Barber shop, spa-bathing, transportation, cable TV & Wi-Fi
OPEN HOUSE
Sat., May 24th
10am to 3pm
Contact:
Lisa Northup
719-742-5510
or 719-989-3300
River Wind Real Estate
602 Arrowhead Drive
La Veta, CO 81055
T WO PE A K S
F I TNESS
206 Main St. La Veta
e
elcom
W
s
r
Visito
Serving our Veteran Heroes,
Spouses, & Gold-Star Parents
1-800-645-VETS
Classes - Yoga - Senior Fitness - Trainers
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 5 am to 9 pm
719-742-3555
Sat. - Sun. 7 am to 6 pm
twopeakfitness.org
www.sprhc.org
23500 US. Hwy.160, Walsenburg, CO 81089
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Visitor’s Guide
19
If fires are allowed, follow these
safety precautions:
Campfire
Safety Tips
• Keep fires small
• Only start a fire in a fire pit or fire ring
made of solid construction
• Do not use flammable liquids such as gas,
diesel fuel or lighter fluid
• Avoid starting a fire under low hanging
branches or shrubs
• Always keep water near in case of
emergency
• Never leave fire unattended
• Always put a fire completely out, making
sure its cold, before leaving – even for a short
time. Just because there may not be any
smoke does not mean the fire can reignite. A
fire is not out until it is cold and out.
LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR,
STATE FARM IS THERE®
When camping or picnicking be sure your
fire or coals are completely extinguished
before leaving the site.
For your insurance & financial needs, see
FRED ETTLEMAN
• Have a shovel nearby to help smother the
fire
State Farm Agent
or
• Do not store wood or flammable items next
to the fire
LISA CARGAL
Office Representative
• Never let children or pets play near the fire
TRUDY PRICE
Office Representative
• Teach children about fire safety, especially
Stop, Drop and Roll for clothing fire
the
• Keep free standing charcoal grills on level
ground and do not let wind blow it over
Providing Insurance and Financial Services
Anchor Motel
1001 Main St., Walsenburg
WALSENBURG COLORADO CITY
Be safe and enjoy your summer!
Information provided by La Veta Fire Protection
District. www.lavetafire.org
320 W. 7th St.
4301 Val Verde Way
“A great little motel”
719-738-1953
719-676-3650
Family Owned & Operated
LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR
STATE FARM IS THERE®
719-738-2800
719-738-2821
E
N
I
D
W
ALSENBURG SHOP,
H
S
P
C
!
Y
A
T
AND S
Before your trip,
find out if a fire
ban is in place
La Veta Fire Dept. 719-742-3656
CO State Forest Service 719-742-3588
U.S. Forest Service 719-553-1400
Watch for Fire Danger Signage
statefarm.com®
State Farm Insurance Companies - Home Offices: Bloomington, Illinois
P026038
EART OF PANISH
EAKS
OUNTRY
Memorial Day Weekend
Picker’s Paradise;
Route 160 Yard Sale
Friday, May 24 8am-4pm
Saturday, May 25 8am-4pm
Sunday, May 26 10am-2pm
August 2
2nd Annual Taste of Downtown
Corner of Main St.
and 6th St.
Live Music
Shopping
Beer Garden
Car Show
Food
Kid’s Games/Fun
Farmer’s Market
June through October
Every Friday 3pm to 6pm
Corner of Main St. and 6th St.
Sept. 20 Mining Parade
Downtown Walsenburg
Sept. 24-27 Celtic Music Festival
November 15
Casino Night
6pm-10pm
La Plaza Inn
For event details, visit April’s Attic or La Plaza Inn
For more information, see SpanishPeaksCountry.com
20
2014 Visitor’s Guide
719-738-1830
P.O. Box 410
WALSENBURG, CO 81089
reatarealtycolorado.com
Powell Ranch
1500 US Hwy 85/86
This is a beautiful custom California
rancher with lots of upgrades. Beautiful
private setting yet close to town. Perfect for gentleman rancher or professional horse facility. This 3,296 sq. ft.
home has 4 Bedrooms and 2.5 Baths.
Also has unfinished basement. Attached
2 Car Garage and Detached 2 Car
Garage/Workshop. $440,000
Gerren Ranch
Scenic and productive irrigated
farm/ranch in Redwing with historic
house and barn built around the
turn of the century. 176 acres with
irrigation water rights from Huerfano
River with 1/4 mile of fishable
stream and ponds. $825,000
Mann Ranch 620 County Road 670
260-acre Front Range ranch located 8 miles
Southeast of Rye, Co. and 29 miles Southwest of
Pueblo, Co. adjacent to I-25. Newer 3 bedroom,
2 Bath ranch style home with an open floor
plan, lots of windows
and 2 sun porches. Hardwood flooring plus upgraded cabinets and
wood trim. 2,944 sq. ft. of living area.
50' x 50' steel I-beam shop, insulated with airplane hanger door
and overhead door. Grass landing strip. 3 water wells and pasture.
Additional 540 acre available. $485,000
Commercial • Rural & Ranches • Residential
For details on these listings, visit our website: ReataRealtyColorado.com
Don’t hesitate to call us at: 719-738-1830
THE
SIGNATURE
Take a Scenic Drive
Huerfano County provides an array of scenic drives, from the paved
Highway of Legends to the four-wheel drive roads over Mosca and
Medano passes to the Great Sand Dunes National Park. So pack some
snacks and drinks, bring your camera and get out for a day.
Scenic Highway of LegendsHwy 12
The Scenic Highway of Legends
provides something for everyone: great
opportunities to hike, fish, picnic, shop,
golf are found along the way. Drive the
entire loop in a half-day, or make stops
along the way to fill the day. More
details of this drive can be found in a
free 20-page booklet found at local
retailers and visitor’s centers. See map on
page 23 of this Visitor’s Guide.
Cordova Pass/Farley Overlook
The Cordova Pass Road connects
Hwy. 12 to the Town of Aguilar near I25. Just a half mile from Hwy. 12 is the
John B. Farley Wildflower Overlook in
the San Isabel National Forest puts on an
amazing show of color, covering entire
mountain meadows.
More than a dozen kinds of wildflowers create a beautiful setting so
don’t be surprised to see a wedding
going on, especially in July.
The trailhead for the West Spanish
Peak is seven miles in from Highway 12
and you’ll find parking and picnic areas.
The high point on the Cordova Pass
Road tops out at 11,248 feet.
Cameron Mine
Operated by Colo. Fuel & Iron
(CF&I), the company town was built in
1907 and included 25 homes, a store,
and post office which named the camp
Farr. Coal production ended in 1945.
You can see ruins and tailings as you
drive along the road.
Take CR 340 (Bear Creek) from the
west end of Walsenburg, go south one
mile. From La Veta take Moore St. east
nine miles to CR 343, turn left on CR 340.
FREE
Scenic Highway
of Legends
20-PAGE
BOOKLET
AND MAP
Available at local retailers,
visitor information centers
photo by Renee Rinehart
Pass Creek Loop La Veta to Gardner
A beautiful loop drive on maintained
county roads. Beware the only restroom
on this route will be in Gardner, if the
store is open.
Go west on Highway 160 over La
Veta Pass. About a mile west of the pass,
turn right on CR 572 (a.k.a. Pass Creek
Road). You will drive by the subdivision
of Paradise Acres. CR 572 will merge
with and become CR 570. The road winds
along aspen groves and Pass Creek flows
next to the road at times. Sheep Mountain
and Little Sheep Mountain dominate
your views to the east.
Continue until the intersection with
CR 550 at Malachite. Turn right (east) and
follow 550 until Highway 69. Follow
Highway 69 east to Gardner. Drive east
on Highway 69 for 8 miles until CR 520
(a.k.a Yellowstone Road) branches off to
the south, with Badito on the north of
Highway 69.
A quarter mile on CR 520 is a
Historical Marker for the Taos Trail.
Drive the length of CR 520 until Highway
160. You will see many working ranches
and cattle may be in the road. Turn left
and go east on Highway 160 for about
100 yards and turn right on CR 410. Take
CR 410 until you reach Highway 12 again
just north of La Veta.
Detours: Take Highway 69 from
Gardner to Walsenburg. Or, follow South
Oak Creek Canyon. When on CR 550,
before reaching Gardner, turn south on
CR 560 to CR 540 to CR 531 to CR 530
which will lead you to Yellowstone Road.
The Best Little Yarn Shop
in Southern Colorado!
Now most yarns at outlet prices.
OPEN: 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday - Friday
1 to 5 pm - Monday • 10 am - 2 pm - Saturday
Present this ad for a 20% Discount
Edla’s Yarns
302 W. 7th St. Walsenburg 718-738-3318
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Visitor’s Guide
21
Marijuana Update
Amendment 64, legalizing the possession and sale of recreational marijuana was
passed by Colorado voters in November
2012. Beginning January 1, 2014 the sale,
possession and cultivation of marijuana for
recreational use was legal.
Colorado residents, 21 years or older,
can legally possess or purchase one ounce
of marijuana or edible products. Out-ofstate residents, 21 years or older, can purchase and possess one-quarter ounce.
Under Colorado law it is illegal to partake in public places or to drive under the
influence.
Under Federal Law marijuana is illegal
and is banned on federal land. It is also illegal to cross state lines with marijuana.
•In unincorporated Huerfano County:
All retail sales are banned in unincorporated parts of the county. County officials will
develop rules governing commercial growing operations. www.huerfano.us
•In City of Walsenburg:
Retail sale of medical marijuana is
approved. No stores open at time of publication. Retail sale of recreational marijuana
and infused products is currently prohibited. www.cityofwalsenburg.com
•In Town of La Veta:
All sales of retail and medical marijuana
are currently banned. The Town Board is
working on rules to legalize retail sales of
both 1/8
medical
and recreational marijuana.
page color
www.townoflaveta-co.gov
Premium Cigars ~ Hookah
Fine Glass Smoking Tools
E-Cigs & E-Juice Refills
Gifts, Accessories & much more
Walsenburg - 973 U.S. Hwy 85/87 (I-25 at Exit 52)
Hours: Tues-Thurs 10am-8pm Fri.-Sat. 10am-9pm
719-989-8262
Be Warm S A V E Money
See ALL of the Beautiful
S T O N E WA L L S H O P P I N G B AG
D ay s
7
n
e
Op
Country Store
Liquor Store
hearthstone stoves
Gifts • Fishing Licenses
Meeting Room • Full-Service RV Park
Cabin • Motel Room
in Our Showroom Today!
* Lifetime Warranty
* Highest Quality
* Handcrafted in the USA
Restaurant
B rea k fas t • L unch • D i nne r
featuring:
Find us in STONEWALL on the
Scenic Highway of Legends (HWY 12)
6689 H W Y 12 • 719-868-2255 • www.stonewallshoppingbag.com
FREE ESTIMATES
719-846-1639
Professional
Installation
Ho m em a d e P i es
Buffalo Burgers & Elk Burgers
Stonewall Breakfast Burritos
Chicken Fried Steak • Green Chili
Gru bsteak Ca fé
at
MONUMENT LAKE RESORT
2014 season May 16 through September 14
Scenic Hwy. 12 at Mile Marker 33
Breakfast~Lunch~Dinner
Professional Sweep Service,
Fireplaces, Stoves,
Chimney Systems,
Fireplace Inserts
www.allthatisenergy.com
Corner of San Juan & Smith Ave
TRINIDAD CO
725 SMITH AVE.
RESTAURANT
HOURS
Mon. - Thurs.
8 am - 8 pm
Fri. 8 am - 9 pm
Sat. 7 am - 9 pm
Sun. 7 am - 8 pm
Fine dining in a “come as you are” atmosphere.
Drawing from chuck-wagon culinary expertise,
inspired by the Great Southwest and years on
the trail, Grubsteak concocts dishes that will
ambush your taste buds, fill your innards and
soothe the soul.
Fishing Year-Round
Lodge, Cabins, Camping
For full details please check our website
www.monumentlakeresort.com
or call 719-868-2226.
22
2014 Visitor’s Guide
Index of
Advertisers
SHOPPING
PLACES TO EAT
21
8
6
7
19
20
2
6
7
9
9
9
21
7
6
21
All That Is Energy
Ann Gethen Studio
Casa de Pajaros
Dakota Duke’s
Downtown Walsenburg Merchants
Edla’s Yarns
First Choice Market
Kathy Hill Studio Gallery
Pieces of My Heart
Pinon Hill Pottery
Shalawalla Gallery & Gift Shop
SPACe Gallery
Stonewall Shopping Bag
The Bear’s Den at Cuchara
The Book Nook
Urban Smoken
7
9
21
19
11
4
12
8
21
15
12
7
6
8
4
6
8
6
7
10
21
18
10
11
Cuchara Chapel
Cuchara Hermosa Activities
Cuchara Hermosa Art Show
Francisco Center for the Performing Arts
Francisco Fort Museum
Fridays for Fun
La Veta Art W alk
La Veta School of the Arts
Mini-Golf at The Bear’s Den
Tirey Local History Center
Trinidad Tourism
Two Peaks Fitness
Walsenburg Mining Museum
Walsenburg Wild Waters
THINGS TO DO
102.3 Walsenburg, Pueblo
100.3 Colorado Springs
104.1 Alamosa, Trinidad
103.5 Del Norte, South Fork
Listen LIVE ANYTIME at KSPK.com
Request Line: 719-738-KSPK
or 719-589-KSPK
REAL ESTATE
Channel 28
(Channel 16 on Optimum Cable - Channel 10 on TVision)
Business
Opportunities
Land Available
Manufacturing
Retail Space
Oil & Gas Extraction
Office/Professional
Hospitality/Tourism
16 & 17 All Seasons Real Estate
24
Bachman & Associates
14
Fuller Western
13
Jerry Henson
20
Reata Realty
18
River Wind Real Estate
SIGNATURE
Alys’ Restaurant
Deer Print Wine
Grubsteak Café
La Plaza Inn
La Veta Loco
Paradise Coffee
David Ray’s Ryus Ave. Bakery & Cafe
Sammie’s
Stonewall Shopping Bag
Timbers Restaurant
PLACES TO STAY
19
5
19
21
8
11
15
Anchor Motel
Huerfano County Tourism Board
La Plaza Inn
Monument Lake Resort
Sammie’s
The Warehouse Suite
Yellow Pine Guest Ranch
OTHER ADVERTISERS
18
18
20
22
22
15
18
12
19
12
4
A Taylor Made Haircut
Colorado State Veteran’s Home
Huerfano County Branch Bank
Huerfano County Commissioners
KSPK Radio
La Veta-Cuchara Chamber of
Commerce
Peakview Storage
Rio Cucharas Veterinary Clinic
State Farm Insurance
The Salon
The Signature Newspaper
WELCOME
ELCOME TO
TO SPANISH
PANISH PEAKS
EAKS COUNTRY
OUNTRY
1600 SQUARE MILES
OF PEAK SCENERY
Agriculture
Communities
City of Walsenburg
Town of La Veta
Cuchara Village
Gardner
Rural Subdivisions
Amenities
Fiesta Park
Trails Master Plan
Community Centers
in Walsenburg
and Gardner
THE
Huerfano County Government
401 Main Street
Walsenburg, CO 81089
719-738-3485
www.huerfano.us
THE
SIGNATURE
2014 Visitor’s Guide
23
AREA DETAIL MAPS
OAK ST.
350
WALNUT
Francisco
Fort
La Veta
Schools
CASCADE
CHERRY
ELM
MAPLE
SPRUCE
LA VETA CEMETERY
GRAND
CO RD 36
0 TO HU
AJ A
CO R
D
365
Cuchara
Sanitation
Water Dist.
SAN ISABEL
NATIONAL
FOREST
Ve
ta
to
La
CUCHARA AVE.
TOLL
A
Bear Lake
CA
AND
S. RESERVOIR
SCHOOL CREEK
LA VETA LAKES
N. RESERVOIR
Blue Lake
CO Rd 422
Tour the
Scenic
Highway of
Legends
Scenic Highway of Legends 20-page route booklet available at locations along Highway 12.
EAST
BUSINESS DIST
RICT
Cuchara
Chapel
Community
Center
CUCHARA MOUNTAIN
RESORT
PANADERO AVE.
CUCHARAS
ON
NY
GRANDOTE PEAKS
GOLF CLUB
GARLAND
HIGH
WILLIS
OAK
FIELD
BIRCH
OAK
La Veta
Schools
S
WAHATOYA LAKE
RESERVOIR
FRANCISCO
FIELD
Public
Library
E
W
CO RD 358
PINE
CHERRY
N
15
mi
nu
t es
RYUS AVE.
POPLAR
BIRCH
LOCUST
Town
Hall
Francisco Ctr for
Performing Arts
ASPEN
Cuchara
r
MAIN
MOORE AVE.
VIRGINIA
Cucharas R
ive
r
RD
DAIGRE LAKE
RESERVOIR
Town Park
15 minutes to Cuchara
CO
1ST ST.
Post
Office Community
Center
RYUS AVE.
Riv
e
YR
LLE
VA
Rio Grande Railway
450
ras
D/
OA
2ND ST.
MOORE
ROAD
t
SPRUCE
450
TO HWY 160 WEST
RD
TY
wes
160
U.S.
o
t
s
inute
5m
S
CO
COUN
CUCHARA VALLEY
AT LA VETA AIRPORT
E
To Walsenburg
To Cuchara
N
W
To Alamosa
To Walsenburg
Cuch
a
To Alamosa
La Veta Loop
Main St. La Veta
La Veta
Trinidad via H
w
y of L
ege
n
ds
24
2014 Visitor’s Guide
THE
SIGNATURE