Planning a visit to Southwest Colorado? The stunning landscape and rich cultural history of Southwest Colorado offer visitors a wide range of incredible experiences to explore.
Set out on a breathtaking driving tour along the San Juan Skyway to take in the rugged peaks and colorful wildflowers. Hike to the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, or explore the pristine wilderness of the Weminuche Wilderness.
Also Read: Ultimate Southwest Colorado Road Trip Itinerary
Step back in time with a visit to the town of Durango to ride the old-fashioned narrow-gauge railroad, or admire the stunning architecture and vibrant arts scene of Telluride. With so much to choose from, Southwest Colorado is truly a gem of the American West.
Here is an ultimate guide to Southwestern Colorado attractions.
Also Read: 39 Best Things to do in Colorado
Best Things to do in Southwest Colorado
Southwest Colorado is a hidden gem, full of natural wonders and exciting activities.
While there are plenty of things to do, it’s hard to pick the best things to do in SW Colorado.
One highlight not to be missed is Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into ancient Puebloan cultures.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is another must-see attraction, providing a scenic ride through breathtaking panoramas.
For those craving adventure, whitewater rafting down the Animas River or hiking in the San Juan Mountains are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Here are the best things to do in southwest Colorado on your next trip.
Also Read: 20 Best Day Trips in Colorado for families
See the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is a captivating historical treasure nestled in the heart of Southwest Colorado.
Known for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, the park offers a unique glimpse into ancient Native American cultures.
Its centerpiece, the Cliff Palace, is the largest cliff dwelling in North America, and a must-see for all visitors.
In addition to the Cliff Palace, the park is home to several other impressive structures such as Spruce Tree House and Balcony House on the Cliff Palace Loop.
Taking a guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and architecture of these ancient dwellings.
Beyond the cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde boasts over 5000 archaeological sites spread across several acres of land.
Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of trails, each offering unique perspectives of the park’s diverse landscapes and historic sites.
For a more relaxed activity, take a scenic drive on the Mesa Top Loop Road.
This 6-mile drive is dotted with panoramic overlooks, archaeological sites, and ends with a spectacular view of the Cliff Palace.
Remember to drop by at the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum to enrich your understanding of the park’s history.
Visitors can explore exhibits of pottery, tools, and other artifacts excavated from the site.
Mesa Verde is not just a place to visit, but an experience that leaves you with a profound sense of human history and connection to the past.
Also Read: 17 Best Things to do in Mesa Verde National Park
Ride the historic train of the Durango Silverton Railroad
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic icon of South west Colorado that promises an unforgettable journey through the state’s spectacular wilderness.
A ride on this vintage steam train takes you on a picturesque journey from Durango to Silverton, traversing the majestic San Juan Mountains, deep gorges, and the sparkling Animas River.
The journey offers a multitude of scenic vistas that are sure to leave any visitor spellbound – definitely a must on Southwest Colorado things to do list!
On board, passengers can choose from a variety of seating options, from standard class to first class, each providing different levels of comfort and amenities.
The train also offers themed rides throughout the year, such as the Polar Express around Christmas time.
Once you arrive in Silverton, there’s plenty to see and do.
The small town is rich in mining history and visitors can explore the Old Hundred Gold Mine, visit the Mining Heritage Center, or simply stroll around the town soaking up the atmosphere.
Restaurants serve up a variety of culinary delights and shopping venues offer unique souvenirs and trinkets.
The historic railroad is one of the best things to do Southwest Colorado.
Explore the attractions of downtown Durango
Durango is a lively city situated in Southwest Colorado, steeped in rich history and brimming with adventurous activities.
It offers a unique blend of Old West charm and contemporary culture, making it a must-visit destination.
The city’s downtown area is a vibrant hub of activities with a plethora of restaurants, brewpubs, galleries, and shops housed in beautifully restored Victorian buildings of historic downtown Durango.
The Animas River runs straight through the city, offering excellent opportunities for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
The surrounding mountains and trails are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
From its rich history to its outdoor adventures and vibrant culture, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone in this charming Southwest Colorado city.
Enjoy the views on the Million Dollar Highway
The Million Dollar Highway, part of U.S. Route 550, is one of the most breathtaking drives in Southwest Colorado.
This iconic highway stretches for about 25 miles from Silverton to Ouray, offering stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, deep gorges, and cascading waterfalls.
The road gets its name from the cost of its construction in the late 19th century, but some say it’s due to the priceless views it offers.
Driving the Million Dollar Highway is an experience in itself.
The winding, narrow road with countless steep drop-offs and no guardrails is not for the faint-hearted but the panoramic views are the reward.
The road blissfully threads through the Uncompahgre Gorge to the summit of Red Mountain Pass and then descends into the town of Ouray, also known as the “Switzerland of America”.
Popular highlights along the route include the historic mining towns of Red Mountain Pass, the Idarado Mine, and Bear Creek Falls.
There are several scenic overlooks along the way where you can safely park and enjoy the views, take pictures, or just breathe in the crisp mountain air.
Mountain bikers as well as bikers love this scenic drive, making it one of the top Southwest Colorado attractions.
See the waterfalls in Ouray
Ouray, fondly known as the “Switzerland of America,” is a charming mountain town nestled in the San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado.
This picturesque town is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, jeeping, and ice climbing.
The Ouray Ice Park is a world-renowned destination for ice climbing enthusiasts.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the Ouray Hot Springs Pool offers a relaxing soak with stunning mountain views.
The hot springs are open year-round, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Ouray County Historical Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts and displays depicting the town’s rich mining history.
Ouray is also home to the Bachelor Syracuse Mine where visitors can embark on a guided underground tour.
The town’s compact downtown area is a delight to explore, with beautifully preserved Victorian buildings housing a range of shops, galleries, and eateries.
A must-do in Ouray is the scenic Box Canyon falls, a breathtaking cascade of water falling down into a steep gorge.
Lower Cascade Falls trail is another must visit attraction.
All of these attractions can be accessed via the Ouray Perimeter Trail.
Visit Chimney Rock National Monument
Chimney Rock National Monument is a 4,700-acre archaeological site located in Southwest Colorado.
This ancient Puebloan cultural landmark was occupied from around A.D. 900 to A.D. 1300 and is home to hundreds of archaeological sites spread across several acres of land.
A visit to the monument is a journey back in time, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating history of the Ancestral Puebloans.
A guided tour is available to get a closer look at some of the most iconic sites in the park, including the Great House Pueblo and its two-story tower which served the entire valley.
The monument is also home to a variety of wildlife, including cougars, deer, elk, coyotes and hundreds of species of birds.
It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Enjoy the gorgeous beauty of Telluride
Telluride is a beautiful mountain town situated in the San Juan Mountains.
This picturesque town is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Colorado, offering an array of activities for outdoor lovers.
The Telluride Ski Resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities from December to April while the nearby Telluride Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole course for any skill level.
The Telluride Valley Floor is also home to a variety of hiking trails, ranging from beginner to expert levels.
Visitors can explore the area on foot, horseback, mountain bike or ATV.
You can also take the free gondola from Mountain Village to Telluride to enjoy the spectacular views.
Downtown Telluride has charming, historic buildings which house galleries, restaurants, shops and bars.
You can also enjoy a variety of festivals throughout the year like the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Telluride Film Festival and Telluride Jazz Celebration.
Drive the scenic San Juan Skyway
The San Juan Skyway is a 233-mile scenic route that runs through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Four Corners region.
The drive takes travelers through six different mountain passes, offering spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and the surrounding area.
Popular stops on this scenic drive include the historic Southwest Colorado towns of Silverton and Ouray, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and Mesa Verde National Park.
The route also takes travelers through some of Southwest Colorado’s most charming towns such as Durango, Telluride, and Cortez.
The San Juan Skyway is a must-do for any traveler looking to explore beautiful Southwest Colorado.
Enjoy skiing at Purgatory Resort
Purgatory Resort is a world-class ski resort situated on the slopes of Durango Mountain.
The resort offers something for everyone, from novice skiers to advanced powder hounds.
The area boasts nearly 3,000 acres of terrain with over 80 runs and 17 chairlifts across its three peaks – Purgatory Mountain, Hesperus Hills, and Needles Mountain.
The resort also offers a wide range of other activities such as snow tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and dog sledding.
Tube down the Animas River
The Animas River is a popular destination for white water rafting and kayaking near Durango.
The river runs through Durango, winding its way through spectacular canyons and gorges before flowing into the San Juan River.
It offers some of the best whitewater rapids in the area with sections ranging from Class I to Class V.
The Animas River is a great spot for both experienced paddlers and beginners looking to test their skills.
Rafting trips are available through several different outfitters in the area, offering half-day and full-day tours with knowledgeable guides.
Visitors can also enjoy fishing, canoeing, or simply floating along the Animas River for a relaxing way to take in the scenery.
Enjoy camping at Molas Lake
Molas Lake is a beautiful lake situated in the San Juan National Forest.
The lake is surrounded by lush forests, offering great hiking and camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can also enjoy fishing, canoeing, kayaking and swimming at the lake.
Molas Lake offers stunning views of its surrounding mountains, making it a great spot for photography.
Molas Lake is one of the most underrated things to do in southwestern Colorado.
Hike the incredible Ice Lakes Trail
Ice Lakes is a picturesque alpine lake located in the San Juan Mountains.
The lake sits at over 11,000 feet and is surrounded by spectacular peaks, offering an unparalleled view of the area.
It’s a great spot for camping and hiking, with trails leading to nearby lakes and mountain passes.
The Ice Lakes trail is one of the best hiking trails in Colorado.
It takes visitors to three gorgeous deep blue lakes of Ice Lake, Island Lake, and Fuller Lake.
This 8 miles trail is the ultimate outdoor adventure with lots of waterfalls, wildflowers, and wildlife on the trail.
Ice Lakes is also a popular destination for photographers looking to capture the stunning beauty of this lake.
Understand about the indigenous cultures in Cortez
Cortez is a charming small town near Mesa Verde Park.
The town is home to some of the area’s best attractions, including the Cortez Cultural Center and Museum of Indian Arts and Culture which showcases the region’s Native American heritage.
The nearby Ute Mountain Tribal Park offers an opportunity to explore ancient ruins, petroglyphs, and pictographs.
The town of Cortez also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing at nearby McPhee Reservoir.
It is one of the best towns in Southwest Colorado for culture lovers.
Explore the San Juan National Forest
The San Juan National Forest is one of the most beautiful and remote national forests in Colorado.
The forest covers over 1.8 million acres of land, offering seemingly endless opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Popular activities include camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling and more.
Visitors can also explore some of the area’s historic sites, including the mines of Silverton and the ghost town of Animas Forks.
The San Juan National Forest is a great spot for adventurers looking to get away from it all and explore Southwest Colorado’s rugged wilderness.
Take a photo for the ‘Gram at Four Corners Monument
The Four Corners Monument is a unique sight in Southwest Colorado.
It’s the only place in the United States where four states meet at one point and visitors can stand in four different states all at once.
The monument offers an interesting glimpse into Native American history, with Navajo, Hopi, Ute and Zuni tribes having inhabited the area for centuries.
It’s a popular spot for photography and offers great views of the surrounding landscape.
The Four Corners Monument is also home to an art market, which showcases artwork from local Native American artists.
Visitors can buy handmade jewelry, pottery, and other traditional crafts as souvenirs of their visit.
Enjoy hiking in Weminuche Wilderness
The Weminuche Wilderness is the largest wilderness area in Colorado.
It spans over 500,000 acres of rugged terrain and offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration.
Popular activities include backpacking, camping, fishing, hunting, and horseback riding.
The area also boasts some of Colorado’s most spectacular scenery with towering mountains, pristine alpine lakes and lush forests.
Visit Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
The Canyons of the Ancients National Monument is an archaeological site in Southwest Colorado.
The monument features more than 6,000 ancient ruins and provides insight into the region’s Native American history.
Visitors can explore the area on foot or horseback, with trails leading to archeological sites and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Guided tours are available to learn more about the area’s history and archaeology, as well as its wildlife and plants.
The Canyons of the Ancients National Monument is a great spot for visitors to explore Southwest Colorado’s fascinating past.
Go fishing at Curecanti National Recreation Area
The Curecanti National Recreation Area is a picturesque area located near Gunnison.
It is one of the hidden spots when you visit southwest Colorado.
It features three reservoirs, offering great opportunities for fishing, boating and other water sports.
The recreation area also has several hiking trails, including the popular Blue Mesa Loop Trail which offers stunning views of the area’s canyons and lakes.
The reservoir is also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 170 species of birds having been spotted here.
Also Read: 17 Best Vacation Spots in Southern Colorado
Dig into the past at Crow Canyon Archaeological Center
The Crow Canyon Archaeological Center is a nonprofit research center located near Cortez.
It offers educational programs and tours focusing on the area’s ancient history, specifically the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in this region for centuries.
Visitors can take part in archaeological digs or hikes to explore and learn about the area’s past.
Be awed by the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a stunning canyon located near Montrose.
It’s one of the deepest and narrowest canyons in North America, featuring sheer cliffs that plunge 2,722 feet to the canyon floor.
Visitors can explore the canyon on foot or by car, with trails leading to spectacular views of the canyon and its surrounding mountains.
The area also offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, camping, and rock climbing.
Go birding in Alamosa
Alamosa is a small city located in the San Luis Valley.
It’s home to some of the area’s best attractions, including the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve which showcases North America’s tallest sand dunes.
The nearby Rio Grande Scenic Railroad offers a unique way to explore the stunning mountain scenery of the region.
Alamosa also offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and biking at nearby Zapata Falls.
The city is also home to the San Luis Valley Brewing Company which offers local craft beer for visitors to enjoy.
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to go birding.
Go sand boarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is located near Alamosa and is home to North America’s tallest sand dunes.
The massive sand dunes are a popular spot for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Visitors can explore the surrounding area on horseback or by four-wheel drive vehicle, with trails leading to spectacular views of the sand dunes and San Luis Valley.
The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, coyotes, golden eagles and more.
Soak in the hot springs at Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs is a small town located in Southwest Colorado.
It’s home to some of the area’s best attractions, such as the San Juan River which offers excellent fly fishing and whitewater rafting opportunities.
The nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area has over 1,600 acres of terrain for skiing and snowboarding.
The town also offers year-round outdoor activities such as hiking, hot air balloon rides, horseback riding and mountain biking.
Visitors can also explore the town’s local shops and restaurants or take a soak in the therapeutic waters of the nearby Pagosa Hot Springs.
Walk across the Royal Gorge Bridge
The Royal Gorge Bridge is a world-famous suspension bridge located near Canon City.
It spans over 1,000 feet across the gorge and features stunning views of the Arkansas River below.
Visitors can explore the area on foot or by taking a ride on the aerial tram which travels above the canyon.
The bridge also offers a variety of activities such as bungee jumping, rock climbing and zip lining.
The nearby Royal Gorge Park is also home to some of the region’s best attractions, including an animal park, amusement rides and more.
Enjoy the charming scenery of Crested Butte
Crested Butte is a small town located in Southwest Colorado.
It’s known for its laid-back mountain lifestyle and stunning scenery.
The area offers plenty of outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, rafting, hiking and more.
The nearby Crested Butte Mountain Resort also provides great opportunities for downhill skiing and snowboarding.
The town also offers a range of cultural activities, such as the ongoing Crested Butte Music Festival and the popular Crested Butte Wildflower Festival which celebrates the area’s diverse wildflowers.
Visitors can also explore the many local shops and restaurants in town or take a soak in one of the nearby hot springs.
Enjoy whitewater rafting at Buena Vista
Buena Vista is a small town located in the Arkansas River Valley.
The area offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and rafting on the Arkansas River which runs right through town.
The nearby Buena Vista Whitewater Park is a great spot for whitewater kayaking or stand up paddleboarding.
The area also offers plenty of opportunities for horseback riding, mountain biking and ATV tours.
Visitors can also explore the town’s local shops and restaurants or take a scenic drive along the nearby Cottonwood Pass to enjoy stunning views of the area.
Hike the Colorado Trail… or a section of it!
The Colorado Trail is a 486-mile long hiking trail that runs through Southwest Colorado.
It offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, as well as a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing and backpacking.
The trail also passes by some of the region’s best attractions, including Mount Elbert which is Colorado’s highest peak.
Visitors can explore the area on foot or by bike, with the trail providing access to some of the area’s most beautiful scenery.
The Colorado Trail is also a great spot for wildlife viewing, as it passes through some of Southwest Colorado’s best wildlife habitats.
Hunt for prehistoric creatures at Dry Mesa Quarry
In the sweeping canyons of Southwest Colorado lies the incredible Dry Mesa Dinosaur Quarry.
Known to the world as a dinosaur lover’s paradise, the quarry boasts an impressive collection of over thousands of bones from almost every Jurassic dinosaur species.
At this historic site, the Morrison formation is exposed and you can see almost 150 million years of history engraved within its walls.
The site offers an unparalleled glimpse into the prehistoric world and visitors can look at an impressive array of dinosaur fossils found on-site.
Visitors are transported to a time when towering creatures roamed freely across the landscape.
With breathtaking geological formations and rugged terrain, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, photo-taking, and experiencing the natural wonders of the area.
Explore the ancient ruins at Hovenweep National Monument
Hovenweep National Monument is a hidden gem located in Southwest Colorado that’s well worth a visit.
This amazing historical site boasts some of the most impressive architecture of ancient American civilizations.
The structures that remain at Hovenweep today give visitors a glimpse into the lives of the early Pueblo people who once thrived in the region.
Some of the things to do at Hovenweep include exploring the stunning cliff dwellings…
…learning about the ancient peoples who built them, and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.
How to plan a Southwest Colorado Road Trip
Planning a road trip to Southwest Colorado is an exciting and memorable experience.
You can start your trip in Denver or Salt Lake City or Albuquerque.
When planning your road trip, make sure you set aside enough time to cover all the mountain towns and natural attractions.
The region, while in the south, does get a lot of snow due to high elevations.
It makes a great early summer road trip and is good to plan through late fall.
The region offers visitors an endless array of activities to experience – and you can see them all on Southwest Colorado road trip.
From scenic drives and hiking trails to national parks and snow capped mountains…
…..visitors are sure to fall in love with Colorado’s southwest corner.
Southwest Colorado is the perfect destination for an unforgettable adventure.
What are your favorite things to do in southwest Colorado? Let us know below.