The Riverwalk in Pueblo (Part 2)

More from our afternoon at the Riverwalk in Pueblo on Sunday. They are thinking of doing a similar thing here in Colorado Springs, with Monument Creek downtown. I had actually dreamed up the same concept many years ago, long before the Pueblo Riverwalk came into being (and I'm sure I'm not the only one who's come up with it), and lately when the city government seriously started discussing the idea, I really pondered whether it would be a good thing or not. I've concluded it would be a real benefit, even though there may be some environmental disruptions for the wildlife that live in and along Monument Creek -- but I think the problems would be minor and could be worked around. I hope the idea grows legs and becomes a great public space for everyone to enjoy. I think Pueblo is lucky to have the Riverwalk and it'd be pretty cool if we had something similar here.

The Riverwalk is lined with public art, like this sculpture of Canada geese, almost every step of the way.

This is the spot where the Riverwalk ends and the Arkansas reverts back to its natural state.

A tribute to Zebulon Pike, for whom Pikes Peak is named.

The Veterans' Bridge.

The Riverwalk in Pueblo (Part 1)

Pat and I drove down to Pueblo on a whim yesterday and spent an hour or two exploring the Riverwalk. Since it was Easter, we thought it would be overrun with families enjoying the holiday, but we were pleasantly surprised to find it almost deserted. I'll share a few pictures today and a few more tomorrow. Enjoy!

Pueblo is only 30 minutes south of us but sits at 4,692 feet above sea level, an altitude drop of more than 1,300 feet from Colorado Springs, thus spring comes a little earlier there. The eastern redbud is already in full bloom in Pueblo.

You can go for a gondola ride at the Riverwalk! Fun!

My best guess is that this must have been a hotel when it was first built, probably over 100 years ago. Being fireproof was a big selling point in those days. Can you imagine?!?

There are also paddle boats on the Riverwalk. This would be fun to try someday.  Tomorrow, more pictures from our afternoon in Pueblo!

Salida, Part 2

Another post from our short stay in Salida over the weekend. This little town is truly centered around outdoorsy-ness. Monarch Mountain is only 20 miles away, so as soon as the snow comes, Salidans can ski or snowboard to their heart's content (or snowshoe, or snowmobile, or telemark, or...). And any time the weather's nice, it's all about the Arkansas River, which runs right next to their downtown. It's a great lifestyle!

Salida doggies appreciate the river too, as long as it's a sunny day and there's a stick to be fetched!

Salida, Part 1

Over the weekend, Pat and I went to Salida, about 100 miles away, so he could ski at Monarch Mountain. Since I'm not a skier, I spent yesterday afternoon enjoying the sun, wandering around Salida's pretty little downtown, reading a book by the Arkansas River, and people-watching. Salida has a laid-back and arty vibe. It's a lot like Manitou Springs, actually. Here are a few pictures of downtown, right next to the river.

Now hear this!

My final image from my afternoon at the Pueblo Riverwalk: these Canada geese were honking up a storm as I left. I couldn't resist capturing them in mid-honk!

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One last view of the Pueblo Riverwalk, looking east (I think). Wouldn't it be nice to have a suite in that building on the left? What a great location!

Water falls

A bird's eye view of one of the mandmade waterfalls at the Pueblo Riverwalk.

Enjoying the Pueblo Riverwalk

The Pueblo Riverwalk is a great place to bring the kids for some family time. These little guys really seemed to be enjoying the springlike weather last Saturday, blowing off steam and having a great time in general.

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A slow exposure of the Arkansas River in Salida (see yesterday's post). I dragged the shutter a bit to get this effect. In a few months, the river will be raging and the whitewater rafters will be out in full force. Pat and I plan on going whitewater rafting this summer, as I've never tried it. I can't wait!