South Cheyenne Cañon, southwest of Colorado Springs, became a celebrated scenic and recreation area centered on Seven Falls. After Nathaniel Colby homesteaded 160 acres in 1872 and sold the rights, improved trails and a wagon road opened the canyon to visitors. In 1882 James Hull bought the original tract to protect it from logging, expanded his holdings, and built stairs and a road that helped establish Seven Falls as a tourist attraction. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, parks, small businesses, trolley access, and pleasure travel made the canyon a major destination, valued for its dramatic granite walls, waterfalls, and sweeping views.