The High Plains Drifters are honored to host the 2003 AVA Convention walk through Colorado City, on Saturday, June 28th. Colorado City, at an elevation of 6,000 ft. is located in the Greenhorn Valley, approximately 25 miles south of Pueblo, Colorado. Drive time from Colorado Springs is about one hour and 10 minutes, or about 65 miles. Walk start time is 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a 10:00 p.m. finish.

Colorado City is nestled in the Greenhorn Valley, where residents have a magnificent view of the Greenhorn Mountains (also called the Wet Mountains) and Greenhorn Peak, which rises to 12,334 feet above sea level. The community has ballparks, a 70-acre lake, rodeo grounds, community center, swimming pool, a city campground, a KOA campground, hotel/motel, several restaurants, two small shopping centers and a 27-hole golf course. The mild climate of Colorado City allows the golf course to be used year round.

Colorado City is an area rich in history. It was the hunting grounds for several Indian tribes. The name Greenhorn is taken from the Comanche Chief Greenhorn (Cuero Verde). The mountain branch of the Santa Fe Trail runs through this valley to LaVeta Pass to the south, and then into New Mexico. This branch of the Santa Fe Trail follows the trails trappers used years before. In the 1870’s homesteaders, cattle ranchers, and hard-rock miners established their roots in the foothills of the lush Wet Mountain Range and in the hidden Wet Mountain Valley overlooked by the jagged Sangre de Cristo mountains.

Many different settlements and trading posts had come and gone in the years prior to the development of Colorado City in the early 60’s. At that time plans were made to develop the area into quite a sizable town; however events came into play that prevented growth, and Colorado City remains a small but steadily growing community.

The Start/Finish point for the 10 Km and 6 Km walks is the old stone pavilion in Greenhorn Meadows Park, located 3.3 miles off Exit 74 (CO-165). 6 Km walkers will be directed around tranquil Lake Beckwith, while 10 Km walkers pass through the Holydot Golf Course, (closed during the walk) before circling the lake.

The volksmarch trail surfaces consist of gravel and paved roads, gravel cart paths, and a concrete path around the lake. The 6 Km trail is rated 1+, which strollers and wheelchairs can complete with some difficulty. The 10 Km trail is rated 2. Use of large wheeled strollers only is recommended due to the gravel and dirt golf paths. Athletic shoes are considered appropriate footwear for this walk. Walking sticks are not required. Leashed pets are allowed on trail. Daytime temperatures can become quite warm in mid-June. Sunscreen, hats and carrying water are advisable.

The businesses and residents of Colorado City welcome the opportunity to serve as hosts for this AVA 2003 walk. The High Plains Drifters, and Rambling the Rockies await your arrival and hope to see you at the convention.