South Central Colorado Travel Guide (Colorado/Rocky Mountains/United States of America/North America)

Introduction to South Central Colorado
List of Places to Visit in South Central Colorado
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of South Central Colorado: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of South Central Colorado
Best Things to Do in South Central Colorado: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for South Central Colorado
Food and Drink Scene of South Central Colorado
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in South Central Colorado: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in South Central Colorado: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of South Central Colorado
Best Time to Visit South Central Colorado
Do’s and Don’ts of South Central Colorado
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in South Central Colorado
- Health in South Central Colorado
Getting to South Central Colorado: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in South Central Colorado
Where to Go Next from South Central Colorado: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to South Central Colorado

Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, South Central Colorado is an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The region is surrounded by impressive peaks, rugged wilderness areas, and scenic roads. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, skiing, water sports, and more. The region also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a selection of museums, galleries, and historic sites.

List of Places to Visit in South Central Colorado

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history and culture, South Central Colorado has plenty to offer. Here are some of the most important museums and historical sites to check out:

(1) Mesa Verde National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people, who lived in elaborate cliff dwellings from the 6th to the 12th centuries.
(2) The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: This historic steam train takes you on a scenic tour through rugged mountain terrain.
(3) Royal Gorge Bridge and Park: This is the highest suspension bridge in America, spanning 956 feet above the Arkansas River.

Natural Attractions of South Central Colorado: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

South Central Colorado is renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation. Here are some of the top natural attractions to explore:

(1) Great Sand Dunes National Park: This national park features the tallest dunes in North America, with sand towering up to 750 feet high.
(2) Garden of the Gods: This park near Colorado Springs boasts towering sandstone rock formations, stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and excellent hiking trails.
(3) Pikes Peak: This 14,000-foot peak offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and plains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Central Colorado

South Central Colorado is known for its top-notch outdoor recreation opportunities. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region:

(1) Colorado Trail: This is a 500-mile trail that crosses the state from Denver to Durango and takes you through some of the most scenic landscapes in Colorado.
(2) Mount Belford: This 14,203-foot peak offers an excellent day hike for experienced hikers, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
(3) Monarch Crest Trail: This 35-mile trail takes you through the heart of the Rockies, with challenging climbs, thrilling descents, and stunning vistas along the way.

Best Things to Do in South Central Colorado: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for more than just hiking and biking, South Central Colorado offers a wide range of activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do:

(1) Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take in stunning views of the Rocky Mountains from a hot air balloon.
(2) Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at one of the many ski resorts in the region, including Monarch Mountain and Ski Cooper.
(3) White-Water Rafting: Brave the rapids of the Arkansas River with a white-water rafting tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for South Central Colorado

If you’re planning a trip to South Central Colorado and want to make the most of your time there, here’s a week-long itinerary:

(1) Day 1: Explore Colorado Springs, including Garden of the Gods and the Olympic Training Center.
(2) Day 2: Drive up Pikes Peak and experience the highest elevation drive in North America.
(3) Day 3: Visit the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.
(4) Day 4: Explore the Great Sand Dunes National Park.
(5) Day 5: Take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gage Railroad through the San Juan Mountains.
(6) Day 6: Hike in the La Garita Wilderness Area or visit a nearby hot springs.
(7) Day 7: Visit Mesa Verde National Park and see the cliff dwellings.

Food and Drink Scene of South Central Colorado

Must-Try Dishes

South Central Colorado is home to some delicious local cuisine, including:

(1) Green Chili: This spicy stew is made with green chili peppers, tomatoes, and pork or beef. It’s a staple of Colorado cuisine.
(2) Rocky Mountain Oysters: These are actually fried bull testicles, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!
(3) Pueblo Green Chile: Made with Pueblo green chilies and pork, this dish is a must-try for spice lovers.

Local Beverages

Colorado is known for its craft beer scene, and South Central Colorado is no exception. Here are some of the best local breweries:

(1) Elevation Beer Company: This brewery in Poncha Springs has won numerous awards for its beer, including a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival.
(2) Ska Brewing: This Durango-based brewery is known for its creative beer names and irreverent branding.
(3) Trinity Brewing: This Colorado Springs brewery specializes in barrel-aged sours and wild ales.

Where to Stay in South Central Colorado: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Central Colorado offers a wide variety of accommodations, from rustic cabins to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best options:

(1) Glenwood Springs: This town is home to several hot springs resorts, including the historic Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge.
(2) Salida: This town has a variety of guesthouses, inns, and hotels, including the luxurious Palace Hotel.
(3) Durango: This town has everything from budget-friendly hostels to upscale resorts, including the historic Strater Hotel.

What to Buy in South Central Colorado: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home a piece of South Central Colorado, here are some souvenirs and local products to consider:

(1) Local Crafts: South Central Colorado is home to a thriving arts community, and you’ll find everything from pottery to jewelry at local galleries and shops.
(2) Chile Peppers: Bring home some of the famous Pueblo green chilies to add some spice to your cooking back home.
(3) Ski Memorabilia: If you’re a fan of skiing and snowboarding, pick up some memorabilia from one of the local ski resorts, such as a t-shirt or hat.

Local Culture and Customs of South Central Colorado

South Central Colorado is home to a diverse range of cultures, including Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo-American. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including:

(1) Sustainability: Many areas in South Central Colorado have fragile ecosystems, and visitors should be careful to leave no trace and follow Leave No Trace principles.
(2) Respecting Private Property: Much of the land in South Central Colorado is privately owned, so visitors should be respectful of posted signs and private property boundaries.
(3) Cultural Celebrations: South Central Colorado is home to a number of cultural celebrations throughout the year, including the Pueblo Indian dances and the annual fall hot air balloon festival in Colorado Springs.

Best Time to Visit South Central Colorado

The best time to visit South Central Colorado depends on what you’re interested in. If you’re looking for skiing and snowboarding, winter is the ideal time to visit. However, if you’re interested in hiking and outdoor activities, summer and fall are the best times to visit. Spring can also be a good time, although the weather can be unpredictable.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Central Colorado

Do:

(1) Bring Layers: The weather in South Central Colorado can change quickly, so it’s important to bring layers to stay warm and dry.
(2) Stay Hydrated: The high elevation in South Central Colorado can cause dehydration, so be sure to drink plenty of water.
(3) Respect Wildlife: South Central Colorado is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and mountain lions. Visitors should be respectful of their habitat and avoid getting too close.

Don’t:

(1) Leave Trash: Make sure to pack out what you pack in and dispose of trash properly.
(2) Ignore Signs: Many areas in South Central Colorado are fragile ecosystems, and signs are posted to protect them. Visitors should respect posted signs and stay on designated trails.
(3) Underestimate Altitude: The high elevation in South Central Colorado can cause altitude sickness, so visitors should take it slow and give themselves time to acclimate.

Safety and Health

Safety in South Central Colorado

South Central Colorado is a safe place to visit, but visitors should be aware of the risks associated with outdoor recreation. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

(1) Wear Appropriate Gear: Make sure to wear appropriate clothing and gear for your activity, including proper footwear.
(2) Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for potential hazards, such as rock falls or wildlife.
(3) Plan Ahead: Make sure to plan your route and let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.

Health in South Central Colorado

The high elevation in South Central Colorado can cause altitude sickness, so visitors should take precautions to avoid this. Here are some tips:

(1) Take it Slow: Give yourself time to acclimate to the altitude by taking it slow and avoiding strenuous activity for the first day or two.
(2) Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can exacerbate altitude sickness symptoms.
(3) Pay Attention to Symptoms: If you experience headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower elevation.

Getting to South Central Colorado: Transportation Options and Logistics

South Central Colorado is accessible by car, bus, and plane. Here are some transportation options to consider:

(1) Flying: The closest major airport to South Central Colorado is Denver International Airport, which is about 150 miles north of Colorado Springs.
(2) Driving: South Central Colorado is approximately a 9-hour drive from Dallas, a 11-hour drive from Phoenix, and a 12-hour drive from Los Angeles.
(3) Bus: Greyhound and other bus companies offer routes to several cities in the region, including Denver, Colorado Springs, and Durango.

Airports Near South Central Colorado

(1) Denver International Airport
(2) Colorado Springs Airport
(3) Durango-La Plata County Airport

Bus Stations Near South Central Colorado

(1) Greyhound Bus Station - Colorado Springs
(2) Greyhound Bus Station - Pueblo
(3) Durango Transit Center

Other Options

(1) Private Car: Several companies offer private car services in South Central Colorado, including Aspen Limo and Luxury Transportation.
(2) Rental Car: Major rental car companies such as Avis, Hertz and Enterprise have locations throughout the region.

How to Get Around in South Central Colorado

To get around South Central Colorado, the best option is to rent a car. However, if you’re planning to do a lot of hiking or don’t want to drive, there are other options. Here are some transportation options to consider:

(1) Rental Car: Major rental car companies such as Avis, Hertz and Enterprise have locations throughout the region.
(2) Greyhound Bus: Greyhound and other bus companies offer routes to several cities in the region, including Denver, Colorado Springs, and Durango.
(3) Uber/Lyft: Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in the larger cities in South Central Colorado.

Where to Go Next from South Central Colorado: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your Colorado adventure, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

(1) Rocky Mountain National Park: This national park is located about 3 hours north of South Central Colorado and is home to some of the most stunning alpine scenery in the United States.
(2) Santa Fe, New Mexico: This historic city is about a 5-hour drive south of Durango and is known for its vibrant arts scene and Spanish colonial architecture.
(3) Grand Canyon National Park: This iconic national park is about a 8-hour drive southwest of Durango and is one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world.

Conclusion

South Central Colorado is an incredible destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates natural beauty. With its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and endless recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder that this region is one of the most popular destinations in Colorado. We hope this guide helps you plan your perfect trip to South Central Colorado!