Last weekend Valerie and I drove to Denver for a Scrapbook Expo.  We left early so we could see the sights along the way.

We both had always wanted to see Bishop’s Castle in the mountains outside Colorado Springs. It is a very unique place to see.  The builder works iron as a hobby.  Since the 1970s he has been transforming scrap iron into a castle structure.  Anyone can visit at anytime but you climb at your own risk.

As we drove into the San Isabel forest we were delighted to see the aspen trees were turning. So of course we had to stop for photo op.

Kelly and Valerie

Gotta love a selfie 🙂

Me 🙂

As we drove up the road we came upon Lake Isabel. It was a stunning mountain lake.  I so enjoy photographing scenic lakes! This one was extra nice with the fall colors.

Lake Isabel

After the lake we finally made it to Bishop’s Castle.  It’s literally on the side of the road.  We couldn’t wait to explore!

I first started by climbing these steep stairs to the 2nd floor.  I never thought I had a fear of heights. But let me tell you….this place scared me!  Most of the time you are walking on expanded metal flooring. So you can see through it….all the way down…yikes!

The 2nd floor was beautiful.  I loved the ceiling and all the windows.

From this floor you can access the several turrets and wrap around walkways. From one of these outside walkways we could see the dragon clearly.

View looking up roofline to a turret and scary walkway

Castle dragon made from fireproof tiles

Valerie was much more brave than me…look how she trusts that flimsy walkway!?!  Yeah….that looks really secure since that rope railing is there…….right……

My crazy friend!

After walking the outside walkways we decided to climb a turret.  The steps inside were OK because I could hang on to something while I climbed so I felt pretty good until we climbed up to the top and looked down….oh my….

Valerie on turret steps

Yikes!

Looking up stairwell in turret