Looming large on a hillside in Maxwell Natural Area is a Colorado State University landmark dating back over a century: the giant painted A.
In 1924, after paying $1 for a 99-year long lease from then-owner R.G. Maxwell, students got to work dragging buckets of white paint and rocks up to commemorate the Colorado Agricultural College Aggies. The methods, century and school name may have changed since then, but commitment to the tradition has remained.
Three distinct events on the school’s calendar link to this landmark: Hike to the A, which is offered during Ram Welcome for incoming students; Paint the A, which is a way for volunteers to help with upkeep; and Light the A, which helps students show off the letter to their families during homecoming week…