history

Ute Indians Winter Camp

In the late 1700’s and early 1800’s the Ute Indians camped and hunted in the valley now known as Rainbow Falls Park. The Big Cold Spring was a source of water in the cold winter months, as it never freezes over, with a continuous temperature of 51 degrees. Evidence of their stay can still be seen in the limestone cave above the spring, with its black soot from many fires staining its ceiling.

history

Bergen's Park

In the 1820’s fur trappers began to enter the valley in search of beaver pelt. As the fashion in England for men was wearing large top hats made of beaver fur. In 1861, the first European settled in the valley now known as Rainbow Falls Park. This Frenchman was Bergen, a fur trapper who built a log cabin there and his name was given to the valley, Bergen’s Park.

history

Fish Hatchery

In 1882 a man by the name of H. G. Thornton had purchased the land next to the Big Cold Spring to build a fish hatchery that would raise Rainbow Trout. The clear, cold spring water would prove to be perfect conditions for rearing fish. The creek running near by was named Trout Creek, because of the hatchery. The trout were a favorite on menus in the area, with General Palmer and Dr. Bell serving them in their restaurants in Colorado Springs and Manitou Park.

history

Watson's Heritage

Then in 1953 a young and energetic couple by the name of Bob and Neva Watson with the help of their parents purchased the hatchery and named it Rainbow Falls Park. Bob reported that in 1953 he sold 4,000 lbs of fish. In 1969 he sold 51,000 lbs of fish to restaurants, hotels and private stocked lakes. By the mid 1960’s Rainbow Falls Park was averaging 6000 visitors per summer.

history

Ice Races

The famous jeep and motorcycle ice races convened in the frozen months of January and February. This pattern of business continued until Bob finally decided that this was a young man’s business and sold the Park to Larry Posik

New Beginnings

history

Eventually Bob Watson retired selling the park to an investor, Mike Herman. After the Hayman Fire of 2002, he was forced to close the business and the valley laid idle. In 2008, Richard and Shawnna saw the potential of this amazing resource. Their vision is to maintain Rainbow Falls and restore its rich heritage.

HISTORY OF RAINBOW FALLS

Richard Johnson

CEO, Founder

Having spent nearly 35 years as a Honda / Yamaha / Can Am Powersports Dealer, Richard and his family have always been outdoor enthusiasts. One year on one of their many trips to the Rainbow Falls OHV trails, they stumbled upon this forgetten valley and knew this was it...the place to retire! Since its inception in 2008, he and Shawnna have been dedicated to the preservation of this beautiful valley and have built RFMT to what it is today. Presently you can see Richard on the property maintaining its beauty as well as in charge over member relations and club events. Follow link below to contact Richard directly.

Shawnna Johnson

Vice President, Co-Founder

After owning and operating a PowerSports business for more than 35 yrs while raising 2 children, Shawnna was ready to retire to the mountains. Working alongside her husband, Shawnna has strived to ensure RFMT's valley is preserved and appreciated. She is responsible for the study and findings of Rainbow's rich heritage and history. Shawnna also manages the office and records for RFMT, as well as co-heading club events. Her hobbies include building rustic mountain decor and log furniture. See her beautiful artwork by following the link below.

Tracy Alip

Front End Developer

Tracy is responsible for the new website launched January 2018. You're welcome! She is a graphics artist, media producer, videographer, and writer. Like what you see? Contact her to inquire about rendering her freelance services.

Dave Herber

Social Media, Photography

Dave keeps RFMT's facebook page up to date and creates fresh content for members including: photos, posts, stocking and event videos, and the like. You can see his work on our gallery page. Dave is a professional, Orvis endorsed, fly fishing guide.

Leland Johnson

Co-Owner

A "century farmer" from Iowa, Leland has owned and operated a farm for 50 years. He and his wife of 60+ yrs, together with their 5 children, raised: row crops, swine, cattle feeding, and more. They are now retired, having sold most of the property and investing in Rainbow Falls and are now free to spend their summers at RFMT. Leland loves fishing and as such you can expect to see him on our trout waters.

Ruth Johnson

Co-Owner

Ruth is the better half of Leland, and together they farmed a century farm that is a family heritage of 150 years. Raising 5 children, crops, and cattle; Ruth is quite the matriarch! Her passion is quilting and makes it her mission to gift quilts to local friends, volunteers, and members while she is vacationing at RFMT. While spending summers at Rainbow, the cabin closest to the gate becomes her woman cave for sewing and quilting projects.