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LODGING CALENDAR ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS MUSEUMS & GALLERIES

This is a reminder that you are receiving this email because yousigned up to receive communications from Spanish PeaksCountry, through the Colorado Tourism Office.

Millions of Years in the Making

Long before Colorado was settled by homesteaders, theSpanish Peaks, located in south-central Colorado, wereheld as sacred by the Natives of the region. In fact, thesestunning, twin-peaks were thought to be the abode of theGods and have long served as navigational landmarksfor all who pass within sight of them. So much NativeAmerican folklore has developed around theseformations that the Scenic Byway encircling them hasbeen named the Scenic Highway of Legends.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Colorado’sScenic Byways and it is the ideal time for you toexperience what brought Native Americans, SpanishConquistadors, early Mexican farmers, trappers andmine workers from 32 foreign countries to live, work andexplore in Spanish Peaks Country. You won’t soon forgetour unique geological formations, star-studded skies,clean fresh air and small town charm.

To explore the road less traveled, exit I-25 at Walsenburgor Trinidad and look for the Scenic Byway signs with theblue Columbine flower – Scenic Highway of Legends(Highway 12). Total distance is 82 miles of all-seasonroads, connecting Trinidad and La Veta. Be sure to bringa camera and a guidebook on the region’s geology.

Featured Events in 2014

June 14 Cuchara Country Music Festival

July 5-6 La Veta Art in the Park &Celebration

September 25-2810th Annual Spanish PeaksCeltic Festival and Retreatthroughout the county

October 4 La Veta Oktoberfest

FREE

Click here to reserve your2014 guide or view the 2013guide online NOW!

Video: Scenic Highway of Legends Part 4

Paradise Enough

In 1861, Colonel John Francisco first gazed over thevalley in the shadows of the Spanish Peaks, andexclaimed, “This is paradise enough for me”. Hepurchased 48,000 acres, partnered with Henry Daigre towork and manage the ranch and built his dream home inthe center of it all. The house was patterned after anadobe military fort and became known as FranciscoPlaza as it also served as a trading post, fort andstopping place for trappers, prospectors and scouts. Less than a decade later, the Denver & Rio GrandeRailroad pushed westward and Francisco Plaza becamethe center of the boisterous town of La Veta. Francisco’soriginal adobe home continues to greet thousands ofhistory enthusiasts each summer as the Francisco FortMuseum, where you will find displays, artifacts andcollections from Native American traditions, Hispaniclegacy, ranching, coal mining and more.

The Francisco Fort Museum is located in La Veta, Colorado, onHighway 12. The building is the original fort build by Colonel JohnFrancisco in 1862.

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Paradise Enough

Explore a land rich in history, natural wonders and artistic inspiration. Experience the smalltown charm of Walsenburg, La Veta, Gardner and Cuchara. Spanish Peaks Country alsooffers world-class golf, art & history museums, a water park, shopping, Lathrop State Parkand more. At the cross roads of Southern Colorado you will also find many other outdooractivities available in San Isabel National Forest and the Spanish Peaks Wilderness area.

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