The Spanish Peaks stand alone some distance from the main cordillera of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, south of Pueblo, Colorado. The towering twin mountains have served as beacons for Native Americans, Spaniards, trappers, traders, travellers on the Santa Fe trail, miners, and homesteaders. "Spanish Peaks" shares the legends the mountains have inspired and tells of the peoples drawn to the peaks shelter. Author Conger Beasley Jr and photographer Barbara Sparks portray the people who struggle to sustain their lives here and document traditional events such as the Ute Bear Dance and Holy Week among the penitentes of Huerfano Church. Beasleys vivid writing and Sparks's photographs offer tribute to a rugged, mysterious place.

Photographs by: Barabara Sparks