Highway of Legends
Journey through time on the Highway of Legends. Spanning 82 miles between Trinidad and Walsenburg, this National Scenic Byway winds around the iconic Spanish Peaks and through the heart of the San Isabel National Forest. Known for its 'dikes'—ancient volcanic walls that jut from the earth like giant spokes—the route is steeped in the folklore of Native American nomads, Spanish explorers, and rugged coal miners. Whether you're chasing ghost stories in Cuchara or exploring the glacial beauty of Cordova Pass, every turn reveals why this land was once considered sacred.
Fishers Peak State Park
Fishers Peak State Park Click to open side panel for more information , Colorado's 42nd state park, covers over 19,000 acres of rugged landscape just south of Trinidad. The park is characterized by its namesake 9,633-foot flat-topped peak, which serves as a historic landmark along the Santa Fe Trail. While much of the park is still under development, the open areas provide a gateway to diverse ecosystems ranging from grasslands to high-altitude forests.
- Hiking & Biking: There are currently about 16 miles of trails available. Options range from the family-friendly Discovery Trail (0.8 miles) to the challenging 16-mile round-trip trek to the summit of Fishers Peak, which offers views reaching as far as Colorado Springs and into New Mexico.
- Wildlife & Habitat: The park acts as a critical corridor for large mammals like elk, mule deer, mountain lions, and black bears. It is also home to rare species such as the New Mexico meadow jumping mouse and provides nesting grounds for peregrine falcons.
- Facilities: The Fishers Peak Trailhead Click to open side panel for more information area includes vehicle parking, vault restrooms, and drive-in picnic sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Interpretive signage throughout the park explains the local flora and fauna.
- Seasonal Access: Be aware that the Peak Approach and Summit Loop trails are typically closed from March 15 to July 31 each year to protect nesting peregrine falcons. Additionally, dogs are currently not permitted within the park.
