Scenic Drives

WELCOME

Adventures await around every bend. Hit the open road, and explore the fascinating history and landscape across the Four Corners. From ancient ruins and abandoned mines, to quaint towns with healing hot springs, travelers can discover cultural monuments as well as natural wonders all within a single day trip in Southwest Colorado.

The Four Corners has limitless landscapes to explore, each more diverse and wild than the last. Whether a lifetime local or a weekend visitor, hit the highway to experience some of these scenic road trips this summer.

CHIMNEY ROCK NATIONAL MONUMENT

In the San Juan National Forest between Durango and Pagosa Springs, Chimney Rock National Monument features more than 150 cultural resources managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Here, the moon rises, often aligning between the towers of Chimney Rock and Companion Rock.

A nonprofit devoted to fostering an educational experience and meaningful connection with the national monument, Chimney Rock Interpretive Association, hosts astronomy events and educational programs for all ages. Though there are events and programs at Chimney Rock, visitors can also observe the archaeological site from 9 a.m.4:30 p.m. May 15 to Sept. 30.

While visiting this region, don’t miss the opportunity to soak in the hot springs at one of three resorts in Pagosa Springs, or hike to Piedra River Hot Springs, an undeveloped geothermal spring accessed by a 1.5 mile trail. For more beautiful trails, travel north to Turkey Springs Trail System located in the San Juan National Forest. Surrounded by mountains and meadows, people can enjoy 14 interconnected routes and 30 miles of trails for biking and hiking.

Whether you stop along the way or before you call it a day, grab a bite or beer in Bayfield. The Blue Sky Cafe is a specialty coffee shop and bakery that serves delicious homemade meals and rotating specials. Play a round of pool at Billy Goat Saloon with a craft beer or signature cocktail made with the bar’s world-famous bloody mary mix.

SAFE TRAVELS

When driving in the mountains, use caution on steep grades and curves. Be sure to heed all posted signs and speed limits for your safety.

Fuel stations are few and far-betwen in rural areas. Remember to fill the gas tank and monitor fuel to avoid running out of gas.

Road work on mountain passes can often cause long delays or detours. Check weather conditions and review the route before leaving.

Technology is great, but it can fail you. Do not rely on GPS navigation in the mountains. Always bring or buy maps to help you navigate. It is also a good idea to let someone know where you will be and when you expect to return.

TRAIL OF THE ANCIENTS

Designated a National Scenic Byway in 2005, the Trail of the Ancients winds through archaeological and geological sites throughout the Four Corners. There are many variations of the route, but no matter which path is taken, a traveler finds a multitude of wonders both natural and manmade.

Some of the archeological sites along the way are world renowned for their significance. Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been a national park since 1906.

Canyon of the Ancients National Monument is a beautiful place for a hike, while nearby Hovenweep National Monument has unique tower ruins and is excellent for an overnight campout. While you’re near Mancos, grab a coffee and a bite at Absolute Bakery and Cafe, or enjoy a refreshing beverage at Fenceline Cider (we recommend trying the seasonal slushie).

Venturing into New Mexico, the amazing archeology and geography continues. The cultural keystone of Chaco Canyon is another World Heritage site. A center of the Ancestral Puebloan culture, this wonder is a definite must see. The Zuni, Aztec and Salmon ruins are among other archeological places to visit. Along the way you can sample New Mexican eateries like The Chile Pod or Francisca’s in Farmington, or try classic pub fare and craft brews from Three Rivers Eatery and Brewery.

A New Mexico journey will cross beautiful geography as well. In addition to the petrified lava of El Malpais and the Bandera volcano and ice cave, the Bisti Badlands are great for the adventurous and full of unique formations.

If your adventure takes you into Utah, vast areas like Natural Bridges National Monument, Gooseneck State Park and the Valley of the Gods will take your breath away. While there, consider a detour to see Arches National Park near Moab.

SAN JUAN SKYWAY

Named an All-American Road in 1996, the San Juan Skyway traverses stunning topography through the rugged San Juan Mountains. The journey is filled with panoramas worthy of photographic attention, in addition to four-wheel drive roads, trails, ghost towns, old mines and natural hot springs.

The mountain passes of Coal Bank and Molas stand between Durango and Silverton and offer numerous activities. Purgatory Resort has many summertime activities for families with children, while the Molas Lakes provide a natural setting for high altitude camping, fishing, hiking and paddling.

In Silverton, you can find tours of historic buildings, old mines and serene hikes to pristine alpine lakes. While there, visit the shops in town and enjoy a meal from one of the many restaurants in town, such as Golden Block Brewery or Lone Spur Cafe.

Driving to Ouray, known as the Switzerland of America, the road traverses Red Mountain Pass with a top elevation of 11,018 feet.

While in Ouray, enjoy a short hike in Box Canyon Falls Park and rock climbing routes, as well as natural hot springs.

Continuing onward, Telluride offers world-renowned beauty. Among the trails and camping opportunities, the gondola showcases gorgeous vistas. For the more adventurous, there is a legendary via ferrata to climb.

Traveling over Lizard Head pass and through Rico, the high country recedes for more arid climes. Returning to Durango, refuel with Asian food at Pop Sushi or Southwestern specialties at Eolus Bar and Dining.