Collector Coin – Royal Gorge

Description

Sunday, Jan. 4, 1807

On the eve of Pike’s 28th birthday, Pike climbed 995 feet from of the bottom of the Royal Gorge in a ravine, on the north wall of the canyon to the top. The ravine is the only natural significant break in the solid walls going through the Royal Gorge. It was named Telegraph Gulch in the late 1800’s due to the telegraph lines that were placed there by the railroad.

An Honorary Proclamation by Colorado Governor Bill Owens changed the name from Telegraph Gulch to Pike’s Gulch. This proclamation was read in July 2006 with the number of senators in attendance at the Gorge.

Carrying a 70 pound pack and sliding on ice, Pike was able to explore this part of the Gorge.