Colorado Explorer

Photo by Caz Ozwald/ Big Cats of Serenity Springs

Cats to cuisine

By Linda DuVal

Ever wonder what happens to those cute lion and tiger cubs that appear on TV commercials? Many of them are abandoned and have to be rescued. So if you or your kids love big cats, plan an excursion to Big Cats of Serenity Springs, near Calhan on the eastern plains. More than 100 big cats, also including ligers (hybrid lion-tigers), cougars and leopards, call this refuge home. Tours by appointment only. 719-347-9200.

Celebrate spring in the valley of the cranes at the Monte Vista Crane Festival, March 7-9. The annual gathering of sandhill cranes in the San Luis Valley marks the beginning of spring for southern Colorado. Ancient petroglyphs show this migration has been watched by humans for thousands of years. Register for activities and arrange lodging in advance. 719-852-3552.

Can't make it to the Beijing Olympics? Well, you might see some of the world's best athletes preparing for competition if you visit the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. Tours are offered daily; don't be surprised to see some of the same faces you'll see on TV later this year. 719-632-5551.

Take a unique culinary journey on snowshoes or skis and enjoy a four-course meal around a bonfire. The Crested Butte Nordic Council's annual Progressive Bonfire Dinner begins at the Town Ranch Trailhead in Crested Butte. Follow the luminarias from point to point, working off some calories as you go. 970-349-1707.

If you just can't wait to dip your fishin' pole into a lake, head to Lathrop State Park in Walsenburg, accessible most of the year and scheduled to be stocked with trout and other fish on April 1. Reservations aren't needed for the campground, which is lightly visited in spring. Boats are allowed. You may have the whole place to yourself! 719-738-2376.

Linda DuVal is former travel editor of The Gazette in Colorado Springs and a freelance writer.