In our region of San Isabel National Forest there are 4 major Lakes or Lake areas
1. Bear Lakes- one is 2.5 acres and sits at 10,500 ft, the second is 3 acres and sits at 10,450 ft. Stocked Rainbow and Cutthroat
2. Blue Lake- 1 acres lake sitting at 10,400 feet. Stocked with Rainbows and Cutthroat
3. Wolf Lake- about 1/2 an acre sitting at 11,100 feet and is stocked with Rainbow Trout.
4. North Lake State Area, Monument Lake, the north fork of the Purgatory river. All are stocked with Rainbow, brown, brook trout
Scenic Overlook
Cucharas Pass
The pass spans the divide connecting the Culebra range
of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the Spanish Peaks
which rise conspicuously along Highway 12. The pass is south
of LaVeta and climbs to the summit at 9,941 feet. Follow signs ( about 1 mile)
to the national forest just west of the summit to view
the wonderful wildflowers in spring
or the Aspens color change in Fall at a Scenic Overlook.
The Spanish Peaks - The top of the mountains are a wildlife protection area with no motorized vehicles allowed
Spanish Peaks Wilderness Area-
The Spanish Peaks - East (12,683 ft) and West (13,626 ft)
are the major landmarks of this area of Southern Colorado.
Plains Indians, the Utes, considered these mountains sacred
and called them the Huajatoyas or " Breasts of the Earth".
The mountains were formed during a volcanic upheaval and along
with them hundreds of radial dikes were also formed-
giving this area its unique geology.
This federally designated wilderness area
is also considered a National Landmark.
Apishapa Arch
Cordova Pass
Located on the edge of the West Spanish Peak- Cordova Pass ( 11,248)
can be accessed from the summit of Cuchara Pass following
the signs for San Isabel National Forest and Cordova Pass.
There is camping and public restrooms available at the pass along
with some real wonderful trails.
The views of the Culebra Range of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
is incredible along with the up close view of the West Spanish Peak.
Mountains from the overlook
John B. Farley Memorial Wildflower Overlook
Located on the Apishapa Road County road 46- that leads
from Highway 12 to Cordova pass through San Isabel National Forest.
This overlook and Wildflower Trail is a short scenic route
that is usually abundant with wildflowers in spring
and a wonderful place to see the fall colors as well.
Actually a perfect place to be any time of the year.
