2016-12-22 05:06:19
Our peaceful northeast corner stretches out into plains known for an unhurried rural pace in Sterling, Brush and Fort Morgan. MORNING Visit the parks that pepper Sterling and you’ll see why the town was christened the “City of the Living Trees.” In a creative act of environmentalism, artist Bradford Rhea gave diseased cottonwoods new life in the 1980s when he turned soon-to-be-chopped trees into intricate Bible-influenced sculptures — see the 16-foot-tall “Skygrazers” at Columbine Park. The town also boasts the largest display of bronze artwork in northeast Colorado, with several new sculptures added this year. OVERLAND TRAIL MUSEUM, MILES/ANDREA BUROLLA The downtown district features 54 historic buildings, many of which are adorned by murals paying homage to the area’s history and culture. Get a look at life on the range at the Overland Trail Museum (1), dedicated to the branch of the Oregon Trail that weaved through northeast Colorado and is said to be the most heavily traveled road in the world from 1862–68. Walk the Overland Trail Recreation Area to see wildlife, a fishing pond and a new picnic pavilion. AFTERNOON North Sterling State Park is a relaxing juxtaposition of high plains and bluffs. Fish the stocked lake’s 3,000 uncrowded acres for rainbow trout, set up camp in one of its sites, search for soaring bald eagles or walk 6 miles of trails. Spend time on the birding trails north and south of the town of Brush or follow the footsteps and wagon tracks of Plains Indians and frontiersmen along the Pawnee Pioneer Trail. The 135-mile scenic and historic byway leads to Pawnee National Grassland, a popular birding and wildlife area. Trek around the 300-foottall Pawnee Buttes and take advantage of the striking photo ops the sandstone formations create within the landscape. EVENING As you migrate toward Fort Morgan, be sure to stop at the historic Rainbow Arch Bridge. The only one of its kind in Colorado, the architectural gem radiates simple beauty along the South Platte River. Roam Fort Morgan’s revamped pedestrian-friendly downtown, and then head to the Fort Morgan Museum for a nod to the region’s farming, ranching and military roots with newly renovated and expanded exhibits. In addition to American Indian exhibits and 1920s soda fountain culture, the museum pays tribute to local star Glenn Miller, a major player in American Big Band music. STAY & PLAY OPTIONS Brush (page 198), Fort Morgan (page 204), Orchard (page 210) , Sterling (page 213)
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