Spanish Peaks Country: A Piece of Heaven in Southern Colorado

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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.

Sustainability Activity
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
Activity
Take a Hike

Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness Area will delight your senses with varied forests, canyons and sharp geologic features.

Lunch
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.
Activity
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…
Dinner
Corine's Mexican Food
Serving excellent Mexican food since 1956, with a red-chili sauce known throughout the land.
Activity
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…
Lodging
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…
Day
2
Breakfast
Tina's Family Cafe
American and Mexican home cooking, with great green chili!
Activity
Blue & Bear Lakes Hikes

Just 4 miles off Hwy. 12, south of Cuchara, several trailheads start at these peaceful lakes.

Insider's Tip
Head toward Cuchara

Hop on the road for just over 30 minutes to Cuchara.

Lunch
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…
Activity
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…
Insider's Tip
Drive to La Veta

Point your car southwest on 12 to La Veta.

Dinner
Alys' Restaurant
Each evening, we offer a delicious selection from our menu choices of lamb, steak, chicken, seafood or vegetarian complemented with fresh vegetables…
Activity
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 Lamsa.)

Lodging
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…
Day
3
Breakfast
Paradise Coffee
Family-owned Paradise Coffee was brewed in April 2012. Serving a variety of delicious espresso, lattes and coffees.
Activity
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.

Lunch
Mission Deli Mesa
Mexican and American food. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. Bar open nightly, with weekend dinner menu.
Activity
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…
Dinner
Alys' Restaurant
Each evening, we offer a delicious selection from our menu choices of lamb, steak, chicken, seafood or vegetarian complemented with fresh vegetables…
Activity
La Veta Mercantile
Live music venue hosting a diverse lineup of performances.
Lodging
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…