7 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Colorado Plateau
The Colorado Plateau, with its dramatic landscapes and storied past, is home to some of the most laid-back small towns in the West. The rugged cliffs of Durango and ancient ruins near Cortez weave its history into a tapestry of land, interwoven with a relaxed ambiance. Visitors can take casual walks through charming historical districts, relax in hot springs, or visit national monuments that tell the stories of the natives who once occupied the land. No matter which town you happen upon, these are some of the most laid-back in the region.
Durango
Durango is tucked into southwestern Colorado, where history and nature meet. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers scenic steam train excursions through the San Juan Mountains. For history buffs, this explores the frontier past at the Animas Museum. The town is also the launching point for the Animas River Trail, which is good for a pleasant walk along the river. Nearby and close to this town lies the famous San Juan National Forest, which has many hiking and biking trails with stupendous views all around. The attraction, in this case, is Mesa Verde National Park, making this city a place for best impressions.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs lies along the Colorado River and is a prime destination for outdoor pursuits and the source of thermal hot springs. History-laden Glenwood Hot Springs Pool has hosted bathers for over a century amidst its glorious mountain views. Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves offer historic underground steam baths just off the town's main street. Adventurous spirits and history buffs can head to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, which is complete with subterranean cavern tours. Meanwhile, downtown is awash with funky shops, fabulous old buildings, great dining spots, and just good buzzes鈥攁ll perfect for a mellow day wandering around. Outdoor recreation is thoroughly enjoyed on the Glenwood Canyon Bike Path.
Cortez
Cortez is an underappreciated town that lies just a few miles away from Mesa Verde National Park. , visitors come up close to the ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings of more than 700 years. The Cortez Cultural Center highlights the locale's Native American heritage and presents performances and exhibits on Native culture. National monuments are dotting the ancient ruins in the Canyons of the Ancients area. In town, explore Hawkins Preserve, a natural area exemplifying local flora and fauna, as well as geological formations. The Crow Canyon Archaeological Center nearby is complete with educational programs as well as digs to get your hands dirty experiencing the area's full, rich history.
Ouray
Ouray is one of the best small towns for a weekend escape. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool also makes for great relaxation with stunning views across the surrounding mountains. Nearby, Box Canyon Falls Park features a beautiful waterfall and picturesque hiking trails, in addition to rare birds known as black swifts, which nest in the canyon walls. The Ouray County Historical Museum will give visitors a great idea about the mining heritage of the town and take them back in time to be a part of history. The town is at the head of the Alpine Loop, a 65-mile drive passing through some of the most beautiful high-country scenery in Colorado.
Telluride
Telluride beautifully combines old roots with natural beauty. Here, the Telluride Historical Museum exposes the community's historical past in depth, and the Sheridan Opera House transports visitors to other periods with numerous cultural events that occur throughout the year. The best way to see all this is to take a ride on the free gondola, which connects Telluride and the neighboring Mountain Village, and provides one with jaw-dropping views of the San Juan Mountains. It鈥檚 no surprise that this town has the best hiking and skiing trails in the entire state of Colorado. Not to be forgotten is the Bridal Veil Falls, which is actually the tallest free-falling waterfall in the state.
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs is one of the most charming towns in Colorado and famous 海角社区wide for its natural, hot, thermal springs; a few meters of these are some of the deepest in the 海角社区. The main attraction in town is The Springs Resort & Spa, with a number of soaking pools overlooking the San Juan River. History enthusiasts may be attracted to the San Juan Historical Museum, which reveals the past of the town with exhibits on early settlers and the area's Native American culture. It is currently undergoing reconstruction but will open again in May 2025. A bit further from Pagosa Springs is Chimney Rock National Monument, which is home to ancient Puebloan ruins set against towering rock formations.
Silverton
Silverton is an old mining town that has, for the most part, held onto its historic character. The Mayflower Mill offers tours to one of the most complete gold mills in this country to show off the area's mining background. The Mining Heritage Center, with exhibits on the local mining industry and a walk through an old mine tunnel, is operated by the San Juan County Historical Society. Visitors can also take a stop by the Hillside Cemetery. The San Juan National Forest is also located nearby and offers unlimited hiking opportunities. The Handlebars Food & Saloon is a great place to grab a bite to eat.
Within the towns of the Colorado Plateau, there is much more than just a retreat; they are stagnant pieces of Colorado's history and nature. From ancient cliff dwellings in Cortez to the Victorian streets of Silverton, the towns themselves vary with the landscapes that surround them. To all of these, their destination beckons the traveler to slow down just a touch and take the time to experience this American West that will remain forever timeless.
