FLORISSANT, CO -- A little piece of heaven
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2/7/2012
I'm a CA native who retired, first, to Iowa. I like Iowa, but in a search to down-size I discovered a lovely log cabin in Florissant, CO, to where I moved.
I love this place, dirt roads (county maintained) and all. Summers are mild, as are winters (compared with Iowa). People are friendly and helpful, without being overbearing. Many are retirees, and many are "full-timers" as opposed to part-time vacationers.
The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is close by, and while Pikes Peak is in clear view to the East, there are other "14ers" to be seen to the West.
Air and water are unbelievably clean (unless there's a fire somewhere). Views are spectacular. Wildlife abundant (Mule Deer, Elk, Black Bear, Abert's squirrels, Red Foxes, and a wide variety of birds). Domestic animals are horses, cattle, llamas, and alpacas.
Except for the occasional aircraft from military bases in the 'Springs, and the occasional bull Elk trumpeting, there is precious little noise up here. Clear nights are star-studded.
Florissant is rural. The closest convenience stores/gas stations are about 5 miles, either direction. Closest grocery stores of significant size are 8 miles, either direction. Hospital is in Woodland Park, around 20 miles off. There is a wide variety of shopping in WP.
Colorado Springs is about 45 miles downhill, or an hour's drive, for those who need to step into "civilization." It's easy to become a hermit up here, though; one trip to the 'Springs will send anyone scrambling back up the mountain.
Broadband is generally available, and satellite TV is common. Cell coverage is okay, but there are still areas where it is non-existent.
Florissant is located on US 24, a virtual gateway to many recreational opportunities in the Rockies. Once you're up here, it's hard to leave.
Thomas | Florissant, CO