Want to explore an underrated part of Colorado? Skip Rocky Mountain National Park and the hustle and bustle of Denver and visit Southwest Colorado! Southwest Colorado is full of hidden gems (literally and figuratively), waterfalls, stunning hikes (without crowds), and historical landmarks. It’s the perfect place for a summer or fall Colorado road trip, and today we’re sharing 16 unique and  fun things to do in Southwest Colorado! Highlights include the towns of Creede, Pagosa Springs, and Del Norte, as well as a scenic byway and historic drive, a national park, and hot springs.

Looking for more? You can find more Colorado travel guides and tips here.

Fun things to do in Southwest Colorado

Things to do in Creede, Colorado

Originally a mining boom town, Creede is a unique small town nestled amongst the mountains of southwest Colorado. Visitors will find themselves charmed by the unique history, stunning views, and incredible small-town hospitality and kindness! Read below for a few of our favorite things to do in Creede, Colorado.

Drive the Bachelor Loop in Creede, Colorado

The Bachelor Loop is one of the most unique scenic drives in Colorado! This historic drive takes you into the mountains past the town’s old mining sites. It’s a great way to learn more about the area’s rich history! Visitors should allow a minimum of 1 hour to drive the loop. The route follows Forest Road 503 and Forest Road 504, and can be accessed from downtown Creede.

There is no fee to enjoy this drive. However, visitors can purchase an interpretive guide at the Creede Visitors Center for a small fee. 

A note on vehicles: We did the drive in a four wheel drive vehicle, but it’s also accessible for two wheel drive cars. However, if you don’t have 4WD the forest service recommends driving the loop in reverse so you can go downhill on the steeper sections. Make sure you yield to uphill traffic!

More information on the drive can be found here and here.

Catch a show at the Creede Repertory Theater

Founded in 1966, the Creede Repertory Theatre is a professional theatre company known for its award winning live performances. Enjoy an evening show, and don’t forget the popcorn! Refreshments can be purchased in the lobby. Performances rotate throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see!

Enjoy a rustic cabin stay at Broken Arrow Ranch’s Bristol Mountain 

If you want to feel like a cowboy you need to book a stay at Bristol Mountain RV Park and Cabins, which is run by Creede’s Broken Arrow Ranch! These charming rustic cabins have full kitchens and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and horse pastures. 

Get a fresh cinnamon roll at Vida Eat to Live Cafe (Sundays only!)

Vida Cafe in Creede serves up delicious salads, sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies… but on Sundays they make something REALLY special: cinnamon rolls! Get one fresh from the oven. Thank me later. They’re warm, gooey, and decadent, but somehow not too sweet!

Visit North Clear Creek Falls

Located along the stunning Silver Thread Scenic Byway in Colorado, north creek falls can be easily accessed from a nearby parking lot. The falls tumble over a unique and beautiful rock ledge. Directions can be found here.

Enjoy a short hike to South Clear Creek Falls

A short 0.3 mile hike takes you to a stunning waterfall tucked away behind a campground. This is a hidden gem along the Silver Thread Scenic Byway!

Hike the Up and Over Trail in Creede

The ‘Up and Over Trail’ is a classic hike in Creede, Colorado! At nearly 3 miles and over 1,000 feet of elevation gain it’s not easy, but you’ll get spectacular views of the mountains and of downtown Creede. Make sure to pack plenty of water, and be wary of summer afternoon thunder storms.

Things to do in Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Did you know that Pagosa Springs is home to the DEEPEST hot spring in the entire world?! Whether you’re looking to enjoy a free soak along the river, the luxurious Pagosa Springs spa, amazing food, or unique outdoor adventures, Pagosa Springs has something for everyone is and us unique Colorado weekend getaway!

Soak in the hot springs at The Springs Resort and Spa in Pagosa Springs

Did you know that The Springs Resort and Spa in Pagosa Springs is home to the deepest hot spring in the entire world?? This beautiful resort provides plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation. Soak in the pools, enjoy the comfortable beds, and take advantage of the many amenities on-site. The temperature of the pools ranges from warm to hot, there are kid-friendly and adults-only sections, and hotel guests can enjoy 24/7 access to soaking. 

Have tacos and margaritas at Kip’s Grill

If you’re looking for the best margarita in town head to Kip’s Grill and get their top shelf option– you won’t regret it! They also have fantastic tacos, and plenty of vegetarian options. 

Enjoy an upscale locally sourced dinner at Wild Finch

Our meal at Wild Finch was a highlight of our time in Pagosa Springs. The food was delicious, and I loved the elevated and open-air vibes of the restaurant. I highly recommend the grilled cabbage wedge with chilli crisp, and Amiana enjoyed the fresh scallops. Their wine list is extensive.

Stroll along the The San Juan Riverwalk in Pagosa Springs

The San Juan Riverwalk meanders through downtown Pagosa Springs and passes by several free hot springs. The walk is peaceful, and the river is a great spot for a summer float! 

Visit Chimney Rock National Monument

Located a short distance from Pagosa Springs, Chimney Rock National Monument is a unique geological and archaeological site. Please visit with respect– this is a sacred place that celebrates the life of Ancestral Puebloans.

Hiking essentials checklist

Below are our 6 major hiking essentials, which we almost always have with us on the trail!

1. America the Beautiful Pass. An annual America the Beautiful pass covers your entrance fees at all national parks. It also covers fees at other federally managed public lands, such as forest service and BLM sites. This pass is a great investment for people who love national parks and outdoor recreation!
2. Good hiking boots. Waterproof boots with good traction are essential, and a quality pair can last for years. We highly recommend Lowa’s Renegade hiking boots.
3. Water and a water filter. We love the Katadyn BeFree 1.0 Liter Filter Bottle for water filtration, and usually use a Nalgene water bottle or a HydraPak Water Reservoir for water storage.
4. Sun protection. We recommend the Sahara Sun Hoodie (for women and men), which is a sun shirt that offers UPF 50+ sun protection. For sunscreen we like Dermatone’s sport sunscreen and Skin Protector Balm (for winter).
5. A headlamp. The Black Diamond Storm 400 Rechargeable Headlamp is lightweight, compact, waterproof, and USB rechargeable.
6. A comfortable day pack. We recommend the REI Trail 25 (unisex), the Gregory Juno daypack ​for women, or the Gregory Inertia daypack for men.

Things to do in Del Norte, Colorado

The tiny town of Del Norte punches above its weight! This town is a great gateway to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. In town you’ll find historic buildings, charming stores, amazing food, and a delightful river walk.

Hike the dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

Technically this is in south central Colorado, but it’s only a short 45 minute drive from Del Norte! Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to the tallest dunes in North America, and you can easily spend a few hours, or a full day, exploring. 

Grab a mouthwatering sandwich at Simple Foods Market in Del Norte

It’s not often I rave about sandwiches, but Simple Foods Market in Del Norte does them RIGHT. Stop in and enjoy a sandwich on the patio, or take one to go for an adventure. The ingredients and flavors are super fresh!

Enjoy beer, music, and nostalgia at Trade & Post Del Norte

This unique record shop, live event space & beer parlour feels like you’ve stepped back in time! When you visit Trade & Post enjoy a drink (their selection is FANTASTIC, and includes quite a few NA options), browse the music, and enjoy the nostalgia. If you can, catch one of their live shows.

Have a beer at Three Barrel Brewing Co

Located in downtown Del Norte, Three Barrel Brewing Co. serves up pizza and their own beer using locally grown malt and hops. They have a delightful patio, and a range of flavors to suit every palate (including NA drinks and homemade root beer).

Enjoy cozy-yet-modern motel vibes at Mellow Moon Lodge

The Mellow Mood Lodge is an adorable modernized motel that offers free coffee, comfortable beds, light and bright rooms, and a lot of charm. I love a good motel concept for the convenience (drive right up to your room!), and this one did not disappoint. 

I hope you enjoyed our guide to 16 fun things to do in Southwest Colorado! You can find more Colorado travel guides and tips here.