Jeeping in the Rocky Mountains Part 2

After driving over #ImogenePass to #Ouray, we took #EngineerPass to #LakeCity. Lake City is a quaint old Colorado town that has been beautifully preserved. There are still old boardwalks rather than concrete sidewalks, interesting old stores and great restaurants.We had lunch at #SouthernVittles. I hate to admit it, but I had chicken fried steak and mashed potatoes. It was wonderful. I started my diet again the next day. You only live once and it is not like me to pass up good southern food when I can find it. Lake City seems to be mostly made up of Texans. Maybe that is why I like it so much. Fun Facts...........................

WHY IT IS UNIQUE

1. Lake City is the only town in Hinsdale County.
2. Hinsdale County is made up of 96% public lands. That means they have the fewest miles of roads per person, plus the most land area located far from roads, making Hinsdale County the most remote county in the lower 48.
3. Hinsdale County is made up of 4 wilderness areas and 2 wilderness study areas. 
4. Located at the crossroads of two major scenic byways: Silver Thread Scenic Byway (Hwy 149, 2 wheel drive) and Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway (CR 30/20, 2 wheel & 4WD).
5. A designated National Historic District since 1978, boasting over 200 historic structures.
6. They have reconstructed over 500 feet of original boardwalks in the historic downtown.
7. Lake San Cristobal is the second largest natural lake in the state.
8. There are hundreds of miles of hiking and off-road trails.

WHAT isn't there

1. Commercial chains - no Walmart or food chains. You have to drive over an hour to find any kind of major retail or food chains.
2. Stop lights. There is not one stop light in Hinsdale County, there are stop signs but not many of them.
3. Traffic. Now July tourism can be an exception to that rule or herds of wildlife can be considered traffic, but they rarely have anything resembling city traffic.
4. Light pollution. Lake City has the most beautiful night skies and nothing to keep you from being able to enjoy it with a naked eye.
5. Noise.
6. Great cellular service. There is no cell service within 5-10 miles out of town in any direction and it is not likely to pick up for at least an hour until you hit Gunnison or Creede.
7. Elevators. There is no building higher than two stories in Hinsdale County.

Lake City

Yes, there is still snow at high elevations. A creek is running
under this snow bank.

An old trappers cabin.