Cripple Creek is a historic mining town that is a scenic 75-minute drive from Colorado Springs, and it is the place to be this weekend.
After a two-year hiatus, the Cripple Creek Ice Festival is back, and it is bigger and better than ever. The free festival started on February 18th and runs through February 26th.
On Saturday, February 25th, watch professional ice carvers in action when they compete in "head-to-head craving challenges." The competitions are at 12:00, 1:30, and 3:00 p.m., and the winning teams will receive a $1,000 cash prize.
It is amazing how quickly a block of ice can be transformed into a work of art.
In addition to the fantastic ice sculptures, there is a free ice slide for the kids and vendors on Saturday and Sunday between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Don't forget to vote for your favorite sculpture. The team who wins the "People's Choice Award" will go home with a cash prize of $5,000.
Cripple Creek Heritage and Information Center
Before or after the festival, stop by the Cripple Creek Heritage and Information Center (9283 S. CO-67). The three-story museum explores the history of Cripple Creek with photos, stories, and interactive exhibits. The center is free, although donations are always appreciated.
The main floor is dedicated to mining life in the late 1800s. The top floor is the natural history area with several taxidermy animals, a dinosaur display, and fossils.
The lower floor has historic vehicles and carriages, a miniature town display with a working train, and a complimentary film, "The Treasures of Cripple Creek."
In addition to the exhibits, the museum has spectacular views of the valley.
There is plenty of free parking and a fenced dog area where four-legged travel companions can stretch their legs.
I'll see you in Cripple Creek!
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