A number of Colorado's communities have joined together to provide visitors with an unmatched foray into Colorado's heritage treasures. The initial phase spans 21 counties and many centuries of time. This state-supported initiative is the ideal source for intriguing, accurate and exciting heritage travel.
Southwest
The southwest region of Colorado is rich with historic finds; landscapes, archaeological sites, historic mines and buildings, ranches, farms and unique cottage industries are each found in this part of the state. And each of these historic sites and important artifacts were left by a multitude of cultures, including Ancestral Puebloans, Spanish explorers and American pioneers, adding to the diversity and intrigue of the region's historical significance. By balancing its historic attractions with conservation and preservation, the community is assuring the region’s distinctive heritage will be enjoyed for years to come.
www.SWColoradoHeritage.com
Southeast
Much of the southeast region in Colorado is akin to a giant aviary. Found throughout the expansive prairie, more than 400 of the 625 species of North American birds can be seen living in or migrating through the area. In fact, the region boasts the greatest concentration of species to be viewed anywhere in North America. The southeast region also contains nationally significant historic sites such as Camp Amache — one of ten WWII Japanese Internment Camps — Bent's Old Fort, the Santa Fe Trail, Boggsville, the Sand Creek Massacre Site, as well the archaeological and paleontological sites of Picketwire, Picture and Vogel Canyons, and the Comanche National Grasslands.
www.SEColoradoheritage.com
San Luis Valley
The towns in the San Luis Valley are among the oldest settlements in Colorado, and, with just 47,000 residents, the valley’s vast landscape has changed little since the early days of settlement. The art, architecture, religion, tradition and folklore of American Indians, early Spanish colonists, Mexican settlers and miners of the Southwest permeate the region. Historic agricultural practices, such as irrigation by acequias (ditches bringing surface water from rivers) are still in use. Traditional, spiritual and religious practices and festivals co-exist with the largest interfaith ecumenical community in North America.
www.SLVHeritage.com
Park County
It's a little-known fact that Park County contains the highest gold and silver mines in North America. It also contains some of the highest historic ranches and a wealth of historic railroad sites. Working ranches in the region provide accommodations and never-before-offered access to private, gold-medal water for fishing. Visitors who take advantage of Park County's historic backdrop are rewarded with an intimate experience in settings that have remained relatively unchanged for more than 100 years.
www.ParkCountyHeritage.com