2022-12-03 10:16:46
Walking through this quiet town, it’s hard to believe Julesburg was once the most wicked city in the West. Tucked in the state’s northeast corner, Julesburg holds history at a crossroads for explorers, farmers and gold-seekers. Hit up the Colorado Welcome Center for maps, brochures and tales of how Julesburg was burned to the ground in the 1860s. After the town was rebuilt, the Union Pacific Railroad moved in. The population soared to 4,000 and Julesburg sprouted saloons and dance halls — and some interesting characters. At Fort Sedgwick Museum, artifacts tell of this gritty era when gamblers, cowboys and railroad workers ruled what many referred to as the most wicked city in the West. The Union Pacific Railroad Depot Museum also reveals relics from this time. Walk part of the 19-mile South Platte River Trail, peppered with Pony Express stops and pioneer landmarks. Bring your binoculars: Sightings of warblers, vireos and other birds are highly likely. The two harvest seasons — July for wheat and October for corn and sugar beets — promote excellent hunting conditions as well. Stop by the Julesburg Family Market for a hunting license and directions, or to enjoy the abundant wildlife found along the river and among the fields. Many visitors also come for excellent tailwater fly-fishing on the South Platte throughout the year. Join the race fans flocking to the Julesburg Drag Strip, a launch pad for hot rods that dates back to the late 1950s when the Platte Valley Customs Club started the local tradition.
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