Spanish Peaks Wilderness

We have passed those peaks many times heading to New Mexico, Trinidad and most recently heading to Amarillo, TX but on the way back we veered off the quick path on CO-12E which winds through the wilderness surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest. It is a half moon shaped path, also known as The Highway of Legends and it is, in fact, a highway of legends. Another great resource which goes into more detail. This will take you to Walsenburg, CO where you can continue on the northern route back.

The decision to take the left in Trinidad turned out one the best random decisions we made during the long drive and even better, we were closing in on golden hour. This route winds through the wilderness area which seems oddly like another state. It is hard to describe but maybe it is the uniqueness of an area. It started to get really interesting as we passed Monument Park - known for live events like The Caveman Music Festival. The first thing you'll likely notice is the mountain beauty but you will quickly realize the large number of Mule deer throughout. I definitely did not drive the speed limit and I live in a mountain community that I thought had a lot of deer - be aware. We noticed a cabin in the distance and this is when we really started to understand the pristine nature because there were dozens of Elk. I haven't seen large herds like this since visiting Estes Park, CO. You will soon start seeing the peaks and amazing rock formations.

We stopped several times for photo ops until reaching the Cucharas Pass summit and debated another route - County Road 46. This route was recently added to the Hichway of Legends and is a dirt road that will take you to Aguilar, CO and I-25. I am going back just to drive this road soon and spend more time in the wilderness exploring what we weren't able to. Instead we continued on but then something we didn't expect - - a Dusky ( Blue ) Grouse - first time I have ever seen them. Most likely they were mating - the hind feathers ( Rectrices ) were fully displayed in all their glory. Golden hour really enhanced the feather bloom glow and I was able to take a few great photos. A final exploration was the little town of Cuchara. It is mostly seasonal - businesses open during the spring / summer months. The town was closed down except the Dog Bar & Grill. There it is - check the area out and have fun.

Dusky Grouse

Radial Dike

West Spanish Peak