Telling the Epic Tale of Colorado’s Grand Mesa Thunderbirds

Western Colorado's Grand Mesa is a majestic place. Treasured for its beauty, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife, it's no wonder the Ute Indians viewed the area as a magical land.

Colorado's Grand Mesa + Ute Legends

The Ute of western Colorado believed many things about the Grand Mesa. Known as Thiguanawat, which roughly translates as "The Land of the Departed Spirits." They believed the souls of the dead went to the Grand Mesa to spend eternity.

Read More: 9 Colorado Legends People Still Believe are True Today

It may sound strange, but I believe this. When I first moved here, I took a trip to the Grand Mesa early in the fall. While there, I had a rare opportunity to see three moose. A bull and two cows.

Read More: The Ute Tribespeople Believed in Strange Stories + Legends

I know, I'm a bit weird, but hey, a guy can be sentimental.

The Utes of Colorado also called the Grand Mesa Thunder Mountain, led to the Utes telling the legend of the Thunderbirds. The legend says: