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This will forever be one of my favorite trips. This was the first trip I ever took with my husband. I’m going to go over some of the things that I think you can’t miss in Southwestern CO.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
If you want to visit everywhere on the list, it will take several days to complete. Some roads require 4-wheel drive, and the towns are not close together. It is worth the extra time! This region of Colorado contains gorgeous mountain ranges, Aspen trees, meadows filled with wildflowers, and wildlife. Weather can change quickly depending on altitude. Keep this in mind for hikes with big elevation changes. Remember to pack layers. The roads can also become quite treacherous in the snow!
1. Black Canyon of the Gunnison
This National Park owes it’s name to the fact that parts of the gorge only receive 33 minutes of sunlight a day. There are camping and RV accessible areas at the park. Among things to do are the hiking trails, scenic drives around the rims and down into the canyon, fishing in the Gunnison River in the canyon, and wildlife watching. You can even do cross country skiing and snow shoeing in the winter! This was such a neat little pit stop. Be warned that the hikes can be extremely strenuous and dangerous due to steep drop offs and rock. The drive down into the canyon is also rather steep.
2. Silverton
Silverton, Colorado is located in a remote part of the San Juan Mountains. The town boomed from silver mining in the 1800s. The town sits at an elevation of 9,318 feet and most of the peaks surrounding Silverton are Thirteeners. The town is so cute and really gives you the old western vibe. While you’re here, Grab an Elk or Buffalo burger from the Handlebars Saloon!
3. Island and Ice Lake via Ice Lake Trail
7.7 mile out and back hike near Silverton, CO. There are 4 lakes located on this hike that have gorgeous, blue hues due to the glacial water. The 4 lakes are Island, Ice, Clear, and Fuller lakes. This hike is challenging with the terrain and elevation change. The end of the hike puts you out at roughly 12,400 feet and there was snow at the summit in September when we went. There was also roughly a 30 degree temperature drop! Brrrrr…
Dress in layers, bring the appropriate gear, and get an early start. This is one you don’t want to miss! To get to Island Lake from Silverton, Take the U.S. Forest Service Road 585 to South Mineral Campground.
4. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Train
This Railroad has several different scenic train rides that you can take through the southwest portion of the Rocky Mountains. The train runs during the summer months between May and October. You will see breathtaking views of the San Juan Forest and Animas River and Gorge.
5. Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is the tallest free-falling falls in Colorado. It is 365 feet in height. There is a road approximately 1.8 miles long that you can use to drive to the bottom of the falls. You can also continue hiking to the top of the falls. A newer hiking trail is also located from a parking area that is 1.2 miles to the bottom of the falls. It is NOT recommended for beginner hikers or families due to rough terrain and potentially hazardous water crossings in the spring and early summer.
6. Telluride-Mountain Village Gondola
Extremely unique form of public transportation that connects Mountain Village to Telluride, CO. This gondola is completely free! It tops out at approximately 10,540 feet in elevation with gorgeous 360 degree views. The ride is approximately 12 minutes long.
7. Last Dollar Road
I saved this gem for last! Last Dollar Road is a hidden gem in Telluride. The aspen trees in the fall are gorgeous and the mountain views are extraordinary. It is a narrow, dirt road. It is also recommended that you use a 4WD, especially if it has rained. High clearance 2WD vehicles could likely make the trek on a dry day.
I hope you enjoyed the post. I hope it inspires you to break away from the traditional Colorado tourist spots and hit the Southwestern portion!
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