Discover the Majestic McElmo Canyon: A Hidden Gem in Colorado
Explore McElmo Canyon in Colorado for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and peaceful outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Nestled in the heart of Colorado, McElmo Canyon offers breathtaking views, rich history, and a serene escape into nature. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking tranquility, this ravine is a must-visit destination for tourists exploring the region.
A brief summary to McElmo Canyon
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities in the area.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rugged terrain safely.
- Consider visiting in the spring or fall for mild weather and stunning seasonal colors.
- Respect the local wildlife and environment by staying on designated trails.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Start at the Monument Town Center. Walk to the nearest bus stop that services routes to Colorado Springs. Board the bus heading to Colorado Springs and get off at the Colorado Springs Transit Center. From there, transfer to a bus that goes towards Durango. Be sure to check the schedules in advance as these routes can vary. Once you arrive in Durango, you will need to take a shuttle or taxi service to reach McElmo Canyon, which is approximately 30 miles away from Durango.
-
Bicycle
Begin your journey at Monument Town Center and head south on the Monument-Black Forest Road. Follow the road until you reach Highway 105. Turn right onto Highway 105 and continue until you reach the junction with Highway 83. Take a left onto Highway 83 and ride until you reach the intersection with Highway 24. From there, you would need to navigate towards the main roads leading to Durango, where McElmo Canyon is located. Note that this is a long journey of over 100 miles and would require proper planning for stops and overnight stays.
-
Walking
Walking to McElmo Canyon from Monument is not practical due to the distance. However, if you are set on walking, you can start at Monument Town Center and head south on Monument-Black Forest Road, then follow the previous routes mentioned towards Durango. Keep in mind that this journey will take several days and is recommended only for experienced hikers with proper gear and supplies.
Discover more about McElmo Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
McElmo Canyon
0.0 km
Explore McElmo Canyon in Colorado for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and peaceful outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Painted Hand Pueblo
15.6 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Painted Hand Pueblo, a historical landmark that reveals the rich cultural heritage of Colorado's Ancestral Puebloans amidst stunning natural beauty.
Lowry Pueblo
30.8 km
Discover the ancient heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans at Lowry Pueblo, a captivating historical landmark in Colorado's scenic landscape.
Yucca House National Monument
31.2 km
Explore the ancient Puebloan ruins at Yucca House National Monument, a serene escape steeped in history and natural beauty in Cortez, Colorado.
Escalante Pueblo
46.0 km
Explore the ancient heritage of the Pueblo people at Escalante Pueblo, a captivating historical landmark in Dolores, Colorado.
Bluff Fort Historic Site
46.6 km
Explore the captivating history of the pioneers at Bluff Fort Historic Site in Utah, where tales of resilience come alive through immersive exhibits and replica buildings.
Coyote Village
47.1 km
Discover the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Coyote Village, an archaeological gem in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Megalithic House
47.1 km
Explore the Megalithic House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark that reveals the architectural brilliance of ancient civilizations amidst stunning natural beauty.
Mesa Verde Administrative District
50.1 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning cliff dwellings of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a must-see historical landmark in Colorado.
Alkali Ridge Historical Marker
51.2 km
Discover the historical treasures of Alkali Ridge in Blanding, Utah, where ancient cultures and breathtaking landscapes converge for an unforgettable experience.
One Stop Laundromat
51.3 km
Discover One Stop Laundromat in Blanding, Utah—a clean, convenient space for all your laundry needs while exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Southwest.
Sunrise Outfitting - Scenic Adventures
51.3 km
Discover breathtaking landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures with Sunrise Outfitting - Scenic Adventures in Blanding, Utah.
Arch Canyon Inn
51.4 km
Discover the comfort of Arch Canyon Inn, your home away from home in Blanding, UT, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the American Southwest.
Five Kiva Pueblo Trail Head
51.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history at Five Kiva Pueblo Trail Head, a must-visit hiking area in Blanding, Utah.
Rodeway Inn & Suites
51.5 km
Discover the comfort and value of Rodeway Inn & Suites in Blanding, Utah – your gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Four Corners region.
Unmissable attractions to see
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
21.8 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Canyons of the Ancients National Monument in Colorado, a true gem for nature and culture lovers.
Four Corners Monument
35.9 km
Stand in four states at once at the iconic Four Corners Monument, a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Southwest.
Wetherill Mesa Information
45.5 km
Experience the rich heritage and stunning landscapes at Wetherill Mesa Information Center in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Step House
45.5 km
Discover Step House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark showcasing the ancient Puebloan culture amidst stunning natural beauty.
Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance
45.7 km
Explore breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage at the Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance, your gateway to adventure in the heart of Colorado.
Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum
45.9 km
Uncover the ancient stories of the Ancestral Puebloans at Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum in Dolores, Colorado.
Long House
46.0 km
Discover the incredible history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Long House, a stunning archaeological site in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Far View Reservoir
47.1 km
Explore the ancient engineering marvel of Far View Reservoir in Mesa Verde National Park, where history and breathtaking landscapes intertwine.
Far View Tower
47.2 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Far View Tower in Mesa Verde National Park, where history and breathtaking views converge in a unique archaeological adventure.
Far View House
47.3 km
Explore the ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins at Far View House in Mesa Verde National Park, a captivating blend of history and breathtaking scenery.
Petroglyph Point Trail
50.1 km
Discover the enchanting Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park, where ancient rock art and stunning natural beauty converge for an unforgettable hiking experience.
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
50.1 km
Explore the ancient heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans at Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum in Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
50.1 km
Discover the cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes of Mesa Verde Park Headquarters, an essential stop for history enthusiasts in Colorado.
Spruce Tree House
50.2 km
Discover the ancient architecture of Spruce Tree House in Mesa Verde National Park, a testament to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Navajo Canyon View
50.3 km
Discover the stunning vistas and rich cultural history at Navajo Canyon View in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
50.0 km
Discover the flavors of America at Spruce Tree Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park – where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty.
Lee's Smokin' Hot BBQ
50.8 km
Experience authentic barbecue at Lee's Smokin' Hot BBQ in Blanding, UT – where delicious flavors meet friendly service.
Southway Trading llc
51.6 km
Discover Southway Trading LLC in Blanding: Your go-to convenience store with gas, pizza, and ice cream delights.
Cowboy Camp House
51.9 km
Discover comfort and adventure at Cowboy Camp House in Blanding, Utah – your perfect getaway amidst stunning landscapes.
Patio Diner
52.0 km
Discover delightful burgers and a cozy atmosphere at Patio Diner in Blanding, Utah – your perfect pit stop for comfort food.
Four Corners Inn
52.0 km
Discover comfort at Four Corners Inn in Blanding - your gateway to Utah's stunning national parks and rich cultural heritage.
Homestead Steak House
52.1 km
Discover Homestead Steak House: A Premier Dining Experience with Mouthwatering Steaks and Heartfelt Hospitality in Blanding, Utah.
Yaks Café
52.1 km
Discover Yaks Café in Blanding, UT - your go-to spot for delicious breakfasts and cozy café vibes amidst Utah's stunning landscapes.
Bears Ears Inn
52.1 km
Experience comfort and adventure at Bears Ears Inn in Blanding, Utah—your gateway to nature's wonders.
Subway
52.2 km
Discover fresh sandwiches at Subway in Blanding—your go-to spot for delicious meals while exploring Utah's natural wonders.
A&W Restaurant
52.3 km
Experience classic American fast food at A&W Restaurant in Blanding - home of delicious burgers and refreshing root beer floats.
Canyon Country Bowling Center and A&W Restaurant
52.3 km
Discover family-friendly entertainment with bowling and classic American dining at Canyon Country Bowling Center & A&W Restaurant in Blanding, Utah.
Stone Lizard Lodge
52.3 km
Discover comfort at Stone Lizard Lodge in Blanding, Utah - your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
USU Blanding Cafeteria
52.7 km
Experience hearty meals and local flavors at USU Blanding Cafeteria in Utah—perfect for refueling after your adventures.
Utah State University Blanding
52.7 km
Explore academic excellence and cultural richness at Utah State University Blanding in scenic southeastern Utah.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Thunderbird Trading Company
35.0 km
Explore authentic Native American crafts and gifts at Thunderbird Trading Company in Cortez, Colorado, a cultural gem for discerning travelers.
Antique Corral
36.7 km
Explore the Antique Corral in Cortez, CO - a hidden gem filled with vintage treasures and unique collectibles for every enthusiast.
Notah Dineh Trading Co
38.8 km
Discover authentic Native American art and crafts at Notah Dineh Trading Co, a unique gift shop, art gallery, and museum in Cortez, Colorado.
The Station Boutique
38.8 km
Discover unique fashion and local artistry at The Station Boutique in Cortez, Colorado—your go-to destination for one-of-a-kind finds.
Merriweather Home + Market
39.0 km
Explore Merriweather Home + Market in Cortez, CO, for unique gifts, local crafts, and a boutique shopping experience that captures the heart of Colorado.
High Desert Life Outdoors & Exchange
39.1 km
Discover the ultimate outdoor gear and local treasures at High Desert Life Outdoors & Exchange in Cortez, Colorado.
Cliffrose on Market
39.2 km
Explore the charm of Cliffrose on Market in Cortez, CO - a unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artistic delights.
Love On A Hanger
39.3 km
Explore Love On A Hanger in Cortez, CO for unique women's fashion, accessories, and gifts that capture the essence of local style and charm.
Say Yes Bridal & Boutique
39.5 km
Discover the elegance of bridal wear and unique fashion at Say Yes Bridal & Boutique in Cortez, Colorado, a must-visit for fashion-forward shoppers.
LaDawn's
39.7 km
Explore LaDawn's Consignment Shop in Cortez, Colorado, for unique finds and vintage treasures that showcase local culture and charm.
Anna's Mini Treasure
39.7 km
Explore Anna's Mini Treasure: A Craft Store Filled with Unique Handmade Goods and Local Artistry.
Buffalo Bob's Co-op
40.3 km
Explore Buffalo Bob's Co-op in Cortez, Colorado for unique home goods and handcrafted treasures reflecting local artistry.
Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts
43.5 km
Explore nature's beauty at Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts, where unique plants meet thoughtful gifts in the heart of Cortez, Colorado.
Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
47.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park.
Sinclair Gas Station
47.7 km
Experience convenience and comfort at Sinclair Gas Station, your essential stop in the heart of Mesa Verde National Park.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kuchu's Restaurant
32.9 km
Experience the heart of Colorado’s culinary delights at Kuchu's Restaurant, where local flavors and hospitality come together.
Grandma's Frybread Shack
36.0 km
Savor the essence of Native American culture at Grandma's Frybread Shack with authentic frybread dishes that delight every palate.
Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
38.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Angel's End Zone Sports Bar in Cortez, Colorado, where delicious food and sports unite for an unforgettable experience.
ZU Gallery
39.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of art and wine at ZU Gallery in Cortez, Colorado, where creativity and culture come together in a vibrant setting.
Loungin' Lizard
39.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique flavors of Loungin' Lizard, a top dining destination in Cortez, Colorado.
WildEdge Brewing Collective
39.2 km
Discover the rich flavors of craft beer at WildEdge Brewing Collective, a must-visit brewpub in Cortez, Colorado, offering a unique selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
39.3 km
Experience the essence of Colorado craft brewing at Main Street Brewery & Restaurant, where delicious food meets artisanal beers in Cortez.
Blondies Trophy Room
39.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Blondies Trophy Room, a beloved grill in Cortez, Colorado, offering delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
40.5 km
Experience the best of traditional American cuisine and craft brews at J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery in Cortez, Colorado.
The Wigglin’ Pig
41.2 km
Experience the heart of Cortez at The Wigglin’ Pig, where delicious breakfast dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
The Meltdown
41.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and welcoming ambiance at The Meltdown, a must-visit restaurant in Cortez, Colorado.
Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
42.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant in Cortez, where every meal is a celebration of culture and community.
Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
42.3 km
Discover the heart of Cortez at Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, where community spirit meets delicious food and memorable events.
Buckskin Bar
44.6 km
Discover the culinary charm of Buckskin Bar, a mobile catering gem serving fresh, local flavors that delight every palate.
Metate Room
47.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of American cuisine at the Metate Room, where stunning views and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
