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The Grandest Mile of Scenery: The History of Seven Falls

Tucked into the box canyon of South Cheyenne Cañon, just minutes from The Broadmoor Resort, Seven Falls has dazzled visitors for over a century. Often called “The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado,” this series of cascading waterfalls is more than a natural wonder. I t’s a landmark steeped in local heritage, conservation, and tourism history. From Indigenous significance to entrepreneurial visionaries, the history of Seven Falls is as layered as the waterfall’s seven distinct drops.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local curious about your backyard, learning the story behind this beloved destination adds a new dimension to the experience.

Long Before Tourism: Indigenous Roots

Long before roads were built or admission tickets were sold, the land surrounding Seven Falls held meaning for Native American tribes. The Ute people, among others, inhabited the Southern Rocky Mountains for generations and traveled through the canyons and meadows of what is now Colorado Springs.

South Cheyenne Cañon, with its flowing streams, abundant wildlife, and towering cliffs, was a place of seasonal passage and spiritual connection. While specific legends tied to Seven Falls are hard to trace, it’s clear that the area was a valued part of ancestral homelands long before European settlers arrived.

The Discovery Era: Early Western Exploration

In the late 1800s, as the Pikes Peak region attracted miners, homesteaders, and railroad tycoons, word of a breathtaking waterfall in South Cheyenne Cañon began to spread. The falls became a local attraction not long after the founding of nearby Colorado Springs in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, the city’s founder and a key figure in developing its outdoor spaces.

At that time, reaching Seven Falls was a bit of an adventure in itself. Visitors traveled on horseback or by carriage along narrow dirt roads carved into the canyons. But for those who made the trip, the payoff was worth it: a dramatic waterfall plunging 181 feet in seven distinct steps through a steep, narrow gorge of pink granite.

James Hull: The Man Who Made It a Destination

In 1882, a visionary entrepreneur named James Hull purchased the land around Seven Falls. Recognizing its potential as a natural attraction, Hull built walking paths, bridges, and rustic infrastructure to make the area more accessible to the public. He even constructed a wooden staircase alongside the falls so visitors could climb to the top and enjoy the view from above.

Hull’s approach was unique for the time. He believed in preserving the beauty of the canyon while still allowing others to experience it, and he invested in keeping the space clean and safe. Thanks to his care and commitment, Seven Falls grew into one of Colorado’s first privately owned tourist destinations centered around natural beauty.

Over the decades, the wooden stairs were replaced by more permanent fixtures, the trail system expanded, and infrastructure such as roads and lighting made the area more accessible. But the spirit of Hull’s original vision—to blend conservation with exploration—still guides the site today.

Click HERE to see some vintage photographs of Seven Falls.

A Visit from the President

One of the most notable moments in the history of Seven Falls came in 1901 when President Theodore Roosevelt visited Colorado Springs. An avid outdoorsman, Roosevelt visited South Cheyenne Cañon and was reportedly impressed by the rugged beauty of the waterfalls. Though he didn’t make a formal speech at the falls, his presence boosted its profile and cemented its reputation as a must-see attraction.

Generations of Private Stewardship

For much of its history, Seven Falls remained in private hands. Unlike many U.S. waterfalls protected as part of state or national parks, Seven Falls was cared for by families and private owners who kept the site open to the public while continuing to make improvements.

Over the years, upgrades included enhanced safety features, lighting for nighttime viewing, and the addition of attractions like the in-mountain elevator, which was carved into the granite wall in 1947 and still carries visitors to an overlook today. Trails above the falls, such as those leading to Midnight Falls and Inspiration Point, were added to give hikers a more immersive experience in the surrounding wilderness.

This balance between development and preservation is a defining trait of Seven Falls, and it helped the site survive where others may have been overtaken by urban growth.

Natural Disasters and a Resilient Return

Like many places in the Rocky Mountains, Seven Falls has faced its share of natural challenges. In 2013, the site was devastated by flash flooding caused by severe rainstorms. Trails were washed out, bridges destroyed, and much of the infrastructure around the falls was left in ruins. For the first time in over a century, the future of Seven Falls was uncertain.

That changed in 2014 when The Broadmoor purchased the site with a commitment to restore, preserve, and enhance the historic location. After extensive repairs and upgrades, Seven Falls reopened in 2015 with improved safety features, a new restaurant, enhanced trails, and an upgraded gift shop—all while maintaining the natural charm that had captivated visitors for generations.

Seven Falls Today

Today, Seven Falls continues to enchant guests from around the world. The experience begins with a scenic one-mile walk through the canyon, followed by a climb up 224 stairs beside the falls (or a ride in the in-mountain elevator for those who prefer). At the top, you’ll find stunning views and peaceful hiking trails that offer a quieter, more reflective experience above the canyon floor.

At night, strategically placed lights transform the falls into a glowing spectacle. The rhythmic rush of the water, the scent of pine, and the sight of the falls under starlight create a truly unforgettable moment.

Seven Falls is also home to Restaurant 1858, named for the year Colorado Springs gold prospectors arrived. Set beside the creek and designed to reflect the rustic elegance of the area’s mining-era heritage, it’s a perfect place to relax after exploring.

Seven Falls hike – Colorado Springs, Colorado – beautiful nature

Preserving the Legacy

What makes the history of Seven Falls so special is how it reflects broader themes in Colorado history—exploration, conservation, innovation, and a deep respect for the natural world. From James Hull’s original vision to its modern-day restoration by The Broadmoor, Seven Falls remains a living example of how nature and people can coexist in harmony.

It’s a rare thing to find a place that’s been welcoming guests for over 140 years and still feels wild, fresh, and inspiring. Whether you’re climbing the stairs, snapping a photo of the waterfall, or hiking above the canyon, you’re taking part in a legacy that continues to unfold.

Learn more about Seven Falls from The Broadmoor HERE.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado Springs, don’t miss the chance to walk the Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado. Whether you visit in the quiet morning hours or come for a sunset view, Seven Falls offers a beautiful blend of history, nature, and wonder.

Learn more about Seven Falls and nearby adventures, including guided hikes and scenic experiences offered by Broadmoor Outfitters.

CategoriesColorado Springs History by

History of the Pikes Peak Highway: A Road to the Clouds

Winding its way to the 14,115-foot summit of one of Colorado’s most iconic mountains, the Pikes Peak Highway is more than just a scenic byway. It’s a historic route carved into the Rocky Mountains that tells the story of exploration, innovation, and a century-long human fascination with altitude and adventure. Whether you’re driving it for the views, biking it for the thrill, or hiking nearby for the challenge, knowing the history of the Pikes Peak Highway deepens your appreciation for every curve and switchback.

Let’s take a ride through time and trace how this incredible road came to be.

Before the Road: A Mountain of Meaning

Before any wheels touched the flanks of Pikes Peak, the mountain held significance for generations of Native American tribes. The Ute people referred to it as “Tava,” meaning “Sun Mountain.” It stood as a sacred place and an important landmark long before it caught the attention of European settlers. To learn more about the Ute tribe and their relationship to Tava, check out THIS resource.

In 1806, American explorer Zebulon Pike attempted to summit the mountain that would later bear his name. Despite being forced to turn back due to harsh conditions, Pike’s expedition marked the beginning of the mountain’s prominence in American maps and minds.

By the mid-19th century, Pikes Peak had become synonymous with westward expansion, even lending its name to the famous “Pikes Peak or Bust” slogan during the 1859 Colorado Gold Rush.

The Birth of the Pikes Peak Highway

Fast forward to the early 20th century. Automobiles were a new and exciting technology, and a growing group of visionaries sought to prove the capabilities of this novel invention. Spencer Penrose, a wealthy philanthropist and businessman who had made his fortune in mining, saw an opportunity not only for economic development but also for grand spectacle.

In 1915, Penrose financed the construction of the Pikes Peak Highway, envisioning a route that would allow tourists to travel from the base of the mountain all the way to the summit by car. The original road was made of gravel and took an extraordinary amount of labor to build, with workers battling the elements at high altitudes using early 20th-century equipment and methods.

Despite the challenges, the road was completed in just over two years. That same year, the Pikes Peak Auto Hill Climb, now known as the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC), was inaugurated. This legendary race, also called the “Race to the Clouds,” is still held annually. It draws drivers from around the world to test their mettle against 12.42 miles of steep, winding road.

Evolution of the Road

Although the road started as a narrow gravel trail, improvements came steadily over the decades. Increased tourism and advancements in transportation prompted Penrose and later custodians of the road to enhance safety, widen the route, and improve driving conditions.

For most of the 20th century, the Pikes Peak Highway remained largely unpaved. However, that began to change after a lengthy legal battle in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The Sierra Club filed a lawsuit against the City of Colorado Springs, arguing that the gravel road was eroding into surrounding ecosystems and harming alpine tundra.

As a result of the court’s decision, the City of Colorado Springs began paving the highway in sections, eventually completing the work in 2011. The result is a safer, more environmentally sustainable route that is now fully paved from base to summit.

The Hill Climb: Racing into History

A discussion about the history of the Pikes Peak Highway would be incomplete without mentioning the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. From its very first race in 1916, this event has become one of the most prestigious motorsport challenges in the world.

Drivers compete to ascend more than 4,700 vertical feet over the course of just over 12 miles. The course includes 156 turns. These turns range from sweeping curves to hairpin switchbacks. Drivers and cars are challenged as the oxygen thins with every foot of elevation gained.

Over the years, the race has hosted everything from souped-up motorcycles to electric supercars. In 2018, French driver Romain Dumas set the all-time course record in an all-electric Volkswagen I.D. R, finishing in just 7 minutes and 57 seconds – a testament to how technology and tradition intersect at the summit of Pikes Peak.

To learn more, check out the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb’s website HERE. You can also visit the Penrose Heritage Museum at 11 Lake Circle, Colorado Springs.

The Highway Today

Today, the Pikes Peak Highway is one of Colorado’s most popular scenic drives. Open year-round (weather permitting), it provides access not just to the summit but to a number of stunning overlooks, trailheads, alpine lakes, and picnic areas along the way.

The road is managed by the City of Colorado Springs, and there’s a toll to access the route. Visitors can drive themselves, take a guided tour, or opt for an adventure such as Broadmoor Outfitters’ Cog Up/Bike Down Pikes Peak tour – where riders take the Cog Railway up and descend the highway on a mountain bike, fully supported by expert guides.

In addition to tourism, the road serves as a unique outdoor classroom. Interpretive signs along the highway explain the geology, flora, fauna, and history of the region, making it a rich educational experience for all ages.

To learn more about the new Summit Visitor Center, click HERE.

High-Altitude Engineering

Building and maintaining a road above 14,000 feet comes with its own set of challenges. The highway must be monitored for rockfalls, snow accumulation, and seasonal damage. Maintenance crews face extreme conditions and a short working season.

Still, the road persists. It’s a living piece of history – one that continues to evolve while offering visitors unparalleled access to the alpine wilderness.

Environmental Stewardship

The paving of the road was just one step in the ongoing effort to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem around Pikes Peak. The City of Colorado Springs, in collaboration with environmental groups, now implements various sustainability initiatives along the highway. These include erosion control, wildlife protection measures, and visitor education programs designed to reduce impact and foster responsible recreation.

The Pikes Peak Highway offers a powerful lesson: access and conservation can coexist, but only with deliberate, sustained effort.

A Legacy That Lives On

The history of the Pikes Peak Highway is more than a tale of roads and races. It’s a story of ambition, ingenuity, and respect for nature. From its earliest days as a gravel track to its modern role as a gateway to one of Colorado’s most famous fourteeners, the highway has helped millions of people experience the magic of high-altitude adventure.

For locals, it’s a beloved landmark. For visitors, it’s a bucket list experience. And for those who crave challenge, it’s a path paved with possibility.

Experience the Pikes Peak Highway with Broadmoor Outfitters

Want to make your own mark on the mountain? Broadmoor Outfitters offers a unique way to experience the Pikes Peak Highway through our Cog Up/Bike Down Pikes Peak Adventure. This unforgettable guided tour lets you enjoy the scenic ascent via the Cog Railway. Then take in the thrill of a 13-mile descent by bike, surrounded by sweeping alpine vistas.

Learn more about the Cog Up/Bike Down tour by Broadmoor Outfitters to make the most of your Pikes Peak experience.

CategoriesColorado Springs History, Where to go... by

Echoes On The Plains: Visiting The Sand Creek Massacre Site

Nestled on the high plains of southeastern Colorado, the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site preserves the memory of one of the most tragic and pivotal events in the history of the American West. On November 29, 1864, more than 230 Cheyenne and Arapaho people—most of them women, children, and the elderly—were killed in a surprise attack by U.S. soldiers. The site now serves not only as a reminder of the atrocities committed but also as a place of education, healing, and quiet reflection.

Located near Eads, Colorado, the site offers visitors the chance to walk the ground where history unfolded, learn from exhibits and interpretive signage, and pay their respects to the lives lost. For those traveling through southeastern Colorado or following the Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway, this solemn and powerful destination provides an important opportunity to confront and understand Colorado’s complex and painful past.

The History of the Sand Creek Massacre

In the fall of 1864, amidst growing tension between Indigenous communities and settlers in Colorado Territory, a group of Cheyenne and Arapaho people—led by peace chiefs Black Kettle and White Antelope—set up camp near Sand Creek. They believed that they would be protected by the U.S. government. Despite having raised an American flag and a white flag of truce, the camp was attacked. The culprit was a unit of 675 soldiers from the Colorado U.S. Volunteer Cavalry under Colonel John Chivington.

Over the course of several hours, hundreds were killed and mutilated in what would later be widely condemned, including by military investigations and Congressional inquiry. The massacre remains a defining moment in the history of the Plains tribes and in the nation’s reckoning with its treatment of Indigenous peoples.

Today, the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site exists to honor the victims, acknowledge the harm, and educate future generations.

What to Expect When You Visit

The site is remote and quiet, offering a peaceful yet sobering atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to move through the space with care and intention. Start your visit at the Visitor Contact Station, where you can speak with park staff, view interpretive displays, and collect maps and information.

A short walking trail leads to an overlook of the massacre site, with wayside signs that explain the event and highlight key locations. Interpretive materials help visitors understand the stories of those who lived and died here.

The walking trail is about 1.5 miles round trip and follows open prairie terrain, with little shade—so bring sun protection, water, and appropriate footwear. There are no food services or water fountains at the site, and cell service may be limited.

📍 Location:
55411 County Road W
Eads, CO 81036
Google Maps Directions

🕒 Hours:
The site is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, but hours can vary by season. Be sure to check the official NPS hours and information page before visiting.

🎟️ Admission is free.

How to Pay Your Respects

The National Park Service and affiliated tribes ask visitors to treat the land as a memorial and sacred site. Please:

  • Stay on designated paths and trails
  • Speak quietly and be mindful of other visitors
  • Refrain from removing natural materials or artifacts
  • Reflect and learn with humility and openness

This is not just a historical site—it is a resting place for those who were killed, and it holds deep spiritual significance for descendants of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Nations.

Each year, tribal members and the public are welcome to attend the Sand Creek Massacre Spiritual Healing Run/Walk, a commemorative event held to honor the victims and promote healing. You can learn more about it through the Northern Cheyenne Tribe or Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes websites.

Educational Resources and Further Reading

To deepen your understanding of the Sand Creek Massacre and its legacy, consider these resources:

For educators or those planning group visits, the park also offers curriculum guides and lesson plans.

Plan Your Visit

The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site is not your typical day trip—but that’s what makes it so meaningful. It invites you to slow down, reflect, and learn. It’s a place where history is not just told but felt. Through the wind across the plains, the silence of the landscape, and the stories etched into the earth.

Whether you’re exploring Colorado’s cultural landmarks or making a purposeful stop on your road trip through the southeastern part of the state, this site serves as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to remember, reckon, and grow.

➡️ Learn more and plan your visit: https://www.nps.gov/sand/index.htm

CategoriesColorado Springs History, Where to go... by

A Remarkable Revival Of The Old West: Discovering Bent’s Old Fort

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the sights, sounds, and stories of the American frontier, Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is your chance to step into the 1800s. Located in southeastern Colorado near La Junta, this meticulously reconstructed adobe fort served as a trading hub, cultural crossroads, and military post along the historic Santa Fe Trail.

Today, it stands as a living history museum—complete with costumed interpreters, live demonstrations, and immersive storytelling—that lets visitors walk the same pathways as trappers, traders, Native American tribes, and U.S. Army soldiers once did.

Please Note: The reconstructed Fort is currently CLOSED due to safety concerns. Learn more here: https://www.nps.gov/beol/planyourvisit/fort_status.htm

A Trading Post with a Storied Past

Originally built in 1833 by brothers William and Charles Bent, the fort quickly became one of the most important trading centers in the Southwest. Strategically placed along the Santa Fe Trail, it connected commerce between Native American nations, Mexican traders, and American pioneers. It was also one of the few permanent white settlements on the Plains during that time.

Bent’s Old Fort served many roles. It was a trade center for buffalo robes, livestock, tools, and textiles. It was a meeting place for diverse cultures including the Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Kiowa tribes. Finally, it was a military supply depot during the U.S. war with Mexico in 1846

The fort was abandoned in 1849 and eventually fell into ruin, but thanks to detailed sketches, journals, and archaeological work, the National Park Service rebuilt the fort in 1976 on its original footprint.

📍 Location:
35110 State Highway 194
La Junta, CO 81050
Google Maps Directions

What to Expect When You Visit

Visiting Bent’s Old Fort is like walking straight into a living history book. The site is fully interactive, engaging, and welcoming to families, school groups, road-trippers, and history buffs alike.

Highlights Include:

  • Furnished rooms and working spaces just as they would have appeared in the 1840s
  • Costumed interpreters demonstrating blacksmithing, cooking, trapping, and trading
  • Live animals such as oxen, chickens, and horses that add to the authentic atmosphere
  • Guided and self-guided tours available throughout the day
  • Special events and reenactments throughout the year
  • A scenic 1.5-mile trail along the Arkansas River with interpretive signs

Admission is free, and the park is open year-round (except major holidays). Hours vary seasonally—check the official NPS hours & info page before visiting.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

To fully enjoy your time at the fort, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Wear comfortable shoes – The fort’s grounds include dirt paths and uneven surfaces.
  • Bring water and sun protection – Especially during warmer months; southeastern Colorado can be hot and dry.
  • Pack snacks or lunch – There’s no café onsite, but picnic tables are available near the parking area.
  • Time your visit with a special event – Reenactments and seasonal festivals bring extra life to the fort. Check the calendar of events.
  • Visit nearby La Junta – For local dining and lodging options. Visit La Junta is a great resource for trip planning.

Perfect for Families and Road Trips

Bent’s Old Fort makes a great stop on a Colorado road trip, especially if you’re traveling between Colorado Springs and southeastern Colorado or headed toward the Santa Fe Trail Scenic and Historic Byway.

This park is ideal for families because of the interactive learning makes history fun and hands-on. There is plenty of space for kids to explore safely. The park also offers a unique blend of education, culture, and storytelling that sticks with kids and adults alike.

📚 Educators and homeschoolers can also access classroom resources and field trip opportunities through the National Park Service.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

If you’re in the area, consider adding these stops to your itinerary:

Step Into the Past at Bent’s Old Fort

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, curious traveler, or parent looking for an unforgettable day trip, Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site brings the Old West to life in a way that’s authentic, immersive, and engaging. You don’t just learn history here—you feel it in the walls, hear it in the creak of wagon wheels, and see it in every fire-blackened cooking pot and weathered adobe brick.

Start planning your visit today: https://www.nps.gov/beol/index.htm