Like any surburban area, Colorado has its own set of myths that float around from time to time. Today, we’ll find out if Colorado is actually mostly made of mountains. We’ll see if Garden of the Gods Park got its name due to sacred origins of the land and cover how much of Denver is physically located in the mountains. Finally, is the home of Bigfoot on Pikes Peak, or was the legend created mainly to encourage people to get out and experience their own Bigfoot sightings?
Myth 1: Denver is located in the mountains
Not exactly true. A lot of folks think that Denver is located in the mountains, but it’s actually more like the mountains are its backyard. It’s not the town closest to the Rockies—places like Boulder and Colorado Springs are snuggled up closer. But, Denver’s got this cool spot as a starting point for all sorts of outdoor fun and affordable upscale lodging options. You can hit the ski slopes, go hiking, or check out places like Rocky Mountain National Park pretty easily. Plus, the view of the mountains from Denver? Absolutely stunning. It’s a big part of why people love it here, giving you that perfect mix of city life with a side of nature’s best.
Myth 2: Colorado is filled with mountains
Not quite true. When people think about Colorado, they often picture it as filled completely with mountains. Some areas make it feel like this, but not all parts of the state are actually mountain land. A large portion of Colorado is the eastern high plains, which accounts for almost 40% of the state. The flatlands include the Great Plains which also has special spots like the Pawnee National Grasslands. These areas might not have the Rockies’ dramatic allure but they’re beautiful in their own right, with wide open spaces and lots of nature to explore. Plus, sometimes a flatter walk is just as rewarding as a vigorous hike. The lowest point in Colorado (the state’s eastern border with Kansas), stands at 3,315 feet above sea level. This elevation is still higher up than the lowest point in any other state in the U.S. So, even the “flat” parts of Colorado are pretty high up, even though they’re not technically mountains.
Myth 3: The Garden of the Gods Park was named after its sacred origins
Not completely true. The origin of Garden of the Gods Park’s name is a fascinating story that debunks popular misconceptions about its sacred connotations. Contrary to beliefs that the name Garden of the Gods reflects a spiritual significance, the name emerged from a light-hearted exchange between two land surveyors. During a survey, the beauty of the area prompted a whimsical suggestion of it being an apt setting for a “Biergarten”. However, this notion was quickly elevated by the other surveyor, who felt that the site’s grandeur was more suited for divine gatherings, hence the name “Garden of the Gods.” This tale underscores the blend of natural wonder and human humor in naming one of America’s most picturesque landscapes. While there weren’t confirmed sacred origins, it’s best to refer to the original source of information.
Myth 4: There have been many Bigfoot sightings on Pikes Peak
Not exactly true. The belief that Bigfoot lives on Pikes Peak in Colorado is fueled by a series of rumored Bigfoot sightings and reports, particularly in Pike National Forest and along Pikes Peak, dating back decades. The phenomenon has been taken seriously enough for local authorities to install a “Bigfoot Crossing” sign on Pikes Peak Highway after a notable report in 1990, further embedding the legend into local lore. These sightings and the local response have contributed to the intrigue and speculation surrounding the presence of Bigfoot in this area.
This whole Bigfoot mystery really makes you think about getting out there to see what’s around us. It’s like a call to adventure, asking everyone, whether you live here or are just visiting, to dive into the secrets and cool secrets that Colorado has to offer. Who knows what you’ll find?
FAQ
Garden of the Gods was named during an 1859 survey by M.S. Beach, who suggested it would be a “capital place for a beer garden.” His companion, Rufus Cable, awestruck by its beauty, declared, “Beer garden! It is a fit place for the gods to assemble. We will call it the Garden of the Gods.”
The existence of Bigfoot, a legendary creature reported in many cultures, remains unproven. Despite numerous sightings and tales, scientific evidence like bones or DNA to conclusively prove Bigfoot’s existence is lacking. The debate continues, fueled by fascination and anecdotal report.
Denver is not a mountain town. It’s located on the High Plains, east of the Rocky Mountains, at an elevation of 5,280 feet. Known as the “Mile High City,” Denver enjoys proximity to mountains but is not situated within them, offering a blend of urban and natural landscapes.
No, Colorado is not made up only of mountains. While the state is renowned for the Rocky Mountains, it also features diverse landscapes including the eastern High Plains, the central Colorado Plateau, and the western Great Plains, offering a mix of terrains from flatlands to rugged peaks.
No confirmed Bigfoot sightings in the Pikes Peak area have been scientifically validated. Reports and anecdotal evidence exist, but without verifiable proof, such sightings remain part of local folklore and the subject of speculation.
To wrap things up, it’s clear that some myths about Denver and Colorado have a way of sticking around. The idea that Colorado is just an endless stretch of mountains, for example, doesn’t quite capture the state accurately. It is the perfect backdrop for tales of Bigfoot sightings or other rumors about forest monstors to run wild, though. And despite Denver’s “Mile High City” nickname suggesting the city is perched in the mountains, it turns out that’s not actually the case. It’s these kinds of misconceptions that show there’s so much more to explore and understand about this beautiful state and its vibrant capital. Venture out into the unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, from majestic mountains to serene plains.