THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
A lot of this story takes place more than thirty years ago, but my memories are so vivid that I
couldn’t resist writing about the extremes of Colorado. I lived in Colorado from June of 1987
through October of 1993. After living there for six years, I decided that Colorado was the very best
state in the USA, by a long measure. The extremes of Colorado made it an incredibly fascinating
place to live and explore.
If you live in one of the Plains or Midwest states where the landscape is mostly flat and you find
yourself driving west on I-70 toward Denver for the first time, you’re in for a sight that you’ve never
seen before. As you cross into Colorado from Kansas, the scenery might seem familiar. In fact, the
eastern part of Colorado is essentially an extension of western Kansas. This area is a vast expanse of
grasslands, with little to break the horizon except the occasional herd of sheep or cattle grazing on
the plains. It’s a land where water is scarce, and the terrain is unchanging, offering a serene but
stark beauty.
As you continue your journey westward, something remarkable begins to happen. About ninety
miles east of Denver, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation. If it’s daytime and the
skies are clear, you’ll witness a sight that is both awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Rising up from the
flat plains, a massive, unbroken wall of mountains emerges on the western horizon. This is the Front
Range of the Rocky Mountains, a formidable barrier that stretches as far north and south as the eye
can see. The mountains appear like a gigantic wall, with the highest points marking the Continental
Divide.
As you drive closer, the mountains seem to grow taller, dominating the western horizon and
creating a striking contrast to the flatlands you’ve traversed. It’s easy to see why early pioneers
traveling westward in the 1800s were astonished by this sight, often believing these towering peaks
reached heights of nearly 20,000 feet. The sheer scale and suddenness of the change in landscape
from the plains to the mountains is a powerful reminder of Colorado’s extremes.
Colorado’s Rocky Mountain Front Range
Denver Skyline
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
Colorado offers breathtaking experiences at every turn,
especially in late September and early October when the aspens
transform into brilliant shades of gold and orange. For an
unforgettable journey, head south on I-25 to Pueblo. From
there, take Colorado Route 96 west for forty miles, and you'll
find yourself amidst the stunning beauty of the Wet Mountains,
which rise as high as 12,350 feet above sea level. Venturing
south off Route 96, you'll reach a vantage point overlooking the
Wet Mountain Valley—a vast canyon stretching endlessly to the
north and south.
The western side of this valley is dominated by the majestic
Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range, a sight that will leave you
awe-struck. The vibrant colors of the aspens in the Wet
Mountains are nothing short of mesmerizing, and the view of
the Sangre de Cristo Range takes your breath away. This
unbroken wall of snow-capped peaks extends as far as the eye
can see, creating a jagged barrier of indescribable beauty.
Within this extraordinary range, ten peaks soar above 14,000
feet, forming an impassable wall of stone. No roads cut through
this formidable range. If you want to reach the western side of
the Sangre de Cristos, you'll need to drive south and then west
for more than 130 miles. This is a spectacular journey that offers
a reward like no other—a chance to witness one of Colorado's
most stunning landscapes, where nature's extremes are on full
display.
Travel to the western side of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains,
and you’ll encounter a truly awe-inspiring sight: the Great Sand
Dunes National Park. This extraordinary park is home to the
tallest sand dunes in North America, towering as high as 750
feet. Spanning over 30 square miles, the dunes form a striking
contrast against the rugged backdrop of the Sangre de Cristos,
creating an incredible landscape unlike any other in the USA.
Wet Mountains Aspen Groves
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
Wet Mountain Valley
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Collegiate “Fourteeners”
Colorado’s 637 “Thirteeners”
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
Spectacular “Thirteeners” & “Fourteeners”
But the extremes of Colorado extend far beyond the splendor
of the Wet Mountain Valley, the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
and the Great Sand Dunes National Park. The state is also
renowned for its astonishing number of towering peaks. While
neighboring states like Wyoming, Utah, and New Mexico boast
a total of just a dozen mountains that reach 13,000 feet or
higher, Colorado is home to an incredible 637 “Thirteeners.”
Is this number a typo? Is the real number 67 or maybe 63?
This number seems unbelievable, but it’s true — Colorado’s
mountainous terrain is the home for 637 “Thirteeners.” These
are more summits that an avid mountaineer could climb in
two or three lifetimes.
And then there are the “Fourteeners,” those rare mountains
that rise above 14,000 feet. In the eight states that lie in or
near the Mountain Time Zone — Wyoming, Montana, Utah,
New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, and Colorado — you’ll
find a grand total of fifty-four “Fourteeners.” Remarkably,
every single one of these peaks are located in Colorado. While
these other states have their share of magnificent landscapes,
none of them can claim even a single “Fourteener.”
A prime example of Colorado’s “Fourteeners” are the
Collegiate Peaks: Mount Harvard, Mount Yale and Mount
Princeton. Named after three Ivy League schools, they rise up
from a high plateau in central Colorado. These towering
monoliths create a stunning backdrop for the charming
mountain town of Buena Vista.
Colorado is a state where nature's majesty knows no bounds.
For those who've traversed its vast landscapes, it's clear that
Colorado's beauty surpasses that of every other state in the
U.S., even outshining the awe-inspiring canyons of Utah and
Arizona, and the spellbinding wonders of California's coasts
and mountains.
The splendor of Colorado is revealed in one of its crown jewels,
Rocky Mountain National Park. This 266,000-acre park is home
to sixty mountains that soar above 12,000 feet, a testament to
the rugged, untamed beauty of the region. The park's Trail Ridge
Road, the highest continuously paved road in the U.S., reaches
an elevation of 12,148 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking
views of mountainous terrain and deep chasms that descend
3,500 feet below the high elevation of Trail Ridge Road.
But the state's allure doesn't stop there. The Maroon Bells, a
twin mountain preserve just a few miles from Aspen, are
perhaps the most photographed mountains in Colorado—and
for good reason. These iconic peaks, mirrored in the crystal-clear
waters of Maroon Lake, are a sight to behold. The only way to
truly experience their grandeur is on foot, following trails that
weave through this stunning landscape.
In Colorado, extremes are the norm. From towering mountains
to deep canyons, from arid deserts to lush forests, the state
offers an unparalleled variety of natural wonders. It's a place
where beauty reaches new heights, literally and figuratively,
captivating all who visit with its dramatic, ever-changing scenery.
Part of Colorado’s breathtaking scenery begins in the heart of
the San Juan Mountain Range, located in the southwestern part
of the state. This majestic range is a paradise for hikers, climbers,
photographers, and tourists, offering an experience so stunning
that words can scarcely describe its immeasurable beauty.
The San Juans are crisscrossed by dozens of hiking trails, leading
adventurers through a landscape of unequaled grandeur. This
spectacular mountain range is home to fourteen “Fourteeners,”
more than any other range in Colorado. If the San Juans were
transplanted into any other state, they would undoubtedly be
designated as a national park.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado’s Maroon Bells
San Juan Mountain Range
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
Unsurpassed Rocky Mountain Splendor
But the extremes of Colorado extend far beyond its scenery. The state is also home to extraordinary
wildlife that will leave you in awe. For those who thrill at the sight of wild animals, Colorado offers an
astounding spectacle: Elk, Deer, Bighorn Sheep, and Antelope roam freely across its rugged terrain.
In Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, visitors can witness the largest urban elk
herd in the United States. These majestic creatures stroll through the streets, meander through
residential neighborhoods, and sometimes even fight each other in dramatic battles for dominance.
With a population exceeding three hundred, the elk of Estes Park have become a charming, almost
comical part of the town’s character, offering an unforgettable glimpse of Colorado’s wild extremes.
Colorado is home to herds of tame deer that roam freely throughout the state, now a common sight
for residents. One remarkable example is the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, where over two
hundred mule deer have made their permanent home. These deer have become so numerous that
periodic hunting seasons are necessary to manage their population and maintain balance in the vast
and varied ecosystem of Colorado.
For those captivated by the agile Bighorn Sheep, Colorado offers a unique opportunity to observe these
majestic animals in their natural habitat. A drive along The Arkansas Scenic River Highway (US Route
50), which runs from Cañon City to Salida, takes you through Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Here, the rugged
cliffs that line the Arkansas River provide the perfect backdrop to spot Bighorn Sheep as they navigate
the narrow rock ledges of their steep, mountainous homes.
Travelers exploring the high plateau west of the iconic Pikes Peak may encounter graceful pronghorn
antelope. These swift animals favor the wide-open plains, where they graze on grasses and other
vegetation. Unlike other wildlife, pronghorn antelope avoid forests and rugged mountains, thriving only
in the expansive, windswept plateaus of Colorado.
Estes Park Elk Herd
Air Force Academy Deer Herd
Arkansas River Bighorn Sheep
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
The Wonderful World of Colorado’s Extraordinary Wildlife Herds
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
Colorado is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, renowned
for its world-class skiing opportunities. With 41 ski resorts
spread across the state, Colorado boasts an astounding 43,000
skiable acres, catering to every level of skier and snowboarder.
The state is home to an impressive 347 chair lifts, ensuring swift
access to its expansive and diverse terrain. Seven of these
resorts feature breathtaking vertical drops exceeding 3,000
feet, offering exhilarating descents for those seeking the
ultimate thrill.
Among Colorado’s many gems, Keystone Resort stands out with
its exceptional night skiing experience, offering more than 240
skiable acres under the stars. This unique offering allows skiers
to extend their adventure long after the sun sets, carving
through pristine snow illuminated by a blanket of bright lights.
Aspen and Vail, two of Colorado’s most famous ski destinations,
are consistently ranked among the top ski resorts in the world.
Aspen, with its rich history and celebrity allure, combines luxury
with challenging slopes, while Vail impresses with its vast back
bowls and picturesque European-inspired village. These resorts
epitomize the blend of natural beauty and top-tier amenities
that make Colorado one of the world’s premiere skiing
destinations.
The ski towns that dot Colorado’s mountainous landscape are
some of the most charming and beautiful in the state, offering a
perfect blend of rustic charm and modern conveniences.
From the cozy streets of Breckenridge to the upscale allure of
Telluride, each town provides a unique backdrop to the perfect
winter getaway. In Colorado, the extremes of nature and luxury
come together, creating an unparalleled skiing experience.
Vail Colorado Ski Resort
Telluride Colorado Ski Slope
Powder Skiing at Aspen
Discover Colorado’s Magnificent Ski Resorts
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
Colorado, known for its stunning landscapes, is also a land of
extremes when it comes to its history. The state is home to an
astonishing 640 ghost towns, many of which sprang to life during
the Colorado Gold Rush in the mid-1800s.
These towns were once bustling hubs, teeming with miners and
entrepreneurs eager to strike it rich in the abundant gold and silver
lodes. However, as the precious metals dwindled, so did the
population, leaving these once-thriving communities deserted.
Today, these ghost towns offer a fascinating glimpse into
Colorado's past. Many of them have been preserved in a state of
arrested decay, looking much like they did during their peak years.
Wooden structures weathered by time, old storefronts, and mining
equipment stand as silent reminders of the boom-and-bust cycles
that defined this exceptional era.
Not all of Colorado's ghost towns remain frozen in time. In recent
decades, a few have experienced a renaissance, transforming into
vibrant tourist destinations. Central City, Cripple Creek, and Victor
are prime examples of this rebirth.
These former mining towns have reinvented themselves, now
boasting trendy shops, charming restaurants, and small casinos
that attract visitors from near and far. Despite their modern
amenities, they retain a strong connection to their mining heritage,
with many original structures and mining equipment preserved for
visitors to explore.
For those interested in history and adventure, Colorado's ghost
towns provide a unique opportunity to step back in time and
experience the rugged spirit of the Old West. Whether wandering
through the remnants of a forgotten town or enjoying the lively
atmosphere of a revived one, these towns tell a compelling story of
Colorado's extreme past.
Gold Mining Structure
Cripple Creek Colorado
Victor Colorado
Central City Colorado
The Rebirth of Colorado’s 640 Ghost Towns
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
Colorado weather defies expectations and leaves even seasoned
residents in awe. When May arrives, most people picture blooming
flowers, budding trees, and warm spring days with temperatures in
the seventies. But in Colorado, May can bring unexpected snow
storms —a reminder of the state’s wild, unpredictable nature.
Take, for example, my experience on May 5th, 1990. I was driving
south on I-25 from Denver to Colorado Springs. As I reached
Monument Hill, a notorious upslope, I was met with a scene that
seemed like it came out of a winter nightmare.
A semi-truck had jackknifed, blocking part of the freeway, and at
least five cars were buried in ditches along the highway. It was May,
yet I found myself navigating through eleven inches of fresh snow
that had fallen during the evening. What should have been a
routine one-hour drive turned into a harrowing, two-and-a-half-
hour ordeal.
Fast forward a year to May 15th, 1991. Some friends and I had
planned a night out at The Ranch at Emerald Valley, just ten miles
west of Colorado Springs. We arrived in a sturdy four-wheel-drive
Suburban, well-prepared for anything. Or so we thought. By 7:00
PM, snow was falling steadily, but that was just the beginning.
When the concert ended at 9:30 PM, we stepped outside into a full-
blown blizzard. The snowfall was relentless and blinding, with over
three inches accumulating every hour. The drive back to Colorado
Springs, usually a short trip, took us more than an hour. By
morning, we learned that The Ranch at Emerald Valley had been
buried under an incredible fifteen inches of snow.
In Colorado, even in the middle of May, you might find yourself
battling a snowstorm of epic proportions—proof that this state
truly is a land of extremes.
Monument Hill Snow Storm
The Ranch at Emerald Valley
Four-Wheel Drive Suburban
May Madness: Monstrous Spring Blizzards
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
Well known for its extreme weather, Colorado endures severe cold
snaps. One of the most memorable cold spells in Colorado history
occurred in January of 1989 when Colorado Springs was engulfed by
a brutal Arctic air mass that swept down from northern Canada. For
six consecutive days, the temperature in Colorado Springs never
climbed above zero degrees Fahrenheit. The mercury plunged to a
bone-chilling 16 degrees below zero on two of those days, making
life unbearable for residents.
In a reversal of the usual weather patterns, the Front Range and
the eastern plains suffered under this deep freeze, while the high-
elevation ski towns like Breckenridge, Vail, and Beaver Creek
remained relatively untouched by the cold. Meteorologists
explained that the Arctic air mass was unable to rise to the high
elevations of these mountain towns, where temperatures stayed
comfortably in the thirties. This stark contrast was surprising, as
typically, during winter, the ski towns are at least twenty degrees
colder than the cities and towns along the Front Range.
Colorado's weather extremes aren't confined to the winter months.
The Front Range is also notorious for its severe summer lightning
storms. On July 12th, 1992, a massive lightning storm descended
upon Colorado Springs late at night. For three hours, the storm sat
stationary, unleashing a relentless barrage of lightning strikes. Bolts
of lightning struck every fifteen seconds, lighting up the night sky
and filling the air with deafening thunder. The city was rocked by
explosions as the storm raged on, illustrating once again the wild
and unpredictable nature of Colorado’s weather.
On June 6th, 1990, I was visiting a friend in Manitou Springs, a
scenic high-elevation suburb of Colorado Springs. As the early
evening settled in, we took to the deck, gazing out over the vast
expanse of Colorado’s eastern plains. What we witnessed that
evening was a weather extreme that was far beyond anything we’d
ever seen before.
Colorado Springs Cold Snap
Breckenridge Ski Town
Colorado Lightning Storms
Manitou Springs, Colorado
Frigid Winters & Explosive Lightning Storms
WRITTEN & DESIGNED BY JACK WILSON
THE LAND
OF EXTREMES
A colossal cloud formation had developed near Limon, Colorado,
and though it was eighty miles away, it appeared to hover just ten
miles from us. Later, we learned that the top of this cloud bank
soared to an astonishing 80,000 feet. This towering formation was
the most massive I had ever seen in my life, and it was not just a
spectacle. The cloud bank was so immense that it generated a
powerful F3 tornado, which wreaked havoc on the small town of
Limon, leaving behind a $25,000,000 trail of destruction.
Great Bargain! $55,000,000.00
Deep Discount! $67,000,000.00
Black Forest Massive Wildfire
Limon Colorado Cloud Bank
80,000 Foot Cloud Bank Spawns F3 Tornado
Epic Bargain! Price Reduced to $67,000,000!
This incredible display of nature’s power highlights the extremes
that define Colorado, not just in its weather but also in its wealth.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Aspen where the real estate
market is a world unto itself, with prices that rival those of The
Hamptons and Beverly Hills. The saying goes that even rich people
cannot afford to live in Aspen. Being rich is not enough. You need
to be filthy rich to own a house in Aspen.
For instance, a sprawling 8,900-square-foot mansion on Hideaway
Lane is currently on the market for only $55,000,000 after a
recent $5,000,000 price reduction. Another luxurious property on
Popcorn Lane is listed at $67,000,000, down $10,000,000 from its
original listing of $77,000,000 in April. It looks like some of
Aspen’s high rollers might be getÝng nervous about selling their
homes. Are there enough billionaires in the world to buy all the
mansions in Aspen? This may be a question without answers.
Moving on to more Colorado extremes. There are two places in
Colorado that harbor some very dark secrets. The first story takes
place near Colorado Springs, Colorado. Located just seven miles
east of the Air Force Academy, Black Forest is an upscale suburb
of Colorado Springs, home to more than 6,000 residents. At 1:00
PM on June 11th, 2013, a small brush fire broke out in Black
Forest. Fire crews responded quickly, but the vast number of dry
Ponderosa Pines helped to fuel the Black Forest fire and within