7 Little-Known Towns On The Colorado Plateau
The Colorado Plateau is an expansive region of the United States that covers portions of New Mexico, Utah, Arizona, and Colorado. This high desert part of the country is visually significant, with its deep canyons, red rocks, snowcapped mountains, and arid plains.
With few highly populated cities or towns within it, there are many communities here that simply fly under the radar for tourists and even some residents. Today, we will uncover 7 little-known towns in the Colorado Plateau that you really should make an effort to see, especially if you are looking to avoid crowds and experience something new.
Bluff, Utah
Bluff is a small town in southeastern Utah that serves as a gateway to some of the Colorado Plateau’s most gorgeous desert landscapes. With a population of fewer than 300 residents, this unassuming community may surprise you with its rich history intertwined that is with the region's natural beauty.
Founded in 1880 by Mormon pioneers, the town preserves its storied past through landmarks such as the Bluff Fort Historic Site. Here, you can explore reconstructed cabins and artifacts that illustrate the struggles and resilience of early settlers.
The area's natural beauty is also of note. Towering sandstone bluffs, from which the town derives its name, frame the landscape. Bluff is a convenient base for exploring other nearby attractions like Bears Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, and Comb Ridge—a prominent geological feature prized for its petroglyphs and hiking opportunities.
Another notable destination nearby, the "Four Corners," is where four states share their borders- Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico.
Fruita, Colorado
While often overshadowed by nearby Grand Junction, Fruita has emerged as a smaller, alternative destination for travelers looking to access the renowned red rock desert-scapes and mesas in the area.
The town is a gateway to the Colorado National Monument, a sprawling expanse of canyons, sandstone cliffs, and rugged mesas in southwestern Colorado. Scenic drives like Rim Rock Drive are also recommended for their breathtaking views, while local trails offer a more intimate adventure among the park’s unique geology and desert plants.
Fruita is also a hub for mountain biking, with world-class trails such as the Kokopelli Trail and 18 Road Trails attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
For some fun in town, Fruita celebrates its surrounding farmlands with attractions like the annual Fruita Fall Festival, which generally takes place in late September.
Chama, New Mexico
Chama, located in northern New Mexico near the Colorado border, is known for its lush valley setting, with both forests and mountains making for a gorgeous 360-degree backdrop.
The town’s center revolves around the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a narrow-gauge steam train that traverses the dramatic canyons, forests, and mountain passes of the region. The railroad, designated a National Historic Landmark, provides a very "Wild West" vibe as you explore the area.
Outdoorsy people will find ample opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping along the Chama River and in nearby Carson National Forest. Winter also transforms the area into a haven for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
Chama’s culture heavily reflects its blend of Hispanic, Native American, and pioneer influences. This culture can be explored in the town's cuisine, with eateries like Rio Chama Espresso Kitchen & Wine Bar and Glorybry's Taco House serving up delicious, locally inspired dishes.
Mexican Hat, Utah
Mexican Hat is named after a unique rock formation resembling an overturned sombrero, which lies on the San Juan River in southeastern Utah. With a population of fewer than 30, this quiet community is an unassuming yet convenient location near some remarkable tourist destinations.
The iconic Mexican Hat rock formation is just outside town, a short drive or hike from the main road. Beyond this geological curiosity, Mexican Hat offers access to Monument Valley to the south, Goosenecks State Park to the west, and Valley of the Gods to the north—all within a roughly 30-minute drive. Goosenecks State Park, in particular, showcases a dramatic series of entrenched river valleys carved by the San Juan River over millions of years. A beautiful and highly underrated spot in this region of the country.
The San Juan River itself is popular for rafting trips that weave through stunning canyon walls, revealing petroglyphs and ancient cliff dwellings along the way.
Accommodations in Mexican Hat are simple yet hospitable, catering to travelers seeking proximity to these natural wonders. Locales like the Hat Rock Inn are sure to give you a scenic and relaxing place to rest your head for the night.
Kayenta, Arizona
Kayenta, located on the northeastern edge of Arizona, is a Navajo Nation town that gives travelers in the area a unique cultural experience on the Colorado Plateau.
The town is best known for its proximity to Monument Valley, one of the Southwest’s most iconic destinations. Just 25 miles away, the towering red sandstone buttes and mesas have been featured in countless films and photographs throughout the centuries. Guided tours led by Navajo locals provide an in-depth look at the area's geography, history, and native cultural significance.
Kayenta’s high desert setting also provides access to numerous scenic drives, hiking trails, and stargazing spots free from urban light pollution.
Tropic, Utah
Near the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau, Tropic is a community of about 500 residents that is close to iconic American landmarks like Bryce Canyon National Park. Established in 1892, this mainly agricultural town has tons of rural charm while offering access to some of the plateau’s most amazing geological features.
Tropic’s proximity to Bryce Canyon is a major draw, with the park located just minutes from town. The red rock hoodoos, natural amphitheaters, and unobstructed views of the plateau’s escarpments make it a must-visit destination for all hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
Tropic also serves as a starting point for lesser-known trails like the Tropic Trail, which connects directly to Bryce Canyon, bypassing more crowded park entrances.
The town’s rural setting offers a slower pace, with opportunities to explore nearby Red Canyon or the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, other natural spots that don't get quite as much traffic as Bryce.
Monticello, Utah
Monticello can serve as a base for exploring the high altitude, mountainous terrain in this part of eastern Utah. The nearby Abajo Mountains provide a cooler contrast to the arid lands that are found throughout much of the plateau, with many spots for hiking, camping, and fishing within reach.
A short drive south leads to Canyonlands National Park’s Needles District, where vibrant sandstone formations and ancient native rock art draw adventurers and history buffs alike to the area. Monticello also offers easy access to less-trafficked areas like the vast expanse of Bears Ears National Monument and the hidden canyons of Dark Canyon Wilderness.
In town, the Frontier Museum chronicles Monticello’s original pioneers, while the historic LDS temple, completed in 1998, stands as a landmark of the community’s spiritual life.
With its central location and access to both natural and cultural landmarks, Monticello provides a convenient and peaceful stop for those exploring the southern Colorado Plateau.
From a lack of crowds to unique cultural scenes you won't be able to find elsewhere in the country, these wonderful small towns should totally be added to your travel list if you are looking to experience something a little different. Whether you find yourself in the Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, or Arizona portions of the plateau, you will be sure to find some sort of relatively unknown community to explore.
