Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Arlington, Texas and Salida, Colorado

If you're planning a road trip from Arlington, Texas to Salida, Colorado, you're in luck: there are plenty of amazing places to visit along the way. Here are the top five:

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Located just outside Amarillo, Texas, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is one of the most stunning natural areas in the state. The canyon offers incredible hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and even the chance to see the official play of Texas, "Texas." This park is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

This park, located in southern Colorado, features North America's tallest sand dunes framed by the Rocky Mountains. With 150,000 acres of unique sand dunes and surrounding forests, wetlands, and wildlife, Great Sand Dunes offers a one-of-a-kind natural experience. Visitors can climb the dunes, explore hiking trails, and even partake in sand sledding.

3. Garden of the Gods

Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark and a must-see destination for anyone traveling in this area. This geological marvel is home to towering red rock formations that make for a stunning and unforgettable sight. Visitors can hike the park's trails, rock climb, or even book a hot air balloon tour to get a bird's eye view.

4. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Named for its steep canyon walls that cast shadows over the Gunnison River, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a stunning natural attraction in central Colorado. With some of the steepest canyon walls in North America, visitors can explore the canyons via hiking trails or take in the views by car. The park also offers ranger-led programs, fishing, boating, and camping.

5. Mesa Verde National Park

Located in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is home to some of the best-preserved ancient Native American cliff dwellings in the country. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors guided tours, hiking trails, and a glimpse into the lives and cultures of the Ancestral Puebloan people who inhabited the region over 700 years ago.

In conclusion, Arlington, Texas and Salida, Colorado are connected by a beautiful stretch of the United States that offers a wide range of natural and cultural attractions. Whether you're a hiker, a history buff, or just someone looking to soak up some stunning scenery, be sure to hit these top five stops along your journey!