Hauling logs on a sled using a two-horse team. "James P. Gates was a very good carpenter, and decided to build a stage coarch inn on their new land, which as a stop on the stage line between Kremmling and Steamboat Springs, Colorado. So the cutting and hauling of logs began. J.P. knew hoe to use a broad axe to shape the logs he used for building so that they fit together evenly and firmly." -- The Gates Genealogy

A mud wagon prepared to start the run from Wolcott to Steamboat Springs. A more robust vehicle than a coach for use in difficult conditions such as mud, although conditions in this photo are good. Comfort was often a casualty, but wasn't much to start with. More mules would almost surely be added for power to deal with adverse conditions and a larger load. [Courtesy of Stuart Dykstra] "Before the road was built over Rabbit Ears Pass, the stage...

Stagecoach in front of the stage barn at Steamboat Springs, ready to leave for Wolcott. The trip by stage from Rock Creek to Steamboat Springs took one full day.