A look at Trinidad Lake near Trinidad.

Description: Campers might set up base to explore enticements surrounding the park, situated between the historic Santa Fe Trail and the Highway of Legends. Or campers might stay put in this peaceful paradise, where pine-covered hills rise and grasslands span either side of the lake. Visitors partake in water sports or explore 9 miles of trail through terrains low and high, with mountain vistas from flat plains and rocky cliffs.

Activities: Boating, water/jet skiing, sail/paddle sports, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, geocaching, snowshoeing/cross-country skiing, archery range.

Wildlife: Elk, mule deer, coyotes and cottontail rabbits; various birds including roadrunners, pinyon jay and broad-tailed hummingbirds; rainbow and brown trout, crappie, walleye, bass, bluegill, catfish.

Fun fact: Geologists are drawn to the park for its premier place along the K-T Boundary, the highl -sought layer of sediment storing before-and-after evidence of the dinosaur extinction.

Address: 32610 Colorado 12, Trinidad 81082

Contact: 719-846-6951, [email protected]

Hours: Office 8 a.m.-4 p.m., 24-hour self-service

Directions: On Interstate 25 south, take exit 13B for Main Street in Trinidad. At four-way stop, take left onto Nevada. At next intersection, head west onto Highway of Legends and continue 3 miles to park entrance.

Seth Boster, The Gazette