Western Wanderlust Chronicles

Bill and I set out on a 4-day adventure through southwestern Colorado and southern Utah, making the most of the holiday weekend. We were lucky to witness breathtaking waterfalls, ancient ruins, towering monuments, and a few unexpected surprises. It was one of those trips you never want to end. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to explore such a diverse and captivating array of places.

Day 1: Treasure Falls, Chimney Rock, and Backcountry Camping

Treasure Falls
Our journey began with a visit to Treasure Falls, just outside of Pagosa Springs, Colorado. This 105-foot waterfall is a must-see, conveniently located right off the highway with a short, yet rewarding, 0.6-mile loop trail leading to a misty viewing platform. The sound of the rushing water was mesmerizing, and the cold spray was refreshing on a warm summer day. The surrounding rock formations and lush greenery added to the beauty of the cascading water.

Legend has it that Treasure Falls got its name from a hidden stash of gold left behind by French prospectors in the 1700s. Though no treasure has ever been found, the breathtaking scene feels like a natural gem in itself. The waterfall’s flow changes dramatically with the seasons—raging with snowmelt in the spring and turning into a misty veil in late summer. The short hike to the falls includes interpretive signs explaining the area’s geology, adding an educational element to its natural beauty.

Chimney Rock National Monument
Next, we traveled to Chimney Rock National Monument, an incredible archaeological site preserving the legacy of the Ancestral Puebloans. This outlier of the Chaco Canyon Regional system covers seven square miles and features 200 ancient homes and ceremonial structures. Hiking up to the Great House Pueblo rewarded us with 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains. The ruins were fascinating, with intricate stonework and remnants of an ancient civilization that once thrived here.

The monument is home to several key sites, including the Great Kiva, where ceremonies and gatherings took place, and the Pit House, which gives a glimpse into the daily lives of the Puebloan people. The twin spires of Chimney Rock served as a celestial observatory, marking important seasonal events. This sacred site was a hub of cultural and spiritual significance, with ties to the larger Chacoan civilization.

Standing near the twin spires, we imagined what life must have been like here a thousand years ago, gazing out over the same breathtaking landscape. The view from the top was unforgettable—rolling hills, rugged mountains, and the vast expanse of the Southwest stretching in every direction.

Camping in Canyons of the Ancients
As the day wound down, we ventured into the backcountry of Canyons of the Ancients National Monument for a night of dispersed camping. Located in the Four Corners region, this remote area is home to the highest known archaeological site density in the U.S. We found the perfect spot to set up our tent, surrounded by juniper trees and rugged terrain. The solitude was breathtaking, and we felt completely immersed in the ancient landscape.

After setting up camp, we took a short drive into Durango to visit friends and enjoy the holiday festivities. The small-town charm and lively atmosphere made for an incredible evening. We watched fireworks light up the sky, reflecting off the surrounding hills in a dazzling display of color. After celebrating, we returned to our remote campsite, where the desert night greeted us with an endless canopy of stars. The Milky Way stretched across the sky, and the silence of the backcountry was the perfect way to unwind after an eventful day.

This was just the beginning of an incredible adventure filled with history, nature, and unforgettable experiences. Stay tuned for more as we continue our journey through the stunning landscapes of the Southwest!