Love Meadow is named after the Love family, early settlers in the area. This area was once a pioneer homestead. Jo Witchey was drawn to the splendor of the Rocky Mountains and moved from Mansfield, Ohio, to Denver. In 1925, Jo moved to Chalk Creek Canyon, where 14,000-foot peaks framed the valley. On an ascent of the Mount Princeton (14,197') she met a wrangler and hunting guide named Mark Love, whom she later married. They bought a small ranch in Chalk Creek Canyon, started a cabin camp for summer vacationers, and named it Love Ranch. After four yeas of marriage, her husband was killed in a horse accident. Although Jo was heartbroken over his death, she stayed for over 40 years to run the ranch and entertain guests. One frequent guest and friend of Jo's was Alex Haley, the author of Roots, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower visited the cabin included in the current day Bighorn Lodge complex, where one can still stay. Love Meadow Watchable State Wildlife Area is located on part of the old ranch.
Love Meadow is located a short drive from the town of Buena Vista. There is a pretty wildlife lookout area with a viewing gazebo on the west side (left-hand side going up). It is a favorite area for wildlife viewing. What wildlife did you spot?
