19,240 acres
Description
The canyons of Assignation Ridge remind one of a western slope “Garden of the Gods.” The area contains geologic strata and vertical faulted hogbacks of the same geologic era as that of the Colorado Springs phenomenon. Thompson Creek is a beautiful stream with undisturbed woods ranging from cottonwoods and ponderosa pine to scrub oak, pinyon-juniper, Douglas fir, and aspen. Along with the striking vertical hogbacks, one is surprised to find the remnants of trestles and the long-abandoned grade of the Aspen and Western Railroad in the lower canyon. The railway grade and the Thompson Creek streambed provide a track for hikers and cross-country skiers that is unequaled for spectacular scenery.
