9 Underrated Small Towns to Explore in Colorado Plateau
The Colorado Plateau, where four storied states—Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona—converge, is a mesmerizing region where natural beauty and diverse cultures intertwine seamlessly. This sprawling landscape, stretching across the Western United States, offers an extraordinary blend of towering red cliffs, ancient Indigenous settlements, and awe-inspiring national parks. Imagine watching a sunset paint the sky in shades of crimson over the vast red cliffs or feel the adrenaline rush as you raft through the Colorado River's untamed rapids. Explore the old-world charm of places like Taos, rich with Indigenous heritage, or marvel at the famed national parks of Utah. Whether you're seeking cozy cabins, idyllic camping spots, or a taste of local flavors, the small towns scattered across the Colorado Plateau invite travelers to experience a world where nature, culture, and history come alive.
Holbrook, Arizona
Tucked within Arizona's Painted Desert, Holbrook serves as a gateway to the mesmerizing Petrified Forest National Park. This stunning park offers a 30-mile drive that unveils an otherworldly landscape filled with ancient trees transformed into vibrant, multi-colored quartz over millions of years. As you journey through, you'll discover remnants of prehistoric pueblos, petroglyphs, and fossils that take you back to a time when dinosaurs roamed the region. A visit to the nearby DoBell Ranch offers an even closer look at this geological wonder, where you can hunt for your own piece of petrified wood—a unique souvenir from this timeless desert.
For a cozy stay, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Holbrook Petrified Forest provides a comfortable base to rest after a day of exploration. As you settle in for the night, don't miss exploring Holbrook’s classic Route 66 attractions, including quirky shops and historic landmarks. You’ll even find relics like Wigwam Village Motel nearby, a nostalgic nod to 1950s roadside travel.
Mancos, Colorado
Nestled in the southwestern corner of Colorado, the charming town of Mancos sits 7,000 feet above sea level. This small town offers endless outdoor adventure, with fishing opportunities at Jackson Gulch Reservoir and mountain biking trails in Mancos State Park, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Another gem nearby, the renowned Mesa Verde National Park, is a must-see. Known as a sacred site, it was once home to 27 Pueblo communities, and today, you can explore the ancient cliff dwellings by foot or car, soaking in the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site. For an even more unique experience, stay overnight at the Jersey Jim Fire Lookout Tower—a converted fire lookout offering panoramic views of the forested landscape.
If you're looking for a true Western experience, remember to explore the Majestic Dude Ranch, where you can enjoy horseback riding and other ranch-style activities. End your day at Mancos Brewing Company, savoring craft beers made from locally sourced ingredients.
Blanding, Utah
Tucked away between Monticello and Bluff, Blanding is a hidden gem often bypassed by travelers in favor of more well-known destinations. However, those who take the time to explore this charming small town will discover it’s an ideal base for exploring Southeastern Utah's incredible attractions. One must-visit is the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum, where you can uncover a fascinating collection of Ancestral Puebloan artifacts and step inside a reconstructed kiva, offering a genuine glimpse into the past.
Just a short drive from Blanding, the Five Kiva Pueblo Trail Head leads to impressive archaeological sites that echo the region's ancient history. For another awe-inspiring experience, go to the House on Fire in Mule Canyon. On this iconic site, ancient ruins appear to flicker in the sunlight, mimicking flames dancing along the cliffside. Nearby, The Cave Towers is a set of ancient stone towers resting along the canyon's edge. However, the purpose of these towers remains a mystery, as there are no nearby settlements or villages to explain their presence. These mysterious structures, overlooking hidden caves, provide a fascinating connection to the region's rich archaeological history.
Taos, New Mexico
Taos, New Mexico seamlessly blends a rich Native American heritage with lively artistic culture. A must-see is the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark, where the multi-storied adobe structures have stood for over a thousand years. These ancient homes tell the story of the Puebloan people, who offer guided tours to share their history, traditions, and culture, inviting visitors to step back in time. Another gem, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, stands tall over the dramatic canyon below, providing panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Beyond leaving a lasting impression on its countless visitors, the bridge has also earned fame in Hollywood, featuring in numerous films such as "Paul," "Terminator Salvation," "Natural Born Killers," "Wild Hogs," and "White Sands."
Modern-day Taos has embraced its reputation as an artistic sanctuary in the desert. The Millicent Rogers Museum showcases an eclectic collection of Southwestern art, Native American pottery, and textiles, offering a glimpse into the region's diverse cultural influences. A visit to the historic San Francisco de Assisi Mission Church reveals its captivating adobe architecture, symbolizing Taos' rich spiritual and artistic legacy.
Panguitch, Utah
Renowned as a haven of tranquility, Panguitch is a quaint town that beautifully embraces its pioneer roots and vibrant sense of community. Its name, "big fish," hints at the fantastic fishing opportunities in the numerous lakes that dot the region. Yet, Panguitch offers much more than just great fishing. One of the town's most delightful events occurs each summer when colorful hot-air balloons fill the sky, creating a stunning backdrop against the clear, starry nights. Panguitch also comes alive with various festivities, from rodeos and bike rallies to the renowned Quilt Walk Festival, celebrating the town's history with intricate, handcrafted designs.
For a refreshing outdoor adventure, Panguitch is perfectly situated. Just a short drive away, the breathtaking Red Canyon and its iconic Red Canyon Tunnel offer a glimpse of the vibrant rock formations that make this region so unique. The scenic drive continues toward Bryce Canyon National Park. In this one of Utah's most famous natural wonders, visitors are treated to dramatic landscapes of red rock hoodoos and towering pink cliffs.
Aztec, New Mexico
Tucked away in the northwestern corner of New Mexico, Aztec is a captivating small town with a rich history and a welcoming spirit. At the heart of its attractions lies the Aztec Ruins National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage site where visitors can explore ancient Ancestral Puebloan structures that date back to the 12th and 13th Century. Wander through the preserved Great Kiva and marvel at the impressive stonework, gaining insight into the life and culture of the region's early inhabitants. Beyond its ancient roots, Aztec is also known for its stunning natural formations, like the Aztec Sandstone Arches, which offer a glimpse into the unique geological wonders of the area. For a refreshing dose of adventure, the nearby Mountain View Trail gives an ideal hiking and biking opportunity with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
After all the outdoor adventure, to satisfy curiosity about the history of the town, the Aztec Museum and Pioneer Village is the perfect place to visit. Here, a collection of historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibits vividly narrates the town's pioneer past. Besides these, Aztec’s downtown area, with its charming shops, local eateries, and friendly atmosphere, presents a delightful way to unwind after a day of exploration and grab some souvenirs to take home as a memory of a marvelous trip.
Lupton, Arizona
Situated just off Interstate 40 on the Arizona-New Mexico border, Lupton is a small town with a big heart and an undeniable Southwestern charm. One of its unique claims to fame is being a filming location for the classic movie The Grapes of Wrath. The film's rugged landscapes capture this high-desert town's essence, making it an exciting stop for film enthusiasts retracing the movie’s iconic scenes.
One of the most popular stops for travelers passing through is the Tee Pee Trading Post, an iconic roadside attraction that has been welcoming visitors for decades. This quirky shop is packed with an array of handcrafted Native American jewelry, pottery, rugs, and other one-of-a-kind items that make perfect keepsakes or gifts. Just a stone's throw away, the Yellowhorse Gift Shop is another must-visit destination. Perched on a stunning red rock cliff, this family-owned shop is a treasure trove of Native American crafts, including turquoise jewelry, blankets, and sculptures. Completing the trio of roadside gems is Chee's Indian Store, known for its impressive variety of authentic Native American artwork, handcrafted leather goods, and traditional clothing.
Moab, Utah
Moab, Utah, is an adventurer's dream, offering stunning sights from every angle, whether you’re trekking through desert landscapes, exploring slot canyons, or navigating the rapids of the Colorado River. Taking a stroll in one of its nearby parks reveals breathtaking vistas that make this small town feel like something out of a Wild West story. Begin your journey at Arches National Park, where over 2,000 natural rock arches, towering spires, and balanced rocks create a landscape that feels otherworldly. If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, then try hiking to the awe-inspiring Corona Arch, one of Moab’s lesser-known gems, offering incredible photo opportunities. Besides these, Dead Horse Point State Park provides panoramic views of the meandering Colorado River, with dramatic cliffs and canyons stretching as far as the eye can see.
Amidst these breathtaking, nature-painted landscapes, you might stumble upon iconic scenes featured in movies such as The Lone Ranger, Con Air, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and even Galaxy Quest as you traverse the countless hiking and biking trails.
Cortez, Colorado
In the heart of the Four Corners region, Cortez, Colorado, stands as one of America’s most significant archaeological treasures. Flanked by the world-renowned Mesa Verde National Park and the captivating Ute Mountain Tribal Park, this southwestern town offers an incredible glimpse into the region's deep history. In the late 1500s, Cortez found its place along the Old Spanish Trail, a major route linking northern New Mexico with California and southern Colorado. Today, the trails have transformed to cater to modern-day adventurers, making Cortez a hotspot for hiking and mountain biking.
One of the best ways to experience the area’s history is by taking the Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway, which winds its way to the stunning Hovenweep National Monument, featuring a range of structures, from multistory towers perched on canyon edges to those delicately balanced atop boulders. After exploring this wonderful town, satisfy your appetite at one of the standout eateries. La Casita De Cortez serves up authentic Mexican fare in a laid-back, outdoor setting, perfect for unwinding after sightseeing. For a taste of the Far East, Thai Cortez & Sushi offers a menu packed with flavorful options that’ll delight your taste buds.
Whether you’re in search of outdoor thrills or a deep dive into local art and culture, these small towns across the Colorado Plateau have something special to share. From the vibrant red rock landscapes of New Mexico to Colorado's snow-dusted mountain towns or Utah's riverside escapades, every destination promises an adventure. This region’s natural beauty, from roaring rapids to expansive desert plains, offers countless opportunities for exploration. Plan a quick weekend getaway or extend your journey—each town presents its blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Explore one, or make it a mission to visit them all and fall in love with the Colorado Plateau.
