A Quick History of Ute Pass

      Ute Pass, the oldest documented trail in the West, has been a route from the plains to the mountains for over 10,000 years. Studies of projectile points along the trail from Manitou Springs, at the foot of Pikes Peak, to South Park, 60 miles to the west, reveal Clovis points from ancient man to points made by the historic proprietors of Colorado--the Ute Indians. Spanish and American exlorers would follow the well-worn trail of the Utes. When gold was discovered in Colorado in 1858, thousands and thousands of prospectors followed the trail searching for riches. The Ute Pass Trail would become the first route for freighters hauling supplies to the gold mines. Ranchers and timber cutters would follow.    

      The first standard gauge railroad into the Rocky Mountains, The Colorado Midland Railway, would tunnel through Ute Pass on the way to Salt Lake City in 1887. Along this route world famous resort communities developed, grew, and prospered. For over a hundred years Ute Pass communities have continued to change, develop and grow. What hasn't changed is the breathtaking scenery, the cool mountain breeze, and the continual passage of man from mountain to plains. 

Product Details:

Copyright 1979 by Jan Pettit

Published by Little London Press

Paperback, 64 pages

Dimension: 5.5" x 8.5"

About the Author:

Jan Pettit was born in Hastings, Nebraska. Following in her grandmother's footsteps, she was among those who came to Colorado for their health and was cured. A resident of Colorado since 1945, Mrs. Pettit and her family have lived in Ute Pass since 1956. She organized the Ute Pass Historical Society in 1976, serving as Society president, and later as museum director during the development of the Pikes Peak Museum.