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South Park
South Park, Colorado
Perched high in the Colorado Rockies, South Park Colorado is a microcosm of Western history. From deep canyons to vast grasslands to snowy peaks and alpine meadows, this compelling basin is home to the nation’s highest incorporated town, gold mines, cattle ranches, and mountain passes. As one of only 49 National Heritage Areas in the United States, South Park offers a rare glimpse of pioneer life at high altitudes during the settlement of the American West.
This region is a landscape rich with heritage and attracts individuals who value Western authenticity. Some ranches have been operated for five generations by the same family. As they have for centuries, residents still depend on the land for their livelihood, recreation, and quality of life. As other places lose their inherent charm, South Park becomes a more engaging destination.
South Park Heritage
South Park boasts an array of nationally significant artifacts that reflect different aspects of this country’s heritage. The basin’s high peaks, clear streams, and copious wildlife embody the resources that sustained the native people and attracted settlers west. Hundreds of historic sites and structures still remain 150 years after the development of early mining, railroading, and ranching at 10,000 feet. Local events celebrate the lives of early pioneers in this area. Together, these resources and traditions evoke images of the struggle for prosperity that played out within the ring of mountains that define Colorado’s largest mountain park.
Park County Courthouse
Seven years after Fairplay became the county seat in 1867, the old Park County Courthouse was built of native sandstone in the Italianate style. Along with the adjacent stone jail, this building witnessed a parade of the famous, the notorious, and the ordinary. Known as the “hanging court,” decisions made here had a profound impact on Colorado case law. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it now serves as a public library and is one of 12 properties showcased in the Fairplay Historic Walking Tour brochure.
Boreas Pass Section House
Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the Boreas Pass Section House was built in 1882 to house railroad workers on the Denver, SP & Pacific Railroad Highline Route between Como and Breckenridge. Next to the Section House, the 1860s Wagon Cabin was built when this route was a mere wagon trail over the Continental Divide. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, these structures now serve as a visitor center and museum during summer and a backcountry ski hut during winter.
More About South Park Colorado
Perhaps you’re curious about the more modern attraction, the cartoon South Park. What does this area of Colorado have to do with the cartoon anyway? One can really only speculate on the subject. Perhaps these two places (one real, the other fictional) have nothing to do with one another. It’s just a mere coincidence that they bear similar names. However, it’s also possible that there’s more to it than mere coincidence. One similarity that stands out is that the historical South Park was outlandish, full of ironies and scandal. This is also true about the cartoon. Learn more about South Park, Fairplay, and Conifer, Colorado. Some interesting connections between them might satisfy your curiosity.
Highway US 24 Corridor
Transcontinental Highway of 1926 – US 24
U.S. Hwy 24 or Route 24 is one of the original transcontinental highways of 1926. Initially, it started at Pontiac, Michigan in the east and headed
west, and terminated at Kansas City, Missouri. Today US 24 runs from Independence Township, Michigan at an intersection with I-75, and terminates at Minturn, Colorado at an intersection with I-70.
When the US highway system was started in 1926, US Route 24 in Colorado was called US 40S. This highway started in Grand Junction and proceeded west along the current I-70 route to Minturn. Then proceeded to the current route to Limon. From Limon, it proceeded to the Kansas border and was called US 40N. The US 40S and US 40N, west and east of Limon respectively received US 24 designation in 1936; however, in 1975 when US 24 was extended west from Kansas City, Missouri. The stretch between Grand Junction and Minturn was decommissioned.
Looking back on the naming and development of US Route 24 and how this transitioned into other major highways is confusing, to say the least; however, it does let us know that US 24 was an important highway in terms of western migration and the development of west/central United States.
Telegraph Road
Dixie Highway in Pontiac, Michigan, and Laskey Road in Toledo, Ohio, denote a section of highway that was known as Telegraph Road. This telling name came about before the highway even existed after the telegraph wires which ultimately ran parallel to the route. US Route 24 was the western edge of Telegraph Road that ran through Detroit. Mark Knopfler of the Dire Straits even wrote the song “Telegraph Road”, which is the story of the development and decay of this highway.
Palisade
Palisade, Colorado
A town in Mesa County, Colorado. Palisade, part of the Grand Junction Metropolitian statistical area, and named for the cliffs near town. Palisade is most famous for delicious peaches and wine vineyards. Although that’s what Palisade is known for, this small town on Colorado’s western slope embodies all of what Colorado is about. Palisade’s nearly central location but lower elevation of 4,728 feet makes it an area with warmer year-round temperatures, a longer growing season, yet close to skiinig and other mountain attractions.
This historical farming community has kept pace with the rest of Colorado. Attractions like rafting, skiing, mountain biking and a variety of farm tours are all right around the corner in Palisade. Colorado National Monument, Tillman Bishop State Wildlife Area, Grand Mesa National Forest, and a variety of parks are all accesible from Palisade.
Fruita
Visit Fruita, Colorado!
Surrounded by dramatic mountain cliffs and gorgeous desert landscapes, this fun little town is dream come true for many adventure seekers. Mountain biking, hiking, Jeep and dirt bike trails cover the thousands of acres of public lands surrounding Fruita.
Berthoud
Visit Berthoud, Colorado
Historically rich and Americana-steeped Berthoud, 45 minutes north of Denver, is nicknamed the “Garden Spot of Colorado” with good reason – a small community surrounded by rich farmland, it hosts annual events such as “Berthoud Day” in early June for residents and visitors to gather and celebrate family-style with a parade, music, and picnic.
The Annual Quilt Show
The town’s persona comes through in its annual quilt show and in its expanding sculpture exhibit in Fickel Park. Wildlife and outdoor themes mix with contemporary designs in a wonderful way.
While conveniently providing a gateway to mountain fun in the nearby Rockies, Berthoud also offers the laid-back and welcoming atmosphere of farmer’s markets, a town swimming pool, and vibrant arts community that includes dance and live theater – truly something for everyone!
Berthoud’s Location
If you’re looking for a smaller-town vibe, try visiting Berthoud. The cost of living is higher than the national average by 25.7 points. This is mostly reflected in housing costs. However, it does have a desirable location. Access to Estes Park and RMNP is just 35 miles away. If you like access to mountain lakes and reservoirs, this location is ideal. With over 20 lakes and reservoirs nearby and twice that amount a little further away. Deciding where to go will be the greater problem.
Berthoud has easy access to several state parks and nearby campgrounds. If you’re passing through or just want to get away for a few days. There is a large selection of state parks and campgrounds to choose from.
A Raft Masters Adventure
The Passion of Raft Masters
Raft Masters has been in business under the same ownership since 1989. Few rafting companies can boast of that length of continuous dedication and service. At Raft Masters, we strive to be the BEST rafting company in Colorado by offering professional rafting experiences with competitive prices. Our attention to your comfort, safety, and enjoyment is reflected in our guides and equipment – nothing but the best. Learn More about why we are the rafting company you should choose for the best combination of safety and fun for the entire family. From a half-day of rafting the serene and kid-friendly Family Float and the mid-level Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Class 1-III), to full day and wildly-exciting Class V whitewater adventures in the Royal Gorge, we truly have a raft trip for everyone.
At Raft Masters, Colorado whitewater rafting isn’t just a business – it’s our passion. No other Colorado rafting company does it as we do. We have been in business under the same ownership since 1989 and we stake our reputation on providing professional, high-quality, whitewater rafting adventures dedicated to your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. But, we don’t want you to take our word for it. Please take a minute to read our TripAdvisor reviews, where we’ve received 5-star ratings from over 700 people, as of summer 2019.
Select Your Adventure Trip
Raft Masters offers exclusive rafting trips and combination packages along both the Clear Creek (40 minutes west of downtown Denver) and the Arkansas River (2 hours south of Denver and 1 hour southwest of Colorado Springs). We have the perfect whitewater excursion for rafters of every skill level, and for just about any group size. In fact, we specialize in large group outings – from school field trips to business team-building functions. Planning a party, wedding or another event? Contact us for group rates and information.
Quality wet-suits, river boots, and paddle jackets that are essential for your safety and comfort are provided by Raft Masters to all rafters at no charge. We want your day to be enjoyable, so you can “experience the thrill without the chill.” We’re also the only Colorado whitewater rafting outfitter that requires – and provides – safety helmets on all trips. Raft Masters is open year-round for reservations, with our rafting season running from March thru September, depending on water levels. If you’re feeling more adventurous, multi-day overnight trips are available too!
Have more questions? Vist our FAQ’s page or give us a call at 719-275-6645. We look forward to seeing you on the river soon!
Play Dirty ATV
Play Dirty ATV Tours, whether it be a private tour or rental, come get dirty with us. It’s fun.
Vacation Planning Ideas
Colorado Vacation Planning Ideas
You're ready to do some vacation planning. You could use a break, and you've seen pictures of Colorado's majestic landscapes reaching 2 miles into the American sky. This is someplace you'd like to see and experience. It would take a few lifetimes to see, enjoy, experience, feel, and reach what Colorado offers. So, we're here to help you with your Colorado vacation planning and the best way to maximize your time while in Colorado.
Create Your Vacation Plan
With so much going on in Colorado, it’s best to identify your vacation passion and the passions of the group or other person you are traveling with. Here is a list of considerations to help you get the best Colorado vacation experience.
Summer Vacation Planning 
What summer Colorado activities are a priority for you and your group? Start by identifying the primary activity and prioritizing from there.
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Perhaps your bucket list includes visiting an adventure park, a scenic train ride, a hot springs visit, zip lining, getting a hike or two in, and rafting. Wow, that’s ambitious but it can be done. Once again, staying in a region like the Royal Gorge area can serve this up. If you look closely, you will find companies that even sell combinations of experiences in one day.
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Suppose you're planning a backpacking trip. You would want to select a region, such as Rocky Moutain National Park, and stay there.
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If day hiking is more your thing, you will get the most hiking in by exploring a region rather than trying to travel all over the state, but some travel is realistic.
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Are you planning to tour the state? Will you need lodging, or will you be camping along the way?
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Summer tourist season in Colorado is popular. If you’re planning on camping, whether in a tent or RV, you will need to plan ahead. Reservations at public campgrounds are necessary, especially during “peak season.”
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Identify what “other” activities are important.
Check in with your travel companions and find out what activities they have in mind. You might find mutual interests or complete diversity. Knowing this will help you map your route and where to find lodging. Below are some activity suggestions.
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Check the Colorado Events Calendar.
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Consider a historical tour.
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Find a Farmers Market.
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Whitewater Rafting and Adventure Packages
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Winter Vacation Planning
Will your winter vacation be at a ski resort?
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There are 25 ski areas in Colorado and 32 Nordic Centers to choose from. First, understand your group's expectations. Then, explore the resort options for what they offer, the type of terrain, the expense, apres-ski activities, and more.
- There are other resort options besides ski resort towns. Many neighboring mountain towns have excellent lodging and dining choices and even more alternative things to do. Consider more out-of-the-way natural hot spring resorts.
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Are all members of your group skiers, or are there snowboarders too?
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Suppose you’re vacationing with a mix of skiers, snowboarders, and ability level. It’s best to closely examine the resorts with terrain parks and a mix of blue and expert-level ski runs. The larger resorts will have the most options.
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Does your group want to travel to different resort destinations or stay at a specific resort?
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If you want to check out different resorts, staying in the Central part of Colorado is the most efficient option, as all these resorts can be reached by car in a few hours. Or, skip the winter driving around, stay at a designated resort, and focus on your fun there.
- Download the Summit Stage app and ride the FREE Summit Stage bus in Summit County. This bus services the entire area of Summit County, including Silverthorne, Dillon, Keystone, A-Basin, Breck Transit Center, Frisco, and all places in between.
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Is vacationing on a budget a concern?
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If budget-mindedness is part of your vacation, try planning your trip during the “off-season” or not “peak-season” times. Check out these every day, more affordable resorts. In either case, you should be able to find deals on lift tickets and lodging.
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Are off-slope activities appealing, such as shopping, dining, spas, events, or alternative activities?
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If your group needs alternative activities, the bigger resorts will have the most varied selection. However, popular attractions like winter scenic train rides, natural hot springs, and guided tours such as snowmobiling or sleigh rides are not necessarily at the resort. Check out “other attractions” first and then decide on the resort to stay at.
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Colorado's Endless List of Vacation Options
Colorado offers an almost endless list of vacation options. The first step is to understand if you want to tour around or stay in one place. Either has much to offer. However, touring the state will require more vacation planning. Please use our free vacation planning itinerary tool. This will help you keep track of the sights and experiences you don’t want to miss. Plus, organize your lodging and travel routes along the way.
Staying put at that special place in Colorado is also a good way to spend your vacation. With so much to explore in any given region of the State, it might make more sense for you just to find lodging in a favorite place and base all your activities on that location. In either case, feel free to request some of our free visitor guides, and use our free itinerary tool to help organize all the activities, keep the dates and times handy, and make your vacation more relaxing.
Lake George
Visit Historic Lake George, Colorado
The first Colorado Midland passenger train from Colorado Springs reached the settlement of “Rocky” in 1887. A manufacturer from Boston named George Frost constructed a dam at the mouth of Granite Canyon (now Elevenmile Canyon) and platted the nearby town of Lake George.
County Road 96 now follows the old Colorado Midland Railway grade through Elevenmile Canyon where locomotive residue can still be seen around railroad tunnels that were blasted through solid granite. Along the way are public campgrounds, picnic areas, bird watching pullouts, rock climbing routes and world-class trout fishing.