Rainbow Falls Makes History in El Paso County

Throughout El Paso County, we are fortunate to have retained many significant, historical sites. When we can connect with our past, we can enhance our present and future by being able to explore and experience these places ourselves. This region is full of colorful history.  Our natural history has been the backdrop of many historical eras since before Old Colorado City was built. We now have another unique, natural landmark which has been designated an historical site, Rainbow Falls near Manitou Springs.

The Colorado Springs Gazette recently published an article on the latest announcement from the El

Paso County’s board of commissioners, confirming a unanimous vote in favor of naming Rainbow Falls a historic location. This reclassification of this site will provide funding and manpower to return this area to its natural glory. Unfortunately, in the past few years Rainbow Falls has become a place known more for graffiti than for its natural beauty. This is due in large part to the lack of regulated access hours or the presence of security and county employees to manage it.  These circumstances will change with the historical site classification.

With the board of commissioners’ vote, local funding and grants to the tune of$500,000 will be provided to repair areas damaged by the Waldo Canyon fire of 2012. Vandalism damages will also be cleaned up. To further preserve the site and prepare it for visitors, improvements to parking and trails around the falls will be completed in 2017. Once the renovation to Rainbow Falls is complete the site will be open to the public and managed by El Paso County staff and volunteers.

02The historical designation of Rainbow Falls will give residents and visitors alike, another beautiful natural site to explore. Within the 5-acre site, there is not only the main waterfall, but also a series of smaller falls that can be accessed downstream. This location has long been held as special, since the time of the first residents here, the Ute Indian Tribe known as the “Sun Mountain People.” The historic Highway 24 Bridge, crosses Fountain Creek near Rainbow Falls, leading visitors into Manitou Springs. Since the bridge was built in 1932, even more people have been drawn to this special place. Soon it will again be available for everyone to enjoy.

El Paso County is full of history and natural beauty. As we protect and preserve our past, we can continue to experience the wonders of this region ourselves, as a community which cares. Whether you are buying or selling your home, connecting with a Realtor® who understands the community, provides you with the ideal local resource. This can make a big difference in how happy you are with the process, and the results. We atSprings LifeStyles Real Estate are here to help you with all your real estate needs! Call Kathy Stenberg at (719) 963-4867 or you can email her at springslifestyles@gmail.com You can also visit us at our website for available listings and additional information.