Where to stop between Taos and Denver?

Question

Hi all,

I am currently planning a road trip from Denver to Taos, NM and back to Denver. I am hitting a stumbling block, or more information overload! So, I thought I would ask the experts :). Our first leg of the trip to Taos takes us through Breckinridge and down 285 - I would like to come back up through the Colorado Springs side, and am looking for a good stop for one night along the route that will have some touristy things to see. We are traveling the week of Memorial Day, and have a very late flight out on Saturday night. What would be your recommendation for the best stopping point? Thanks!

Answer

For your return leg from Taos to Denver via Colorado Springs, there are several towns that make excellent one-night stops, offering a mix of sightseeing, good dining, and charming local character. Since you are traveling over Memorial Day week, it’s good to plan ahead as popular stops may fill quickly.

Here are some recommended stopping points with reasons why they might be a good fit:

Canon City: Known for the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, this town provides classic tourist attractions with a scenic backdrop. You can walk across the bridge, ride the aerial tram, or take a short river excursion. It’s about 2.5 hours from Taos and positions you well for continuing north the next day.
Salida: A charming arts town along the Arkansas River, offering galleries, local shops, and riverside walks. The historic downtown has restaurants and breweries, and you can enjoy easy hiking or kayaking if you arrive early. It’s slightly west off Highway 285 but well worth it for a relaxed stop.
Buena Vista: Just north of Salida, this small town is famous for its hot springs, river sports, and mountain views. The town is ideal if you want a quieter night with access to short hikes or a soak in natural pools.
Colorado Springs: If you want to be closer to the Denver area while still having attractions, Colorado Springs offers Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak scenic drive, and the U.S. Air Force Academy. It’s a larger town with many hotel options, which can be convenient for a late-night flight connection.

Some considerations when choosing your stop:

Canon City and Salida are more scenic and less commercial, ideal for a single night with local character.
Buena Vista is perfect for a slower pace with nature-focused stops.
Colorado Springs is more urban and offers more dining and lodging options, which can be handy if you prefer a shorter drive the next day to Denver.
Since it’s Memorial Day week, it’s wise to book your hotel in advance, particularly in smaller towns like Salida or Buena Vista.

In summary, if your priority is scenic stops and light adventure, Salida or Canon City are excellent choices. If you prefer convenience and more tourist attractions, Colorado Springs is a solid option. All routes from these towns to Denver are manageable, with Colorado Springs being the closest and fastest route for your late Saturday night flight.

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