La Veta and Cuchara bookmark a gorgeous valley filled with geological wonders and lush riverbanks.
ACTIVITY #1 – FRANCISCO FORT MUSEUM
The Francisco Fort Museum is the last surviving original adobe fort in the state. It houses artifacts representing multiple eras of Huerfano County’s history, including American, Spanish settler, and pioneer artifacts. More specifically, visitors to the museum will view weapons, wagons, saddles, clothing, a one-room schoolhouse, and a saloon from Old La Veta’s Main Street containing the bullet-scarred bar owned by Bob Ford after he shot Jesse James.
ACTIVITY #2 – LA VETA ART GALLERIES
Walk downtown La Veta and stop in the town’s stellar art galleries—SPACe, Shalawalla Gallery, Gift Shop, and School, and La Veta Gallery Main. These innovative spaces exhibit regional, national, and international artists working in a wide range of mediums, including, but certainly not limited to batik, clay, fiber, metal, paint, photography, and more.
LUNCH: LEGENDS ON MAIN
ACTIVITY #3 – HIKING IN CUCHARA
Cuchara, with its lush pine forest, is made for hiking. Hike Indian Creek Trail from Bear Lake or test your stamina on Teddy’s Peak Trail. Another great option is the Spring Creek Trail for a moderate to difficult hike.
DINNER: CUCHARA YACHT CLUB
ACTIVITY #4 – MINI GOLF
After a filling dinner, relax with a game of mini golf. Play a round at the Bears Den in Cuchara. Or, if you’re staying in Walsenburg, you can also play a round at Lathrop State Park.
ACTIVITY #5 – LA VETA CRAFT BREWS
You’ve had a full and rewarding day. It’s time to head back to La Veta, pop into Mountain Merman Brewing Company, and take your pick from their long list of on-tap craft brews. Depending on the day, you may even delight in some first-rate live music. Hours vary, so check their website for details.