Mount Falcon Open Space Park (West Access) - Indian Hills, CO
N 39° 38.165 W 105° 14.345
13S E 479484 N 4387394
Historic sites and scenic vistas await park visitors.
Waymark Code: WMEDD2
Location: Colorado, United States
Date Posted: 05/11/2012
Views: 5
The present multi-use trails lead to historic sites and scenic vistas throughout the park.
These trails lead from the plains at the east end of the park, up the foothills on a narrow road which once carried Stanley Steamers, and through forests and meadows to the many points of interest at the top.
History -
The story of Mount Falcon is largely the story of John Brisben Walker, who once owned over 4,000 acres of land in this area. During the early 1900's Walker lived in an elaborate stone house on Mount Falcon while planning the construction of a summer home for the Presidents of the United States, which was to have been located on a ridge to the east of his home. Walker's home burned in 1918, and all that remains of this once splendid edifice are the massive stone walls and numerous fireplaces of a unique mountain castle.
On this site the crumbling remnants of a broken dream and the views of the plains to the east and mountains to the west combine to create an inspirational setting. The construction of the Summer White House never proceeded beyond the laying of the foundation and cornerstone, though thousands of Colorado school children each donated 10 cents toward Walker's dream. American involvement in W.W. I, combined with a waning of Walker's good fortunes, brought an end to this project. From the site of the Summer White House one may look down on Red Rocks Park, one of Walker's dreams come true.
Trailhead/trail website: [Web Link]
Trail allowances or restrictions:
Allowances: leashed dogs, horses, bicycles
Restrictions: hunting, off-road vehicles, camping, fires, collection of natural resources
Trail type: Hard-packed dirt, crushed gravel, some rock outcroppings
Parking: Not Listed
|
Visit Instructions:
To claim a log for this waymark, some proof of a visit is required. This proof could be a simple photo of their GPS at the trailhead, a photo of the person at the trailhead, or a photo of a signature item that a person uses for photographs, at the trailhead.
In order to help other waymarkers who are looking for a nice hike/walk outdoors, you are encouraged to provide good feedback about the quality of the hike/trail.