Wandering Retirees

Today has been a day of rest and recuperation, not to mention laundry and maintenance. Our grand foray was to the Garden of the Gods, a beautiful park owned by the city of Colorado Springs and only 10 minutes from where we’re staying. The park is set in the shadows of Cheyenne Mountain and Pikes Peak. Formerly home to the Ute tribe, the park features tall red sandstone towers that have been crafted by wind and water over millions of years. They are ideal for climbing, if you’re into that special brand of torture. We saw any number of folks inching their ways up narrow clefts and chimneys, and dangling out in space at the end of ropes as though it were exhilarating fun. Honestly, human crazy has no bounds. The good news for spectators and others is that all climbers have to be fully trained and equipped, and prove it, to be allowed to climb marked routes. We’re sure this cuts down on unfortunate mishaps that degrade the natural setting and alarm gentle passers-by.

The layout of the 480 acre park is perfect for folks of any ability to enjoy. There are shorter trails among the towers that are paved and gently sloped, and there are longer and more challenging trails that take you to areas that more fully reflect the natural habitat. Your choice with lots of staff to help should you want it.

We met John, a rising Junior at Univ. Texas at Austin, who loves his summer job. A history major, he is also much taken with the geology of this area. He was very kind (as just about everyone here has been) and shared some of what he knows about the park. We were sitting in the shadow of a formation called the Cathedral, festooned with climbers clambering up and rappelling down with every appearance of having fun. Immediately in front was a triple spire called the Three Graces, which resembled praying hands. John said he wished he was on the rock face himself; I was perfectly happy to be right where I was, thank you.

The naming of the park shows how differently folks look at the world. According to official park history, two surveyors set out in August, 1859 from Denver to lay out a site for a town to be called Colorado City. When they saw these beautiful sandstone formations, one, M.S. Beach, said it was a capital place for a beer garden once the area was built up. His partner, Rufus Cable, scoffed and said it was a place fit for a gathering of the gods. Personally, I could endorse both suggestions. I suppose it’s fitting (and inevitable?) that the more “poetic” vision prevailed.

The following may resonate for some family and fellow Rail Baron aficionados, so I hope you’ll all humor me. By the 1870’s, railroads were pushing their way through much of the western US. In 1871, we’re told, Gen. William Palmer, owner of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, established what is now Colorado Springs. He urged his friend, Charles Perkins, owner of the Burlington Railroad to extend his line to join Palmer’s at Colorado City and, while he’s at it, to purchase the land that is now the Garden of the Gods for his personal use. Mr. Perkins bought he land, but was so enamored with it, he wanted it kept pristine and free for the enjoyment of all. After his death in 1907, his children donated the site to the City with the proviso that “it shall remain free to the public, where no intoxicating liquors shall be manufactured, sold, or dispensed, where no building or structure shall be erected except those necessary to properly care for, protect, and maintain the area as a public park.” A long way from a beer hall. The upkeep of the park is funded from the city’s budget, concessions and donations from the public. An amazing business model, no?

We returned to our abode in early afternoon and promptly took a nap. Later the weather changed from sunny and 85 to hail, rain and thunder. That’s how the weather goes out here. We feel good about our choices today. Tomorrow, we’re off to ride up Pikes Peak. We are so excited!

Have a great night!

We were entertained by rock climbers during our visit.