HIDDEN GEMS

The area surrounding Mancos State Park offers access to miles of trails, as well as spectacular views of the La Plata Mountains. photo by Terrance Siemon MANCOS STATE PARK: MANCOS, CO

Located just off the San Juan Scenic Byway in Southwest Colorado, Mancos State Park offers year-round opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. The wakeless Jackson Gulch Reservoir provides an oasis for canoeists, kayakers and paddleboarders in the summer. The reservoir is full of perch and trout, offering fantastic fishing. Mancos State Park has plenty of great camping options, making it the perfect home base for exploring the surrounding area and the La Plata mountains. Two yurts are also available as an alternative camping option. The epic peak just north of Mancos State Park is Hesperus Mountain, debatably the tallest mountain in the La Plata range. For the more experienced hiker looking for amazing views, you can hike to the top via a 6-mile trail beginning at the Sharkstooth trailhead that climbs almost 3,000 feet. Make sure you check out Absolute Bakery in Mancos for some delicious treats to reward yourself. NAVAJO LAKE STATE PARK: NAVAJO DAM, NM

Water sports enthusiasts will love spending a weekend at Navajo Lake State Park in northern New Mexico. Navajo Lake is New Mexico’s second largest lake and extends into Colorado and Colorado’s Navajo State Park. It has multiple marinas and boat docks, great camping options and some of the best fishing around, making it a mecca for boaters and anglers alike. Boat rentals are available at the marinas. Whether you are looking for a sailing, motorized, human-powered or wind-powered adventure, Navajo Lake has something for everyone. Guests can even rent a houseboat from the Navajo Marina to really escape the crowds.

Sunrise over Goosenecks State Park. photo by Tiona Eversole

MATT YEOMAN is a Durango, Colorado, based adventurer. When he isn't working, he is out on multiday rafting or bikepacking trips, escaping the crowds and exploring new places.