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Painting the Town at Calhan

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Contributed by: Kimberly Hiebert on 6/16/2008

Moving to Falcon in August, we have just begun to discover the haunts of the area.

While looking at a topographical map of the area, hoping to find a lake nearby, I stumbled upon something called the "Paint Mines." Sounded interesting, was close, and was free.

Finding activities that we could do as a family that didn't cost money, has always been an adventure. So, we jumped in the car and headed for Calhan. What a cute town Calhan was, I remember. It reminded me of Castle Rock, when I was a younger girl, not at all like it is now.

Anyway, after speaking to a friend I stumbled upon while my kids played on the school playground, we headed to the "Mines." Arriving, not more than 5 minutes later, we pulled into the parking area and I was a little confused. It just looked like prairie land. The path, for the hike, was well groomed and we headed out.

Harrison, my son, was more concerned with chasing the native lizards, hoping to bring home a new pet. He didn't. Hadley, my daughter was more interested in quizzing my knowledge on the local geology, her passion. Luckily for me, they had a brochure that explained it all.

After walking about half a mile, I had to blink twice at what I was witnessing. Something my photographs don't do justice. It was the Paint Mines, beautiful pink, yellow and white rocks blended together in a way that only God could muster. According to the brochure, the colors are caused by oxidized iron compounds within the clay. With natural erosion, spires (hoodoos) are created.

Walking among the hoodoos I made sure to educate my children about not climbing on the rock and pointing out the vandalism of spray paint. God had created something so beautiful that has withstood hundreds of years and in a matter of minutes and a can of spray paint, it has been destroyed by thoughtless people.

Thankfully, it appears that someone has tried to gingerly remove the paint scars. We spent about half a day walking, and exploring. Be sure to bring water if you go, you could be walking a few miles.

On the way back to Falcon, we had to stop at this quaint ice cream-sandwich shop on the main street, "Country Shed". It is owned by the nicest lady, so accommodating and warm. We will return on this complete adventure soon, with other family members.

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Submitted By: Stephanie Johnson

posted on 6/25/2008 @ 5:51:29 PM

Rated Story

I visited the Paint Mines back in 2001 and long to return! What a breathtaking little hideaway, well worth the trip. Thanks for reminding me of this amazing piece of God's handiwork.

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Submitted By: Ingrid Mcdonald

posted on 6/18/2008 @ 7:18:42 PM

Rated Story

Well written. This area is a well kept treasure that the indians used in their daily lives. Thank you for shining a light on this nice family oriented getaway!

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CONTRIBUTOR INFO

Kimberly Hiebert

Falcon , CO

Kimberly Hiebert has posted 19 stories and 0 comments since joining on 7/24/2006. Kimberly Hiebert 's average story rating is 5.

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