A Hidden Treasure

August 04, 2011

Planning to take a trip to southern Colorado recently, I scoped out some travel books from the North Oak Branch's shelves. Never having been to Pueblo before, my husband and I decided to venture there and breathe in all that this artsy, picturesque city has to offer. Our first walk was along Pueblo's Riverwalk, an area within its downtown that offers a scenic hike along the Arkansas River. This area later filled with local folk and vacationers as the city celebrated July Fourth with a Riverwalk concert and fireworks (shot over the river).

Desiring to enjoy more nature and less people, on another day we ventured west to Pueblo Lake and chose to hike the trails along the river instead, enjoying the sound of flowing water and wildlife. I was fortunate to photograph a young deer as he sprung through the grass along the river doing his best to ignore the intruders. 

Our last planned hike for the area was to be at Great Sand Dunes National Park. However, being pressed for time, we opted out of this hike. Instead, we learned about a picturesque mountain lake in San Isabel National Park outside Pueblo. This was, by far, our best hike largely because of the isolated setting. Only rowboats or paddleboats were permitted, much to the delight of the fishermen situated along the lakeshore. This gem of a destination was not listed in my hiking manual. Rather, I learned about it from a friendly hotel desk clerk that encouraged us to venture into the mountains. It was truly worth the curvy drive into the forest, if only to see nature at its finest and most peaceful (pictured above).

I would encourage you, as you plan your trip, to peruse your local library branches shelves for travel books. However, don't overlook the value of asking local residents what they might recommend. You won't be disappointed!

Ann R. 
North Oak Branch