Westcliffe Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local customs of Westcliffe, Colorado. Read our comprehensive guide to plan your trip to this Rocky Mountain town.


Introduction to Westcliffe

Westcliffe is a charming mountain town located in the north-central part of Custer County, Colorado. Located in the Wet Mountain Valley, surrounded by the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it is a perfect spot for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking an escape from the hustle-bustle of city life. The town is popular for its extraordinary landscapes, vast open spaces, dark skies, and friendly locals.

List of Places to Visit in Westcliffe

When visiting Westcliffe, there is no shortage of attractions to see. Here are the must-visit places in Westcliffe that should be on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Westcliffe Depot Museum
  • Custer County Heritage Center
  • Historic Pines Ranch

Natural Attractions of Westcliffe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • San Isabel National Forest
  • Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area
  • Mission: Wolf

Hiking/Biking Routes of Westcliffe

Westcliffe is a paradise for hikers and bikers alike. With hundreds of trails available, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Rainbow Trail
  • Venable and Comanche Trails
  • Horn Creek Trail

Best Things to Do in Westcliffe: Activities and Tours

If hiking and biking aren’t your style, don’t worry. There are plenty of other things to do in Westcliffe, including:

  • Horseback Riding
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides
  • Stargazing Tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Westcliffe

If you’re planning to spend a week in Westcliffe, here is a suggested itinerary to get the most out of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Westcliffe Depot Museum and Custer County Heritage Center
2 San Isabel National Forest and Rainbow Trail hike
3 Horn Creek Trail hike and horseback riding
4 Hot Air Balloon Ride and Mission: Wolf
5 Venable and Comanche Trails hike and stargazing tour
6 Historic Pines Ranch and Sangre de Cristo Wilderness Area
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Westcliffe

Westcliffe has a small-town feel but doesn’t disappoint when it comes to dining. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages that you should indulge in:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rocky Mountain Oysters
  • Bison Burgers
  • Green Chili

Local Beverages

  • Colorado Craft Beer
  • Freshly Brewed Coffee
  • Sangria

Where to Stay in Westcliffe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Westcliffe, there are plenty of options to fit your budget and needs.

  • Lamp Post Lodge
  • Village Motel
  • Best Western

What to Buy in Westcliffe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Westcliffe without buying some souvenirs and local products. Here are some items that you can bring back home:

  • Pottery and Ceramics
  • Handmade Jewelry
  • Local Honey

Local Culture and Customs of Westcliffe

Westcliffe is a tight-knit community that values family, sustainability, and the environment. It is essential to respect the town’s customs and traditions by being mindful of the environment and the locals.

Best Time to Visit Westcliffe

The best time to visit Westcliffe is from May to October, when the temperature is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Westcliffe

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to make your trip to Westcliffe more enjoyable:

Do:

  • Respect the Environment
  • Dress in layers
  • Try local cuisine

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Disturb wildlife
  • Ignore the traffic rules

Safety and Health

Safety in Westcliffe

Westcliffe is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s crucial to take some precautions while traveling.

  • Don’t leave valuables visible in your car
  • Stay away from Wildlife
  • Carry plenty of water

Health in Westcliffe

Westcliffe is at high altitude, and visitors may experience altitude sickness. It is essential to stay hydrated and take it easy during the first few days of your arrival.

Getting to Westcliffe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Westcliffe can be an adventure in itself, but it’s worth it. Here are some transportation options that you can consider:

Airports Near Westcliffe

  • Colorado Springs Airport
  • Denver International Airport

Bus Stations Near Westcliffe

  • Salida Bus Station
  • Pueblo Bus Station

Other Options

  • Rent a Car
  • Take a Taxi

How to Get Around in Westcliffe

The best way to get around Westcliffe is through a car, but hiking and biking are excellent options as well.

Where to Go Next from Westcliffe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to spend more time exploring Colorado, here are some nearby destinations that you can explore:

  • Royal Gorge
  • Pueblo
  • Great Sand Dunes National Park

Conclusion

Westcliffe, Colorado, is a hidden gem in the Rocky Mountains. It’s a perfect place to unwind, explore outdoor activities and connect with nature. With this comprehensive tour guide, you’re now well-equipped to plan your next trip to Westcliffe.