The Bluff Park, at the end of Main Street in downtown Westcliffe, has long been a beloved spot for gathering, picnicking, stargazing, or just taking in the expansive view of the valley floor and the Sangre de Cristos beyond. Originally slated to be developed into a hotel or strip mall, the Bluff has been permanently protected as public open space, thanks to the care and stewardship of many community members, donors, public officials, and volunteers over the years. With the 2021 merger of San Isabel Land Protection Trust and Colorado Open Lands, COL became the temporary owner of the middle 5.3 acres of the park. As of this month, COL is pleased to announce that we have conveyed ownership of those parcels to the Town of Westcliffe and nearly doubled the protected land under the conservation easement to 10.2 acres. COL will also transfer funds dedicated to the Bluff to the Wet Mountain Valley Community Foundation. The iconic views from this land, and the wonder and solace that they bring, are protected now and into the future.
Westcliffe Mayor Paul Wenke said, “I commend everyone involved with the creation, improvement, and dedication of the Bluff Park over the years. This park is a treasure for the community, and it is satisfying to unify ownership with the Town and to know that the entirety of the property is protected for the public’s use, forever.”