Ten miles north of Walsenburg, just off Highway 25, is Huerfano Butte, a conical-shaped circular plug that draws hundreds of visitors every year. It rises from the ground, contrasting the surrounding gently rolling hills of sagebrush and sparse grass, and gives the impression of being out of place.
The butte stands 300 feet high like a lone sentinel in the arid scrubland.
Huerfano Butte is so striking that noted land surveyor General John Fremont suggested that his stepfather, a wealthy railroad baron, construct his railroad track in the butte’s shadow so passengers could enjoy its uniqueness.