Woodland Parks, CO. is just west of Colorado Springs, CO very near Pikes Peak and not far from the Garden of the Gods. Diamond RV Park is family owned and has full hookups in a nice wooded area. We were looking for a campground in a centrally located area not very far from the interesting places that we plan to visit. In this post I will be describing with images and narrative our experiences exploring the special scenery and local attractions that make this area dynamic. The campground was very clean with nice restrooms & showers.
 |
| Common area for special events |
 |
| Tent camping area |
 |
| Lots of wooded areas where deer and an occasional bear can be seen |
 |
| Our Campsite |
The first day we explored the Garden of the Gods and walked along the historic district in nearby Manitou Springs, CO.
 |
| Garden of the Gods |
 |
| Rock climbers have special permits |
 |
| We saw many rock climbers during our visit |
 |
| Manitou and Pikes Peak incline steam locomotive |
 |
| There are several natural springs in Manitou Springs where visitors can fill up their containers |
 |
| The historic Cliff House Hotel |
 |
| Murals are common in Manitou Springs |
The second day in Woodland Park we drove up the toll road to Pikes Peak. This was quit the experience with stunning vistas and dizzying heights. We paid 15 dollars apiece for the toll which was well worth it. The road is paved all the way to the top with crystal clear reservoirs in the foothills.
 |
| The 14,115ft Summit at Pikes Peak |
 |
| The plaque commemorating the explorer Zebulon Pike at the summit |
 |
| The views from the summit are breathtaking |
The famous Cog Railway was not running this year as the tracks are being restored and repaired. We had made this journey up to the peak on the Cog railway many years ago. It is a real treat and I highly recommend doing so once the project is completed in the next several years.
 |
| The Cog Railway station on the summit at Pikes Peak |
 |
| The Tracks fall steeply leaving the station |
 |
| The cogs in the track make it possible to climb this mountain |
 |
| Crystal Creek Reservoir |
 |
| The lakes in this area are man made for the most part |
 |
| Pikes Peak for Crystal Creek Reservoir |
 |
| Wonderful Vista's all along the drive up to Pikes Peak |
 |
| Parking area about 2 miles from the summit. Shuttles brought visitors up to the summit from here. |
 |
| Mountain Goats near the summit |
 |
| Visitors often climb the rock formations to get better views |
Just before the toll gate leading to Pikes Peak is the amusement park, The North Pole. Seniors over 60 can get in free here. We enjoyed a bit of Christmas in July. Many families bring their children here to enjoy the many rides.
We had a wonderful time visiting the sites near Woodland Park, CO. The best part is we camped out high in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains at 8,500 feet with majestic mountains all around and cool temperatures that are a pleasant change from the heat and humidity of Florida, where we live.
No comments:
Post a Comment