Franktown Colorado is a rural community tucked off the beaten path, south of Denver and east of Castle Rock. At first glance, the town appears to be just a crossroads with a couple of cafes, a Mexican restaurant and gift boutiques. Appearances can be deceiving. This area has a rich history, one that is well preserved at the historical museum just outside town.
The museum is located in an old one-room schoolhouse. Exhibits contain archeological remains, farm tools, mining remnants and more. In the 1800s Grange halls dotted many Western towns. While a number of halls have fallen into disrepair, this 19th-century political movement continues helping rural areas to this day. The local Grange is one of Franktown's most famous relics, lying just north of downtown. A historical marker at this 1905 structure explains this unique political and social farm club.
Franktown is a favorite stop for bikers of both the motorized and the fat-tire variety. The area also features Castlewood Canyon State Park. Carved out of the Black Forest, the park's landscape features sheer canyon walls, rolling trails and the remains of the century-old Castlewood Canyon Dam. Around the ruins lie miles of scenic hiking trails, numerous technical rock-climbing routes and excellent bird-watching areas.
Castlewood Canyon State Park
2989 S. Highway 83
Franktown, CO 80116
303-688-5242 |
