The beautiful Colorado landscape is being scarred by a raging wildfire that is engulfing thousands of acres and destroying hundreds of homes. In the midst of it all is Poudre Canyon, a narrow canyon approximately 40 miles long. In my opinion, this stretch of land, on Colorado Hwy. 14 along the Poudre River, is one of the prettiest in the world.
Hwy 14 is currently closed due to the devestation caused by the High Park fire. To date over 56,000 acres have burned and close to 200 homes have been lost. At this time the fire is only 45% contained with no rain expected in the near future. This fire is now recognized as the largest and most devastating wildfire in Colorado’s history. It is of small conciliation but is noted however that this fire was started naturally by lightning instead of, as once feared, by human hands.
I was fortunate enough this past Fall to take a ride down the breathtaking Poudre Canyon on Colorado Hwy 14 from Walden, Co. to Hwy. 287 near Ft. Collins. This ride was absolutely amazing and the scenery was incredible.
During our trip we stayed in a small, rustic cabin along the Poudre River http://sportsmanslodgecolorado.com/. We then enjoyed the day hiking, riding, stopping along the river, enjoying the views and inhaling the freedom of unencumbered happiness.
We enjoyed breakfast along the Poudre River at the Mishawaka http://themishawaka.com/an amphitheatre/restaurant, and are looking forward to attending an open air concert there this summer. I have learned that, at this time, the Mishawaka is still standing but the concerts have been postponed until the end of June.
The people we met of the Poudre Canyon were open, friendly and absolutely lovely. It was a pleasure being a part of their world, if only for a short time.
In watching the residents on the news, after the devastating losses they are experiencing, I noticed that they were optimistic and thankful, thankful for their blessings and thankful to have been given the opportunity to live in such a remarkable, beautiful area.
I am full of admiration and respect for the people who have made their homes in these areas. I am ever appreciative for being able to enjoy this area before the fires swept through and though it may take years for the land to recover I am convinced that with the spirit and courage of the residents the love and reconstruction will return much sooner.
The small towns in Colorado have always inspired me with the openness and amiability of the people who call this area home. Their outlook on life is admirable and their values seem to be reflected in the areas they choose to live in and by the things that they place importance on.
Imagine having the opportunity to wake up daily seeing the beautiful Rocky Mountains, the rolling waters of their many rivers and streams and the chance to make this area your home. I ask myself… could there be a more satisfying life than living amongst some of these most amazing sights and sounds?
Today I count my blessings for having had the opportunity to visit this beautiful area and meet these brave, honorable people.
“The mountains are calling and I must go.”
~ John Muir
