Escape to Westcliffe, where open space stretches far across Colorado's Wet Mountain Valley and stars shine brighter than almost anywhere else in the world.
Sustainability Activity
Make a donation to All the Range, 210 Main St., Westcliffe.
Insider's Tip
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1
Activity
DeWeese Reservoir State Wildlife Area
Reflecting magnificent peaks, DeWeese Reservoir State Wildlife Area backs up behind an impressive dam at the head of Grape Creek Canyon, just a half-dozen miles north of Westcliffe. The wildlife... Read MoreCOTREX
Map the Trail
Activity
Hike the Alvarado Loop
It’s a remarkable feeling to be surrounded by the golds, reds and burnt oranges of fall colors, and what better place to experience them than in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of Custer County? The Alvarado Loop is a locals' favorite for leaf peeping. The trailhead is located at the Alvarado Campground, just a few miles southeast of downtown Westcliffe.COTREX
Map the Trail
Day
2
Activity
Guided Horseback Riding
Hit the backcountry on horseback with the experienced horsemen and guides of Music Meadows Ranch.
Activity
Go Stargazing
Westcliffe's Wet Mountain Valley has long been known for its beautiful mountain vistas and big open skies, but now word is getting out about its world-class dark night skies. In 2015, Silver Cliff and Westcliffe were recognized by the International Dark-Sky Association as the ninth International Dark Sky Community in the world. It's also the first in Colorado and, with an elevation of almost 7,900 feet, the highest in the world. Come see the stars as you've never seen them before.
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3
Insider's Tip
Drive an hour northeast to your next stop: Cañon City.
