Out-of-Door Playgrounds of 
Page Nine The SanIsabel National Forest 
The Spanish Peaks and Culebra Range are also visited by large 
numbers of campers, as this region is a favorite recreation center for 
the people of Trinidad, La Veta, and other towns. 
Fishing 
The fishing in the streams and lakes of the San Isabel is among 
the best to be found in the eastern Rocky Mountains. The principal 
species caught are native, eastern brook, and rainbow trout. Annual 
“plants” of fry by the Forest Service in cooperation with the State 
and private individuals keep even the most frequented waters well 
stocked. 
Brush Creek Lake, 19 miles from Westcliffe by trail, is heavily 
stocked with eastern brook trout. It is situated just below timber 
line and surrounded by evergreen forests and towering cliffs. 
The Lakes of the Clouds, three in number, nestle among the 
crags at the source of Swift Creek. These are the most popular 
fishing waters of the region, and rainbow trout weighing 7 pounds 
have been taken from them. Below the lakes, Swift Creek with its 
many beaver dams is also plentifully supplied with trout. The lakes 
may be reached from Westcliffe, via ‘“‘The Pines,’’ on horseback, 
distance 15 miles. 
Middle Taylor Creek and Hermit Lake, 12 miles from West- 
cliffe, may be reached by wagon. These waters, on account of their 
accessibility, are visited by large numbers of fishermen each year. 
At Hermit Lake private cabins may be rented by campers. 
Macey Creek and the Macey Lakes at its source are well stocked 
with native trout. The trip is made from Westcliffe by wagon or 
automobile to the Petty ranch, 9 miles, thence by trail 2 miles to 
the creek and 5 miles to the lake. Bear and Venable Lakes, 9 miles 
by automobile and then 5 miles by trail from Westcliffe, also afford 
fine native trout fishing. 
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