Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Alamosa, Colorado and Colorado Springs, Colorado

Alamosa to Colorado Springs: A Journey of Adventure and Exploration

ALAMOSA - Nestled amidst the breathtaking San Luis Valley and embracing the majesty of the Great Sand Dunes National Park, the journey from Alamosa, Colorado to Colorado Springs is an adventure waiting to unfold. As the tires hit the road and the engine roars to life, an array of captivating landscapes, historic treasures, and exhilarating experiences await the intrepid travelers. One of the highlights of this trip is the halfway point, WALSENBURG, CO, a quaint town rich in history and charm.

Zapata Falls - Nature's Hidden Jewel

Majestic cascades nestled amidst rugged beauty

Perched at an elevation of 9,000 feet in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Zapata Falls is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. A short hike through a serene canyon leads visitors to a breathtaking 25-foot waterfall, its thunderous cascade mesmerizing all who behold it. The frosty waters of this oasis reward the adventurous with the perfect respite on a warm day.

Interesting Fact: Zapata Falls is formed by snowmelt from the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains and can be icy cold even on the hottest summer days.

Great Sand Dunes National Park - A Sea of Sand

Nature's finest playground on an epic scale

Unleash your inner child and explore the wonders of the Great Sand Dunes National Park, where undulating hills of golden sand beckon, rising up to 750 feet against the backdrop of the towering Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Sandboarding, sledding, or simply basking in the sun-drenched glory of this desert-like landscape will leave visitors with unforgettable memories.

Interesting Fact: The Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, with the Star Dune reaching a staggering height of 755 feet.

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park - A Testament to Engineering Marvel

Where vertigo meets adrenaline

Welcome to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, an iconic feat of engineering that suspends visitors 955 feet above the roaring Arkansas River. This must-see attraction showcases breathtaking views of the Royal Gorge Canyon, daring thrill rides, and the opportunity to cross the highest suspension bridge in America. Few experiences match the adrenaline rush of standing in the center of this awe-inspiring architectural marvel.

Interesting Fact: The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park boasts the world's highest zip-line course, offering exhilarating rides that soar above the dramatic landscapes below.

Garden of the Gods - Nature's Cathedral

Sculpted rock formations evoke wonder in the heart of the city

Nestled within the city limits of Colorado Springs lies the awe-inspiring Garden of the Gods, a geological wonderland where towering sandstone formations thrust themselves into the cerulean sky. Visitors can hike among these spectacular monoliths, marveling at the balance between nature's artistry and the city's urban charm. The Garden of the Gods offers a sense of tranquility and serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Interesting Fact: The famous Balanced Rock Formation in the Garden of the Gods appears precariously balanced, defying gravity and fascinating visitors with its geological anomaly.

Pikes Peak - Reaching the Summit

A journey to the rooftop of Colorado

No visit to the Colorado Springs region is complete without venturing up Pikes Peak, one of the most renowned peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Whether driving the scenic Pikes Peak Highway or challenging oneself to a hike, every step brings closer to the breathtaking summit at 14,115 feet. The panoramic vistas stretching as far as the eye can see will leave visitors awestruck and humbled by the grandeur of nature.

Interesting Fact: Katharine Lee Bates was inspired to write the song "America the Beautiful" while standing atop Pikes Peak, mesmerized by the awe-inspiring panorama that unfolded before her.

The journey from Alamosa to Colorado Springs is approximately 154 miles, taking travelers on a scenic adventure through the heart of Colorado. Winding roads, picturesque landscapes, and historic towns make for a captivating voyage that can be completed in approximately three hours, depending on individual preferences and the time spent exploring each destination. Whether choosing to embark on this trip in a single day or to savor the experience over multiple days, the memories crafted along this route are sure to last a lifetime.

So, buckle up and prepare to embark on a journey that will take you from the tranquil beauty of Alamosa to the vibrant cityscapes of Colorado Springs. Along the way, you will encounter nature's wonders at Zapata Falls, the Great Sand Dunes National Park, and the Garden of the Gods. While Walsenburg beckons with its historical charm, the architectural marvel that is the Royal Gorge Bridge and the breathtaking summit of Pikes Peak will leave you in awe. Prepare for a road trip to remember and let the wonders of Colorado unveil themselves as you traverse this remarkable route.