Poncha Springs, Colorado

Poncha Springs started as a Ute Indian Camp in the early 1800s. European exploration would change the landscape like many other places in the late 1880s. 

The “Crossroad of the Rockies” is located near Salida, Colorado and is the confluence of Highway 50, Highway 285, and much more. The Cemetery on the hill off of Highway 285 was beautiful and so lovely to visit. 

Its name was said to be derived from the Spanish word for “Cape and Warmth” reflecting the hot springs nearby. It became Poncha Springs officially in 1924. 

In 1779, Juan Batista de Anza led a military expedition over Poncha Pass. After the pass was used by many including Kit Carson. 

The Poncha Springs Schoolhouse was built in 1883 and sits next to the town hall and fire department now. The glass top was a wonderful sight to notice and take a gander at. This small but large school for its time is beautiful. 

A visit to their website is definitely worthwhile to read the history on. And there are multiple fantastic articles to view on the web.