The Best Small Towns in the Colorado Plateau to Chill Out
Centered along the Four Corners in the American Southwest, the Colorado Plateau is located in parts of Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. The area spans 150,580 square miles and is defined by plateaus and mesas located in large basins surrounded by highlands. The Colorado Plateau borders the Rocky Mountains to the north and east, the Great Basin in the west, and the Sonoran Desert along the south. Within the region are incredible land formations, canyons, deserts, petrified forests, and some of the best towns to relax and rejuvenate in nature. From multiple national parks in Moab, Utah, to ancient hot springs in Jemez Springs, New Mexico, and charming towns in Arizona and Colorado, here are eight of the best small towns in the Colorado Plateau to chill out.
Page, Arizona
Located near the Utah state border is the charming town of Page, Arizona. The town is the perfect spot to chill outdoors since it is home to breathtaking outdoor sites. One of the most popular and awe-inspiring sites is Horseshoe Bend in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Visitors can hike the accessible trail on the horseshoe-shaped meander to the Colorado River overlook. For those looking to chill out on a lakefront, Lake Powell offers crystal-clear waters for fishing, kayaking, and taking a boat tour of the incredible surrounding nature. The beautiful town also offers several hiking trails, including the Chains, the Hanging Garden Trailhead, and the 9.8-mile Page Rimview Trail that surrounds the town. Plus, visitors can encounter amazing views at Antelope Canyon, a pristine slot canyon that is most beautiful in the midday sun.
Moab, Utah
A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Moab, Utah is known as “nature’s masterpiece” due to the unique natural scenery in the area. The town is home to the entrance of Arches National Park, made up of stunning red rock arches, petrified sand dunes, and incredible hiking trails. Another gem in the town is Canyonlands National Park, home to deep canyons, towering mesas, and the confluence of the Green River and Colorado River. The two rivers also offer the perfect opportunity for those looking to chill out by kayaking, canoeing, or taking a guided float tour. For those looking to relax in town, you can learn more about the region’s history at the Moab Museum, enjoy a delicious meal at the family-owned Moab Diner, and enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride along Mill Creek Parkway.
Durango, Colorado
Nestled in the breathtaking San Juan Mountains is the stunning town of Durango, Colorado. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll through the Oxbow Park and Preserve, hike on trails such as the Animas Mountain East Trailhead, and go white water rafting in the Animas River. You can also camp, fish, and hike along the beautiful trail at Haviland Lake. The town also provides easy access to San Juan National Forest, which offers horseback riding and hiking trails in the summer and skiing in the winter. Plus, you can go on a scenic train ride to Cascade Canyon or Silverton aboard the historic Durango Train on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. In addition to its natural beauty, Durango also boasts a vibrant arts scene. You can take an art class, watch a performance, or view a local art exhibits at the Durango Arts Center.
Jemez Springs, New Mexico
If you are looking to rejuvenate and unwind in nature, look no further than Jemez Springs, New Mexico. The town is home to ancient hot springs that originate beneath the Valles Caldera National Preserve. You can visit Jemez Hot Springs to soak in mineral-rich waters near the Jemez River. The town also offers a look at Native American culture, including the Jemez National Historic Landmark. The site is home to remnants of a 700-year-old village, as well as a church from the 1600s. You can also visit the Pueblo of Jemez, home to a federally recognized tribe and only one of 19 pueblos in the state. For outdoor enthusiasts, a trip to Fenton Lake State Park in the Jemez Mountains is a must. You can fish and canoe in the lake, camp in the park, and hike along scenic trails.
Monticello, Utah
Located on the edge of Utah’s Canyon Country, Monticello overlooks sandstone canyons and plateaus in the Abajo Mountains. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and waterways, including Loyd’s Lake. The lake is a great place to chill out while fishing, boating, or simply being inspired by the natural beauty of the area. The town is also part of the southeastern region of the Manti-La Sal National Forest, which provides several mountain peaks for climbing, hiking, and cross-country skiing. For those looking to relax in nature while learning about Native American history, a visit to Bears Ears National Monument provides a glimpse at ancient artifacts and breathtaking views of nature. The historical town is also the starting point for the 480-mile San Juan and the Trail of the Ancients. You can drive the scenic route and visit important archaeological and cultural sites of the Pueblo people along the way.
Cortez, Colorado
A great place to chill out in the Colorado Plateau is Cortez, Colorado. Located along McElmo Creek, a tributary of the San Juan River, Cortez offers visitors great hiking paths in town and at surrounding parks, scenic views of nature, and Native American history. Notah-Dineh Company and Museum is home to artifacts from indigenous people, Navajo rugs, and art by Native American artisans. History buffs also enjoy Mesa Verde National Park, a sacred place to Ancestral Pueblo for over 700 years. The World Heritage Site and Dark Sky park provides views of the communities built on the side of mesas, as well as scenic hiking trails. Cortez is also home to Yucca House National Monument, an untouched ancient pueblo. You will also want to take the short 39-mile trip from Cortez to the Four Corners Monument to stand in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico at the same time.
Mexican Hat, Utah
Mexican Hat, Utah is a small village with big outdoor adventures. Named for the uniquely shaped rock formation that resembles a sombrero, climbers enjoy ascending the 300-foot cone to the top of Mexican Hat along the San Juan River. Since the town has just a couple of restaurants and lodging options, it is the perfect place to chill out and explore the great outdoors. Goosenecks State Park, often called “Little Grand Canyon,” offers camping, hiking and biking trails, and stargazing that is out of this world. Mexican Hat is also home to Valley of the Gods, a scenic sandstone valley that provides breathtaking views of buttes and towering pinnacles. For movie buffs, a stop along U.S. Route 163 near the Monument Valley Overlook is a must because the stretch of road was featured in Forrest Gump.
Holbrook, Arizona
Known for its roadside attractions, Holbrook, Arizona is a perfect town to chill out and unwind. Located along Historic Route 66 is the town’s most notable attraction, the Wigwam Motel where you can still “sleep in a wigwam.” Nearby is the Rainbow Rock Shop that sells petrified wood and showcases large dinosaur statues. During September, you can also chill out at the Navajo County Fair and Rodeo or attend one of the concerts and livestock shows at the fairgrounds during the summer. In addition to the cultural attractions, Holbrook is home to the Little Colorado River and colorful badlands known as Arizona’s Painted Desert. The area stretches from the Grand Canyon to the Petrified Forest National Park, which is located next to Holbrook. The park offers views of an ancient pueblos, scenic hiking trails, and horseback riding areas.
From Native American culture to unique rock formations and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, the Colorado Plateau offers visitors many options to chill out in nature. The region boasts breathtaking views of the night sky, nostalgic attractions along Route 66, and incredible Native American artifacts. Whether you want to soak in hot springs, view ancient pueblos, or explore remarkable canyons, the area is perfect for anyone looking to rejuvenate and unwind.
