Whether you’re a Colorado native, or visiting the “colorful state” this summer, you don’t want to miss checking out Norwood. Located on the Western Slope, Norwood has been attracting cowboys since they first rode through and made the area home in the 1880s.
Framed by some of the Rockies’ finest peaks, herds of black Angus and lush, green hay fields add to Norwood’s stunning scenery.
There are five things you won’t want to miss this summer in this horseman’s paradise.
- First, check out the area’s new trail systems. Both Thunder Road Trails and Burn Canyon Trails are open and designed for multi-use. Trail heads can accommodate horse-trailer parking, and these rides make for dramatic scenery changes. On your way, stop by Indian Ridge Bakery on Norwood’s Grand Avenue for freshly baked pastries and coffee.
- Norwood’s annual rodeo takes place July 28-29. A decades’ long tradition, you’ll find professional rodeo cowboys and local talent, along with food, a beer garden and plenty of activities for kids, like mutton bustin’ and stick horse races. A two-day event, you might as well stay the night at the Back Country Inn, walking distance from the arena.
- For equestrians practicing the English disciplines, Deb Hindi will give a series of clinics this summer at the San Miguel Basin Fairgrounds. A veteran teacher with a background in jumping and dressage, she’s attracted a local following in Norwood. See her schedule online: http://www.sanmiguelcounty.org/calendar.aspx?CID=23.
When your schooling ends, discuss the day over wine and pizza at Maggie’s on the main street.
- Have some fun and capture the moment with local photographer Sage Carver. She’s created a name for herself taking portraits of all ages, including kids. Bring your horse, wear your western duds and smile for the camera. Use Norwood’s Lone Cone Peak as your backdrop.
Afterward, check out real estate in the Norwood area. You’ll be impressed by what the local market holds in terms of ranches and horse properties.
- As summer wraps up, don’t miss Norwood’s Pioneer Day event. A local holiday celebrating the town’s homesteading heritage, you’ll find a parade, a chuck wagon meal, a car show and old-fashioned kids games in town.
And that time of year, you’ll want to get your hands on heirloom apples. Try the FRESH Food Hub, next to the Lone Cone Bar and Restaurant. The folks in the shop can tell you which varieties are best for baking, juicing or just plain eating. Be sure to save a sweet one for your horse.
A quiet and peaceful destination, Norwood is still somewhat of a secret. This summer, come experience the grandeur of the area, and the equine-related opportunities that abound.
Norwood Chamber of Commerce President John Dotson said Norwood is a place to get excited about.
“From the many recreational opportunities to business opportunities, surrounded by the strong family atmosphere, our moto ‘Echoes of The West’ represents our heritage as a cowboy town,” he said. “We embrace this as we move forward into an even more exciting and productive 21st century.
For more information check out our website, www.norwoodcolorado.com, and our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/NorwoodColorado/.”