Jim Bishop and his castle are the definition of “Colorful Colorado.” Bishop, a lifelong Pueblo resident, acquired property off Colorado 165 as a teen in 1969 and used it to turn a dream into reality. The glass and stone structure has achieved national fame. A dragon head is at the center of soaring towers, which are connected by walkways that are not for the faint of heart. As much as the kids will love the free attraction, cover their ears if Bishop is around and on one of his profane rants.

Along the way

Stay: The Pine Lodge rents cabins nearby (18488 Colorado 165, Rye, 719-489-2686, thepinelodge.net).

Eat: Barbecue and ice cream at the old-school Obie’s Fillin’ Station (8900 S. Interstate 25, off exit 74 in Colorado City, 719-676-4227, obiesbbq.com).

Drink: Cowgirls pour cold ones in a rustic building at Three Sisters Tavern and Grill (6695 W. Colorado 165, 719-676-2276, threesisterstavern.com).

Fun: Lake San Isabel, just down the highway from the castle, is a great place to fish with the whole family. Or catch a show at Greenhorn Valley Players (2090 Main St., Rye, 719-489-2099).

Hidden gem: Near the lake, a trail into the forest leads to a natural water slide, where the stream rushes over smooth rocks. Browse the web or ask locals for directions.