Carr, Colorado: Natural Sandstone Fort

This used to be a rest stop with Interstate access on both sides. Then they removed that. Which is understandable. But they also removed the bronze plaque that told part of the story that happened there. This was during the time that some were changing the image of Native Americans into peaceful vegan-poets who would never hunt or war with each other. Sort of like Dr. Quinn Medicine-Woman or some other BS. But since the plaque was removed, most people don't know that it is sacred ground for all who died there.

This was the site of a famous Native American tribal battle in the 1830s. There was a severe drought, leading to a large Blackfoot hunting party of about 150, led by mountain man Jim Beckwourth (who became a chief of one branch), journeying to northern Colorado in search of game. They encountered a band of about a dozen Sioux hunters, who took refuge from them in the fort. The Blackfoot laid siege, picking them off a few at a time over many days.

There once was a large state sign describing the action in detail; I don't remember if it said that any Sioux escaped. The sign and access from I-25 were removed about 15 years ago due to graffiti, trash, and no public restrooms.

It was fun to stop to stretch the legs, though you do have to plan in advance to get off the highway. There is a nice parking area -- a person was there with their camper for a short stay. Sadly, there was lots of graffiti and remnants of campfires and fireworks.

Our family of 6 had a great time climbing and winding through this natural maze. We weren't sure why it was described as a former rest stop until we actually got right next to it. There is a parking lot with angle parking and a brick sign thing with no sign.

I was scared by previous tips mentioning tons of glass and graffiti. There was some, but not more than I'd expect anywhere teens would want to play paintball or goof around with friends. We didn't see any paper trash or human waste. We'll definitely be back.

This used to be a real nice place to visit. The kids loved it. We have been to the Fort many times, even before the interstate separated it. Now it is a disgrace. There is broken glass everywhere, spray paint everywhere, there are feces and areas that smell of urine. People used to take families and have picnics here; no more. The states of Colorado and Wyoming could get together and try to make this place a real tourist stop.