The Most Picturesque Small Towns in Colorado Plateau
The Colorado Plateau is a wide, flat region of the western United States. Its vast area spans from Utah and Colorado in the north to parts of Arizona and New Mexico in the south. The area includes distinct geographical features, including the Colorado River, distinct red rock formations and cliffs, vast canyons, and hot springs. Many small towns exist in the area, each with impressive picturesque views of the surrounding natural landscape. Visitors can take in the region's beauty and enjoy the unique features of these picturesque small towns in the Colorado Plateau.
Moab, Utah
Moab is a picture-perfect town. It is unique for its many red rock formations and expansive scenic desert-scapes. Visitors can take in the iconic beauty of the area at one of the Mighty Five National Parks of Utah. Arches National Park features the classic red rock arch that has to be seen to truly be appreciated. Canyonlands National Park is also nearby and has an impressive deep canyon and towering rock formations called hoodoos. Visitors can also check out Dead Horse Point State Park, just a short distance from town. Aside from the stunning beauty, visitors can enjoy white water rafting on the Colorado River or hiking the many scenic trails. Camp under the stars and experience the meaning of Dark Sky Country. In town, don’t miss the Museum of Moab, which has a collection of locally found dinosaur bones and artifacts. Grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant or take in the views from the Spanish Valley Vineyards & Winery.
Kanab, Utah
Another picturesque small town in Utah is Kanab. Like Moab, it has surreal landscapes and wide open plains. Kanab is so picture perfect, in fact, that it is the site of many TV and movie shoots. Hundreds of old Western movies were filmed here, sparking the name ‘Little Hollywood.’ Abandoned film sets are popular tourist attractions. Explore the nearby Buckskin Gulch, home of some of the deepest and longest slot canyons. Don’t miss the amazing, unique pink sands of Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. Kanab is also about 2 hours from the iconic Grand Canyon, world-renowned Zion National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park. Other natural attractions in the area include the other-worldly North Coyote Buttes, known as “The Wave”. The area is permit-only, though it is highly restricted. Alternative options that don’t require a permit include White Pocket. After a long day of exploring, enjoy drinks at Sego, which serves beer and craft cocktails. For a great local meal, stop at Wild Thyme Cafe.
Durango, Colorado
Durango is right on the edge of the Colorado Plateau in the San Juan National Forest. It is overlooked by striking mountain peaks and forests. Take in the beauty of the region on the historic Durango Train. This old-fashioned train travels through Durango and the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, offering unique mountainside views and sheer cliffs. Learn about the region and the stunning landscape from the on-board guide. In town, the Durango Museum is another great place to soak up some history and view photos and artifacts from the early days of Durango. Explore the nearby forests and hills by hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding. Popular trails in the region include the extensive Colorado Trail. Durango is also home to natural springs. Relax and let your cares drift away at the Durango Hot Springs. These natural baths let you soak while enjoying the amazing views of the mountains and plateau.
Telluride, Colorado
The Colorado Plateau extends east to Colorado and includes the visually impressive town of Telluride. Another gorgeous town in Colorado worth a visit is Telluride. Backed by the scenic Colorado Plateau, it is a stunning town nestled in a box canyon. Rugged mountain peaks rise up to 13,000 and 14,00 feet around the tiny downtown district. Telluride was once a former American West boom town. Its history has placed the entire eight-block by twelve-block downtown in the National Historic Landmark District. Stroll the old streets and take in the Victorian-style architecture and gold-rush history. Telluride offers two unique experiences in the charming downtown and adjoining Mountain Village. The village sits above the valley at a height of 9,500 feet. Ride the gondola up to the village in the clouds for amazing views of the mountains, valley, and town below. Visitors can also access the Telluride Ski Resort and Uncompahgre National Forest from Mountain Village. The village is particularly popular in winter for skiing. Telluride has a little bit of everything, from horseback riding, hot springs, stand-up paddle boarding, ziplining, rafting, and various outdoor recreational activities. After a day of adventure, enjoy scenic dining spots, including Allred’s restaurant and Alpino Vino in Mountain Village. Dine in town at French-inspired La Marmotte, or Cornerhouse Grille
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a beautiful town of red rock cliffs and orange desert lands. The extraordinary sandstone rock formations rise up around town and are some of the most iconic images of Arizona. Visitors can hike the Sedona Secret 7 Trails that wind up and down the many cliffs. Popular natural landmarks include the Red Rock State Park and Cathedral Rock. The town of Sedona is an artistic hub. Many creatives have been inspired by the surrounding natural beauty, and Sedona has blossomed into a haven for arts, galleries, studios, and workshops. Check out the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village for local fare. Accommodations and dining options are also plentiful. Stop by the Cowboy Club or enjoy the view from Poco Diablo Resort or Arroyo Pinion Hotel.
Taos, New Mexico
Ancient dwellings of Taos Pueblo in New Mexico.
Taos is a magnificent town full of history and natural beauty. It is at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The region is full of immense beauty - both in the landscape and architecture. In fact, the town has inspired a strong arts scene, including the Taos Art Museum. One of the most distinct parts of the town is Taos Pueblo. Indigenous Toas people have continuously inhabited this ancient village for some 1000 years. It consists of traditional adobe-style buildings and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. Explore the impressive Rio Grande Gorge for hiking and rafting adventures, or take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a unique view of the expansive landscape.
Jemez Springs, New Mexico
Another town in New Mexico that is picture-perfect is Jemez Springs. It is about an hour outside of Albuquerque and a great option for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Colorado Plateau. As the name suggests, the area has several natural hot springs. Visitors can spend the day hiking the gorgeous Santa Fe National Forest and soak in the outdoor Spence Hot Springs or Soda Dam. For those who prefer a more spa-like experience, the Jemez Spring Bath House and Cañon del Rio Retreat and Spa also have hot baths, lovely views, spa treatments, and lodgings. In town, visit the Jemez National Historic Landmark or walk through the village. The town dates back over 700 years and has an interesting history.
Gallup, New Mexico
Gallup, New Mexico, is a picturesque town off the iconic Route 66. It features red sandstone cliffs and rock formations and, like Toas, is popular with artists and creatives. Most of all Indigenous American artwork originates in Gallup, including silver and turquoise jewelry, which has become synonymous with New Mexico. Visitors can shop at the many galleries and boutiques and enjoy local festivals, including the Red Rock Balloon Rally and the Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial or rodeos at the Red Rock Park Arena. For history and culture, check out the Red Rock Park Museum. It has artifacts and exhibits dating back to 300 A.D.
The beauty of the Colorado Plateau is undeniable. Visit the distinct red rock formations, explore the deep canyons and gorges, or hike among the forests. This region has so much to discover, from artistic hotspots to culturally significant villages. Take in mountain views in Telluride and ancient villages in Taos Pueblo, soak in the natural hot springs, or explore the National Parks of Moab. Each small town has something unique and beautiful to offer.
