1. Certified Dark Skies
You have never seen so many stars! Westcliffe & Silver Cliff form the highest elevation International Dark Sky Community in the world and the first in Colorado. See spectacular views of the Milky Way with your bare eyes. Free monthly public Star Parties are held April through October at the Smokey Jack Observatory.
2. Medieval Castle
Custer County boasts its own three-story medieval castle complete with large gothic windows, steel walkways, stained glass and a stainless-steel, fire-breathing dragon. The famous Bishop Castle is a spectacular, must-see dementia concretia.
3. Escape the Crowds
You don’t have to go far to get away from it all. Skip the bustling I-70 corridor and enjoy a road less travelled with stunning scenery, abundant wilderness and unexpected discoveries. Experience jaw-dropping awe as you drive over the last hill on Hwy 96 on your way to Westcliffe and take in your first view of the magnificent Sangre de Cristo mountain range and the Wet Mountain Valley below.
4. Rainbow Trail
Explore miles of excellent alpine hiking trails and discover wildlife in the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness and San Isabel National Forest. Hike to a mountain lake…we have 52 of them! The Rainbow Trail arcs through the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, providing roughly 100 miles of outdoor fun for hiking, horseback riding or mountain biking. Accessible but isolated and just right for families and outdoor adventure.
5. Genuine Horseback Experience.
Hit the backcountry on horseback with the experienced horsemen and guides of Music Meadows Ranch and Bear Basin Ranch.
6. Miles of Scenic Byway
Frontier Pathways Scenic and Historic Byway boasts a rich history of the early years of Colorado. Escape to unspoiled beauty and enjoy a lovely 103 mile drive with diverse wildlife and the dramatically varied landscapes of Pueblo, Westcliffe, Silver Cliff, Rye and Colorado City.
7. Arts & Culture with a View
Whether you’re an artist or an appreciator of the arts, you’ll find a surprisingly abundant, accomplished and approachable arts culture in Westcliffe. Stroll down the streets of our small town to uncover fine galleries, indoor and outdoor live theater, plein air painting and live music throughout the summer.
