Erwin Young: CO & SLV

Erwin and Lynne Young moved from Post, Texas to Alamosa, CO in 1974 with their four children. Erwin learned of the (87° F) geothermal water resources in the San Luis Valley and he wanted to grow Tilapia, an African perch requiring warm water. In 1977 they purchased the 80 acre farm- now Colorado Gators Reptile...

Pike National Historic Trail Association > Member > Erwin Young: CO & SLV
  • Position:
    State Volunteer
  • Location:
    Mosca, CO

Erwin and Lynne Young moved from Post, Texas to Alamosa, CO in 1974 with their four children.

Erwin learned of the (87° F) geothermal water resources in the San Luis Valley and he wanted to grow Tilapia, an African perch requiring
warm water.

In 1977 they purchased the 80 acre farm- now Colorado Gators Reptile Park. In 1987 they purchased 100 baby alligators to dispose of fish remains. They opened to the public in 1990 as an educational facility and a sanctuary for unwanted exotic pets.

Erwin continues to aid us in many of our activities knowing intimately the San Luis Valley.

Pike’s likely route through the Valley, the best routes for the Pike Trail in Colorado, and the original location of the Pike Stockade, etc. are particulars we call on him to supply.