Take in the fresh air and spectacular views of the Spanish Peaks in the small and affordable towns of Walsenburg, La Veta, Cuchara and Westcliffe, as you explore ghost towns, go horseback riding, discover Lathrop State Park and much more. A visit to Spanish Peaks Country is an affordable way to experience Colorado. These communities offer some of the most amazing scenery with restaurants, activities and places to stay that are, on average, less expensive than most other Colorado destinations.
How to Give Back to These Special Places
La Veta Trails has several projects where visitors can help them maintain the area's scenic routes.
Day 1
Take a Hike
Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness Area will delight your senses with varied forests, canyons and sharp geologic features.
George's Drive Inn Restaurant
This is the hottest thing going in the area. Nearly every day it’s obvious when you look at the multitude of parked vehicles, that the food is good…
Walsenburg Mining Museum
Explore the stories of coal miners and the struggles between the miners and operators. Located in a 1896 jail, the museum also has memorabilia from…
Corine's Mexican Food
Serving excellent Mexican food since 1956, with a red-chili sauce known throughout the land.
Lathrop State Park
Nestled in the shadow of the Spanish Peaks, this park offers a gentle climate, 103 campsites, fishing, waterskiing, golfing, hiking and great views…
Spanish Peaks Guesthouse
Spanish Peaks Guesthouse is a vacation rental on 200ac south of Walsenburg at the gateway to the Spanish Peaks. A 3 bed/2 bath home, it is ideal as…
Day 2
Tina's Family Cafe
American and Mexican home cooking, with great green chili!
Blue & Bear Lakes Hikes
Just 4 miles off Hwy. 12, south of Cuchara, several trailheads start at these peaceful lakes.
Head toward Cuchara
Hop on the road for just over 30 minutes to Cuchara.
Dog Bar & Grill
Long considered the heart and soul of the Cuchara Valley, Dog Bar & Grill is the place to enjoy lunch on the outdoor deck with your favorite canine…
Yellow Pine Guest Ranch
Enjoy a trail ride on horseback, flyfishing and delicious barbecue - all without leaving the ranch! Serving families Western hospitality for 87 years…
Drive to La Veta
Point your car southwest on 12 to La Veta.
Alys' Restaurant
Each evening, we offer a delicious selection from our menu choices of lamb, steak, chicken, seafood or vegetarian complemented with fresh vegetables…
Stargazing at Uptop Ghost Town
You're almost guaranteed no light pollution in a ghost town! Head up Old La Veta Pass to see this abandoned treasure. (Photo courtesy of Flickr/Larry…
La Veta Inn
This isn't your basic franchise cookie cutter property. Originally built as the La Veta Hotel and featuring the ledger in the lobby dating back to 1883,…
Day 3
Paradise Coffee
Family-owned Paradise Coffee was brewed in April 2012. Serving a variety of delicious espresso, lattes and coffees.
Tour La Veta's Art Galleries
Check out La Veta Gallery on Main, Shalawalla Gallery and more to glimpse the creative side of this beautiful community.
Charlie's Market
Charlie's has been locally owned and operated in La Veta Colorado since 1937. We are a full-service grocery store with a soda fountain.
Wahatoya State Wildlife Area
The main trail meanders through fields, woods and into a deep arroyo on the south side. There is a by-pass trail for people who prefer not to enter…
Alys' Restaurant
Each evening, we offer a delicious selection from our menu choices of lamb, steak, chicken, seafood or vegetarian complemented with fresh vegetables…
La Veta Mercantile
Live music venue hosting a diverse lineup of performances.
Best Western Rambler
Looking for access to the great outdoors but want to stay somewhere that feels like home? This conveniently located Walsenburg hotel is perfect for…