Waldo Canyon Fire Commemorative Picnic

It’s hard to believe the Waldo Canyon Fire was 5 years ago this month. Starting as an unconfirmed report of fire on June 22 2012 in Pike National Forest (to the west of Colorado Springs), it grew quickly destroying nearly 350 homes and taking 2 lives. We certainly haven’t forgotten the most devastating and destructive fire in Colorado history. The Mountain Shadows community and all of Southern Colorado continues to rebuild, heal, and deal with the aftermath of those tense days back in June of 2012.

Still, the Colorado Springs community comes together to reflect, remember and honor those who served and protected during the fire. On Monday, June 26th 2017 hundreds are expected to gather at Mountain Shadows Community Park off Flying W Ranch and Champagne Drive, just up the street from the main fire operations base camp 5 years ago. The park is the perfect location as it still hosts several commemorative artistic pieces and memorials referencing the Waldo fire.

The event should be an excellent outing for families which will include a picnic with hot dogs and chips available for purchase and free ice cream for the first 300 people. Plus, bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy live music by the Flying W Wranglers (who were directly effected when their long-time and historic Flying W Ranch was eliminated by the fire).

The event is being primarily coordinated by City of Colorado Springs, El Paso County, and Mountain Shadows Neighborhood Association. Additionally, there are many sponsors making the event possible and free to the public. Follow the City of Colorado Springs on social media for updates, changes, and information. Also, share your photos from the event using #WaldoFire and #WeAreCOS.

Take an evening to come remember and reflect on this anniversary of the Waldo Canyon Fire:

Waldo Canyon Fire Commemorative Picnic
Monday, June 26th 2017
6:00pm – 8:00pm
Mountain Shadows Community Park
5151 Flying W Ranch Rd