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
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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.
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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.
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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
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Escalante Pueblo
46.0 km
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Bluff Fort Historic Site
46.6 km
Discover the history of Utah's pioneers at Bluff Fort Historic Site, a captivating museum showcasing authentic structures and engaging exhibits.
Coyote Village
47.1 km
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Megalithic House
47.1 km
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Mesa Verde Administrative District
50.1 km
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Alkali Ridge Historical Marker
51.2 km
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One Stop Laundromat
51.3 km
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Sunrise Outfitting - Scenic Adventures
51.3 km
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Arch Canyon Inn
51.4 km
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Five Kiva Pueblo Trail Head
51.4 km
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Rodeway Inn & Suites
51.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Canyons of the Ancients National Monument
21.8 km
Explore ancient villages and rock art at this monument in southwestern Colorado, protecting the highest concentration of archaeological sites in the US.
Four Corners Monument
35.9 km
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Wetherill Mesa Information
45.5 km
Experience the wonders of Mesa Verde National Park at the Wetherill Mesa Information Center, your essential guide to exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Step House
45.5 km
Discover the unique blend of ancient cultures at Step House, Mesa Verde National Park's fascinating self-guided cliff dwelling.
Southwest Colorado Canyons Alliance
45.7 km
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Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum
45.9 km
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Long House
46.0 km
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Far View Reservoir
47.1 km
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Far View Tower
47.2 km
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Far View House
47.3 km
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Petroglyph Point Trail
50.1 km
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Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
50.1 km
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Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
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Spruce Tree House
50.2 km
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Navajo Canyon View
50.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
50.0 km
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Lee's Smokin' Hot BBQ
50.8 km
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Southway Trading llc
51.6 km
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Cowboy Camp House
51.9 km
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Patio Diner
52.0 km
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Four Corners Inn
52.0 km
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Homestead Steak House
52.1 km
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Yaks Café
52.1 km
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Bears Ears Inn
52.1 km
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Subway
52.2 km
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A&W Restaurant
52.3 km
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Canyon Country Bowling Center and A&W Restaurant
52.3 km
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Stone Lizard Lodge
52.3 km
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USU Blanding Cafeteria
52.7 km
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Utah State University Blanding
52.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Thunderbird Trading Company
35.0 km
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Antique Corral
36.7 km
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Notah Dineh Trading Co
38.8 km
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The Station Boutique
38.8 km
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Merriweather Home + Market
39.0 km
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High Desert Life Outdoors & Exchange
39.1 km
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Cliffrose on Market
39.2 km
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Love On A Hanger
39.3 km
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Say Yes Bridal & Boutique
39.5 km
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LaDawn's
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Anna's Mini Treasure
39.7 km
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Buffalo Bob's Co-op
40.3 km
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Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts
43.5 km
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Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
47.1 km
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Sinclair Gas Station
47.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kuchu's Restaurant
32.9 km
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Grandma's Frybread Shack
36.0 km
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Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
38.7 km
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ZU Gallery
39.1 km
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Loungin' Lizard
39.2 km
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WildEdge Brewing Collective
39.2 km
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Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
39.3 km
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Blondies Trophy Room
39.3 km
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J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
40.5 km
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The Wigglin’ Pig
41.2 km
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The Meltdown
41.5 km
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Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
42.1 km
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Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
42.3 km
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Buckskin Bar
44.6 km
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Metate Room
47.7 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
San Juan Theater
52.2 km
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The MOD
67.6 km
The MOD Nightclub in Shiprock, NM offers an electrifying nightlife experience with vibrant music and an energetic atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
