On this trip, you get to visit multiple locations around the state known for their dark skies and jaw-dropping stargazing opportunities — is that Orion's Belt? The towns of Westcliffe, Silver Cliff, La Veta, Cuchara, Creede and Lake City are waiting to greet you with incredible hospitality during the day too.
Sustainability Activity
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Hike Lakes of the Clouds in Westcliffe
This trail offers a breathtaking, moderate approach and views of some of Colorado's most beautiful lakes. Along the hike is a magnificent waterfall, so bring your camera!COTREX
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Insider's Tip
If the observatory is packed head to DeWeese Reservoir.
Tour La Veta's Art Galleries
La Veta may be small and laid-back, but it’s also the Spanish Peaks Region's art hub. Galleries featuring local, national and international artists dot the town's quaint Main Street.
Go Stargazing at Uptop Historic District
Located at the top of La Veta Pass, this district is not only a fantastic place to see the stars but also a place filled with history and several historic buildings are currently being restored.
Do the Highway of Legends Audio Tour
Travel beneath the iconic Spanish Peaks on the Highway of Legends Scenic Byway while listening to an audio tour that tells stories of historic cities and towns, former mining camps and even a few ghost towns.
Stargaze at Blue Lake or Bear Lake
Located right next to one another, Blue Lake and Bear Lake Campgrounds offer the best stargazing around. Be amazed by the night sky shimmering off the lake in front of you.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
Because the dunes and surrounding mountains are designated wilderness, this is a great place to enjoy unspoiled natural beauty in a variety of ways. Whether you play in Medano Creek, build a sand... Read MoreCOTREX
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Zapata Falls Recreation Area
Cut from the rock face by glaciers and scoured by millennia of rushing water, cold water crashes through a 30 ft. cleft in the rock walls. The falls are a half-mile hike from the parking area,... Read More
COTREX
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See the Stars at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
An evening at Great Sand Dunes can include exploring dunes under a full moon, viewing thousands of stars on a clear night, listening for owls along the foothills or observing migrating amphibians on a wet night.
Explore Downtown Crestone
Pop into galleries and spiritual centers found throughout town.
Hike Willow Lake
Strap on your hiking boots for this difficult trail that provides spectacular views in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness.COTREX
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Insider's Tip
Wheeler Geologic Area
One of the most astounding geologic sites in Colorado, the area is accessed by hiking a 7-mile trail or driving a 14-mile 4WD road. The 640 acre area is filled with ghostly spires and flowing... Read More
COTREX
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Go Stargazing at Love Lake Picnic Site
This picnic site sits on the shore of Love Lake and is a secluded place to check out the stars.
Spend the Afternoon on the Water
Kayak or stand-up paddleboard your way around Lake San Cristobal. If you need to rent equipment, Sportsman Outdoors is a great local joint.
