Things To Do In Southwest Colorado
Colorado Vacations: Things to Do
Contrary to popular belief, Colorado vacations aren’t all about the skiing! River-running and bird-watching, craft beverages and local food, scenic drives, and scintillating wines are just a few of the other gems to discover on any Southwest Colorado adventure (and of course, there’s skiing, too, if that’s your cup of tea!).
While there’s really no need to leave the charming town of Mancos (replete with several art galleries), you’ll be pleased to discover the riches surrounding Willowtail Springs. It might be impossible to pull yourself away from Willowtail’s other-worldly serenity, but should the impulse arise, there’s no shortage of adventure to be found.
Steeped in Native American history, the Four Corners region pulses with culture, color, and a fine collection of some of the country’s best-preserved archaeological sites. Our B&B sits a mere 10-minute drive from the entrance of Mesa Verde National Park. Farther West, explore Ute Mountain Tribal Park, the Canyon of the Ancients, and Hovenweep national monuments. Cap the day off with wine at one or all of Cortez’s divine wineries.
Meanwhile, a half-hour’s drive East from Willowtail Springs offers up the opportunity to ride the inimitable Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. High alpine splendor, mining history, and a feast for the senses will leave you hungry for downtown Durango’s fabulous array of world-class restaurants and award-winning breweries.
The Top Ten Things to Do in Southwest Colorado (as rated by our guests)
Mesa Verde National Park
(10 minutes to the entrance)
The spectacular giant of Anasazi (Ancestral Puebloan) Ruins – one of the 10 Wonders of the World and most visited sites in the area. The entrance to this World Heritage Site is only 10 minutes from Willowtail Springs. Visit for a day or more, depending on your interest level.
Aqueduct Trail System
(.5 miles to the trailhead)
The newest trail system in Mancos! In 2023, Mancos Trails Group along with the BLM completed construction on 12.4-mile trail system. The Aqueduct Trails are multi-use non-motorized trails featuring beginner and intermediate trails through pinyon, juniper and sage with big views of Mesa Verde, the Sleeping Ute and the La Plata mountains. Hikers, bikers, dog walkers, horseback riders and class 1 e-bikers are welcome.
Transfer Recreation Area
(20 minutes to the rec area)
Be in the mountains in a heartbeat for viewing, long hiking trails down the river bottoms and the mountain ridges, or easy strolls through aspen and oak (the “Big Al Trail” is wheelchair accessible!). Keep driving past the Campground and hike Shark’s Tooth Mountain.
Classes and Workshops at Willowtail Springs
(On Willowtail property)
Willowtail Springs offers several classes and workshops throughout the year, varying in length.They are taught by professionals in their field; classes are hosted by Willowtail Springs, and the presenters put on workshops.
For more information, please visit our Classes & Workshops page.
Willowtail Gardens
(On Willowtail property)
Lush gardens are sprinkled about the grounds at Willowtail Springs. Guests enjoy exploring, often finding their own special place. Hammocks, benches and swings can be found throughout the gardens. The hot tub resides on a rock outcropping near the lake with patio and lounges. Tables and chairs placed in the middle of the gardens provide idyllic spaces for writing, reading or even computer work. Paths weave from the cabins through the gardens to the wildlife ponds and into more wilderness areas.
Fishing right here at Willowtail Springs
(On Willowtail property)
If you want to try your luck with the rainbow trout, brown trout, and large-mouthed bass in our private lake, please be our guest, the fishing is fabulous! If you’d like some pointers, especially on fly fishing, we have experienced people who will help you out.
Residencies and Retreats at Willowtail Springs Nature Preserve and Education Center
(On Willowtail property)
Willowtail Springs is a unique property, offering one to two weeks residencies that have a special appeal to artists. Sixty acres tucked away in the high, alpine desert of the Four Corners Region writers come to put the finishing touches on novels, musicians practice, compose and rehearse, visual artists paint, draw, and photograph, but most of all Willowtail Springs Nature Preserve and Education Center offer a quieter space to inspire, to create, and to reflect. visit willowtail.org for more information.
Phil’s World Trail System
(20 minutes to the trailhead)
A nationally-recognized trail system, Phil’s World has over 15 miles of designated non-motorized trails. The area is relatively flat, comprised of rolling mesa tops bisected by small but scenic canyons. The non-motorized trails are best described as ‘flow trails’ with low to moderate technicality. The trails are used intensively by mountain bikers, but open to other non-motorized users as well.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
(45 minutes)
This is another giant attraction of endless thrilling views and river gorges.
Comment: Think seriously about arranging to take the train one way and the bus or van and a jeep tour or river rafting upon return. One has two views and double the thrills with any of these alternatives.
Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park
(45 minutes)
Ute Mountain Tribal Park is owned and operated by the Ute Tribe. Larger than Mesa Verde National Park , full-day or half-day tours are available with a native Ute guide. Guests are always amazed and thrilled by their experience here.
Visitors to Willowtail Springs are often so enchanted by the beauty of the land that they don’t leave the property during their entire stay!
There’s really no need to leave, as Willowtail has so much to offer – from stunning scenery to endless activities.
We’ve ranked the top 8 Things to Do at Willowtail to help you play, rest, meditate, and rejuvenate!
Activities and Areas of Interest by Category
History/Archaeology
Mesa Verde National Park
(10 minutes to the entrance)
The spectacular giant of Anasazi (Ancestral Puebloan) Ruins – one of the 10 Wonders of the World and most visited sites in the area. The entrance to the World Heritage Site is only 10 minutes from Willowtail Springs. Visit for a day or more, depending on your interest level.
Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park
(45 minutes)
Ute Mountain Tribal Park is owned and operated by the Ute Tribe. Larger than Mesa Verde National Park
, full-day or half-day tours are available with a native Ute guide. Guests are always amazed and thrilled by their experience here.
Crow Canyon Archeological Center
(40 minutes)
Become an archeologist for the day or the week.
Hovenweep National Monument
(1 1/2 hours)
Once home to over 2,500 people, Hovenweep includes six prehistoric villages built between A.D. 1200 and 1300. Explore towers perched on canyon rims and balanced on boulders.
Canyon of the Ancients National Monument
(30 minutes)
Charming late afternoon
Sand Canyon
(45 minutes)
The back entrance of the Canyon of the Ancients and a popular 6.5 miles trail are great for hiking and biking.
Anasazi Heritage Center
(30 minutes)
Museum of Ancestral Puebloan Culture. Two 12th Century archeology sites. Revolving Exhibits. Park and much more. Wonderful!
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
This is another giant attraction of endless thrilling views and river gorges.
Comment: Think seriously about arranging to take the train one way and the bus or van and a jeep tour or river rafting upon return. One has two views and double the thrills with any of these alternatives.
Scenic Drives
San Juan Skyway Loop
Gorgeous, an enjoyable full-day adventure. Drive along the Dolores River, thru mining towns, and over three mountain passes. Take a picnic to enjoy while overlooking some of the most exquisite vistas in Colorado. Stop and explore the following historic towns along the way:
Ouray, “Little Switzerland”
(2 1/2 hours)
Hot springs
, ice climbing park,
Bon Ton Restaurant,
Buena Tempo Mexican Restaurant
Ridgway
(2 1/2 hours)
Orvis Hot Springs,
Sandy’s Sunshine Kitchen, the fabulous
Adobe Inn (5-Star Mexican, Great!!!!)
Silverton
(2 hours)
Small mining town with spectacular hiking, Four Wheel and Jeep tours. Stop here on the the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Telluride
(1 1/2 hours)
Every weekend throughout the summer, there is a festival in Telluride (Food, Blues, Jazz, Yoga, you name it). Hike Bridal falls, ride the Gondola to Mountain Village, and eat amazing food – Hongas Restaurant (Asian, fresh & yummy!)
Four Corners National Monument
Touch 4 states at once!
Canyonlands National Park, Utah
(1 1/2 – 2 hours)
Expansive National Park playground wilderness. Canyons and buttes carved by the Colorado River.
Arches National Park, Moab, Utah
(2 1/2 hours)
A great day trip. Mostly smaller hikes and walks to view stone arches, pinnacles, and balanced rocks.
Comb Ridge, Bluff, Utah
(2 hours)
Hike for hours or days!
Valley of the Gods, Utah
(2 1/4 hours )
Explore limitless hidden canyons, waterways, and waterfalls
Mexican Hat, Utah
(2 1/2 hours)
Point of departure or take-out, San Juan River Trips, magnificent and varied landscapes.
Monument Valley
(2 1/2 hours)
Amazing sandstone buttes that rise up to 1,000ft off the valley floor. On the Navajo Nation and park of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.
Skiing
We are located midway between Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort and Telluride.
Purgatory
(60 minutes)
A true locals ski resort. Ski down Salvation, Nirvana, or El Diablo, then get a drink from the Bear Bar and sit on the ‘beach.’
Telluride
(90 minutes)
A steep and challenging mountain. Take the Gondola up and ski down.
Hesperus
(25 minutes)
The only night skiing in the area! A short drive for people who want an affordable, fun time.
Wolf Creek Ski Area, Pagosa Springs, CO
(2 hours)
There is always snow at Wolf Creek. Backcountry skiing at a ski area. Soak at Pagosa Springs Hot Springs at the end of the day.
Chicken Creek, Mancos (Cross Country)
Right down the road for those who prefer to avoid the droves of people and enjoy the quiet outdoors.
Water
River Rafting
Mountain Waters Rafting, Durango
Mild to Wild, Durango
Flexible Flyers, Durango
Durango Rivertrippers, Durango
Fishing
If you want to try your luck with the rainbow trout, brown trout, and large-mouthed bass at Willowtail Springs, the fishing is fabulous. If you want some pointers, especially on fly fishing, we have experienced people who will come and give you some tips.
Are you itching for a day trip nearby using one of the wonderful guides in Durango or Cortez? Here are a couple of good suggestions.
McPhee Reservoir
The second-largest body of water in Colorado has both warm water and cold water for fishing, swimming, and boating
.
Naraguinnepp Reservoir
Take a boat or a fishing rod or just a picnic.
Navajo Lake
Great place to go if you have a boat. Fishing, tubing, relaxing in the sun.
Dolores River
Fly fish or float, only 20 minutes away.
Animas River
Plenty of white water rafting is available in Durango.
Jeep Tours
Hiking
Limitless! A couple of good options:
Perfect for hiking and taking in the gorgeous views and endless landscapes that we have to offer. It is also a quick drive away from the San Juan National Forest.
Dolores Canyon Overlook
(1-1/2 hours to trailhead)
Ponderosa forest entrance ends in deep SW canyons of pinion and juniper. This one is an unexpected and spectacular surprise.
Transfer Campground
(20 minutes to trailhead)
Be in the mountains in a heartbeat for viewing, long hiking trails down the river bottoms and the mountain ridges, or leisurely strolls through aspen and oak. Keep driving and hike Shark’s Tooth Mountain.
Goodman Point
A short hike from the car. Partially excavated site. Spectacular views. Overlooks Canyon of the Ancients.
Bicycling
You are in one of the Mountain Biking centers of the country. The trails and choices are unlimited.
Bring your own bike or rent one in Cortez or Durango when you arrive. Click here to learn more.
Boggy Draw, Dolores
Great trails for beginner and intermediate bikers.
Durango, tons of off-road trails
Phil’s World, Cortez
World-class mountain biking in our backyard. For the Intermediate to advanced mountain biker. Beware the rib cage!
Horseback
Rimrock Outfitters
A favorite with our guests, go up in the mountains, have dinner cooked and hear cowboy songs!
Rustler’s Roost
Also very good
Golf
Conquistador, Cortez
Dalton Ranch, Durango
Durango Mountain Resort
Piñon Hills, Farmington, New Mexico
Click here for more.