“The route led over a rough country, interspersed with high piney ridges and beautiful valleys, sustaining a luxuriant growth of vegetation, which is known as the Divide. This romantic region gives rise to several large tributaries both of the Platte and Arkansas.”      Rufus Sage, September 1842

The Cherokee Trail crossed the Arkansas-South Platte Divide, passing through the Black Forest, known in trail days as “The Pinery.” Pikes Peak in the background.

Homestead on the Cherokee Trail near the El Paso-Elbert County line.

The Cherokee Trail as it descends to Russellville Gulch, known as East Cherry Creek in trail days.

Blackfoot Cave was named by Rufus Sage in 1842. The site is now Douglas County open space.