Colorado has many epic drives, from the famous Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park to the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Drive. While these drives are certainly incredible, the hidden gem that is the Highway of Legends offers something a bit different – peace and quiet. This area of Southern Central Colorado is off the beaten path for most travelers, which makes it a very special place. Here is your guide this epic drive of Colorado – the Highway of Legends.
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Time to Drive/Distance
The entire Highway of Legends drive is 82 miles, which is about 2 hours of driving time. However, spread this out over a long day or two so you have enough time to explore.
Firstly, start your drive in the town of Trinidad, as driving north from here is the better direction for this road trip. You will end your trip in Walsenburg, which conveniently lies along the main thoroughfare of I-25. It should be noted that you can drive over Cordova Pass to Aguilar as part of the highway, but we don’t recommend doing this.
Where to Stay
Camping Options
- Lathrop State Park, which has RV and tent options.
- Purgatoire Campground, which also has RV and tent options, many of which are along a lovely stream. There are also several dispersed (free) campsites along the road to the campground.
- Bear & Blue Lakes Campground, which is an absolutely gorgeous area with several small lakes and backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
Lodging Options
If camping isn’t your thing, stay in the quaint town of Cuchara. One of the best options here is the lovely Yellow Pine Guest Ranch, which offers cozy cabins and also horseback riding.
Alternatively, the Cucharas River Bed and Breakfast is another great option for a more rustic experience. This spot is located right in Cuchara, where you can listen to the river as you fall asleep at night.
Best Hiking Trails
West Spanish Peak Trail
The best trail along this route is the challenging 8 mile West Spanish Peak trail. To access this hike, turn off the Highway of Legends at Cordova Pass road. From here, you’ll drive about 20 minutes more to reach the trailhead. It’s a tough route to get to the top of this 13,631 foot high mountain, but it’s certainly worth the effort.
Purgatoire Trail
For a less challenging option, try the Purgatoire North Fork Trail. This 4 mile out & back trail meanders along a lovely stream with gorgeous meadows and many wildflowers. This hike is found about halfway along the drive, near Monument Park.
Lathrop State Park
This state park has several hiking options, but for a mild option with great views, try the Martin Lake Loop. This 2.8 mile easy loop has several picnic options as well.
Trinidad Lake State Park
Last, but not least, are the hiking trails at Trinidad Lake State Park. Again, there are several options here but the easiest trail is the 1.3 mile Trinidad Lake Loop. You’ll get great views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range and the lake as well.
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Scenic Stops
North Lake State Wildlife Area
You’ll find this gorgeous and peaceful turquoise lake about halfway through the route, near the Purgatoire hiking/camping area. While there isn’t any hiking here, it is a great place for fishing, kayaking or a picnic.
John Farley Wildflower Overlook
This lovely overlook is great for spring wildflowers and scenic views. You’ll find this right off of the Highway of Legends at the Cordova Pass turnoff. This is also a great spot for a picnic lunch!
Cuchara Mountain Park
Explore the Cuchara Mountain Park, which is an old ski area that has been converted to a multi use park. Besides hiking around the old slopes, you can also play free mini golf and disc golf. Additionally, you can grab food from the Mountain Mercantile Shop, which is located at the bottom of the park.
Blue & Bear Lakes
Also listed above as a campground, this recreational area offers fishing, hiking, and 4WD opportunities. It’s a peaceful place for these activities with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. While it is a bit off the main Highway of Legends (about 25 minutes), it is worth the drive.
Where to Eat
Cuchara
Try the longstanding local favorite Dog Bar and Grill. Be sure to bring your furry friends with you too, as they have a great outdoor patio. In addition to yummy bar food, they also have live music on weekends throughout the summer.
The Cuchara Yacht Club is also a great place to grab food and drinks. The back patio has a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere, as it is right on the Cuchara River. Additionally, they have live music on weekends and patio games.
La Veta
Secondly, stop by this small town to have a refreshing ice cream at Charlie’s Market. Locally owned and operated for just under 100 years, this is the best place to stop for a cone.
Trinidad
Last, but certainly not least, enjoy Nana & Nano Monteleone’s Deli and Pasta House. Without a doubt, this is the best Italian food in Colorado! Be sure to try the homemade Italian dressing, the red sauce for pasta and their homemade cannoli.
Enjoy this epic drive of Colorado – the Highway of Legends!
Jonathan, Caroline and Queso