Water Damage Restoration in Colorado Springs, CO

A longtime favorite restaurant for Chinese food in downtown Colorado Springs will shutter its doors at month’s end.

China Town Restaurant at 326 S. Nevada Ave. will close at the end of December, owner Eva Zhang said. Zhang rents the space in the building, which was constructed in 1963. It has operated as China Town Restaurant for more than 50 years, the last 24 under Zhang.

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Though she has not announced the closure on the restaurant’s Facebook page, which acts as its official company website, Zhang has been informing customers personally when they come to dine.

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“A lot of them have said they are sad (about the closure) because they’ve been coming here so long. We have people who used to come to eat here as children, and now they visit with their spouses,” she said. Customers on Facebook and Google have given overall rave reviews, praising the restaurant’s “delicious” food and high-quality service. Popular menu items include Americanized Chinese dishes such as orange chicken and other staples like Mongolian beef, fried rice, lo mein and egg drop soup.

Zhang said her building lease is up at the end of the year and she decided not to renew her contract for several reasons: a near doubling of her monthly rent, difficulty hiring employees and increasing food costs.

“Everything is expensive,” she said. “What used to be $18 for a case of eggs is now $65 a case. Beef and other meats that used to be $4 a pound are now $8 a pound.”

Zhang said she’s increased menu prices to help offset her business costs, but wanted to be mindful that most people’s wallets have been hit by inflation in recent years. As a result, her revenue margins are thin, she said.

She doesn’t have immediate plans to reopen China Town Restaurant in another location and is looking forward to a brief pause from her work.

She doesn’t expect her time off to be too long, though.

“I need something to do. If I do open another Chinese restaurant, it will be a small one,” she said.

Practically begging you to take its picture minutes from both Manitou Springs and Colorado Springs, this 35-foot, 1.4-million-pound red rock is free to visit, photograph, and appreciate. Located near the southern entrance of the Garden of the Gods, Balanced Rock is an enormous, roadside sandstone boulder, which is frankly a natural piece of art.

With one look at the formation, it is very easy to see why this tourist attraction has been deemed “Balanced” Rock. The 700-ton spectacle juts out from a small base area and appears to be balancing above its surroundings. Faintly layered with different reddish hues, Balanced Rock is made up of hematite, coarse sand, silica, and gravel.

History and Cultural Significance

Like the other striking features within Garden of the Gods, Balanced Rock was formed by the uplift of the Rocky Mountains combined with erosion over millions and millions of years. Balanced Rock is located across the road from the additionally picturesque Steamboat Rock, with the pair of features sharing two, often crowded parking areas.

Due to the precariousness, many visitors wonder whether or not Balanced Rock will topple to the ground. While some concrete has been added to its base to prevent damage from tourists, most people believe that Balanced Rock is “rock solid” and would likely only fall down in the event of a large earthquake or another catastrophic event.

As one of the most popular attractions in Colorado Springs, visitors are encouraged to be respectful both of each other and of the natural wonder that is Balanced Rock. Before your visit, please note that drones are not permitted in the Garden of the Gods, and parking is only allowed in designated spaces

Millions of years in the making, Balanced Rock became a paid tourist attraction in the 1890s when a family bought the land, put up a fence, and began charging 25 cents to see the iconic formation. Joining the rest of the Garden of the Gods as a free attraction decades later, charged entry for Balanced Rock ceased in 1932 when the land was sold to the City of Colorado Springs.

Since the advent of the camera, Balanced Rock has been the subject of countless tourist photographs with popular poses like “holding up” or “pushing” the sandstone feature captured by visitors every day. Balanced Rock has also made its way into media many times over the last century, both in artwork and business.

For example, Balanced Rock was a central feature in this above-featured commercial for Resse’s Puffs Cereal in the 1990s.

How to Get to Balanced Rock in the Garden of the Gods

Beginning at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, Balanced Rock is located approximately 3 miles into the park. Heading west towards the Central Gardens, take a right onto the Juniper Way Loop, circle the rock features, and eventually bear a right onto Garden Drive. Follow Garden Drive for about 1 mile and Balanced Rock will be on the right side of the road.

Alternatively, it is very easy to get to Balanced Rock via the park’s southern entrance, located near US 24 in Manitou Springs. From Manitou Ave (Business Route 24), cross over Fountain Creek on Beckers Ln, take a left on El Paso Blvd, and a right on Garden Drive. Once you’re in the park, Balanced Rock is just ahead, less than half of a mile on the left.

Details

Address: Balanced Rock, Garden Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

County: El Paso County

Coordinates: 38.864766, -104.897439

Access: Paved roads

Fee: None

Hours: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm (10:00 pm in the summer)

Season: Year-round

Website: gardenofgods.com

Buc-ee's, the Texas-based travel center chain with a cult-like following, plans to bring its popular beaver nuggets, dozens of fuel pumps and self-described world's cleanest bathrooms to the Pikes Peak region, just north of Colorado Springs.

A proposal submitted to the town of Palmer Lake, north of Colorado Springs, has started a process that could lead to the annexation of roughly 25 acres southwest of Interstate 25 and County Line Road.

That's where Buc-ee's plans to build a 74,000-square-foot travel center that would match the size of its first Colorado location that opened in March in Johnstown, north of Denver, Stan Beard, the chain's real estate and development director, said Monday.

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"We love Colorado," Beard said. "We've had a really good experience with our Johnstown store. ... This site, on the same freeway (Interstate 25), is about an hour south of Denver and so it's a good separation for us.

"The state of Colorado has our kind of folks, travelers, going from one fun place to another to enjoy their summers and winters and we want to be right there in the middle of it so they can come enjoy our clean restrooms and really good barbecue," he said.

Buc-ee's often seeks out small communities on the edge of a large metro area, Beard said. In the case of Palmer Lake, the site at I-25 and County Line Road will offer Buc-ee's high visibility, with "80,000 cars zooming back and forth in front of it," he said.

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Palmer Lake officials have been welcoming in initial conversations about the travel center proposal, Beard said.

The project would mean an increase in local sales tax revenues, while Buc-ee's is prepared to help pay for improvements to the town's water system that will serve the travel center site, he said.

"I would hope and I'd kind of believe at the end of the day that the city leadership is going to see that this is a needle mover for them, this is a game changer for the town of Palmer Lake," Beard said.

Buc-ee's also has begun talks with the Colorado Department of Transportation and El Paso County officials over potential upgrades that will be needed at the I-25 and County Line Road intersection to accommodate travel center traffic, he said.

Buc-ee's has contracted to purchase the I-25 and County Line Road site, Beard said; El Paso County land records show the property is owned by a Colorado Springs limited liability company. In a best-case scenario, Buc-ee's would hope to begin construction on the travel center in a year, he said.

When it opens, Buc-ee's would expect to employ about 175 to 225 full-time employees — workers who receive health coverage, paid vacation, a 401(k) and other benefits, Beard said. Starting pay for workers in Johnstown is $18 to $20 an hour, he said.

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Founded in 1982, Buc-ee’s has just 50 locations in 16 states, with the bulk of them in Texas. Even so, it's gained a sizable following among visitors who often see Buc-ee's as part of their road trip and even a tourist attraction.

Its mammoth travel centers — roughly 30 times larger than some convenience stores — offer a wide variety of fresh food, snacks, gifts, apparel, toys and other items. The chain's walking beaver mascot is a popular figure with visitors, while its super-sized washrooms — the Johnstown location has 34 stalls for women, 17 for men and 19 urinals — have daylong attendants to make sure they're clean and in what Buc-ee's calls "pristine" condition for travelers.

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"Ninety percent of our customers know that they're coming to a Buc-ee's before they ever get into their car," Beard said. "We are part of the trip. If you’re going to stop at Royal Gorge (the scenic Arkansas River canyon near Cañon City), also on your list is going to be the stop at Buc-ee's."

And something else that sets Buc-ee's apart: It's not a truck stop and doesn't accommodate 18-wheel, tractor trailers, Beard said.

"Those are different people," he said of the truck-driving crowd. "Our people are not truck drivers."

Before Buc-ee's moves forward, however, it still needs regulatory approvals from Palmer Lake officials.

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Palmer Lake's board of trustees last month was presented with a petition for annexation from the I-25 and County Line Road property owner — a first step in a process that could lead to the town's annexation of the Buc-ee's location.

The board has scheduled a Dec. 12 hearing when it would determine the site's eligibility for annexation and whether the property owner could then move forward with the annexation process, Palmer Lake Mayor Glant Havenar said in a Facebook post. The hearing isn't to annex the land, she stressed in response to questions from area residents.

If the property owner is determined at the Dec. 12 hearing to be eligible to move forward on the annexation, a series of community meetings likely would be triggered where the public can learn more about the proposal, she said.

"This process could be followed by an eventual annexation hearing, which is also open for public input," Havenar said in her post. "As reiterated, we do not yet know if the annexation request will be granted to proceed, but we are required to hold a hearing to ascertain eligibility."

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Town officials can't comment at this time on the possible pros and cons of the Buc-ee's proposal, she added.

Because the Buc-ee's site isn't contiguous to Palmer Lake, it would require a so-called flagpole annexation. Under that sometimes controversial method, Palmer Lake would need to annex land along a street or road that would serve as the "pole" or connection to reach the larger desired parcel, or "flag," that's targeted for annexation.

As word spread on social media sites about the Buc-ee's proposal, some residents weren't happy.

One Facebook commenter complained that Buc-ee's would "further destroy the beautiful area in the name of greed." Another commenter feared it would increase traffic congestion and become an eyesore.

For the most part, Beard said he had no response to the criticisms. The chain, however, has scheduled a meeting for 6 p.m. Dec. 3 at Palmer Lake Elementary School, 115 Upper Glenway Road, to present details of its plan to area residents.

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"It's a commercially zoned tract on an interstate in between Colorado Springs and Denver," Beard said of the proposed Buc-ee's site. "I mean, 95% of our customers will get off of that freeway, go into our store and get back on that freeway. So the impact to the physical town of Palmer Lake will be, I'd hate to say non-existent, but pretty close."

Unlike Denver, Colorado Springs isn’t known for its easy access to world-class ski resorts. However, the second most populated city in Colorado still boasts several skiing and snowboarding areas within a two-and-a-half hour’s drive.

Several decades ago there was even a local ski hill in the Springs by the Broadmoor, aptly called Ski Broadmoor. It was closed by Vail in 1991. Today the closest ski area to Colorado Springs by mileage is Breckenridge Ski Resort.

It’s interesting to note though that the only ski resort on our list that isn’t closer to Denver than the Springs is Monarch Mountain. COS is a cool thirty minutes closer to the mountain.

Whether you live in Colorado Springs or use it as a base for your winter vacation, you’ll find some outstanding ski resorts within a reasonable day trip. Several ski areas require a detour around Denver for speed’s sake, which is advantageous for those looking to visit the Mile High City. We’ve noted which mountains are shorter via Denver if you wish to avoid Interstate 70.

You can also take US-24 west to CO-9 north to Summit County to access the county’s resorts and only add minor time, which could be faster on a traffic-heavy weekend. No matter the route you choose, be sure you’re well prepared for winter weather driving.

Here are the closest ski resorts near Colorado Springs, in order of driving mileage: (the ones that are fastest going north to Denver are indicated)

Breckenridge Ski Resort – 107 miles | 2 h 13 min

Aside from Breckenridge, all Summit County resorts are slightly faster going I-25 to Denver first, then I-70 west. Whereas Breck is fastest via US-24 from Colorado Springs, avoiding I-70 completely. From Breckenridge, you can access the rest of Summit County’s winter playgrounds with only minimal extra time.

If you have an Epic or Epic Local Pass this resort is an outstanding place to ski. The mountains are spread over 5 peaks, named 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Most ease down into the base area as groomed beginner runs but rise high above the treeline into skiing bowls, chutes, and steeps to explore.

There are a variety of chairlifts throughout to take you to the different points and keep you mid-mountain or higher. Because of the resort’s 2K+ of skiable acres, all levels of riders are well accommodated here.

1599 County Rd 3, Breckenridge, CO 80424 | 970-453-5000 | breckenridge.com

Eldora Mountain Resort – 115 miles | 2 h 15 min (north to Denver)

Tucked in the north to the west of Boulder, you might be surprised to find this one is so close to the Springs. As one of Denver’s closest ski areas, it’s also one of Colorado Springs’ closest. Eldora bypasses I-70 traffic out of Denver, another reason to consider it for a day of skiing.

It’s a good option for the day if you’re looking for a smaller family mountain with reasonable pricing and enough time to explore Denver en route. There’s no lodging at the base, but plenty of services for skiers and restaurants to relax in.

With 680 acres, there is a sizable amount of terrain to work with for all levels. Experts have some fast cruisers and steeps off inbound gates by the summit overlook. Over 2/3 of the runs are greens and blues, so beginners have plenty of space to practice.

2861 Eldora Ski Rd, Nederland | 303-440-8700 | eldora.com

Loveland Ski Area – 120 miles | 2 h (north to Denver)

The above treeline scenery at Loveland is among the best in Colorado skiing. With more than 1,600 acres of terrain, visitors get access to a huge variety of slopes and trails. You’ll find everything from tree and bowl skiing to a beginner’s learning hill in the Valley.

The trip from the Springs is the fastest via Denver due to Loveland’s location on the east side of the Continental Divide. With a base elevation of 10,800 feet, Loveland does get its fair share of windy, cold days. But it’s also blessed with the same sunny weather Colorado touts and around 400 inches of snow on average.

The top chairlift peaks at 12,700 feet and there’s also the option of traversing, hiking, or using a resort-run snowcat to take you higher to a summit of 13,010 feet. Note that Loveland lacks express lifts, so it takes a bit longer to reach your destination.

Exit 216 Interstate 70, Dillon | 800-736-3754 | skiloveland.com

Keystone – 120 miles | 2 h 33 min (north to Denver)

As Breck’s closest neighboring resort, Keystone boasts a world-class winter playground on its different mountains. It can be accessed slightly faster via Denver, pending traffic. The alternative route out of Colorado Springs connects US-24 and CO-9 with some gorgeous views.

Part of the Epic Pass, the mountain has 20 lifts and 130 trails to choose from. Of the 3,000 skiable acres, about half of it is categorized as ‘most difficult’, so this is a great spot for more experienced riders.

There’s more than just typical skiing at Keystone though. The resort also hosts the largest night skiing in the state, available on select nights throughout the winter. There’s a tubing hill on Dercum Mountain and a couple of ice skating lakes, with one being the largest maintained outdoor rink in North America.

22101 US Hwy 6, Keystone | 970-496-4386 | keystoneresort.com

Monarch Mountain Ski Resort – 123 miles | 2 h 27 min

Like the rest of southern Colorado’s ski resorts, Monarch Mountain is also a shorter drive from Colorado Springs than from Denver. The Colorado Springs locals and southern Front Range folks love the uncrowded slopes, consistent snow, and low pricing.

800 acres might not sound like a lot compared to others on the list, but it’s sufficient enough to burn your legs out on new trails all day long. Monarch has a healthy vertical of 1,652 feet and a hike-able summit for expert powder stashes.

There are amenities at the base, but no lodging. The closest town is Salida, which you can hit in under 30 minutes by driving east from the resort’s free parking lots.

23715 West U.S. Highway 50, Salida | 719-530-5000 | skimonarch.com

Arapahoe Basin Ski Resort – 130 miles | 2 h 12 min (north to Denver)

Situated in Summit County, this Colorado favorite is loved for its epically long season and chill vibes. From the Springs you’ll probably be best off going through Denver first, but you do have the option of driving through Breck and Keystone to A Basin.

Either way, intermediate and expert skiers will be rewarded with a challenging mountain, stunning views, and reasonable pricing. In addition to seven distinct mountain areas to shred, Montezuma Bowl adds hundreds of acres of bowl terrain to explore.

Arapahoe Basin has bounced around a bit with regards to which season pass it’s on, but currently, it is part of the IKON pass along with Copper Mountain, Winter Park, Eldora, Steamboat Springs, and Aspen/Snowmass. The base area has a restaurant, bar, gift shop, and rentals. There’s no lodging at the mountain, but nearby Keystone, Dillon, Silverthorne, and Frisco have plenty of options.

28194 US Hwy 6, Dillon | 888-272-7246 | arapahoebasin.com

Winter Park Ski Resort – 132 miles | 2 h 18 min (north to Denver)

Another northern non-Summit County resort, Winter Park isn’t too far for an overnighter. You’re still destined for a Denver detour and stretch of I-70 though.

As you head up Berthoud Pass a little past Idaho Springs, Winter Park Resort has two interconnected mountains, Winter Park and Mary Jane. The former is amazing for families and those learning the ropes, while Mary Janes boasts bowl skiing and glorious glades.

3,000+ acres and a Mary Jane high of 12,060 feet means you’ll be in for a treat with skiable terrain. Ride a considerable vertical drop of 2,610 feet from the top of Mary Jane to the bottom.

Ski your way to Winter Park Village, a charming modern mountain village geared towards families. There’s plenty of lodging here if you choose to spend the night, as well as restaurants and shopping to peruse.

85 Parsenn Rd, Winter Park | 970-726-5514 | winterparkresort.com

Ski Cooper – 137 miles | 2 h 40 min

Often missed, but never forgotten, scenic Ski Cooper is the smallest in terms of skiable acres on our list with just over 400. It’s still a favorite for other reasons: uncrowded slopes, affordable lift tickets, massive mountain views (pun intended), and a friendly environment for beginners.

There’s a great ski school and perfect learning hills, but also a sizable vertical rise of 1,200 feet. Driving to Ski Cooper is one of the more unique routes, taking Highway 24 all the way west and north from Colorado Springs. The drive is fantastic and nearby historic downtown Leadville is a pleasure to explore.

232 Co Rd 29, Leadville | 719-486-2277 | skicooper.com

Copper Mountain 143 miles | 2 h 20 min (north to Denver)

Despite it being the last on our list, it normally isn’t the longest drive from Colorado Springs unless Interstate 70 fails you. Copper Mountain is one of the largest resorts in Summit County with 2,465 acres. It has something for everyone, spread efficiently over the mountain from easy to hard, east to west. The backside has steep bowls and snowcat skiing.

Copper has a few base villages at the ends of its trails: East, Central, and West. Central Village is the main one and has all the restaurants, shops, and lodging you’d expect at a big resort. The skiing here is fantastic and as an IKON pass resort, it tends to be less crowded than its Epic Pass neighbors of Breckenridge and Keystone.

509 Copper Rd, Copper Mountain | 970-968-2318 | coppercolorado.com

Thanks for checking out the top ski resorts closest to Colorado Springs. Enjoy your day on the slopes and here’s to a safe ride home.