Recreation

BIKING: Virtually every corner of the County offers roads and trails that beckon to the "fat-tire" folks. The area's history of mining and logging has resulted in an extensive network of unpaved roads ranging from near-highways to bone-jarring wagon roads that date back nearly 130years. A number of Forest Service trails (except those in wilderness and wilderness study areas) are also accessible to mountain bikes. Through the efforts of public agencies and volunteers, further development of mountain bike routes is ongoing. A detailed list of mountain bike opportunities in South Park would be far too long for this space. Many people enjoy planning their on outings anyway. A little study of a Pike and/or San Isabel National Forest map will suggest a variety of road and trail rides from five miles to fifty-plus, many of which can be loop tours. Biking Tips For The High Country: Biking in the mountains should be approached in the same way as you would hiking or backpacking. Don't go solo. Be prepared for anything and everything. Carry extra clothing, shelter, snacks and water, rain gear, a first aid kit and a repair kit for your bike. Get in shape before you tackle the hills. Preparation could mean the difference between a fantastic experience or the ride from hell. There is an excellent booklet called "Take A Ride In The Park" which was produced by and available through Gary Nichols and Park County Tourism Department by calling (719)836-4279. The Fairplay Forest Service Office can be reached for more information at (719)836-2031.

CAMPING: Camping choices are nearly unlimited in the South Park Area. There are three state parks, Antero Reservoir, Tarryall Reservoir, and Elevenmile Reservoir. The Pike and San Isabel National Forests offer several "developed" campgrounds as well as the opportunity to find your own "undeveloped" camping spot. We advise you to come prepared for cold weather any month of the year. Summer evening temperatures can drop to as low as 40degrees Farenheit at any time with snowfall also a possibility. R.V. Parks in Fairplay include the South Park Lodge in Fairplay (836-3278) the Western Inn (836-2026) Fairplay, or Western Safari Ranch outside of Fairplay (836-2431) Campgrounds Como area: Selkirk Campground Campgrounds Jefferson area: Kenosha Pass Campground, Lost Park Campground, Spruce Grove Campground, Lost Creek Wilderness, Michigan Creek Campground, Jefferson Creek Campground, Lodgepole Campground, Aspen Campground Campgrounds Alma area: Kite Lake Campground Campgrounds Fairplay area: Beaver Creek campground, Horseshoe Campground, Fourmile Campground, Weston Pass Campground. For maps and more information contact the U.S. Forest Service Office in Fairplay at (719)836-2031

HUNTING: Wildlife is abundant in South Park whether you hunt with rifle, bow, or camera. Through the care and expertise of the Colorado Division of Wildlife, the area's fauna will remain plentiful and healthy for years to come. Because of careful game management programs, South Park boasts some of the state's finest deer and elk hunting. Antelope are abundant as well as bear, mountain lion, and the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep and are available in limited seasons and with limited license issuances. Licenses for hunting in South Park are limited in number and applications must be filed well in advance for each of the four hunting districts within the Park. Hunting and fishing licenses are available at Even in the End Sporting goods in Fairplay For more information please call the Division of Wildlife at (303)297-1192

FISHING: South Park has some of the finest fishing in the state, both in it's reservoirs, high country lakes, and in its miles of Gold Medal streams. Recent surveys indicate that the areas variety of excellent fishing opportunities are the largest attraction in bring people to our area.

Jefferson Lake, Fairplay Beach, Jefferson Creek, Kite Lake, Michigan Creek, Fourmile Creek, Elevenmile Reservoir, Tarryall Creek, Antero Reservoir, South Fork of South Platte, Tarryall Reservoir, Spinney Reservoir, Middle Fork South Platte, Wheeler Lakes, Montgomery Reservoir, Tomahawk area

GOLD MEDAL WATER: at the confluence o the South Fork and Middle Fork of the Platte River to Spinney Mountain Reservoir is all Gold Medal water. Only flies and lures permitted. MORE GOLD MEDAL WATER: the stretch of the river between Spinney Mountain Reservoir and Elevenmile Reservoir is a catch and release area. Rainbow, browns and cutthroat in the three to seven pound class are common. This is an excellent area for fly fishing. Please contact the Colo. Division of Wildlife ((719)473-2945) or U.S. Forest Service in Fairplay (719)836-2031 for more information and restrictions.

HIKING: South Park offers a variety of trails for hiking or backpacking for the beginner to the expert. The four peaks of Mt. Lincoln, Mt. Democrat, Mt. Bross and Mt. Sherman will put you over 14,000 feet in elevation. Many of the trails offer camping and fishing as well. For maps and more information contact the U.S. Forest Service at (719)836- 2031

HORSEBACK RIDING: If you are fortunate enough to be able to trailer your own horses in, the Park is yours to ride. If you need to rent a horse, try C&M outfitters at (719)836-3388 or Western Safari Ranch at (719)836-2431.

SELF-GUIDED CAR TOURS: Six new car tours of historic areas in the National Forest are being produced by the Forest Service Office in Fairplay. Tour areas include Weston Pass, Boreas Pass, Mosquito Pass, Buckskin Gulch and the Fourmile Area. Historical significance of the areas range from early ranching, mining, ghost towns and cemeteries. Areas of significance along the tours are noted by numbered wagon wheel shaped signs that correspond to the narrative in the brochures. These brochures can be picked up at the Forest Service Office in Fairplay located at Highway 9 and Highway 285.

WINTER SPORTS: Miles of snow blanketed slopes will give you a wide range of thrills, and, regardless of the kind of sport that takes you there, you will return at night with that outward and inward glow that makes you know it's good to be alive. The US Forest Service in Fairplay can supply you with information and maps for snowmobiling and cross country skiing. Fairplay also offers groomed trails at the Fairplay Nordic Center, complete with equipment rentals and lessons. Groomed trails run over 22 kilometers for beginners to experts. For more information contact (719)836-2658.

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