Hesperus Peace Park: A Kiva-Inspired Sanctuary

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Find serenity and reflection in this kiva-inspired park on the Fort Lewis College campus in Durango, Colorado. A tribute to peace and nature.

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Hesperus Peace Park

Located on the Fort Lewis College campus in Durango, Colorado, Hesperus Peace Park offers a serene retreat inspired by the design of a traditional Puebloan kiva. Dedicated in 2006, this meticulously maintained park provides a tranquil space for reflection, study, and connection with nature.

A brief summary to Hesperus Peace Park

Durango, Colorado, 81301, US
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Monday 7 am-9 pm
Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
Thursday 7 am-9 pm
Friday 7 am-9 pm
Saturday 7 am-9 pm
Sunday 7 am-9 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light for photography and a quieter experience.
Take a moment to sit in the central courtyard and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Check out other attractions on the Fort Lewis College campus, such as the clock tower and the Center of Southwest Studies.

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Getting There

Walking

Hesperus Peace Park is located on the Fort Lewis College campus, approximately 3.3 miles from downtown Durango. From the center of campus near the clock tower, follow the paved paths towards the southwest. The park is located near the Ferringway Condos. No entrance fee is required.
Public Transport

Durango Transit offers bus service to Fort Lewis College from various locations in Durango. From the bus stop on campus, walk towards the center of campus and follow the paved paths southwest towards the park. A single ride fare is around $2.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxi and ride-sharing services are available in Durango. Request a ride to Fort Lewis College and ask to be dropped off near the center of campus. From there, follow the paved paths towards the southwest to reach the park. The estimated cost from downtown Durango is $15-$25.

Discover more about Hesperus Peace Park

Hesperus Peace Park, nestled on the Fort Lewis College campus, provides a unique space for peace and reflection in Durango, Colorado. The park's design draws inspiration from the kiva, a ceremonial structure used by the Ancestral Puebloan people, reflecting the region's cultural heritage. Dedicated in 2006, the park's name was changed to incorporate the word 'peace' in conjunction with the college's annual Common Reading Experience, which focused on Leonard Bird's memoir, 'Folding Paper Cranes: An Atomic Memoir'. The park features concrete paths that wind through native trees, plants, and a rock garden, leading to a central courtyard. Ample seating is available, inviting visitors to sit and contemplate. The park's serene environment makes it a favorite spot for students and locals seeking a quiet escape. Mule deer are often seen nibbling on the plants, adding to the park's natural charm. Hesperus Peace Park arose from the vision of Dr. Leonard Bird, a Korean War veteran and peace activist who taught at Fort Lewis College for 31 years. Bird's experience as a witness to a nuclear weapon detonation led him to become a passionate advocate for peace, and he founded the Peace & Conflict Studies Program at the college. The park stands as a testament to his commitment to peace and education. The park is used for outdoor events, including peace-related readings, speakers, and demonstrations.