BY Shirley Cavanaugh, September 2024

The Flying W Ranch was burned to ashes in the Waldo Canyon fire in 2012.The owners were determined to rebuild. It took eight years but it’s now even more beautiful. I visited during the “old days” when I was stationed with the Air Force in Colorado Springs. (Courtesy photo.)

The ranch sits near the foothills of Pike’s Peak and the Garden of the Gods.

The small lake on the ranch was very picturesque.

Beautiful rock formations at the Ranch, Shirley standing by a mini-waterfall.

There was a Native American show before dinner. The opening number was colorful and full of energy!

Nancy Linsenbigler and I had a quick photo op before dinner. Nancy, who was president of the Highlands Ranch Historical Society for many years, now handles all the HRHS tours. She does a great job and makes sure we have lots of fun on the various tours.

Our chuckwagon dinner was served on metal plates. Hundreds of us went thru lines with workers using both hands to serve two people–right and left–simultaneously. Very quick and efficient!

The world-renowned Flying W Wranglers are the second-oldest Western performance band in the world. Their 3-part harmony, amazing instrumentation and humor combine to make a wonderful show. They have performed to more than seven million people since 1953!

The band sang “Along the Santa Fe Trail.” The videos accompanying the band were amazing!

A tribute to the military and first responders was very touching.

The band did an energetic and fast-paced rendition of the “Orange Blossom Special.”

“Happy Trails” was a great way to end a wonderful evening!