7 Picturesque Small Towns In Colorado For A Weekend Retreat
Colorado is one of the most beautiful states in the country. The name already gets outdoor enthusiasts packing their bags, as it boasts a spectacular landscape that calls for adventure. Straddled by the Rocky Mountains in the center, with high deserts, deep canyons, and rolling plains covering the rest, there is no shortage of nature to explore. For such an abundance of natural beauty, it isn't a surprise to understand that Colorado is also an excellent destination for a retreat getaway, even if it is only for a weekend. Relax your way in a luxurious spa resort, or get warm and cozy in a trusty lodge; these are the small towns in Colorado that you should consider for a short but sweet weekend retreat.
Manitou Springs
Just 10 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs and conveniently located on Route 24, Manitou Springs is one of the state's most popular retreat destinations. Manitou Springs is a classic resort that lies under the foot of Pikes Peak, a prominent mountain that reaches up to 14,100 feet, tempting hikers to climb and daytrippers to ascend via a cog railway. As its name suggests, the town is well-known for its natural springs, which were discovered to have healing properties in the 1820s. Explore its historic center and find the eight designated springs, which are all drinkable and distinctive in their taste and health benefits. Of course, those waters are also for soaking, and there are several places to do so in town, such as SunWater Spa, where guests are invited to dip in its rejuvenating cedar hot tubs. With must-see attractions such as Miramont Castle and the Garden of the Gods, this place will keep you busy and exhausted by the end of the day. Stay a couple of nights at the Cliff House, where guests have always loved the classic ambiance and furnishings, or the Magnuson Grand Hotel, which comes with its own indoor heated pool and hot tub for that much-needed relaxing session.
Silverton
Born as a mining town, Silverton is nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, about an hour's drive from Durango or three hours and a half on the scenic narrow gauge rail from May to October. With an elevation of over 9,300 feet above sea level, the small town of not more than 650 people has drawn an increasing number of visitors for its mountain scenery and the opportunity for many outdoor activities. Whether it is horseback riding through the woods, jeep driving on narrow gravel paths in the hills, or snowmobiling in the icy white wilderness, there is a lot of room here for adventure. Entirely designated as a National Historic Landmark District, the town is also a place to learn about the past, and stopping by the Mining Heritage Center or joining a tour to visit one of the mines nearby is an essential experience. If you are coming for a weekend, consider staying at the Grand Imperial Hotel, where guests are easily transported back to the olden days with its historic decor and atmosphere.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is hidden in the Rocky Mountains and is the perfect destination for a weekend retreat. Surrounded by massive peaks on all sides, the town feels isolated from the rest of the world, which perhaps has helped to preserve its old Western heritage that can be seen on the many storefronts along the main thoroughfare of Elk Avenue. Overlooking downtown, the towering peak of Mount Crested Butte invites the active to hop on the gondola to the top and bike over 750 miles of trails in the warmer months or glide down the slopes when the snow arrives. Settle yourself in the Lodge at Mountaineer Square with world-class amenities and only a few steps from the ski lifts or closer to town at the quaint Elk Mountain Lodge. While Aspen and Vail remain as the meccas for most skiers and snowboarders, those seeking a quieter alternative can shift their attention here, as Colorado's "last great ski town" is sure to set a place in their hearts, so are those coming to escape from it all.
Ouray
Another great addition in the San Juan Mountains, the small town of Ouray has been referred to as the "Switzerland of America" for its picturesque alpine views that have everyone's cameras in continuous clicking mode. Like many towns in the area, Ouray was built from a gold mining past that attracted thousands far and wide to strive to be rich. Join a tour into the depths of the Bachelor Syracuse Mine, or visit the Ouray County Historical Museum if you are looking to learn about the area's history without the dark and claustrophobic experience. These days, the town's attraction is undoubtedly its natural surroundings, home to spectacular wonders such as Box Cañon Falls and the Uncompahgre Gorge. The latter becomes a giant frozen wall that challenges ice climbers to scale in the winter. But even if you are only here to relax, there are wonderful places to stay - from the outdoor hot springs of Twin Peak Lodge to the flagship rooms and spaces of Beaumont Hotel and Spa; whichever you choose, you are sure to come away feeling fresh and renewed.
Estes Park
Estes Park is about an hour's drive from Fort Collins, slightly a little more from the Mile High City to the south, making it an easy destination for a weekend getaway. Not a stranger to the tourism industry, the town started its resort business in the early 20th century with the Stanley Hotel, established by F. O. Stanley, the co-owner of Stanley Motor Carriage Company, who found the mountain air to cure his tuberculosis. Today, there are a variety of accommodations to cater to all sorts of vacation needs, with options ranging from the lakeside views of Estes Park Resort to rustic wooden cabins along the Fall River. While it primarily serves as the entry point into the national park, visitors don't have to venture far to experience the grandeur of nature as the town is smacked right in the center of it, with scenic drives such as the Peak to Peak Byway and plenty of trails around to satisfy the need for being in the wild.
Salida
Salida is a tranquil mountain town on the western bank of the Arkansas River, about two hours by car from downtown Colorado Springs. Its greatest feature is the old town, the largest historic district in the state, comprising more than 130 well-preserved buildings that are reminiscent of the long-gone Wild West era. The cool flow of the river is a favorite among families to take a dip in the warmer months, while those looking for warmth can do so in the indoor hot springs pool at the Aquatic Center. Salida offers plenty of thrill, too, where outdoor enthusiasts can pursue rafting in the headwaters, hiking through the rugged landscape of Browns Canyon National Monument, and ziplining over the high desert and bends of the river. In the winter, be sure to hit the powdery trails and backcountry of Monarch Mountain, located only 20 minutes from town. After a day of activities, rest up at the boutique-style Manhattan Hotel, or if you are looking for a more secluded experience, the cabins in Blue Coyote Ranch should do you a great favor.
Trinidad
A little out of the way compared to most towns in the state, Trinidad is accessible on Interstate 25 and about three hours of drive from Denver. Being on the historic Santa Fe Trail, the town has its fair share of history, from being a coal mining hub to being dubbed as the "Sex Change Capital of the World" in just over a century. These chapters are best told in the Trinidad History Museum, set in a complex of various historical landmarks, including the Victorian-style Bloom Mansion. For the outdoorsy, there are hiking trails up to Fishers Peak and plenty of spots for fishing along the Purgatoire River. Don't miss the trip on the Highway of Legends, a journey of beautiful vistas paired with tales of the region's gripping history. Trinidad may not be the first place that comes to mind when it comes to retreat, but it should be considered for its scenic nature and great accommodation choices, such as La Quinta Inn, with signature rooms and indoor pools to relax for a couple nights or more.
Whether you like it in a five-star resort or a classic wooden inn, these towns have a bit of something to make your retreat a memorable one. Choose from the mineral waters of Manitou Springs to the uninterrupted mountain views of Ouray, no matter which one you pick, it is easy to understand that Colorado has some of the best small towns for a well-deserved getaway.
