Located at 9,494 feet above sea level on the back side of Pikes Peak, and roughly an hour SouthWest of Colorado Springs lays the historic gold mining town of Cripple Creek.  Known as the "World's Greatest Gold Camp" during the 1890's, it remains one of the biggest gold mining operations in the United States.  Over the years it has evolved into a gambling and tourism destination with it's historic casinos, breath taking views, beautiful hiking, the wild donkeys that roam the streets, and of course, the historic Butte Theater.  Some yearly events include Donkey Derby Days, featuring a weekend of live bands, a parade, and street vendors.  The Salute to American Veterans Rally, considered Colorado's largest motorcycle procession featuring a parade, live music, beer gardens, and a remembrance ceremony with flyovers.  No matter what time of year, Cripple Creek is a beautiful location that is easy to enjoy, and hard to forget.