About Guffey
Guffey is a tiny historic town high in Park County, Colorado – once a mining boomtown, now a relaxed mountain community. Established in the 1890s as the center of the Freshwater Mining District, it once had 40 businesses and about 500 residents during its peak gold rush period (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ). Today only a few dozen people live in Guffey, and the town is known more for its rugged charm than for crowds (coloradocommunitymedia.com ). Its central businesses include the Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge (a rustic event center with restaurant and bar), plus a handful of other eateries and bars. For example, local guides note Guffey has just 35 or so year-round residents and only a few restaurants (“the Bull Moose, Rita’s and the Freshwater Saloon”) plus a school and post office (coloradocommunitymedia.com ). This makes the Wild Spirit Lodge the primary **venue** for community events and live music, giving it an outsized cultural role. The lodge itself blends old-west log design with modern comforts – its 1,200 sq ft Great Room, complete with 30-foot vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, is lined in natural log paneling to showcase the surrounding pine mountains (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ). The wood-and-stone decor and grand hearths create a cozy “mountain lodge” atmosphere, and a full bar opposite the kitchen serves regional brews, wine and cocktails (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ) (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ). Visitors often remark on the friendly hosts (owners Beth and Wilbur Hall) and the “welcoming spirit” of the place (www.tripadvisor.com ). A 2023 guest review even raved that the lodge’s “delicious food” and comfortable lodging make you “long for a return visit” (www.tripadvisor.com ). The owners offer six rustic-style guest rooms upstairs so that out-of-towners can stay on site, each furnished in a lodge-chic style with restored antiques. (For lodging details: one queen suite has its own bath and the other rooms share a full bathroom; breakfast is included each day (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ).)
The town’s name is officially “Guffey,” though it has also been called Freshwater in the past. Local folklore adds to the venue’s unique character: for example, one long-time resident – Mark Johnson – runs a wolf rescue on his nearby ranch, so Guffey even has its own pack of wild (but friendly) wolves roaming the hills (coloradocommunitymedia.com ). It’s a small community known for its “wild spirit,” which conveniently matches the lodge’s name. Today the local economy is centered on tourism and community events. Guffey’s remoteness (about 22 miles from Canon City and 58 miles from Colorado Springs (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.travelmath.com )) keeps traffic light, but on weekends visitors flock in for live music and festivals. The lodge has become a meeting point and economic driver: its events draw guests from across South Park, boosting visibility for the town. Community fundraisers – like the annual Guffey Fire Auxiliary yard sale – have raised tens of thousands of dollars to support local services (www.guffeyshares.net ), showing how the lodge and other venues help knit together this tiny town’s economy and culture.
Events and Programming
Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge hosts weekly and seasonal events year-round. On most weekends you’ll find live music or theme nights on the schedule. The program leans toward regional rock, country, blues and folk bands, as well as community gatherings. For instance, local outlets often advertise acoustic and electric acts: in late 2025 the Buena Vagrants (a high-energy acoustic guitar duo from Buena Vista) played the lodge (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ). The classic-rock band Deja Bluz (featuring guitars and sax) has also performed on the Wild Spirit stage – a poster for an October 2025 show notes “Glenn McCarter, Rick Kamerzell & Wiley J” with a lively dance-rock playlist (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ) (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ). In short, you’ll hear anything from sing-along guitar duos to full bands covering original tunes and familiar covers. The lodge also hosts popular themed events: aside from live concerts, the schedule includes NFL “Bronco Brunch” watch parties with special menus for game days (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ), monthly trivia nights, community suppers, holiday parties and fundraisers. Each fall the town rallies around the SPCFPD Guffey Chili Cook-Off – a festive annual competition benefiting the Guffey Fire & EMS. (Recent cook-offs were held in October 2024 and 2025 (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ) (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ).) In 2025 the lodge ran the October 11 chili event, promoting “cold drinks, hot chili and good friends for a great cause,” with prizes for best red, green and specialty chilis (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ). Similarly, Winner’s Parties, community yard sales and craft fairs often take place at or around the lodge grounds. In short, schedule anything from acoustic singer-songwriters to community fundraisers that reflect Guffey’s small-town vibe.
Event frequency is high on weekends and holidays. During the summer, the lodge may open for Friday dinner and feature live music in the evening, followed by a family-friendly brunch or game watch on Sunday. Off-season (winter) events sometimes focus on holiday meals or ski/snowshoe trips, but the venue remains lively most months. The lodge’s calendar usually lists events weeks in advance – local radio and social media also announce when to expect big names or favorite local bands. (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ) (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ) Unlike big-city venues, Wild Spirit’s acts tend to be regional. Artists from nearby mountain towns (Buena Vista, Salida, Colorado Springs, etc.) often play here. Ticket prices and cover charges vary by event: small music nights often have modest door fees (e.g. $10–$15) or no cover if it’s a community open-mic; larger shows may run $20 or more. In general, tickets for popular concerts are sold on-site or via local outlets – there is no major box office or online reseller. (Lodge staff typically note when to reserve in advance.) Many nights, especially trivia nights or Broncos games, have no cover at all – just food/drink service.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets and reservations are handled locally. Most events are free or low-cover and can be bought at the door or reserved by calling the lodge directly. There’s no centralized box office: the Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge website has an event calendar, and announcements often note if tickets go on sale in advance. For major concerts, tickets (or wristbands) are sometimes sold in limited numbers ahead of showtime. Typically customers either buy at the lodge’s gift shop or bar, or simply pay a cover at the door. Since acts are mostly regional, formal presales are uncommon, but popular nights can sell out (remember the lodge only seats around 100 people). Many attendees first make a dining reservation because Saturday-night concerts coincide with dinner service. If you plan to come for a band, it’s wise to arrive early enough to order food – dinner reservations are recommended on busy nights. Standard pricing: drinks are menu priced (beer ~$5–$7, cocktails $8–$12), and entrees range $12–$25. The lodge often posts any cover charge information on its event postings, and friendly staff can advise on phone or social media when tickets are available. There is no formal VIP section or presale club – just good old local arrangement.
Seating and Layout
The venue’s interior is one open Great Room, roughly 1,200 ft², so seating is **general admission** around tables and the bar. There’s no stadium-style sectioning. Wooden tables and chairs fill the room, with carpet or tile flooring and room to stand near the stage. (A small raised stage area or performance nook usually holds the band.) The best views are from tables near the front or center, or along the sides facing the stage. Beer and wine are served at the bar on one side of the room, so sitting at bar stools gives a partial view. Many fans prefer to linger in the commons, mingling near the back or patio windows. Acoustically, the tall log ceiling and wood walls give a warm, natural reverb that suits acoustic sets well, though the lodge also runs a decent PA system with electric guitars and mics for louder bands. In general, sightlines are good – just avoid seating directly behind support posts or pillars. Because it’s an intimate setting, all seating is floor-level; if you need a clear view, standing in the middle or left of the room (away from dense table clusters) works wonders (and allows dancing when a lively band plays). There are no assigned or numbered seats – first come, first serve. On busy nights, some people call ahead and arrive early to “save their spot” by ordering food or drinks while others line up.
Getting There and Parking
Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge sits on Canon Street in Guffey (address 1245 Canon St), on the south side of town. By car the fastest route is via Colorado Highway 67. From Colorado Springs (about 58 mi north (www.travelmath.com )), take US-24 west to Divide, then north on CO-67 through Woodland Park, continuing to Guffey. From the west or Canon City (22 mi southwest (www.tripadvisor.com )), go west on CO-115 then north on CO-67. (Note: these mountain roads climb above 8,500 ft, so winter driving can be slow; check conditions.) Once in Guffey you will find Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge just off the main highway – ample free parking is available in the gravel lot and spaces directly outside the building. The venue has a dedicated lot behind and beside the lodge large enough for cars and trucks; parking is first-come. (Valet service is not offered, but staff will direct you if anything is full.) There are no metered lots or fees. Plenty of space means you rarely have to park more than a short walk away.
Public transit to Guffey is extremely limited. There is no local bus or train service directly to Guffey. A regional bus (the “Line 3” to Canon City) might get you to Canon City, where you would then need a 20-mile taxi or rental car ride. In practice almost everyone drives: rideshares like Uber/Lyft do not operate in Guffey. If you’re flying, the nearest airport is Colorado Springs; from there renting a car or taking a shuttle (to Colorado Springs, then connecting to Canon City transit) is the only way. Packages tours to Guffey are rare. Essentially, plan on driving or arranging private shuttle service. If you rely on trolleys or transit in wild mountain regions, there isn’t one. For late-night departures, note the nearest taxi service is in Rockvale/Canon City – so it’s best to have a designated driver or to stay overnight at the lodge. (Cell reception is spotty; arrange your return ride in advance wherever possible.)
Inside the Venue
Entering the lodge, visitors usually find the bar and restaurant up front. There is no strict security checkpoint for small events: staff may check IDs at the bar if a cover charge applies, but aside from that it’s a friendly, self-guided entry. If it’s a ticketed concert night, someone at the door will verify tickets or collect cover fees. After that, guests are free to find a table, grab a drink at the bar, or stroll to the patio exit. There is no metal detector or bag check. Cameras are generally allowed for personal use (smartphones, small point‐&‐shoots), but professional video or recording equipment usually requires permission from management (ask at the door). Flash photography is discouraged during shows.
The atmosphere inside is warm and rustic regardless of show. Expect dim, cozy lighting and the scent of wood and pub food. Guests often mingle between tables during breaks. During shows the house lights are usually low with some stage uplighting on performers (the lodge has a basic stage light rig and sound system adequate for bands). Between songs, the music volume drops so you can chat or waitstaff can serve food. The crowd vibe is casual and friendly – often multi-generational. Folks wear everything from jeans and flannel to ski gear in winter, since you may come straight from outdoor recreation.
Food and drink are a key part of every visit. The lodge operates a full sit-down restaurant during events. You can order appetizers, burgers, steaks, salads, pizzas, and daily specials from an extensive menu. (One recent reviewer noted a $20 steak special “an inch and a quarter thick” served with fries and a fresh tossed salad (www.tripadvisor.com ), calling the cooked-to-order meal excellent.) Other entrees run from ~$12 (burgers, chili) to $25 (steaks, specialty dishes). Many people make a dinner reservation for concert nights to ensure a table. There is also a full bar: local craft beers on tap, wine by the glass, and cocktails (including espresso martinis and mule concoctions) (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ). Price range is moderate – a pint of microbrew is ~$6–7, wines ~$8–12, and cocktails ~$10–12. Bar service is efficient; bartenders will keep your glass filled through the show. For non-DRINKERS, the lodge offers sodas, juices and children’s meals too.
Restrooms are located near the back of the Great Room (signposted). They are clean and kept stocked, though on peak nights there can be a short wait. There is no formal coat check, but racks are provided for jackets by the entrance. (In winter, expect many coats and dealer of hot cider; in summer, people often leave jackets at tables.) A small gift corner sells lodge T-shirts, hats, and branded drinkware. Free Wi-Fi is available in the dining areas though signal can be weak at the far end; cell reception inside fluctuates. The lodge is wheelchair-accessible on the main floor (one step at entrance with ramp available, all flat inside, plus one accessible restroom). Upstairs rooms are not wheelchair-accessible. Service animals are generally welcome.
No outside food or drink (beyond water) is allowed inside. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the in-house menu. Smoking is prohibited indoors by law; smokers step outside to a patio area in summer or under a covered porch. Children of all ages are allowed at family-friendly events; after 8 pm the place is more adult-focused due to alcohol (no formal “kids-in-back” rule – families can stay if quiet). In short, what happens in the lodge stays in the lodge: mostly relaxed small-town courtesy and respect are expected. Dress is informal (jeans or hiking wear are fine); no special attire needed. Many folks come as they are from day hikes or snowshoeing. The only “rule” is: tip your server generously, because it’s often young locals who run the place.
Nearby Amenities
Guffey is tiny, so once you arrive your options are limited to what’s nearby. The Wild Spirit Lodge itself has a full restaurant so you can dine on-site. If you want pre-show or post-show drinks in town, check Rita’s Bar (just down the road) or the Freshwater Pub (if it’s open; it sometimes closes seasonally). Other than that, there are few eateries – a bonus of Guffey’s rural quietness. If you need supplies or breakfast/lunch before the event, plan to stop in Canon City or Woodland Park on the way in. For lodging beyond the lodge’s rooms, travelers often look to Canon City hotels or vacation rentals in the nearby South Park valley. (Some adventurous travelers camp in Park County campgrounds as well.)
For those wanting entertainment before or after the show, the nearest scene is Canon City or Salida. The famous Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is about 30 mi away, or you can drive 25 mi north to Lake George for basic services. Guffey Gorge (Paradise Cove), a natural swimming hole, is just east of town – a great daytime stop during summer. But by night the only real nightlife in town is at Wild Spirit (so arrive early if you want dinner) or at neighbor Rita’s Bar. Late-night rides are scarce: as noted, consider staying overnight rather than hitching in the dark. Essentially, once you’re here, the lodge *is* the main local attraction.
Nearby hotels: The lodge’s six guest rooms are the only rooms in Guffey proper. Outside Guffey, the small resort community of Hartsel (12 mi away) has a few inns, and small motels dot Route 285 toward Fairplay. Canon City (22 mi south) and Colorado Springs (58 mi north) have chain hotels and full services. Many visitors book rooms in Canon City or Salida and make the drive to Guffey for the event, so plan extra travel time. No Uber or taxis operate in Guffey – again, the safest bet for late evening is to spend the night locally.
What Makes This Venue Special
Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge (often just called “Wild Spirit Lodge” or colloquially “the lodge at Guffey”) is more than a restaurant – it’s a community hub that reflects Guffey’s unique character. Architecturally, the lodge stands out with its sturdy log construction and soaring wood ceilings – a classic Colorado mountain-lodge style. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out into dense ponderosa pines, often giving concerts a backdrop of sunset or snow-covered trees. The interior’s handcrafted details – handcrafted log beams, stone fireplace, antler chandeliers – create an ambiance you don’t get in a chain venue. It feels like performing inside a cozy wilderness cabin, which artists and audiences both love. Indeed, performers often comment on the venue’s intimate acoustics and friendly crowd, while guests appreciate feeling “right at home” rather than in a cavernous arena.
Historically, the lodge has also helped preserve Guffey’s heritage. It’s located at what was once the town’s general store site (“fresh water store” back in the 1900s). The owners have adorned the walls with old photographs and antiques from Guffey’s mining days, blending the past with the present. The name “Wild Spirit” itself harks to the town’s wild roots and to Mark Johnson’s rescued wolves, giving the venue a bit of frontier mystique. Many locals proudly say “Wild Spirit put Guffey back on the map,” meaning it renews interest in this quiet village by bringing people together (for example through the Guffey chili cook-off and annual holiday parties that draw crowds). Cultural lore is heavy: stories circulate about ghost legends in old cabins or outlaws hiding in the woods – all adding to the lodge’s offbeat charm. In performance lore, Wild Spirit is known for memorable concerts that feel very personal. Big names don’t often come through, but notable regional musicians treat it as a happy, appreciative crowd (the Buena Vagrants and Deja Bluz gigs have sold out when announced, for instance (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ) (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com )). The annual chili cook-off has become a legendary local tradition, gathering even people from nearby ranches to compete or taste “enchilada chili” and award prizes (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ).
Culturally, the lodge matters because Guffey has few public venues. There’s no movie theater or concert hall except this. Wild Spirit takes on concerts, dance nights, school fundraisers, family reunions, even weddings. It sponsors philanthropic events – for instance, hosting blood drives or police charity balls – that bolster community ties. This continuous use cements Guffey’s identity as “a fun old-west town” despite its population. The economic impact is direct: outside visitors spend on fuel, food and lodging here that they might have spent near Colorado Springs. The lodge works with local artisans (selling southwest-style rugs, jewelry, fire-roasted coffee) and employs local servers and cooks. In short, it’s a rare spot where the historic vibe and modern music collide, making Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge a cherished place both for performers seeking an authentic venue and for audiences craving a night out in genuine Colorado mountain country (coloradocommunitymedia.com ) (www.wildspiritmountainlodge.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The lodge has ramp access at the front door and one wheelchair-accessible restroom, but some small steps and narrow passages mean it’s not fully suit-friendly everywhere. Call ahead if you have mobility concerns. **What to Bring:** Layers – even summer evenings can cool off rapidly in the mountains. A BRING a coat or sweater; winter can be very cold. Since seating is casual, you might bring a cushion or blanket for hard chairs, especially for kids. Carry ID for drinks (21+ to drink), and cash/$20 bills to tip well (though cards are accepted). **Food/Drink:** Outside food and drinks (other than bottled water) are not allowed – plan to try the lodge menu. If you have dietary needs, note: vegetarian and gluten-free options exist (like veggie chili or salad), but advanced notice is appreciated on big nights. **Common Mistakes:** Underestimating travel time or overestimate cell coverage. Guffey’s altitude (~8,600 ft) means you should stay hydrated. Don’t show up on a whim expecting entertainment: check the schedule online or call ahead, because quiet weeks with no booked show do happen. Also, don’t rely on GPS alone; signposts on Hwy 67 are sparse, so watch for the lodge’s green-and-white sign on Canon Street. **Age/Rules:** There is no strict age restriction, but keep quiet kids entertained or plan a babysitter after a certain hour. Dogs are not allowed inside the restaurant or hall, though well-behaved pups are welcome on the outdoor patio. **Dress Code:** Casual is the norm. Some guests even come in ski gear or muddy boots, which staff don’t mind. The emphasis is on family-friendly comfort. If you want to look “nice,” the nearest thing is something like jeans and a sweater; but really, regular hiking or ski attire is fine. **Avoiding Lines:** For big events, arrive at least 30–45 minutes early to grab any last dinner seat or a good table. The lodge often opens earlier than showtime nationwide (e.g. open at 6 pm for a 7 pm concert) to accommodate diners. **Ask Locals:** If unsure about anything – like how best to spend an afternoon before a show – call the lodge or ask in Guffey’s general store/post office. Locals love giving directions and recommendations (many are anglers, hikers or artists themselves). **Quiet Night:** After midnight the venue still kicks people out politely (closing happens by 11 pm or midnight usually), as Guffey is quiet after dark. If you need a late-night snack, there isn’t one; finish your meal and drinks inside. If it’s after hours and you’ve been driving, drive carefully – wildlife often cross roads at night here.
What is the capacity of the Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge venue?
Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge is a small, intimate venue. The Great Room (dining hall) seats roughly 80–100 guests at tables, with additional standing room by the bar or patio. There isn’t an official “max capacity” sign posted, but on busy nights the lodge can comfortably accommodate around 100 people. It’s cozy rather than cavernous – arrive early for popular shows to get good seats.
How do I get tickets for events at Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge?
Ticketing varies by event. For most concerts and special shows, tickets or wristbands are sold in advance at the lodge’s front desk or on their website. Some events do allow walk-in door sales (cover charge). Check the lodge’s official calendar or local announcements for specific sales info. If you’re unsure, you can reserve a spot by calling the lodge directly, though there is no separate box office. For trivia nights or Broncos brunches, usually no ticket is needed – it’s just first-come seating with standard meal service.
What should I know about parking and transportation?
Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge provides **free on-site parking** for guests in its gravel lot, so arriving by car is easiest. (Park in the lot beside or behind the building.) There is **no paid parking** or permit needed. Public transit options to Guffey are extremely limited – the nearest bus service stops in Canon City (22 mi away) or Colorado Springs (58 mi away) (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.travelmath.com ). If you’re coming from Colorado Springs, drive via US-24 and CO-67. Rentals or private shuttles are recommended; rideshare apps don’t serve Guffey. Always allow extra travel time on the mountain roads, especially in winter.
What are the seating and viewing arrangements?
The lodge’s seating is **general admission** around dining tables and the bar. There are chairs at tables along the front and in the middle of the room, plus barstools. Space in front of the stage can fill up, so early arrivals get the best view. There are no reserved VIP areas. Because the ceiling is high and the room is relatively narrow, sound carries well – even standing toward the back you can usually hear clearly. For the clearest sightlines, sit at a table on the edges of the performance area or stand to one side after ordering your meal.
Are kids allowed and is there a dress code?
Yes, the lodge is family-friendly. Children of all ages are welcome, especially for early shows and Sunday brunches. After 8 pm, things get more adult-oriented due to alcohol service (though no formal age ban exists). The dress code is casual – think jeans, hoodies, ski jackets in winter. No heels needed (the floor may get a bit uneven from outdoor boots). Basically, wear whatever you’d wear to a mountain pub. It’s relaxed and outdoorsy, not formal at all.
What food and drink can I get inside the lodge?
Wild Spirit lodge serves a full menu during events. Expect hearty American mountain fare: appetizers (nachos, wings), sandwiches and burgers, salads, soups (including green chili), and entrees like steak, ramen bowls, or a hot turkey dinner on Sunday. Vegan/vegetarian options (like veggie chili or salads) are available too. The kitchen often has a daily special (as one visitor noted, a $20 steak special was a highlight) (www.tripadvisor.com ). The bar carries Colorado craft beers on tap, cider, wine, mixed drinks and seasonal cocktails. You cannot bring in outside food or alcohol – plan to dine here. Menus and prices are posted at the lodge and online before events.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
The main floor of Wild Spirit Mountain Lodge is wheelchair accessible. There is a ramp to the entrance, and the Great Room and restrooms have ground-level entry. All event seating is on the main floor (no balconies). One restroom is accessible. The guest rooms upstairs (for overnight stays) are not wheelchair-accessible, so lodging would be on the main floor only. Service animals are welcome indoors. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s wise to call ahead so staff can best accommodate you.
When should I arrive and are tickets sold at the door?
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime for live acts. This gives you time to park, order food, and get settled. Doors usually open early (often by 6:00 PM for evening events). For most events there are a few tickets sold at the door on the night of (cash or card accepted), unless a show is already marked sold-out. If an event is very popular, call or check online a few days in advance – staff sometimes hold image tickets. But in practice many people simply walk in, pay a cover at the door and join the fun. //
Can I bring a camera or record performances?
Casual photography (smartphones or point-and-shoot cameras) is usually fine. Most performers don’t mind fans snapping photos during a song for personal use. If you want to shoot video or use professional equipment, it’s best to ask permission from lodge management or the band. Audio recording and filming for a public release require consent from both the venue and the artist. Flash photography is discouraged during performances to avoid disrupting the show.
Are there any age, bag, or smoking policies?
There is no strict age limit, but standard rules apply: minors under 21 must be accompanied by an adult if alcohol is served. There is no bag check, though staff may look at large bags at the door out of courtesy. Smoking is **not allowed inside**; there are designated outdoor areas for cigarette breaks. E-cigarettes/vaping are treated like smoking (outdoors only). You can bring water or baby food, but all other food/drink should be purchased from the lodge.
What is the weather or attire like inside the lodge?
The lodge maintains comfortable indoor temperatures year-round, but it often feels cool and breezy by the large windows. Wear layers. In winter you’ll enter from snowy parking into a warm interior, so a light jacket is fine once inside. In summer, the lodge is pleasant with soft cross-breezes; even so, bringing a light wrap for evening is wise. Hiking boots and casual outdoor wear are completely acceptable. The dress code is casual; no special shoes or fancy clothes are required. If it will snow outside, waterproof footwear could help for the walk from your car to the entrance.
