Our travel group of 34 wanderlusts sought out unfamiliar cultures, met new people and friends, and experienced life beyond our normal surroundings.
We embarked on a motor-coach trip to Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods, the Royal Gorge, and multiple stops in between. Our professional, but comedic driver entertained us while she expertly navigated a 40-45 feet motor-coach on the roadways.
Our capable group leaders with BJ’s People on the Go, ensured we were comfortable, entertained, and “well-fed” as we prayed, slept, and sung across “America the Beautiful.”
After visiting quaint Manitou Springs, the beautiful Garden of the Gods -with an amazing view of Pikes Peak, and the new U.S. Air Force Visitors Center, we traveled over an hour to The Royal Gorge.
This dramatic 6 mile long canyon carved by the Arkansas River is 6, 700 feet above sea level and plunges to a maximum canyon depth of 1, 250 feet. The famous suspension bridge is approximately 956 feet above the Arkansas River. I couldn’t believe the breathtaking views.
Many of us (myself included), were nervous about being so high. Finally, I was brave enough to ride the aerial gondola. It glides 2, 200 feet across the gorge and is 1, 200 feet above the Arkansas River. I stood in line with a few other brave travelers. When it was almost our turn, the winds picked up (over 30 mph) and the gondola was shut down. I was secretly pleased. About an hour later, the winds subsided and our small group got in line again!
We chose a car with a glass floor. Not only were we up high on a tram system, we also had a glass floor! I was determined to be brave and entered the car with the other troopers. To my surprise, I felt calm during the five minute ride. The amazing views that God created was strangely comforting.
We explored the gift shops and theatre where we saw a movie about the park. The suspension bridge is one of the world’s highest bridges. By now, I was brave enough to walk across the suspension bridge. It hangs rough 956 feet above the Arkansas River. As I made my way across the 1, 257 swaying wooden planks, I glimpsed at the beautiful views below. It was a long drop to trees, rivers, and canyons. Reaching the other side felt like an accomplishment!
I see why Katherine Lee Bates was inspired to write, “America the Beautiful,” after visiting the amazing views in Colorado. As for me, I’m visiting lower ground next time!
Francie Mae. September 22, 2026