Colorado Springs Official Visitors Guide 2012 - (Page 50)
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O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H
VisitCOS.com
Off the Beaten Path
The Pikes Peak region has many well-known and famous attractions, landmarks and parks. But to fully experience all this area has to offer, we invite you to take the road (and hiking trail) less traveled in El Paso, Teller and Fremont Counties.
Paint Mines Interpretive Park
Calhan (El Paso County)
While it’s natural for your eyes to be drawn to the west to view Pikes Peak, we suggest that you head east to Calhan to visit a magnificent El Paso County gem known as the Paint Mines Interpretive Park. The natural clay sculptures are spectacular, with cliffs, spires and hoodoos that were formed through centuries of erosive action. The white, yellow, orange and purple clays were used by the American Indians to make pottery and ceremonial paints. The landscape is relatively flat, but wear walking shoes for maximum comfort. The formations are very fragile, so rock climbing, bikes and pets are not permitted. The park, open from dawn to dusk seven days a week, includes four miles of trails, interpretive signage and many natural wonders. adm.elpasoco.com/Parks/
Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center
Divide (Teller County)
Nestled in the pines less than one hour west of Colorado Springs is the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center. The Center’s mission is education, conservation and preservation. Through their sanctuary tours and close-encounter sessions, the staff educates the public about the importance of wolves, coyotes and foxes to our ecosystem. Reservations are strongly recommended for the one-hour tour ($10/adult & $7/child under 12) where you’ll meet all the members of the wolf pack, each with a unique story and personality. Dress in layers and wear close-toed shoes. The tour culminates with the wolf howl – a beautiful experience. www.wolfeducation.org, 719-687-9742
Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum
Colorado Springs (El Paso County)
The Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame allows you to view, enjoy and be educated by a well-rounded display of antique and classic motorcycles, photographs and memorabilia. The project began in the late 1980s when many American machines were being exported to collectors. The museum focuses not only on the mechanical works of art, but also on the people that have been such an important part of the history. The names and faces of the pioneers of motorcycling and their contributions are captured in photographs and biographies throughout the museum. The display of this memorabilia ensures that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the history of early American two-wheeled ingenuity and preserve its legacy. The museum free to the public. www.themotorcyclemuseum.org, 719-487-8005
Victor Lowell Thomas Museum
Victor (Teller County)
The Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Calhan INSET: Rocy Mountain Motorcycle Museum
Area code is 719 unless otherwise indicated.
The Victor Lowell Thomas Museum houses artifacts, books, exhibits and photographs depicting life in Victor from its beginnings to the heyday of gold mining. The memorabilia were once owned by journalist, author and world traveler, Lowell Thomas. Admission is $6 for adults with discounts for children and seniors. Pan for real gold and gems outside the museum and for an additional fee, take a tour of a working gold mine. www.victorcolorado.com/museum.htm, 719-689-5509
http://www.VisitCOS.com
http://adm.elpasoco.com/Parks/
http://www.wolfeducation.org
http://www.themotorcyclemuseum.org
http://www.victorcolorado.com/museum.htm
Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Colorado Springs Official Visitors Guide 2012
Colorado Springs Official Visitors Guide 2012
Contents
What's New?
Get on the Radar
Regional Map/Index
Regional Itineraries
Live it Up!
Attractions Grid
SOUTHWEST
USA Pro Cycling Challenge
Pikes Peak Region Climate
Faster, Higher, Stronger
Historic Hotels
SOUTHEAST & DOWNTOWN
Are You Inclined?
Events with Altitude
Off the Beaten Path
Helen Hunt Jackson
NORTHWEST
High Altitude Tips
NORTHEAST
55 Attractions in 5 Days
NEARBY COMMUNITIES
Over the River
Distinctive Destinations
Services
Money-Saving Coupons
Listing & Advertiser Directory
Money-Saving Coupons
Drive Time Chart
Colorado Springs Official Visitors Guide 2012
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