Colorado Plateau's Best Small Towns for a Weekend Escape
The Colorado Plateau is one of the world’s premier natural showcases of Earth's history. There is nothing more tranquil and soothing than a change of pace for the weekend, and what better place to do that amidst deeply carved canyons, brightly colored sedimentary rocks, valleys, reefs, and natural bridges? If you are enticed enough to pack your bags and begin your weekend escape, the Colorado Plateau’s small towns are ideal destinations. Each of these towns is rich in raw beauty, culture, history, and adventure. From ski resorts to the Slickrock Trail, there is something for every traveler to experience and enjoy in the Colorado Plateau’s picturesque small towns.
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride is a charming town in the Colorado Plateau, perfect for families to explore. What sets Telluride apart is its fairytale ambiance. During the winter season, this mountain town is especially known for its ski resorts and slopes. Telluride Ski Resort, situated in Colorado’s majestic San Juan Mountains, offers travelers a unique, world-renowned ski terrain. Moreover, it hosts countless summer festivals each year, including a hot-air balloon festival.
Natural attractions like the Bear Creek Falls, famous for their incredible views, are sure to mesmerize every visitor. Another great option nearby is the Blue Lakes Trail, which is a challenging and satisfying hike at the same time. Visitors can check out the Victoria Inn to stay and enjoy the weekend at reasonable rates.
Moab, Utah
When thinking of the Colorado Plateau, Moab is sure to come up. It prides itself on having tourist-friendly weather all year round, which attracts numerous mountain bikers who love to ride on an extensive network of trails, including the Slickrock Bike Trail.
Besides biking, nature-loving tourists have plenty of options for their weekend getaway, from Arches National Park to Dead Horse Point State Park. If visiting in the warmer months, delight in rafting on the winding Colorado River. After a whole day of adventure, tourists can relax and wind down at Wingate by Wyndham Moab and enjoy the seasonal outdoor swimming pool if the weather permits.
Taos, New Mexico
Taos should be the first choice for history enthusiasts to visit on the weekend, as it has a World Heritage Site, Taos Pueblo, and is also home to one of the most photographed and iconic churches, St. Francisco de Asis. While in Taos for the weekend, tourists can take a half or full-day tour of the town and get a sense of the rich culture and history.
Those not interested in walking can avail themselves of the Taos Scenic Air Tour services and enjoy the views of the Taos Mountains and Rio Grand Gorge. Tourists can have an excellent stay at The Historic Taos Inn, located within walking distance of the galleries and plaza, and buy a few souvenirs to take home as memories.
Cortez, Colorado
Cortez is a small town with various archaeological sites where you can learn about the history of the ancestral Puebloan people. Visitors looking to dig deeper in the archaeological field can book their appointment with Crow Canyon Archaeological Center and plan the whole day learning about history. For nature and outdoor lovers, Cortez offers three miles of interconnecting trails in Hawkins Preserve to explore and have a good time. One can also plan a whole day at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mesa Verde National Park.
After enjoying this adorable small town, have a relaxed wine and dine experience at the most acclaimed vineyards in the town, like Sutcliffe Vineyard and Yellow Car Country Wines. Good options to stay at include Baymont by Wyndham Cortez and Cozy Inn, which has a heated outdoor pool ideal for families and kids to enjoy their stay.
Holbrook, Arizona
Cherished for the landscape, Holbrook is famous for its picturesque rocky badlands stretching from the Grand Canyon to the Navajo Nation. A day at the Petrified Forest National Park is an excellent idea to feel one with nature and explore different terrains, like the Historic Blue Forest Trail. Holbrook is also home to the Navajo County Historical Museum, which is full of artifacts from the history of the town that will surely take you back in time.
For a more unique experience, weekend travelers can also explore rockhounding at Dobell Ranch. Here, you will find fragments of ancient trees that, over the course of millions of years, have turned into pretty-looking stones. There are areas where you can collect specimens by paying for them and taking them home as cool souvenirs. To stay in Holbrook, weekenders can check out the Best Western Arizonian Inn, located close to the Petrified National Park and offers friendly staff to make the stay relaxing and enjoyable.
Bluff, Utah
Bluff was founded in 1880 as the first Anglo community in southeastern Utah and now draws a lot of tourists for a weekend full of shopping, lodging, and dining options. Travelers enjoy having a great meal at Comb Ridge Eat and Drink, famous for its burgers and outdoor seating. Be sure to check out Bluff Gardens Cabins for a relaxed and enjoyable stay.
The town is home to several interesting sites, including the Bluff Fort, where one can still check out the original Barton cabin and get a sense of early pioneer life. A half or full-day trip can be booked for rafting at the San Juan River, and along with that, enjoy the spectacular view of the canyon and wildlife. Pick a day to hike at Bears Ears National Monument and learn ways to protect and preserve the landscape for future generations.
Vernal, Utah
Vernal is an incredible town with plenty of options to spend a fun-filled weekend. Head straight to Utah Field House of Natural History State Park or Dinosaur National Monument if it's a family trip with kids. There is something for everyone to enjoy and learn about at the monument; however, kids will have an incredible time looking at the bones and fossils. There is also Fantasy Canyon, where travelers can drive and look at the unique formations of rocks. Moreover, visitors love to witness the incredible petroglyphs at McConkie Ranch while hiking along one of the many trails nearby. Families can stay comfortably in homey rooms with kitchenettes at Ledgestone Hotel Vernal and enjoy cooking meals together.
All these towns have so much to offer for tourists in the Colorado Plateau and are the best for any weekend getaway plan. With all the natural landmarks and national museums around to entice visitors from all walks of life, the whole family has plenty of options to explore and enjoy. The Colorado Plateau is worth considering for tourists with its incredible rock formations and natural hiking trails. No matter which town attracts travelers to start packing the bags; there is always something wonderful and exciting to look forward to when considering one’s next weekend getaway plans and cherish the memories for a lifetime.
