US 50 is definitely the route to use crossing eastern Colorado in this part of the state. It runs from Holly though Lamar and Las Animas to La Junta. Then, depending on your destination, you can head northwest to Pueblo or southwest to Trinidad.
If you're heading down US 287 between Lamar and Springfield be ready for
some delays. There is a major reconstruction project underway and it doesn't appear
it will be completed before September 2007. Expect delays, but don't reroute just
on this account.
I don't have any photos from this part of the state to post here, but I will eventually.