With its ubiquitous mountain vistas and diverse attractions, Teller County has much to offer.

In this annual magazine, we take a look at a perfect day’s itinerary in five of the county’s population centers: Cripple Creek /Victor, Divide, Florissant, Green Mountain Falls and Woodland Park.

We have suggestions that will delight one-time visitors as well as the longtime residents.

A visit to Divide, the site of the first permanent settlement in Teller County in the early 1870s, isn’t complete without a tour of the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. Visitors can see a variety of wolves, foxes, and even New Guinea Singing Dogs and coyotes. Grab a great burger at Russ’ Place afterward and a crowler at Paradox Beer Company and your day is complete. See story beginning on Page 7.

Start your visit to Woodland Park, Teller County’s most populous city with more than 7,500 residents, at the Visitor Center. There you’ll get the goods on the area attractions. The kids will love learning some “pre”- history at the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center and traveling down the lazy river at the Woodland Aquatic Center. Adults might choose to play 18 holes at Shining Mountain Golf Course or take a stroll through the Woodland Park Farmers Market, in the warmer months. See story beginning on Page 14.

Tucked away in the trees, quaint Green Mountain Falls straddles Teller and El Paso counties. Home to the annual Green Box Arts festival, which brings in famous artists and national dance troupes, the town is also known for its signature lake, plentiful hiking trails and charming eateries including The Blue Moose Tavern, The Pantry and The Mucky Duck. See story beginning on Page 25.

The mining districts of Cripple Creek and Victor are rich in history and beauty. “This area offers breathtaking mountain vistas and scenery, historic hiking trails, antique shopping, historical museums, a glimpse into old and new mining activity and casinos — and you may even cross paths with wildlife,” says writer Marianne Mogon. See story beginning on Page 37.

A stop in Florissant, a small town on the western edge of the county, home to Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, could fill a full day. But first, coffee at Costello Coffee House, lunch at Iron Tree Restaurant & Funky Town Brewery, supply-gathering atthe “Merc” Mercantile. There are shopping and pampering options, too. See story beginning on Page 44.

These stories showcase just some of the sights to see and things to do in these Teller County communities.

Take it all in in this, our annual supplement to the Pikes Peak Courier. Then hit the road and explore.

— Michelle Karas, Editor

Hit the road to Teller County for beautiful mountain views, friendly people, historic sites and a plethora of dining and shopping options.

Jeff Kearney