Colorado City, south of Pueblo along I-25, anchors the southern leg of the Frontier Pathway scenic byway. The road, 104 miles along the splendid Sangre de Cristo Mountains, travels through the San Isabel National Forest, by Hardscrabble Canyon and by the 40-acre Lake Isabel, an ideal spot for fishing, hiking and picnicking.
Closer to town, Colorado City provides access to popular hiking areas such as Bartlett, Camp Crockett and the San Carlos trails. Pitch your tent at the KOA in Colorado City or at the Greenhorn Meadows Park Campground.
Head west 24 miles along Hwy. 165 to Bishop Castle, billed as "The Largest One Man Construction Project in the Country," or quite possibly the world. Started in 1969, this 160-foot high stone castle boasts several towers, a grand ballroom, stained glass windows and even a fire breathing dragon — all constructed by area resident Jim Bishop. Self-guided touring is easy: The Bishop Castle is always open and always free, at least during the day. Try to catch Jim working on the weekend; you might get a guided tour.