The small town of Massive in Eagle County, Colorado has a rich history and beautiful mountain views. Let’s explore some riddles and intriguing facts about this quaint community nestled in the Rockies.
Geography
What do you call a mountaineer from Massive? >!A Massive climber!!<
How high is Massive Mountain that overlooks the town? >!14,428 feet above sea level.!<
What river flows through the valley below Massive? >!The Eagle River.!<
History
Massive started as a mining camp in the late 1800s. What were miners searching for in the mountains? >!Gold and silver.!<
The original name of the town was New Elkmont. In what year was it changed to Massive? >!1897!<
Miners eventually left when the >!silver crashed.!<
Modern Era
Today, Massive is better known for outdoor recreation than mining. Over %70 percent of the economy is based on tourism related to what popular warm-weather activity? >!Hiking and mountain biking!!<
Flora & Fauna
Massive is located where two ecosystems meet – the upper montane and subalpine zones. What type of tall evergreen trees dominate the lower montane valley? >!Lodgepole pines.!<
What shrub, nicknamed “Cowboy Cologne,” grows abundantly and fills the mountain air with fragrance in June? >!Sagebrush.!<
What large mammal that can weigh up to 1,000 pounds roams the upper mountain slopes? >!Moose!!<
Birds
What is the name of the large black bird that soars on mountain thermals? >!Ravens!<
What blue songbird, Colorado’s state bird, breeds in the aspens and conifers? >!Western bluebird!<
Seasons
When spring comes, the valley erupts in wildflowers like >!Indian paintbrush, columbine!< and others. What month do they typically peak? >!June!<
Massive gets over 300 days of sunshine a year. What month is generally the rainiest? >!August!<
The town nearly empties out in winter. Why don’t more people live here year-round? >! Extreme snow and subzero temps!!<
Winter Recreation
What winter sport, which originated as a mode of transportation, is popular today? >!Snowshoeing!<
Modern winter recreation started in 1862 when visitors climbed Massive Mountain on what contraptions? >!Skiis!<
Community
The population hovers around 100 full-time residents. What system provides electricity and heat during harsh winters? >!Micro-hydroelectric dam!<
Who keeps the tiny community connected year-round? >!A one-room schoolhouse and post office!<
Residents and tourists gather at what rustic log building, constructed in 1873, for meals and entertainment? >!The historic saloon!!<
Cuisine
What high-protein food source was essential for 19th century miners and remains a local specialty today? >!Trout!!<
What berry grows abundantly and is made into everything from jam to moonshine? >!Huckleberries!<
The Great Outdoors
The Continental Divide runs along the peaks above Massive. Which watersheds does the land drain into?
>!The Eagle River flows to the Atlantic and the Roaring Fork to the Pacific.!<
Massive Mountain lives up to its name, towering over the valley. How long does it take experienced hikers to summit its granite peak? >!Around 9 hours!<
Over 1/3 of Eagle County is public land. What agency manages the wilderness around Massive? >!U.S. Forest Service!<
Recreation
Hikers on the Oh-Be-Joyful trail may spot yellow-bellied marmots or bighorn sheep in summer. But in winter it transforms into what exhilarating sport’s course? >!A snowmobile route!!<
What activity banned in most wilderness areas has enthusiasts floating 20 feet off the ground? >!Paragliding!!<
Legends
A ghost town sits abandoned high in the mountains. As the creepy story goes, what precious metal lured the miners? >!Silver!<
They worked through harsh winters but the mine yielded little. Then one dark night, they disappeared without a trace. Where did they go? >!No one knows!!<
Myths & Mysteries
Some say the miners’ ghosts can be spotted when a glowing green light appears. What natural phenomenon causes this? >!Aurora borealis/Northern lights!<
According to Ute legend, Massive Mountain is haunted by a spirit called the >!Snow Demon!< who tries to lure victims over icy cliffs. Why does it claim souls? >!To repay the bloodshed from an ancient battle between Ute tribes.!<
The Future
While growing slightly, Massive stays small to preserve its character. The population is protected by strict rules only allowing construction of what? >!A few eco-friendly cabins per year.!<
Someday cabins may run on solar, but for now rely on propane and generators. Why was electricity from the grid never added? >!To prevent rampant development.!<
Residents young and old find joy in the valley, united by what popular pastime? >!Stargazing – the galaxy glows bright in the mountain darkness!!<
Conclusion
Nestled between the epic Rocky Mountains, the little town of Massive has a rich history and strong community. Its small-town charm coupled with endless outdoor adventure brings visitors flocking year after year. The riddles explored here are just a glimpse of this special mountain place full of natural wonders waiting to be discovered.
