Install Flash

Cuchara

Current Weather: Fair, 28 F

Location: 73 miles southeast of Alamosa on Colorado 12

Region: Southeast

Elevation: 8470

Population: 924

Cuchara is classic Colorado - where snowcapped mountains meet lush green fields and rushing rivers. Tucked in the eastern shadow of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this serene town rests between the rich forests of the San Isabel National Forest and the Cucharas River, which cuts right through town. The National Forest offers more than one million acres of Colorado's finest scenery - including the 14,433-foot Mt. Elbert, the highest mountain in Colorado (second only to Mt. Whitney in the lower 48 states).

Cuchara affords splendid views of dramatic West Spanish Peak, one of two geological towers once used as guideposts for traveling Native Americans and pioneers. These awesome landmarks are visible up to 100 miles away. Downtown features a few gift shops and several B&Bs, however most amenities are located in Cuchara's sister city, La Veta. Here, visitors can browse co-op shops representing local artists.

South of town along Colorado 12, part of the scenic Highway of Legends, travelers find stunning views, which top out at the 9,995-foot Cuchara Pass. This drive offers abundant opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting and camping, especially at North Lake State Wildlife Area and at Monument Lake Park.

Community Resources:
La Veta/Cuchara Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 32
La Veta, CO 81055
866-615-3676
or visit www.lavetacucharachamber.com

 

The Official Site of Colorado Tourism
©2009 Colorado Tourism Office. All rights reserved.