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Survivorman Visits the Colorado Rockies

September 1, 2009 by Chris S.

survivorman_logoWe have all though about it, and some of us have even done it; but spending a week in the mountains with our horses does present some challenges that we don’t see on an ordinary everyday trail ride. While CTR prepares for their seminar on “Camping with Horses” (March  2009), we wanted to give you a preview of what it takes, things to think about and tips from a survival pro. What better way than to let you watch Les Stroud take two horses into the Colorado Rocky Mountains and discover the challenges of surviving for three.

Note: Before the shooting of this event, Les had never spent time with horses. He did not know how to ride, pack, or camp with horses; so prior to shooting, he spent two weeks on the Colorado ranch getting familiar with the ins and outs of equestrian life.
Watch the full episode here!

For more of Les, visit: www.Survivorman.com

Posted in Opinion | Leave a Comment »

Stanley Canyon & Reservoir Trails

August 17, 2009 by Chris S.

I keep forgetting that this area is full of trails to ride! Make sure that you bring a fishing pole; the reservoir looks like a great spot for fishing. I have always wondered how to get up here from the Air Force Academy, and I may just have found the road. Updated Photos & KMZ June 17th, 2008

Location: 45 minutes from Colorado Springs

Dates: July 2007 – May 2008,  June 2008, August 2009

Photos: Click to view album

Getting There:

  • HWY-24 from Colorado Springs to Woodland Park.
  • Turn right at S Baldwin St
  • Continue on CR-22 / Rampart Range Rd
  • Turn right at Loy Creek Rd
  • Continue on Shubarth Trail

Trail Ride Description: (See Google KMZ file below for ride directions) Like I said, this is a great area to ride. The trail starts out on a 4×4 dirt road made of the typical Colorado crushed granite. Most everything to the north allows vehicles (including ATVs) on it, bit if you head down into the southern area you’ll be where they can’t! Even-though, vehicles are allowed, I usually don’t see to many. Today I saw 3 parked cars and 2 ATVs. I stopped and talked with the guys on the ATV as they were trying to find a way to Stanley Reservoir for a little fishing. It broke my heart to state the obvious - No Motorized Vehicles! They were bummed as I rode off and down to the the lake. Be prepared for some climbing, I got in almost 1,400 feet in this 11 mile loop. This is a neat & clean trail that I would not be afraid to take kids or beginners on. 


Click for full view of the trail profile

The Basics: This is a heavily populated area on the weekends as it is so close to Colorado Springs so expect motorized traffic of all kinds. There is no water at any of the camping areas and the two lakes are kind of far away to use for horses/camping, so bring your own. I would recommend shoes if you are going to ride this area a lot.

Maps to Download:
Google Earth KMZ file with Photos & Waypoints

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Lower Grape Creek Trail

August 8, 2009 by Chris S.

Location: 10 minutes S of Canon City

Date: April 2008, August 2009

Photos: Grape Creek Trail (updated)

Getting There: Once you get to Canon City you’ll head past the 3rd street (Light/Park) and find First street hidden just on the other side of the park. Head down First Street to Temple Canyon Road. Go out about a mile and you’ll see a large dirt parking lot on the right. This is Ecology Park. There is plenty of room for many trailers here.

Trail Ride Description:This was an interesting ride as we had just heard about it and we had very little information on its location, but finding it was not that difficult. From the NW side parking lot you’ll be greeted by a sign B.F Rockefeller Ecology Park, this is your que that you are where you need to be. Follow the groomed trail down the hill and look for a walk through & drive through gate(s). There is a sing post on the opposite side that reads, “Water Gap Trail” (Right) and “Pinon Trail” (Left); follow Water Gap Trail to the wooden bridge.

Continue Reading »

Posted in Trails Ridden | 1 Comment »

Dome Rock State Wildlife Area

July 22, 2009 by Chris S.

Location: Located just 40 minutes west of Colorado Springs and just south of Divide on the western slope of Pikes Peak.

Dates: July 19th

Photos: Click to view album

Trail Description:On a scale of 1 to 10 this is a 15! This ride give you everything from beautiful views of Pikes Peak and the Continental Divide to gorgeous rides through aspen groves and evergreens and deep river crossings. You’ll also be thrilled with the beauty of the huge granite rock formations, especially Dome Rock itself which rises 800 feet above the canyon floor. We started our ride at the west parking lot on the Willow Creek Trail #40 and rode for three (3) miles up a gentle slope on a packed sand two-lane trail. After about three (3), the trail narrows to a single file and shortly thereafter we came to a “Y” in the trail. We took the right branch, up a steep climb. [The left heads down to a locked gate] At the highest view point we were at 9,700 feet, which is a long way up from the parking lot which was at 8,800 feet. We then continued on this trail, passing the Sand Creek Trail #41 on the right which is a great short cut if you need a shorter ride. We turned off onto Spring Creek Trail #43 and followed it all the way to Dome Rock. The trail makes some steep drops as it approaches Dome Rock but nothing that was a problem1. Just as we rode past the south side of Dome Rock we had our first water crossing. It was deep and wide2 but the bottom of the river was sandy, so it was very easy to cross. We had lunch in a meadow by the rock. We then circled around the rock3on Dome Rock Trail #46. This trail takes you back and forth over Fourmile Creek nine times. It also takes you into Muller State Park at some points. About 2.5 miles from the end, we came across the ruins of Jackrabbit Lodge. This had been a private hunting lodge that burned to the ground in the 1940’s. All that remains is the stone chimney and part of the foundation.

At this lodge you can choose to go left into Muller State Park. We continued on the Dome Rock Trail having fun crossing the river and viewing the heard of Big Horn Sheep the live there. River crossing can be avoided by staying on the north side of the river along the footpath. We stayed on the wide road, that was once a stage coach road, and had fun playing in the water. At times the river was so deep2from the beaver dams that the water came above our horses’ bellies! About 0.5 miles from the end we came across the ruins of an old collapsed mine. This trail returns to the east parking lot. This is an easy trail and shoes would not be required as the surface is packed sand.

Note: This complete 9.4 mile loop is only open from July 16th to November 30th. It is closed for the rest of the year for the Big Horn Sheep lambing. But you can take shorter loops, such as Sand Creek Trail loop, or going out and back on the Willow Creek Trail or the Dome Rock Trail.

  1. We took the opportunity to have lunch, water and graze our horses in a beautiful meadow just left of the base of Dome Rock right by the creek.
  2. We were told by a local that last years rains flooded out most all the beaver dams; thus all the water crossings were very easy to negotiate and none of them were very deep.
  3. From the meadow you will head slightly south and cross the creek; this will take you around a large pile of rock formations and them back heading north on Dome Rock Trail #46 following the river up the canyon.

About the author: This trail description was written by Margi Evens - Author of Riding Colorado I & II. If you would like to know more about Margi and her books, please click here.

Maps to Download:
Google Earth KMZ File

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Air Force Academy Ride – May 30th

May 27, 2009 by Chris S.

We are going to ride the on the trails of the Air Force Academy this Saturday May 30th at noon (12:00pm). We will be parking down at the stables. Everyone welcome!

Details: US Air Force Academy

Notes:(5/29 9am) Some folks have been asking questions, see below:

  • A coggins is not required to ride on the Academy
  • The trailer in fee went up from $5 to $10 (we think)
  • We will be meeting at the parking lot by the arena not on the south end stables
  • You do NOT need to register or have your name on the list at the gate
  • Use the South Gate
  • Make sure that your tags on your truck AND trailer are current
  • Bring as many friends as you want!
  • Enjoy…

Posted in Up Coming Rides | Leave a Comment »

Mothers Day Ride – Lower Grape Creek

May 4, 2009 by Chris S.

d80-dsc_5262-editWell it’s that time of the year again. I have been getting a lot of emails asking about the ride schedule! So here is the first ride for 2009.

We will be riding the Lower Grape Creak Trail this Sunday – This is an incredible ride for this time of year. Warm weather, flowing streams and not to tough on the horses.

Date & Time: Sunday, May 10th, 2009 – Leave the Trail Head at 10am

Weather Update: 5/9 @ 10:30pm – Right now the Weather Channel shows NO RAIN for tomorrow in Canyon City! Our ride will start at 56° F and mid-afternoon it will hit in the mid 60’s  – we will be blessed with a very pleasant sunny day!

Getting There: Once you get to Canon City you’ll head past the 3rd street (Light/Park) and find First street hidden just on the other side of the park. Head down First Street to Temple Canyon Road. Go out about a mile and you’ll see a large dirt parking lot on the right. This is Ecology Park. There is plenty of room for many trailers here.

Additional Information: We will be having lunch on the trail, so be sure to pack something to eat in your saddle bags! Please let us know if you are going to be there, so we know to look for ya!

Click for complete details and ride preview.

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Red Rocks Canyon Trails

October 29, 2008 by Chris S.

Location: Located just minutes west of Colorado Springs and just south of Hwy 24 & 31st.

Dates: October 25th, 2008

Photos: Click to view album

d80dsc_5973Trail Description: The towering, rosy-smooth stone edifices of the Fountain Formation, which makes up the ramparts of the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater, are just one remarkable feature of this trail loop. Passing beneath these flaming walls is a moving experience, but so is climbing onto the large, flat plain atop the Morrison Slide. With a number of different trails intersecting the main trunk, there is almost an endless anount of riding to be had.

Getting there: While traveling Highway 24 West, look for 31 Street and head left (South) a 1/4 mile and look for a big dirt parking lot on the right.

More Details: There are many trails throughout this area to explore, however be careful as there are also some trails that are not passable on horseback. (Not be me at least) We tried the Section 16 trail, and about 300 yards off the main trail we decided to turn around (and not an easy feat!). The granite trail was too much for my comfort level, especially with the kids with us. Another note; this trail is mostly Colorado Granite and those without shoes had hoof work to do when they got home.

Maps:
Google Earth KMZ File
Standard Image Trail Map

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Hello from the Mounatins

September 16, 2008 by Chris S.

August: May Camp – Eastern Plains, Colorado

It has been a while since my last post. As you all know we are in the middle of hunting season; but I thought I would bring you a few photos from the Field. While we have been riding/hunting in many different areas, here are a few photos from some of the areas that we will be putting on the schedule for next year.

We are working on a ride in Dome Rock / Muller State Park or somewhere like these areas to ride in the Aspens while they are changing. This is a great time of year to ride; cool breeze, changing colors, Elk bugling, it doesn’t really get much better that that!

If you have a suggestion for an early October ride, please send us an email.

 

 

September: Through the Trees at Dusk – Marshall Pass, Colorado

 

September: Leftovers from Hurricane Ike – Kebler Pass, Colorado

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Hunting Season – August & September

August 10, 2008 by Chris S.

It is that time of the year again. Yes we are still on our horses but it is hurting season in Colorado and from August through September we will be scouting & hunting for big game. During this time we will not be posting new rides and will not be documenting any of our adventures for the public. (sorry)

If you have any question regarding existing rides, or rides you would like go on, shoot us an email and we will try to answer it for you.

We will have a schedule for October, and possibly for November – we typically ride steadily through Thanksgiving and then it is hit & miss.

Riding during hunting Season

Season Dates:
West of I25: September – November
East of I25:  October – December

Most horseback riders are grateful when summer heat gives way to cooler autumn weather. What better time for a leisurely trail ride? Autumn is very often hunting season too. That may conjure up romantic images of blaze orange-coated riders racing across open fields.

The reality is that today’s hunters are more likely to be sitting in a tree stand, wearing camouflage and holding a loaded gun or bow. Bow hunters are not required to where blaze orange, and the chances are very high you’ll never see them; but rest assured, they will see you! Unfortunately incidents between horseback riders and novice hunters are not unheard of.

Sadly, horses have been shot from beneath their riders by over anxious hunters. Even people, horses and other livestock at pasture are at risk during hunting seasons, especially if their camps or pastures border on forests. There have also been documented cases where overly passionate equestrians thought it a good idea to help out wildlife by blazing through the woods; a dangerous and reckless act.

All sports enthusiasts have to learn to respect each other and that is certainly the case during hunting season - simply put, stay out of each other’s way. Horseback riding on the trails during hunting season means riders have to take extra precautions. As an avid hunter, it pains me to make this statement, but it can’t be more ture, especially the closer to the city you ride!

In Colorado it is unlawful to interfere with hunters. That includes, but is not limited to, alarming, distracting, or frightening prey; causing prey to flee by using light or noise; chasing prey on foot or by vehicle; throwing objects; making movements; harassing hunters by using threats or actions; erecting barriers to deny access to hunting areas; and intentionally injecting yourself into the line of fire. Violators face criminal prosecution and may have to pay damages to the victim, as well as court costs. Learn more on this topic by reading the Hunter Harassment page.

Before you horseback ride:

  • Find out what the hunting regulations are in your area such as what time guns may be fired and what animals are in season. 
  • Try to avoid known hunting areas!
  • Try to stay in open fields where you will be more visible. 
  • Avoid riding at peak times such as early morning. 
  • No matter what the season, when headed out on trail with your horse, tell someone your planned route and what time you will be back. 
  • If you meet hunters tell them your planned route. Try to keep the communication open, no matter what your opinion towards hunting.

When you ride your horse: 

  • Ride with a buddy. 
  • Wear a ‘hunting orange’ vest, saddle pads, ahlerts and/or saddle bags. 
  • Wear a brightly colored helmet cover. 
  • Make or buy a brightly colored rump sheet for your horse. 
  • If there is any chance you will be near gun fire, be sure you are on a horse that is used to it!

At home or camp: 

  • Use a ‘hunting orange’ turnout sheet.
  • Keep your horses close to your house or camp during peak hunting times. 
  • Mark your corrals well! Make sure that all contained stock is well makred
  • Check your fence lines frequently and check for gates accidentally left open, you do not want your stock running loose around hunting areas.

Most hunters are conscientious sportsmen who follow the rules. Be respectful and courteous, and they will respond in kind. Remember that while we can enjoy our sport almost year-round hunters have a right to their relatively short time in the woods.

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The Crags

July 15, 2008 by Chris S.

Location: Located just 40 minutes west of Colorado Springs and just south of Divide on the western slope of Pikes Peak.

Dates: July 12th, 2008

Photos: Click to view album

Description: The Crags is among the more popular of the areas parks. With that in mind, you should not plan for solitude in these heavily used campgrounds and trails, however the impressive views and close proximity to so many great attractions make The Crags worth enduring the crowds – but arrive early because reservations are not accepted and trailer parking is limited at best.

Not far off the beaten path, the amount of people quickly diminishes to the point that we only saw a few die hard hikers, and even at one point we left them all behind.

This is an incredibly magnificent place to take photos of some very unique Colorado Mountain formations. It is well worth all the hassle that you’ll endure at the Campground.

Maps to Download:
Google Earth KMZ File

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The Story of SLIM

July 9, 2008 by Chris S.

Slim grew up on the western prairie of South Dakota. The son of hard working farmers who in those days farmed with horses and whose children went to a one-room school. When I met Slim he was already well into his late seventies. Tall as his name would imply, as was his build. He was a pleasant looking man but he had a long drooping nose that appeared to have no cartilage in it. When Slim turned his head and then stopped, the motion of his nose didn’t! It wiggled! 

Slim married a local gal and moved to the city where he became a tailor and worked in a fine men’s store for over 30 years. By the time I met Slim he was semi-retired, taking in occasional tailoring work in his home. It was an instant friendship and I admired the love for his wife that he outwardly showed and his humor. It wasn’t long before we found a common interest in fishing. I happened to own a boat and I invited Slim for a days fishing at a nearby reservoir. Well, you’d a thought I had taken Slim on a Canadian fly-in fishing trip the way he expressed himself over the day’s outing. I quickly learned that Slim could see the best in everything and he constantly pointed out sights that most folks would have never seen; the blue water of the lake, sun shining through the clouds, apple trees in bloom or maybe a pretty lady jogging with her dog. Slim saw it all!

Continue Reading »

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Beaver Creek Wilderness Study Area (SWA)

July 1, 2008 by Chris S.

Location: 1 hour 30 minutes from Colorado Springs

Dates: June 29th, 2008

Photos: Click to view album

Trail Ride Description: The twin forks of Beaver Creek come rushing out of a rugged set of Colorado peaks to converge in one of the richest wildlife habitats in the state. Mountain lions roam the heights in one of the greatest concentrations in Colorado.

The cats share the land with bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, black bear, beaver and bobcat. 

Overhead peregrine falcons, golden eagles, rough-legged hawks, and red-tailed hawks soar through the skies. 

Down below, wild turkeys and blue grouse scratch in the brush. 

Traveling quietly on foot up Beaver Creek, we are likely to be rewarded with glimpses of the wildlife that makes its home here. Two maintained trails leave from the Beaver Creek Trailhead on the WSA’s southern boundary (see Getting There). The Beaver Creek Loop forms a circle up the Trail Gulch Pack Trail, then west over to Beaver Creek and back downstream (running counter clockwise). 

To penetrate further into the heart of the WSA, we may keep following the Trail Gulch Trail. It heads due north, over Big Saddle and Little Saddle, to connect with the East Fork of Beaver Creek. Along this trail, you will pass through the highest peaks. Crown Point at 9,922 rises to the west just before Trail Gulch hits the northern boundary of the WSA. 

Getting there:While traveling State Highway 115, look for 3rd Street (County Road 123) right before Prenrose; west on CR-123 about 5.5 miles  to County Road 132; then north (left) on CR 132 approximately 10 miles to the trail head and the end of the road.  

Google Map with Points from Penrose, CO

Alternately, traveling Highway 24 to Divide; at Divide turn south on Highway 67 following it through Cripple Creek to Victor. In Victor, turn left one block, then south on Teller County Road 86 (Phantom Canyon Road) to Teller County Road 861 (Skagway Road) following it to the Skagway Reservoir. Beaver Creek WSA can then be accessed by going down Beaver Creek via the Division of Wildlife state land approximately 1-1/2 miles to the northern boundary of the WSA. There is no public vehicle access beyond the Skagway Reservoir. 

More Details:This is a full day ride and it is suggested that you bring a lunch on the trail. I am told there is water in several areas that we will be crossing and that the horses can drink, but I would still recommend bringing a small amount for them to drink back at the trailhead.

Warning:This is not a trail for inexperienced riders or horses, or horses that are not in good physical conditioning. They had better be shod as well. This trail has extreme climbs (2,400 feet in 5 miles), it is very rocky once you get pat Skagway Powerline Trail cutoff and we even had to manually remove a rattlesnake from or path. Water is only found at the bottom before to start and at the top in East Beaver Creek, nowhere else will you find water. Please do not take this trail lightly!

Maps to Download:
Google Earth KMZfile with Photos & Waypoints

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GPS & Topo Map Workshop

June 18, 2008 by Chris S.

This workshop will provide a simple low-tech approch to understanding the GPS (Global Positioning System) Receiver and how they work alone & and USGS Topo Maps. The primary focus will be the use and limits of hand held GPS receivers for recreational activities such as horseback riding, hunting or geocaching, we will also cover the UTM Coordinate System and learn how to easily transfer waypoints from GPS to Maps (and visa-versa). The workshop is broken into three (3) sections: 

  1. In class theory (15-30 minutes)
    (What is a GPS, Topo Map, UTM)
  2. Map Hands-on (60 minutes)
    (Working with the GPS and a Topo Map)
  3. Field exercise  (60 minutes)
    (Marking Waypoints and navigating to them)

Date: Wednesday, June 25th @ 6:30 – 9:30pm
Location: Dick’s Sporting Goods (First & Main Towncenter)
Cost: Free
Requirements: A handheld GPS

I expect that most participants will already own their own GPS receivers; there may be a few ‘for loan’ receivers as well (Call ahead first). The overall workshop time is roughly 2.5 hours. The workshop does not provide more advanced information on higher end survey grade GPS receivers, or the math that goes along with the system. The theory is mostly limited to ‘arm-waving’ explanations (Italian Style). 

RSVP is required and this workshop is limited to the first 20 registrants.

Posted in Announcements, Special Event | 2 Comments »

Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space

June 8, 2008 by Chris S.

Forty-Three (43) trucks/trailers lined up 3 rows deep! More than an estimated one hundred (100) equestrians came out to to ride the brand new Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space in Douglas County! An amazing time was had on this newly built five (5) mile trail that circled the ranch.

Location: 15 minutes South of Castle Rock

Date: June 7th

Photos: Click to view album

Getting There:

  • North on Interstate 25 from Colorado Springs
  • Exit Tomah
  • Cross I-25 and continue North on the frontage road about five miles
  • Turn Left (West) on Tomah Rd approximately 1.5 miles to the Ranch entrance.

Trail Ride Description: The Dawson Butte Ranch is the newest acquisition by the Douglas County just South of Castle Rock. Even though this Open Space will not be open to the public until August 2008, we had the rare opportunity to be the first group of equestrians to ride this trail system; let me tell you, we were not disappointed!

Once again, The Colorado Trail Riders want to thank Douglas County for opening is area for us to ride, and for the awesome catered lunch and the unbelievable fellowship!

This Open Space is NOT scheduled to be open to the public until August 2008!
Contact the Douglas County Open Space for more information.

Maps to Download:
Google Earth KMZ file with Photos

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Wigwam Trail – Lost Creek Wilderness Area

May 27, 2008 by Chris S.

Click for all photosMemorial Day weekend provided us with an amazing opportunity to camp and ride up to Wigwam Park in the Lost Creek Wilderness Area for some Fly Fishing.

Location: 45 minutes from Deckers
(Because of the road conditions)

Date: May 23rd – 25th, 2008

Photos: Click to view album

Getting There:

  • HWY-24 from Colorado Springs to Woodland Park.
  • HWY-67 to Deckers
  • HWY-126 about 2.75 miles to NF-211
  • NF-211 (Wigwam Creek Rd/Goose Creek Rd) is a groomed dirt road, but it is narrow in many places, so go slow. Wigwam Creek Rd turns into Goose Creek Rd at the gate to Cheesman Lake.
  • NF-211 to NF-560 (Stoney Pass RD) about 3.7 miles. NF-560 is not so pretty, but very passable; just go slow.
  • NF-560 to NF-545 about 4 miles. There is a sign to the Wigwam Trail Head. Look for camping/parking areas right when you enter the trees.

Trail Ride Description: This trail provides a less-crowded alternative to the Goose Creek Trailhead. Originally used to drive cattle from Webster Park, north of the Wigwam Trailhead, over into Lost Park, the trail accesses the east side of the Lost Creek Wilderness by following the Wigwam Creek drainage up to an open meadow called Wigwam Park and on to a saddle at the end of the valley. I am not really sure what kind of cattle they moved through this area, but they would have the be part billy goat to make this trip?

Continue Reading »

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The Story of ASPEN

May 23, 2008 by Chris S.

A friend phoned and asked if I was ready for a big ride. Born and set on ready was my reply! My partners are about the same way. Don’t be standing in the way when you ask this group of folks to do something fun or you may get flat run over. We are all in…where we going? Crested Butte to Aspen, overnight in Aspen. “Aspen, Colorado? Where all the Rich & Famous vacation and own their get-away homes, I asked? Movie Star mega! Will they let some weather beaten old cowboys and cowgirls even ride into Celebrityville?” Guess we will find out, my friend replied. I’ll find us a place to stable the horses and nice motel to overnight in, Okay? Well, I went to work and found a nice lady who said she could handle five horses and that there was a lovely hotel next to her place that she would highly recommend for us riders. Got the number and called the lovely hotel. I told the man what we needed and he gave me a price! I chuckled a little and told him I just needed a room for one night. The gentleman on the other end of the line paused a moment and said, “Sir, that IS the rate for ONE NIGHT!” (Long pause) Oh! I guess I felt rich that day so I said, “Alright, here is my credit card number. (Probably why I am not rich because once in a while I feel rich.) The man on the phone taking my reservations said that Valet will assist me in my transportation needs and just give my name to the Bellmen and he will immediately take us to our room, as we are now registered and welcomed. Boy, ain’t this slick, I thought? 

Continue Reading »

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Forever Changed

May 18, 2008 by Chris S.

I have lived in Colorado for more than ten (10) years; some will say that makes me a native Coloradoan, some will say, “not so much”. Either way, I was severely sadden by the impact of the Haymen Burn Area this weekend!  We took the opportunity of the nice weather to drive around Pike National Forest to seek out more information on the scheduled rides planned for this summer. For the first time since the fire I got a chance to see the devastation; and it left a very heavy impact on my heart. We drove for more then 150 miles looking for different places to ride and all we saw (for the most part) were STICKS! 135,000 of them. This is a photo that took this weekend; nearly 6 years later and this is a desolate area. Some see this has God’s way of cleansing the earth, some as a way of renewal/re-birth, me, I see the results of one persons selfish act!

What to take away form this?

As a Boy Scout leader, we teach “Leave No Trace”; as horseman we practice “Leave No Trace”. This needs to be a reminder to all of us (young & old) that one – tiny – little – seemingly insignificant – act, can leave a permanent impact for us, our children, and our children’s children.  Least we not forget who lives in the mountains, where our footsteps leave reminders in their home that we have een there! So, please, Leave No Trace!

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East El Paso Fire

May 12, 2008 by Chris S.

I want to start this post by saying that we are sorry that we cut the ride at Palmer Park short. While we were getting things set up, we got a call asking for our help in moving livestock from the 8,000+ acre fire that was buring a couple mile South from our home. I deeply appoligize to thoese that came to ride, and those that showed up later for the BBQ to find that we had left. Our brothers were in need of help, and we at CTR do not say no when we are needed!

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Palmer Park BBQ – Saturday May 10th

May 5, 2008 by Chris S.

Palmer Park BBQ: May 1oth @ 2:00pm
Each year we start the season off with a BBQ Ridethrough Palmer Park. We have reserved the Lazy Land Pavilion area again this year. You can arrive at 2:00pm The ride will start at 3:00; we will have dinner once we get back to the pavilion. This is a bring your own food and drink, BBQ! Shoes are recommended. Expect to see loose dogs, and mountain bikes on the trail. This ride is open to adults and children.

palmerparktrail2.gifGetting there: Take Woodmen to North Academy and head South to Maizeland; turn right and then right again into the park and head up to the top; look for the gate (dirt road) to Lazy Land and head down to the very end.

Basics: Free access to 17 miles of trails of all different riding levels.

Description: Palmer Park holds a host of challenges for the equestrian. This trail system is surrounded by the entire mass of humanity that is Colorado Springs. But don’t let that fool you, if you are in need of mountain or trail training your horse, you could do the entire program here and never leave the city. With over 17 miles of easy rolling trails, rim-wrecking drop-offs, steep climbs, step-like rocks, forest covered streams (after it rains), balance-beam boulders- you name it and Palmer Park has it. Shoes and a breast collar are strongly recommended. The trail system is clearly marked and it is worth mentioning their “rating” system; Blue Square being the easiest trails, Green Circles being their moderate, and Black Diamonds being the rough/tough stuff. Expect to see hikers, bikers, and other equestrian enthusiasts as well, however, I have found that mid-day is usually best for equestrians as hikers and bikers prefer the cooler weather.

palmerparktrail1.gifFor our ride, we parked at the top in Lot 16 and there is plenty of room for several truck/trailer combinations. There are several places for restrooms and drinking water (no troughs). The trail we took is a 3.8 mile loop (Palmer Point Trail) with a 1.8 mile out-and-back (Grandview) that takes you to the Grandview Overlook; a total of 5.6 miles that took 2.5 hours to complete. Despite the fact that most of this is marked as a Blue Square, this is not for a beginner or a new trail horse as you will encounter some very rough terrain and will take some balance from the rider as their horse negotiates their footing, couple that with mountain bikes, hikers with dogs, and kids playing, you will want to keep the spooky horses at home. If you are looking for a place to get your horse ready for a mountain trip, an overnighter or just time de-spooking, this is a good place to do it. You will quickly see what kind of shape your horse is in and how “trail ready” he/she/you are; so if you are looking for someplace close by to challenge you and your horse and enjoy some nice views, Palmer Park is the place for you!

Extras:Shoes and Breast Collar are highly recommended. Look for hikers and bikers. There are a couple of areas that dogs are allowed off leash. (See PDF).

Maps: Palmer Point Trail Topo – Complete Trail System

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Pushing Limits – Seeking Adventure – Making New Friends

May 2, 2008 by Chris S.

Well Friday is here and we will have a packed room at Pablano’s! I am amazed and excited at the incredible response that we have had to the Blog going online in March. With riders from as far north as Ft. Collins and as far south as San Isabel and the Wet Mountains - we will have a great diversity of people to meet and ride with this year!

Directions to Pablano’s:

The goal for tonight’s meeting is to layout the 2008 Trail Riding session. We are looking for rides that are outside of the norm. We want to Push our Limits with New Adventures that are outside of the normal Open Space & Section rides within the city limits. We will be looking for Truck/Trailer Weekend Camping Rides for June, July & August – as well as full day rides inside of a 2 hour drive from Colorado Sp[rings & Denver.

Things you might want to bring:

  • Your favorite ride; directions, description, hazards, facilities
  • Books, maps, photos, GPS Coordinates, etc.
  • Facility Contacts – State Forest, land owners, etc.
Please remember that tonight is an adult only meeting.
While 99% of all our events include children, there are a few that do not. 
We all need a break from our kids once in a while – right?

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Trail Ride Planning Meeting & Dinner

April 28, 2008 by Chris S.

ctr_logo_ctr-web-150.gifFriday May 2nd @ 6:00pm at Poblano’s in Falcon
At this meeting we will be laying out the schedule for the 2008 season. This meeting is open to all adults that would like to contribute to the 2008 schedule, meet the people of the group, ask questions about currently scheduled rides and/or just have dinner with friends!

Please bring your favorite ride; directions to the trail head and descriptions of the ride. It helps if we have some basic details; shoes or not, water crossings, maps & GPS information, and/or photos, books, etc.

Poblano’s is kind enough to let us use their meeting room free of charge, so let’s make sure to repay them by having dinner from their menu. ($6 and up)

Please click to RSVP for this event. We need to give Poblano’s a
head count to make sure they can service us properly.

CTR is not a club and we like it that way (no politics!); if you like to trail ride
with good ol’ Christian folk, please feel free to join us. Our group is open to all that
have a desire to be out on the trails instead of behind a desk! Please don’t be shy.

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Backcountry Pack Seminar (4/17-19)

April 14, 2008 by Chris S.

Hosted by the Wild West Cowboy Church of Pueblo Colorado
Cost is $50 per person.  Proceeds will go to WWCC ministry programs.
Subjects covered will include:

  • Back Country Basics
  • Equipment
  • Safety
  • Knots & Hitches
  • Weight Distribution & Loading
  • More…

 

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Palmer Park Ride (4/13)

April 9, 2008 by Chris S.

Next Ride Date: April 13 @ 2:00pm – Meet at the Sentinel Point Parking Lot. (see map) Call 719-229-1068 if you are there and can’t find us.

Getting there: Take Woodmen to North Academy and head South to Maizeland; turn right and then right again into the park and head up to the top to any open parking area.

Basics: Free access to 25 miles of trails of all different riding levels. Great for kids. Great for conditioning.

Continue Reading »

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Packing: Where do I start?

March 27, 2008 by Chris S.

This is in response to a question that came up in the Pack Seminar post about packing for the first time.

blue250.jpgIt is possible that a seminar of this type be the last step in getting ready for your first pack trip, however, it could also be the first step in learning what it takes to pack in the backcountry. Packing is a process that must be built up to. In my opinion, the most important of all is restraining your horses overnight! I can not stress this enough, as this seems to be the single most underestimated part of new people to packing. Here are some steps/questions that might help you understand this topic a little more.

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Homestead Ranch Regional Park

March 25, 2008 by Chris S.

homestead_th.jpgGetting there: East on HWY 24 to Elbert Road, North 5 miles on Elbert to Sweet Road, East 2.5 miles on Sweet to Golihar, North 1/2 mile on Golihar to the park entrance on the the left.

Basics: 4+ miles; natural plains trails 

Description: An original homestead site settled in 1874, Homestead Ranch Regional Park features diverse topography ranging from rolling, open meadows to tree-covered bluffs running the length of the park. A natural spring-fed pond and creek in the central valley of the park attract deer, coyotes, foxes, waterfowl, and occasional pronghorns. Rattlesnake Butte, a prominent landmark in eastern El Paso County from which visitors can see the Front Range and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the distance, is located within the park.  

Homestead Ranch Regional Park opened in the fall of 1998. The park will not include permanent facilities at the time of opening, however, visitors will be able to access trails.  

Map of the Park: Click to download PDF

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