Silver Cliff

Along it visitors can expect landscapes ranging from green meadows to snow-capped mountains and historic structures ranging from mining remnants to Victorian houses.

Silver Cliff was once one of the state's largest boomtowns, and some remaining structures, including an old school, the original town hall and a fire station, reflect that important era. There are also few shops and eateries in downtown. Travelers will find everything from Western wear and turquoise jewelry to antiques and works by local artisans. There's also an inn, convenience store and several nice town parks. Westcliffe offers most of the lodging properties in the area.

The area is perhaps best known as one of the best places in Colorado to stargaze, thanks to its designation as an International Dark-Sky Community.

Nearby attractions include the San Isabel National Forest and the Wet Mountains. Hiking trails abound here, but the most famous pathway is the Rainbow Trail, which winds for miles through the adjacent Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Several nearby 14,000-foot peaks will also pose a challenge for climbers, and mountain lakes in the area provide the perfect setting for a lazy afternoon of fishing.

For more to see and do in the area, read a 1 Day in Pueblo itinerary.