Mueller State Park, Divide CO

[TxLoser]

So, we finally had enough of Texas heat and are headed for higher elevation end of this week. Just booked last week but was able to get 4 nights at Mueller.

Here's my question... Is it worth the drive to Leadville, or St Elmo for a day trip. I'm good just being at the campground exploring the trails etc, but need to keep the troops entertained and we'll have the dog in tow. Any other day trip suggestions that won't involve too much "are we there yet" from my 7 year old. We'll of course do Pikes Peak(drive it) and maybe drop down into Garden of the Gods.

[RogerR]

we stayed at Mueller last year and enjoyed a long weekend of hiking and just enjoying the park. Take a really nice camera, morning and evening are best. Not sure of your tastes but we were happy in the park. Showers and sites were clean and very nice.

No store on site but we hauled in all the food we needed for three days so did not think about where to get more.

Have a great time.

[2nOZ]

Mueller campground is a beautiful campground with lots of hiking trails. We have stayed there before. Saw several elk traversing the campground. Check out 8 mile canyon while you are there. We also recommend Garden of the Gods. Enjoy your trip!

[TxLoser]

Great to hear. We're looking forward to it.

I see 8 mile Canyon mentioned. Is that actually 11 mile Canyon?

[oldmanAZ]

We stayed a couple of nights in Leadville, CO earlier this year. Of course the area is interesting and scenic. I didn't see anything that would interest a 7yr old, but wasn't looking for anything like that. There are things that would interest adults from Leadville's boom-town past.

BTW, the altitude (10,000ft) frequently left us huffing and puffing for just casual strolls 'down town'.

Hope that's of some help.

[TxLoser]

Really enjoyed the trip the Colorado. Mueller State Park was fantastic and we really enjoyed the area up there. Only not so great part was venturing into Colorado Springs for fuel and lunch after Pikes Peak. Too much traffic and construction. Like home.

The only stuff we did outside the park were Pikes Peak and the narrow guage train at Cripple Creek. We got lucky at Pikes Peak as we had the dog with us. This allowed us to drive to the top and avoid the shuttles. Been there a few times via the train and driving. Much prefer the drive. I was skeptical of the train ride at Cripple Creek, but as it turns out we really enjoyed it. As soon I saw those old engines and smelled that mechanical grease and oil smell I was sold. The history lesson was cool, and we could take the dog along. Win win.

A few pics.