The Colorado Plateau is a broad, flat plateau that stretches from Utah in the north to New Mexico in the south. The plateau is home to some amazing landscapes. Vast deserts, the Colorado River, and red cliffs draw visitors every year. Amid this awe-inspiring landscape, you’ll find a variety of beautiful small towns, each filled with history, culture, and charm. Learn more about six of the most beautiful small towns on the Colorado Plateau, from Utah to Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico.
Moab, Utah
One of the most beautiful towns on the Colorado Plateau is Moab, boasting stunning vibrant red rock formations and vast deserts. It’s also home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, both of which feature dramatic rock formations that seem to defy nature. Don’t miss Arches’ imposing rock arches or Canyonlands’ teetering hoodoos and deep canyons. Dead Horse Point State Park is also nearby, offering outdoor recreation and adventure.
Raft the rapids of the Colorado River or hike through Red Rock Park, with breathtaking views stretching from the canyon to the riverbank. At night, Moab transforms into a starry paradise. Stay at a nearby campground for a true blackout stargazing experience. Stay in an Under Canvas yurt to make the most of the experience.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is one of the most beautiful towns in Arizona. It features vibrant red and orange sandstone cliffs and rock formations that rise out of the desert. The Sedona Secret 7 Trail allows you to hike among these giant boulders. Visit imposing Cathedral Rock or explore nearby Red Rock State Park. In town, the beauty of the natural landscape has inspired many artists to visit the area. Shop at local boutiques and galleries at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. For Western cuisine, try the historic Cowboy Club or Ti Gabo for dining with a view. You can also enjoy the views from the Poco Diablo Resort at the Arroyo Pinon Hotel. Alternatively, you can opt for a more affordable bed & breakfast or cabin rental.
Durango, Colorado
If you’re looking to enjoy majestic mountain scenery, don’t miss Durango, Colorado. The town sits on the edge of the San Juan National Forest, beneath impressive mountain peaks. Visit in the winter to enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding, while in the warmer months you can go horseback riding, hiking or mountain biking on beautiful forest trails such as the Colorado Trail. You can also hop on the historic Durango Train. A ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad will take you past breathtaking mountain views and lush forests.
The train is also a vintage locomotive. A historical guide is on board and will tell you about local history along the way. For more history, visit the Durango Museum. Downtown is also a National Historic District. After a long day of exploring, take a break at Durango Hot Springs. Stay at the resort or book a natural hot springs experience.
Jemez Springs, New Mexico
The beauty of the Colorado Plateau extends to New Mexico and the town of Jemez Springs, just an hour from Albuquerque. Like Durango, the main attraction is the natural hot springs. Take a dip in the mineral-rich waters and feel the healing powers of these ancient waters. Options include Spence Hot Springs and Soda Dam, two natural springs in the Santa Fe National Forest. Modern hot springs include Jemez Springs Bath House and Canyon del Rio Retreat and Spa, which offer sophisticated outdoor pools and spa treatments. The town of Jemez Springs is also steeped in history. Visit the Jemez National Historic Landmark, where a narrated walking tour will tell you more about the history of the 700-year-old village.
Telluride, Colorado
Another beautiful city worth visiting in Colorado is Telluride. This wonderful city is set in a box-shaped valley with the beautiful Colorado Plateau as its backdrop. Rugged mountains rise from 13,000 to 14,000 feet around its small downtown area. Telluride was once a thriving city in the American West. Its history has earned the entire 8 x 12 blocks of downtown a National Historic Landmark District. Wander the old streets and discover the Victorian architecture and Gold Rush history. Telluride offers two unique experiences: its charming downtown and the adjacent Mountain Village. The village sits 9,500 feet above the valley.
Take a gondola ride to the village above the clouds and enjoy spectacular views of the mountains, valleys and town below. Mountain Village also provides access to Telluride Ski Resort and Uncompahgre National Forest. The village is popular for skiing, especially in the winter. Telluride has it all, including horseback riding, hot springs, stand-up paddle boarding, zip lining, rafting and a variety of outdoor recreational activities. After a day of adventure, enjoy a meal at one of Mountain Village’s scenic restaurants, such as All Red Restaurant or Alpino Vino. In town, you can enjoy French-style dining at La Marmotte or Cornerhouse Grill.
Taos, New Mexico
There’s no better place to experience the beauty of New Mexico than Taos. Taos sits at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, with the tall peaks creating a constant backdrop for this beautiful little town. The region is also rich in culture and takes its name from the Taos people. The old town, Taos Pueblo, is made up of traditional adobe buildings built over 1,000 years ago. The unique architecture draws visitors from all over the world.
Taos Pueblo is the only surviving Native American community designated as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The sheer beauty and cultural depth of the area makes it a hotspot for creative types. You’ll find a thriving art colony here, including art studios, galleries, and the Taos Art Museum. Aside from art, you can also enjoy amazing views from the sky on a hot air balloon ride. Watch the sun set over the Southwestern landscape, painting the rolling desert in red and gold. Or float above the iconic Rio Grande Valley.
From dramatic canyons to imposing mountain ranges, old adobe towns to beautiful national parks, the Colorado Plateau is one of the most visually striking regions in the United States. Soak in the mountain views of Telluride. Soak in hot springs in Durango and see the iconic rock formations in Moab. The beautiful small towns of the Colorado Plateau each have their own unique charm, but they are all a feast for the eyes. Escape to one of these small towns or check them all off your travel list. There’s so much to see, do and explore in the beautiful Colorado Plateau.