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The quick holiday getaway
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"Let's go slow," I said through the smile on my face, as I leaned my seat back and rolled down the window. As soon as we are outside the city limits something magical happens, I relax. It could be the constant rush hour hustle twice a day, Monday through Friday or the constant crowds at gas stations and grocery stores, that make it hard to center yourself. I can't put my finger on it, what I do know is that peace of mind is indeed a beautiful thing. Luckily the "OFF" button is only 20 minutes away.
Tension just seems to slide off my shoulders as the scenic vistas transport me back in time. At a cool 25 mph, you will be experiencing 20+ miles of road that was an early railroad bed for most of its length. The old historic railroad route aptly named The Short Line, was operated by the Colorado Springs & Cripple Creek District Railway Company (CS & CCD), steaming from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek in the early 1900's. The route was converted to a vehicular road in 1922, which was then sold to W.D Corley in 1924, who made it a private toll road named the Corley Mountain Highway. Gold Camp Road became a free highway in 1939 spurring a remarkable wonderment with its endless canons, steep mountainsides, and it's many historic tunnels. There is no wonder that Gold Camp Road was federally listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1999.
Gold Camp Road starts at 21st Street in Colorado Springs and ends at the town of Cripple Creek in Teller County. As you travel through the road, there are plenty of places to stop and experience a hike or sit and take in the clean mountain air. The Rosemont Reservoir and Helen Hunt Falls are some of the goodies that you will find along the way. A topography map is an excellent source of information when adventuring in the mountains. It will pin point areas of interest and detailed, precise description of the region. There was a time when a 4x4 truck was the recommended mode of transportation but due to some recent road improvements, most cars can manage through without a hitch. As always, be cautious of pedestrians and fellow drivers, Gold Camp Road is known for it's diversity in recreational sports.
With the fall season in full swing, the weather is just right to catch spectacular city views. The glow of the city lights is one of the reasons why this road is frequented at night. Drifting and illegal car racing is favored at this spot, due to the road hugging s-curves that require the best in your cars performance. If the "2-fast" crowd is not your thing, you can always drive into a tunnel, turn your car off, and experience a thrill like no other when you hear the voices of the old dead railroad crew. Many people have said to experience something "ghostly and supernatural" while driving the road at night.
Whether you are looking for inner peace or your inner child, you are bound to find both through the stunning landscape that awaits you. Rediscover your backyard and press that "OFF-Roading" button, your family will thank you for it. Smile guaranteed every time.
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