Woodland Park is Teller County’s most populous city, and it serves as a great base camp for things to do around the Pikes Peak area living up to its nickname of ‘the city above the clouds.’ With plenty of opportunities to find great hiking and mountain biking trails, and even visit some wolves, Woodland Park also has an interesting history.

History:

Originally called Manitou Park and briefly referred to as Belmont, Woodland Park was officially incorporated in 1891. According to Teller County, it is the most populous city in the county. The town was built along the Midland Railroad tracks and quickly found by tuberculosis patients looking for a place to get better.

Woodland Park grew in popularity with the opening of the Harvey House in 1890, drawing in pleasure seekers and train passengers.

It was once a Wild West frontier, and is now sometimes referred to as “The City Above the Clouds,” serving as a tourist gateway near Colorado Springs.

Outdoor recreation:

Rainbow Gulch Trail — this 2.6-mile trail begins just outside Rampart Reservoir and leads to the reservoir through the forest.

Mueller State Park — this state park features over 5,117 acres for camping, hiking, wildlife viewing, and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter and it’s not too far from Woodland Park.

Rampart Range Road – offers excellent opportunities for off-highway vehicle riders to enjoy.

Gold Camp Road — trails branching off this road are popular among those for ATV and 4×4 enthusiasts.

Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center — this sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue and education of wolves and wolf-hybrids and is located in nearby Divide.

Culture:

Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center — this museum is dedicated to fossils from the Cretaceous Period, which include marine reptiles, pterosaurs and dinosaurs.

Ute Pass Cultural Center — this event venue was converted from a 1936 schoolhouse into the venue it is today.

Ute Pass Historical Society — features historic buildings, exhibits, photographs and more.

Mountain Arts Festival — this art exhibition held in Memorial Park usually takes place in August, and showcases work from local and national artists including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry and mixed media.

Symphony Above the Clouds — presented by the Ute Pass Symphony Guild, this concert takes place in July and combines live symphony, music, fireworks and the cannons of Fort Carson.

Dining:

Boards & Barrels Bistro & Whiskey House — serves up American comfort dishes with a “thoughtful, elevated twist.”

Judge’s Char-Grill — this family-owned restaurant offers a casual atmosphere and offers a variety of dishes.

Red Diamond Gastro Pub — offers burgers, sandwiches and more.

Lodging:

Pikes Peak Paradise Bed and Breakfast – offers personalized stays in a secluded location with incredible views.

Eagle Fire Lodge & Cabins — this unique mountain lodge features a mix of cozy cabins, lodge rooms and luxurious suites.

Woodland Country Lodge — located in the heart of Woodland Park, this place offers a family-friendly retreat.

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Woodland Park – offers visitors a more traditional stay.

Getting there:

According to Google Maps, it takes about two hours to drive from Denver to Woodland Park.

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