2024's 6 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the Colorado Plateau
The Colorado Plateau is a wide, flat plateau that runs from Utah in the north to New Mexico at its southern end. The Plateau has stunning geographical features. Landscapes include expansive deserts, the Colorado River, and red cliffs, which draw tourists to the area year in and year out. A variety of beautiful small towns sit amongst the awe-inspiring landscape. Each is full of history, culture, and charm. From Utah to Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico, learn more about six of the most beautiful small towns in the Colorado Plateau.
Moab, Utah
One of the most stunning towns in the Colorado Plateau is the town of Moab. Moab boasts stunning bright red rock formations and expansive deserts. It is also home to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Both have striking rock features that seem to defy nature. Don’t miss the imposing rock archways of Arches or the teetering towered hoodoos and deep canyons of Canyonlands. Dead Horse Point State Park is also nearby for outdoor recreation and adventure.
Raft the white water rapids of the Colorado River or hike through the red rock parks. The views are endless and impressive, from the canyons to the river banks. At night, Moab transforms into a starry haven. Stay at one of the many nearby campgrounds to experience the stars in true dark sky territory. Get the full experience by staying in a yurt at Under Canvas.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is one of the most beautiful towns in Arizona. It features vibrant red and orange sandstone cliffs and rock formations that rise up out of the desert. Visitors can enjoy hiking among these giant rocks on the Sedona Secret 7 Trails. Check out the imposing Cathedral Rock or explore the nearby Red Rock State Park. In town, the beauty of the natural landscape has inspired many artists to flock to the area. Shop the local boutiques and galleries in the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. For Western dining options, don’t miss the historic Cowboy Club or enjoy a meal with a view at Tii Gavo. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views from Poco Diablo Resort at the Arroyo Pinion Hotel. As an alternative, opt for a more budget-friendly bed and breakfast or rental cabin.
Durango, Colorado
For majestic mountain views, don’t miss Durango, Colorado. The town sits on the edge of the San Juan National Forest beneath striking mountain peaks. Visit in winter for world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. In warmer months, enjoy horseback riding, hiking, or mountain biking on scenic forest trails like the Colorado Trail. Visitors can also ride the historic Durango Train. It travels on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, passing by jaw-dropping mountain views and lush forests.
The train is also an old-fashioned locomotive. It includes a historical guide that will educate people about the local history along the ride. For more history, check out the Durango Museum. The downtown area is also a Nationally Registered Historic District. After a long day exploring, get some rest and relaxation at the Durango Hot Springs. Stay at the resort, or book an experience in the natural hot baths.
Jemez Springs, New Mexico
The beauty of the Colorado Plateau extends down to New Mexico and a town called Jemez Springs. It is only an hour outside Albuquerque. Like Durango, its main attraction is the natural hot springs. Soak in the mineral-rich waters and feel the healing powers of these ancient waters. Options include Spence Hot Springs and Soda Dam - two natural springs in the Santa Fe National Forest. Modern options for hot baths include Jemez Spring Bath House and Cañon del Rio Retreat and Spa, where you can enjoy refined outdoor pools and spa treatments. The town of Jemez Springs also has a deep history. Visit the Jemez National Historic Landmark. Its interpretive walking tours detail the history of the 700-year-old village.
Telluride, Colorado
Another gorgeous town in Colorado worth a visit is Telluride. Backed by the scenic Colorado Plateau, it is a stunning town nestled in a box canyon. Rugged mountain peaks rise up to 13,000 and 14,00 feet around the tiny downtown district. Telluride was once a former American West boom town. Its history has placed the entire eight-block by twelve-block downtown in the National Historic Landmark District. Stroll the old streets and take in the Victorian-style architecture and gold-rush history. Telluride offers two unique experiences in the charming downtown and adjoining Mountain Village. The village sits above the valley at a height of 9,500 feet.
Ride the gondola up to the village in the clouds for amazing views of the mountains, valley, and town below. Visitors can also access the Telluride Ski Resort and Uncompahgre National Forest from Mountain Village. The village is particularly popular in winter for skiing. Telluride has a little bit of everything, from horseback riding, hot springs, stand-up paddle boarding, ziplining, rafting, and a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities. After a day of adventure, enjoy scenic dining spots, including Allred’s restaurant and Alpino Vino in Mountain Village. Dine in town at French-inspired La Marmotte or Cornerhouse Grille.
Taos, New Mexico
There is no place better for experiencing the beauty of New Mexico than Taos. Taos sits against the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The tall peaks create a constant backdrop to the beautiful small town. The region is also rich in culture, and its name is taken from the Taos people. Taos Pueblo, the old town, consists of traditional adobe-style buildings that date back more than 1,000 years. The distinct buildings draw travelers from all over.
Taos Pueblo is the only living Native American community that is both a Unesco World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The sheer beauty and depth of culture in the area have made it a hotspot for creatives. A thriving art colony exists here, including many art studios, galleries, and the Taos Art Museum. Aside from its art, visitors can enjoy the stunning views from high in a hot air balloon. Watch the sunset over the Southwestern landscape. The colors painted in the rolling desert are red and gold. Or float high above the iconic Rio Grande Gorge.
From striking canyons to impressive mountain ranges, old adobe towns, and beautiful National Parks, the Colorado Plateau is one of the most visually impressive areas in the US. Take in the mountain views in Telluride. Soak in the hot springs in Durango or see the iconic rock formations of Moab. Each beautiful small town in the Colorado Plateau has something different to offer, but all are a feast for the eyes. Escape to one of these small towns, or check them all off the travel list. There is much to see, do, and explore in the gorgeous Colorado Plateau.
