We are very excited to share some of the more unique and historically significant sites on Colorado’s Central Plains. But prepare yourself; this isn’t just any old traditional tourism effort. When you take part in this adventure, you will be treated to great stories, beautiful scenery, and rich history while you explore some of the, “Off-the-Beaten-Trail” type of sites in Cheyenne, Elbert, Kit Carson, and Lincoln counties. And to make it even more entertaining, we’ll get you there in a bit of a scavenger hunt format!
The information enclosed is everything you’ll need to have a great time, whether you are navigating with maps or GPS (geocaching).
Here’s how it works:
Using the expertise of our local historians, we have identified a number of very interesting places with intriguing stories. At each location you will find a sign that tells you the site’s history. Somewhere near the sign, you’ll also find a little metal box (a cache) with a log book–to prove you were there, and a little surprise just for you! Geocaching or not, you’ll surely enjoy skipping from location to location as you explore our area. Learn lots. And most importantly, have fun!
| Arkansas Valley Railway
This location’s got all the classic elements of a historic railroad tale. › download details (PDF)
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Aroya Community
Life on the plains can be a challenge, and few things depict that better than a real ghost town! › download details (PDF)
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Arriba’s No Man’s Land
When first arriving at Arriba’s No Man’s Land, it might look a lot like all of the other charming parts of town. › download details (PDF)
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| Elbert Mercantile
It would be easy for most people to drive right by this historic store in Elbert without understanding how significant it is, but not you. › download details (PDF)
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Elizabeth Main Street
Have you ever looked at a quaint small town and wondered about the history and chronology of its buildings? If so, your next stop is sure to please. › download details (PDF)
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Hugo CCC Camp
President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933 as part of the New Deal Legislation. › download details (PDF)
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| Tuttle Post Office
One visit to your next destination, and you’ll always be thankful for the modern convenience of almost always having a post office nearby. › download details (PDF)
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Vona Water Tank
Can a simple water tank tell the story of a small town’s battle for existence? Of course. Your next stop proves it. › download details (PDF)
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Off the Beaten Trail - Step-by-Step
- Plan your path using the inserts included. Geocacher’s: Enter coordinates into your GPS device.
- Grab some great driving tunes, your GPS (or map), and your camera!
- You’re off! Navigate to the first location you want to hit using your GPS, or the directions enclosed.
- When you get close, look for the site’s sign. When you find it, soak up the information, take a deep breath, and continue your hunt for the treasure. (Locating the treasure is optional. But why not? You’re so close now!)
- Once you have found the hidden box, sign the log, snap a picture, and grab a treasure!
- Repeat steps 3 thru 5 until you’re all done, sprinkling in some good food and souvenirs along the way, of course.
Geo Caching 101
Geocaching (pronounced: geo-cashing) is a worldwide game of hiding and seeking treasures. A geocacher can place a cache in the world, pinpoint its location using GPS technology, and then share the cache’s existence and location. Anyone with a GPS unit can then try to locate the cache. But don’t you worry, you don’t have to have a GPS to enjoy Off the Beaten Trail. It is just an option.
Near each of the location signs, or by using the GPS coordinates, you will hopefully be able to hunt down and find a metal box that we have hidden. Inside each box will be a “treasure” that you collect and actually attach to this very holder!
Collect them all!
Be patient, some of the boxes are hidden pretty well. Just search the surrounding area. What fun would it be if the treasure was too easy to find?
Off the Beaten Trail is funded in part by the Colorado Tourism Board, the Colorado Historical Society and the Cooper Clark Foundation.