Southwestern Colorado - A Step Back in Time to Where the Ancestral Pueblo Called Home      

Southwest Colorado seems to be a place that hypnotizes those who visit. The area's allure amazes, grabbing the attention of the eye. Grassy meadows and rolling white rapids decorate the mountains. Impossibly deep stone canyons are carved out from flowing mesas and hot springs bubble up from beneath surface of the Earth. After the sun sets your senses will be overwhelmed by the spectacular view of distant ridges taking shape against the shadows. The loveliness of Southwestern Colorado can be seen in all parts of the region as the sun rises as well. The striking lands of the Southwest attract artists seeking inspiration and tourists looking for a place to recharge.      

Step back through time in Montezuma County, where the ancestral Pueblo made their home centuries ago. The County holds many working archeological sites you can tour and learn of the Pueblo heritage that is so well preserved in the city of Cortez. Experience the city of Dolores' railroad history as you roam the halls of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad Museum. Backpack through the cool San Juan Mountains and National Forest that sits right on the edge of the Mancos Valley, where the Wild West character is still intact. Take a stagecoach ride around Cortez while shopping for western era clothes, cowboy hats and Indian jewelry that line many of the small shops walls.      

An important experience in Southwest of Colorado is to travel to Durango, the largest city of the region, to hop aboard the Durango and Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad. Travel the tracks through 45 miles of wild unspoiled forest in the San Juan Mountains to Silverton. Waiting for you in Silverton is a small western era town where you can shop and dine before jumping back on the train to Durango. The train's whistle blows, filling the air with the same sound that generations past heard as the train made its legendary haul. Race in the Iron Horse Classic, where cyclists from around the world gather every Memorial Day to try and beat the iron steam train to Silverton. Durango is a place where any outdoor activity can be found as well, in addition to all the cities events and hidden treasures.       

Settled just alongside the San Juan River, you can slip into a warm natural mineral filled hot spring at The Springs Resort in the city with the deepest hot springs in the world, Pagosa Springs. Featuring 18 uniquely arranged pools, you'll be able to find the perfect temperature for your relaxing soak. If you're still feeling tense after your soak, this luxurious resort offers a full menu of massage and spa therapies, as well as natural hair, skin and nail treatments. Physical, spiritual, and mental therapeutics are a priority at the resort. An organic health food restaurant, boutique shopping mall and a sports center can also be found in the complex's confines.       

If you like a challenge and have the time you can set out from Pagosa Springs in search of the Rainbow Springs in the Weminuche Wilderness Area, a more private natural spring smack in the middle of the wide open wilderness. Here clothing is optional and you can set up a tent right along the outskirts of the springs. If you can make the demanding 8 to 10 mile hike, you can enjoy the spring all to yourself. There is a hidden horseback trail that will take you to the spot more quickly than on foot, but not many will tell you about it. You can't blame them, though, for not wanting to share the secret with too many people. Once you find it you will keep it a secret as well to preserve the solidarity that the secret springs offer.       

You can find your piece of solitude throughout the Southwestern region of Colorado, too. The only question left is when will you claim your spot on these engaging lands? Remember to pack a GPS locator so you can always make it back to your secret retreat, when you find it.