The Donut Mill: Woodland Park, Colorado

Back in the late 1980s, I lived in a small town in Colorado named Woodland Park. It's about 20 miles west of Colorado Springs, and it is, literally, situated "above the clouds." I can recall many days where I would drive to work, and the weather in town was brisk and sunny, yet as I descended Highway 24 towards the Springs, it would suddenly become cloudy and overcast.

As part of my Monday through Friday morning ritual, I would make a stop into the little blue house known as the Donut Mill. Located at 310 East Midland Avenue (the main road through town), it's been a favorite haunt of locals and Colorado Springs residents for over 30 years. Prior to it being a cafe, the structure, built in 1896, housed a train station master, a real estate office, and a craft store.

As you walk in, you will see the menu on a chalkboard above the glass case where their delicious fares are displayed. Oversized cinnamon rolls, giant apple fritters, scones, bear claws, and various other assundry of donuts. Oh, and don't forget their biscuits and "super secret" gravy! Absolutely heavenly! If you like breakfast burritos, they have those, too. To the left of the glass case is another case that holds a variety of cold drinks. If you're in the mood for hot drinks, they have coffee, cocoa, and teas. Prices range from $1.75 - $4.95.

The locals love the Donut Mill because of its down home atmosphere. The staff is incredibly helpful, the local newspaper is available for reading while eating, and there is a bulletin board that features businesses and services available locally. The interior is reminiscent of a small cabin, with a few tables to eat at. You can also enjoy your meal outside on the front porch, and take in the gorgeous scenery.

If you are ever in Woodland Park, I highly recommend you look for the little blue house, and stop in at the Donut Mill. Their hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 6am to 2pm. Oh, did I mention, you can also phone in your orders ahead of time and pick them up? Call (719) 687-9793.

A little history about Woodland Park. It was incorporated towards the turn of the 20th century, and its primary business was saw milling. It is currently the largest city in Teller County, and flourishes as a popular tourist attraction because it is centrally located to the famous mining towns of Victor and Cripple Creek, as well as the Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, and the Air Force Academy.