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NatureParks & Gardens

You Haven’t Lived Until You’ve Experienced This One Incredible Park In Colorado

Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado features colorful chalky spires, canyons, and gullies created by Native Americans 9,000 years ago.

Published Jul 9, 2016

Written by 

Annie Sandmeier

Did you know that there is more to Colorado than just the mountains? Crazy, right? For instance, the Eastern Plains is chock-full of beautiful natural and manmade attractions, including this one unique Interpretive Park that you wouldn't expect to find near such a small town:

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Wikimedia Commons

Located near Calhan, the Paint Mines Interpretive Park is a 750-acre geologic wonder composed of colorful chalky spires, canyons, and gullies.

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Flickr/Dave Soldano
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Wikimedia Commons

How did these mines get to be so vibrant? It is thought that Native Americans some 9,000 years ago painted the formations with pigments from colorful clay.

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Flickr/John Fowler
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Wikimedia Commons

In addition to the chalk mines themselves, the park is home to different ecosystems including badlands, wetlands, and even the prairie.

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Flickr/Cassandra
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Wikimedia Commons

The area contains numerous paths and trails, making it even easier to explore its vast diversity.

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Flickr/Bryce Bradford

Tip: Keep your eyes peeled when you walk, as you may spot an arrowhead or two.

Want to discover even more Colorado hidden gems? You will love These 13 Hidden Gems In Colorado Hold Historic Keys To The Past.

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