Discover Sedgwick County: History along the South Platte River

The South Platte River Trail begins at the Colorado Welcome Center. Information panels mark the original townsite of Julesburg; near Julesburg, the trail passes the site of Colorado’s only Pony Express home station. Along the route, you’ll encounter two specific historical connections: the original townsite and the location of Colorado’s only Pony Express home station. For travelers interested in local history, these sites give the trail a clear narrative framework.

Another chapter leads to the Upper Crossing of the South Platte River. There, Jules Beni established a small trading post in the late 1850s. It was expanded to include a stagecoach station, stable, store, and blacksmith shop. These additions reflect the post’s different functions: passenger travel, animal keeping, trade, and craftsmanship.

Local History, Architecture, and Museum

The Sedgwick County Courthouse is an example of WPA Art Deco architecture. The Julesburg Public Library building dates to 1937. Built in 1919, the Hippodrome Theatre was Julesburg’s first theater building specifically constructed for film screenings. Those interested in architectural history can look for different features in these three examples: style, year built, and original purpose.

The Fort Sedgwick Museum and Depot Museum displays artifacts and memorabilia from the Union Pacific Railroad, the Pony Express, Indigenous peoples, and early pioneers. The museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is accessible in accordance with ADA standards. The exhibits, historic designation, and stated accessibility are all highlights here.

Nature, Water, and Activities

DePoorter Lake has a covered picnic area and a restroom facility. The Sedgwick Bar State Wildlife Area offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors aged 16 and older need a valid hunting or fishing license or an SWA pass to access the area. Check this access requirement again before your visit.

Jumbo Reservoir in Sedgwick County is considered a place to observe resident and migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, hawks, golden and bald eagles, and owls. Julesburg offers fishing in the backwaters of the South Platte River; river access near Julesburg also offers fishing opportunities. In fall, the South Platte River Trail displays shades of orange, red, and yellow. Along with its historical connections, the route also offers a seasonal landscape feature.

Seasonal Trip Planning

The Sedgwick County Fair takes place in August. Events include arts and crafts, livestock, rodeo, 4-H livestock shows, food, a parade, dancing, and barbecue. The program may change; check the current offerings when planning your trip. Along with the fall colors on the South Platte River Trail, the fair offers a different seasonal highlight: the fair takes place in August, while the trail’s colors mark the arrival of fall.

Discover more destinations: Julesburg, Chaffee, Park County, Morgan County, Mesa, La Plata, Rio Grande County, Broomfield

For the main travel overview: Colorado.