Quicksand Isn’t Just in Movies — It’s In Colorado Too

When I was a kid, I remember watching movies where people would get swallowed alive by the earth. I was terrified that it would happen to me one day. One notable instance would also be in a video game.

If you have ever played Super Mario Bros. and ended up on the desert level, you know the agony of quicksand. Chances are, you have probably seen or heard of quicksand and had an instant fear of it.

Does Quicksand Exist in Colorado?

When we think of quicksand, we probably think of desert locations like the Sahara or somewhere similar. It might surprise you to know that quicksand does indeed exist, and it is present in the state of Colorado.

You aren't going to find quicksand on the Front Range of Colorado, so most of us are safe from the sandy pit of despair. However, if you venture to the southwestern part of the state, near the Four Corners, you might encounter spots of notorious quicksand.

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Quicksand can be found in the 130,000-square-mile area known as the Colorado Plateau. Deep canyons, deserts, and nine national parks are all within the Colorado Plateau. Mainly along the Little Colorado River, and in desert canyons near water sources.

What Happens If You Get Stuck?

You can get stuck in quicksand, but you aren't going to get eaten up like it has been portrayed in the movies. If you ever do encounter quicksand in Colorado and happen to get your foot stuck, it is best to move slowly, attempt to lie back, and distribute your weight to wiggle out.

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I wouldn't particularly try to scout out looking for quicksand as a hobby. But you never know when you may encounter it on a backcountry Colorado adventure.