Known for its soaring peaks, rushing rivers, and remnants of frontier-era settlements, this remote county captures the spirit of the American West. Keep reading to learn about everything Dolores County, Colorado has to offer for your trip.
In This Article
TL;DR
- Dolores County is a haven for outdoor recreation like hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
- Scenic byways like the San Juan Skyway and Million Dollar Highway wind through breathtaking mountain scenery.
- Historical attractions shed light on the region's mining and railroad heritage.
- Festivals and cultural events celebrate the area's Native American roots.
- Family resorts and guest ranches cater to multigenerational travelers.
- The county's remote location offers a tranquil retreat into nature.
Rugged Terrain Offers Thrills for Adventure Seekers
The rugged San Juan Mountains that dominate Dolores County’s landscape make this northwest corner of the state a playground for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. The high alpine terrain, rushing streams, and spruce and pine forests provide endless outdoor recreation opportunities. This is a great place for visitors who value enjoying Colorado’s natural resources over tourist-y attractions.
Hiking and Biking Among Mountain Peaks
Hikers can explore over a dozen trails of varying difficulty that thread through the San Juan Mountains. For stunning ridgeline views, tackle the strenuous hike up Lone Cone or Summit Peak. Families with young children can opt for leisurely walks around McPhee Reservoir, while history buffs will enjoy wandering through remnants of old mining camps and homesteads.
Mountain bikers can test their technical skills on the Boggy Draw-Lone Cone Loop, with its steep inclines and rock gardens. For more relaxed pedaling, meander along the paved pathway skirting McPhee Reservoir.
Casting for Trophy Trout and Wildlife Watching
The Dolores River below McPhee Dam offers exceptional trout fishing. Healthy populations of brown, cutbow, and rainbow trout eagerly bit flies and lures. Late summer and fall are prime times to reel in a trophy-sized catch.
Wildlife abounds in the county’s varied habitats, from elk and mule deer grazing in open meadows to black bears and mountain lions prowling forested slopes. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting over 200 feathered species, including golden eagles and peregrine falcons soaring on mountain updrafts.
Navigating Rugged Scenic Byways
Several of Colorado’s most spectacular scenic drives pass through Dolores County, including the San Juan Skyway, an All-American Road, and the acclaimed Million Dollar Highway. These roads wind over high mountain passes, hug sheer cliff walls, and deliver non-stop views of craggy San Juan peaks.
The San Juan Skyway loops 236 miles through the heart of the San Juans, crossing historic railroad grades and climbing over 10,000-foot summits before plunging into old mining towns. Sheer drops without guardrails give the Million Dollar Highway its reputation for being high-altitude hair-raising.
Immersive History Lessons Around Every Bend
Dolores County offers many opportunities to immerse in regional history, from prehistoric cliff dwellings to abandoned Victorian-era mining camps. Several sites and museums chronicle the area’s indigenous heritage, railroading feats, and rowdy mining days.
Railroads and Mining Forged Remote Settlements
Settlers and speculators flooded into southwest Colorado following the railroad’s arrival in the 1880s. The Dolores County Courthouse contains exhibits recounting how the town of Rico grew into a major mining hub, with investors reaping millions in silver ore. Visitors can also tour the remains of long-abandoned mining camps.
High Mountain Passes Linked Coasts for Commerce
Roadside exhibits scattered along the San Juan Skyway explain how the harrowing route over 10,000-foot summits evolved from Native American trails into wagon roads for hauling ore to paved highways. The interpretive signs chronicle the feats of engineering required to link these remote mountain hamlets with the outside world.
Festivals and Traditions Hark Back to Early Days
While Dolores County offers a contemporary tourism scene, many local festivals and events celebrate the area’s indigenous heritage and hardy pioneer roots. Visitors can experience Native American dances, join in a historical reenactment, or tap their toes to bluegrass music.
Tribal Celebrations Honor Ancestral Connections
The county’s Ute Mountain Ute tribe hosts cultural events like the annual Bear Dance, where dancers outfitted with bear skins and claws perform rituals passed down through generations. Tribal members also demonstrate traditional skills like hide tanning, soap making, and beadwork.
Rodeos and Country Fairs Recapture Ranching Days
The long-running Dolores County Fair features ranch rodeo events like mutton bustin’ along with livestock exhibits recalling the region’s agricultural roots. Parades, pie-baking contests, and demonstrations of blacksmithing and quilting evoke the county’s frontier days.
Changing Aspen Heralds Fall’s Arrival
Vibrant golden aspen groves set the backdrop for Dolores County’s autumn festival season. Rico holds an aspen leaf festival and McPhee Reservoir hosts bluegrass concerts under the glowing foliage. The scenic Westfork Trail makes for a fine hike through quaking aspens donning their fall yellows and oranges.
Family Attractions Abound Across the County
From dude ranches offering horseback rides to reservoirs filled with rainbow trout, Dolores County serves up endless family fun. Kids can scramble over ancient dwellings, go whitewater rafting, or take pony rides at a guest ranch.
Historic Sites Bring Lessons to Life
Clambering through ancient cliff dwellings or touring a Victorian mining town injects an educational element into a family trip. Kids can imagine themselves as Native American farmers at Hovenweep or try panning for gold flecks at abandoned mines near Rico.
Water Sports Abound All Summer Long
When the Colorado heat soars, Dolores County offers countless watery diversions. Families can splash through the fish-filled Dolores River on whitewater rafting trips. Youngsters will love frolicking along the beaches and shallow coves of these waterways.
Lodges and Guest Ranches Provide Western Hospitality
Visitors can stay in historic hotels in Rico or opt for all-inclusive stays at one of the county’s many dude and guest ranches, such as Sun Canyon Guest Ranch. These ranch resorts serve up quintessential Western hospitality and offer adventures like horseback riding and fishing. For a luxurious B&B experience, contact Dunton Hot Springs.
Mining-Themed Lodges Offer Historic Charm
Visitors can stay in historic hotels with Old West flair in the Victorian-era mining towns of Rico and Telluride. The 19th-century Mine Shaft Inn in Rico provides a jumping-off spot for exploring abandoned mines and rail grades that connect present-day tourists with the town’s prospector roots.
Ranch Resorts Cater to Family Travelers
Dolores County has over a half-dozen dude ranches and wilderness resorts catering to vacationing families and outdoor enthusiasts. Guests hunker down in rustic yet comfy cabins after days spent hiking mountain trails or riding horses through high country meadows. Packages offer flexible dining options, so you can feast on cowboy cookouts or gourmet cuisine.
Local Flavors Reflect Southwestern Traditions
Dolores County’s remote location fosters a thriving farm-to-table food scene, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients from regional producers. Menus also reflect Colorado’s mingling of Native American, Hispanic, and frontier influences into an eclectic Southwestern cuisine.
Native Inspiration Infuses Recipes
Indigenous staples like beans, squash, and chiles form the foundations for many regional dishes. Look for blue cornmeal coating trout or game meats, wild berries mixed into sauces, or toasted pine nuts and seeds garnishing salads.
Southwest Specialties Abound on Menus
Visitors can savor Navajo tacos with frybread or sample Mexican-inspired dishes like smothered burritos and tamales. Don’t miss the chance to try green chile stew, a zesty Southwestern specialty, or bite into a bison or elk burger at a local pub.
Farm-Fresh Ingredients Showcase Local Bounty
The county’s rivers, forests, and high plains provide a bounty of trout, wild game, and forageable foods that kitchens deftly utilize. Menus highlight seasonal produce like Palisade peaches, Olathe sweet corn, and heirloom tomatoes. Ranch resorts serve garden greens and fruit harvested fresh daily.
Plan Your Visit to Revel Among Rugged Peaks
While Dolores County’s remote location adds to its undiscovered appeal, the lack of major airports and services warrants advance planning for visitors. Follow these tips to make the most of your adventures in Colorado’s dramatic southwest corner.
When to Visit to Align with Your Interests
While Dolores County offers year-round recreation, certain seasons align best with particular activities. Summer and fall are ideal times for family ranch vacations, while winter unleashes epic skiing and snowshoeing. Anglers will find prime fishing each spring and fall.
Getting Here Requires Some Logistical Planning
As no major highways or commercial airports service Dolores County, road-tripping or flying into nearby airports like Durango or Cortez works best. Having your own vehicle allows flexibility for exploring sites like San Juan National Forest or the Weminuche Wilderness.
Pack Properly for High Country Excursions
Regardless of when you visit, come prepared for wild weather swings in the San Juan high country. Pack layers along with wind and rain jackets for mountain adventures. And don’t hit the trails without sun protection, sturdy footwear, and plenty of water.
By taking the time to properly plan your visit while also allowing for spontaneity to revel among wild mountain peaks and deep canyons, Dolores County promises to etch an unforgettable adventure into your memory. This remote corner of Colorado offers a sanctuary into the rugged beauty and frontier spirit of the American West.
FAQ About Visiting Dolores County
What is the best way to get to Dolores County?
The nearest major airport is in Durango, about 90 minutes from Dolores County. Renting a car is recommended. Shuttle services and tours are also available from Durango.
When is peak tourist season in Dolores County?
Summer and fall see the most visitors drawn by warm weather activities and fall foliage viewing. But travelers can enjoy winter sports and fewer crowds in the colder months.
What is there to do with kids?
Kids love touring cliff dwellings, panning for gold, hiking through aspens, rafting the Dolores River, and activities at guest ranches like horseback riding.
Where should I stay if I want a resort experience?
All-inclusive dude ranches like Sun Canyon Guest Ranch offer lodging, dining, and a full slate of guided activities.
What should I pack for a trip to Dolores County?
Pack sun protection, layers of clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, lightweight rain gear, sunglasses, a hat, a swimsuit if water activities are planned, binoculars for wildlife viewing, camera gear, and medications needed.
