Colorado Experience

This episode uncovers the history of Dearfield, a once-thriving Black settlement founded during the Great Migration. Situated on the arid plains east of Greeley, Dearfield was more than a community; it was a dream of prosperity and autonomy for Black settlers seeking refuge from the racial tensions of the South. This episode traces the rise and decline of this town and its impact.

This episode dives into the history of the Ute Water Settlement, a landmark water agreement affecting the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute Tribes. Spanning several decades of negotiations, we take an in-depth look at the complex interplay of water rights, tribal sovereignty, and environmental stewardship in the arid West.

This episode reveals the remarkable transformation of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal from a chemical site to a thriving sanctuary for wildlife. The arsenal’s history reflects changing ideals and priorities for Americans throughout the 20th century. Now more than 330 species of animals including bison, bald eagles and black-footed ferrets call the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge home.

In this episode, we delve into the history of the Winter Park Express, a beloved ski train that carves its way from Denver through Colorado’s mountains to the ski slopes. The first riders of the ski train were 100 years ago as Denverites ached for that fresh powder and easy access to it. This episode captures the romance and adventure of a unique rail experience and its legacy.

This episode ventures into the heart of the Colorado Rockies to explore the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL), a hub of scientific research and ecological study since 1928. Nestled in the Gothic Valley, this unique laboratory has facilitated groundbreaking research on environmental and biological processes at high altitudes. In this episode, we highlight the impact of this unique lab.

Wolves. Mention the word in Colorado and it likely elicits some sort of response. This special one-hour episode takes a deep look into the relationship between humans and wolves in Colorado. We trace their history from their near eradication in the 1940s to today where the impacts of a controversial and groundbreaking ballot decision are still being felt.

This episode explores the intriguing history of Hartman Castle, located in Gunnison. Constructed in the early 20th century by Alonzo Hartman, this unique structure is a testament to the eclectic and often eccentric architectural movements of the period. The magnificent mansion has also become a local landmark for the town of Gunnison as a passionate group of people work to preserve it.

Save the sweetest episode for last. Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Grand Valley, Palisade is synonymous with peaches. This episode explores the more than 150 years of peach growing in this unique valley where its conditions make for the perfect sweet peach. Through interviews with local farmers, migrant workers, and community members, we trace the journey of three orchards.