Colorado is undoubtedly one of the most traveled and tourist-friendly states year-round, with nearly every corner known for its appeal to visitors. While some towns and areas have become well-known tourist destinations, there are still a few hidden gems that remain less traveled. Here, I highlight a couple of these lesser-known spots that deserve to be explored.
Maroon Bells Hike, Aspen Highlands, Colorado
The Maroon Bells are a series of bell-shaped peaks approximately 14,000 ft. high in the White River National Forest towering above the pristine glacial Maroon Creek valley. I learnt only recently that the peaks are on every Colorado post card, and are the most photographed mountains in Colorado. Located 10 miles west of Aspen and 16 miles from Snowmass, the Maroon Bells valley includes several hiking trails, camping sites, and biking paths.
Because this area is so popular for hiking, the access is now limited during the summer and fall. In order to hike, reservations are now required to access either by private vehicle or by RFTA shuttle. If you are staying in Aspen, you can take the hotel shuttle to Aspen Highlands downtown. From there take the RFTA shuttle to the trailhead. To make your reservation, click here.
There are several hikes in the area, some easy and others moderate. We did the Crater Lake Trail, a 3.6-mile round-trip trail that took us approx 2:30 hrs. While its considered a moderate hike, its steep and rocky ascent as well as cooler temperatures adds a bit of a challenge. The rewards are breathtaking vistas of Aspen woodlands and a beautiful Crater Lake.
Montrose, Colorado
After Aspen, we decided to spend a couple of days in south western Colorado hiking and visiting towns less travelled by tourists. We chose to stay in Montrose, Colorado at Rathbone Hotel. Little did we know Montrose is/was a Republican county, until we were driving and saw Trump 2024 flags. Well, Republican or not, as Kamala Harris supporters, we watched the DNC event from our room. Rathbone, is a brand new, non-chain, and very comfortable hotel located right in the historical downtown of Montrose. The lower level is a restaurant and bar, and the upper level includes generously sized hotel rooms. We ate breakfast at Forage, another brand new restaurant with a very charming and gracious proprietor. Republican or not, Montrose definitely seems to be benefitting from the Democrat sponsored Infrastructure Law. Almost everywhere you see buildings bring renovated, highways being repaved, and areas under development.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Nestled in western Colorado, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers an inspiring day trip filled with breathtaking views, rugged landscapes, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find in more frequented parks. Approximately a 3 hours driving distance from Aspen, lies this hidden gem filled with nature's raw beauty.
Arrival and First Impressions
I arrived at the park early in the morning. The drive to the park itself is a scenic journey through the high desert landscape, gradually giving way to the dramatic, steep walls of the canyon.
Oak Flat Loop: A Perfect Introduction
My first stop was the visitor center at the South Rim to pick up a trail map and connect with the rangers. I began my exploration with the Oak Flat Loop, a moderate 2-mile trail that offers some of the most intimate views of the canyon. The trail winds through juniper and pinyon pine forests, gradually descending towards the canyon’s rim. Along the way, I encountered several overlooks, each providing an amazing view of the sheer cliffs and the Gunnison River far below.
The Oak Flat Loop is a great introduction to the park’s landscape, as it allows you to see the canyon from various angles without committing to a more strenuous downward hike. The trail is well-marked and offers plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the dramatic scenery. One moment you’re walking through a peaceful forest, and the next, you’re standing at the edge of a cliff, gazing down into the dizzying depths of the canyon.
The Overlooks
After completing the Oak Flat Loop, I spent the rest of the afternoon visiting the various overlooks along the South Rim. Each overlook provides a different perspective of the canyon, showcasing its unique geology and the interplay of light and shadow on its dark, towering walls. While I stopped at each overlook, my favorite were:
Pulpit Rock View:
Chasm View: This overlook offers a striking view of the canyon’s narrowest point, where the walls are only 40 feet apart at the top but drop nearly 2,000 feet straight down. The sense of depth here is truly humbling.
Painted Wall: The Painted Wall is the tallest cliff in Colorado, and the overlook provides a perfect vantage point to admire its intricate patterns of light-colored pegmatite streaking across the dark rock. I chose this location for a light picnic lunch.
Cedar Point: This overlook gives a fantastic view of the Gunnison River winding its way through the canyon far below. The sound of the river, though faint, adds to the experience of standing at the edge of this immense chasm.
East Portal: Located near the park entrance is the road to East Portal. This road takes you close to the river without the hike. The road is steep and curving on a steep grade but beautiful.
If you’re looking for a day trip that combines stunning scenery with a sense of solitude and discovery, Black Canyon is the place to go. Just remember to bring your camera, and water, because the views are unforgettable.
