Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. It was just before twilight when I found myself pulling into a parking spot of the sand-stone-colored structure. I parked and walked towards the only obvious entrance I could see. There, I was greeted by a handsome gentleman dressed in the most intriguing Southwestern attire I had ever seen (besides in movies, of course). Naturally, I had to snap a photo. I continued walking into the courtyard where my attention was caught by the crackle of a small fire and shortly after by the not-so-distant sound of a flute being played live. 

Instinctively, I headed inside in hopes of discovering where the music came from. As the hostess smiled and welcomed me in, I spotted not only the flutist, but the table I most desired to be seated at. It was by a window where I could take in every view possible while enjoying the music that embraced everyone’s spirit. I couldn’t help it; I snapped a photo of everything I saw. I was craving to capture every emotion in every experience I was encountering. 

My server, also with a smile, walked to me and took my drink and appetizer order: Guacamole and a trade whiskey – neat of course. As I waited for my order to arrive, I took a few moments to walk around, step outside and put my camera to good use. It felt like I was back in the Old West. The décor, the music, the setting; it was like I was in my very own movie set. Except John Wayne never showed up. C’est la vie!

In between bites and sips, I couldn’t help but realize that I kept looking up to observe everyone and everything around me. I also couldn’t stop smiling. It was just the perfect evening for me. It was full of ambiance, beautiful music, breathtaking views, an energy filled the air like everything was the way it’s supposed to be. Not sure if it was my mood, the long week I had or the fact that I was simply enjoying life in Colorado. 

The Fort has been referred to as many things. Such as, the essence of Colorado, quintessential Western ambiance and everything in between. Call it what you will, but one thing’s for sure: it truly is one of the most scenic places I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying there. 

The Fort is located at 19192 Highway 8, Morrison, CO, 80465. For information check out https://thefort.com.

(Originally published in the July 4, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)