Travel + Leisure Magazine Lists Five Southwestern Towns as Best in Colorado

We get to experience the allure of Northern Colorado every day — but have you ever traveled down south?

Travel + Leisure recently highlighted five cities in Southwestern Colorado. While the lifestyle magazine notes the region "feels off the beaten path," it says that doesn't make it any less breathtaking.

Read on to see Travel + Leisure's must-visit Southwestern Colorado towns.

1. Buena Vista | Chaffee County

According to the town's website, Buena Vista sits at an altitude of 7,965 feet and is "considered by many to be the capital of whitewater rafting in the United States."

Travel + Leisure highlighted the town's river surfing, hip hotels, Victorian homes, and small businesses and breweries, stating that Buena Vista is "a case study in how outdoor recreation can revive the economies of rural mountain towns."

Drive from Northern Colorado: about three hours

2. Salida | Chaffee County

Colorado.com notes that while Salida started as a railway stop, it is now a center for hiking, biking, fishing, and history.

Travel + Leisure referred to Salida as "another hub for outdoor adventures," showcasing the town's downtown area, historic district, coffee shops, and bakeries.

Drive from Northern Colorado: about three and a half hours

3. Del Norte | Rio Grande County

According to Uncover Colorado, Del Norte gets its name from the Rio Grande del Norte or the "grand river of the north." It is home to around 1,500 people and the Summitville Mine ghost town.

Travel + Leisure commented on Del Norte's unique downtown area, noting the town's various general stores, bakeries, hotels, and cocktails.

Drive from Northern Colorado: about four and a half hours

4. Durango | La Plata County

Durango.com describes Durango as a family-friendly haven for scenic drives, ATV-ing, skiing, horseback riding, and more.

Travel + Leisure stated that a "younger generation" is investing in Durango and featured the town's hot springs and famous restaurant, James Ranch.

Drive from Northern Colorado: about seven hours

5. Silverton | San Juan County

According to the Silverton, Colorado Chamber of Commerce, the town is a National Historic Landmark and a "recreational paradise" for ice fishing, hunting, camping, heliskiing, and more.

Travel + Leisure called Silverton a "mini Telluride," emphasizing the town's Wild West vibes, art gallery, hotel, and "old-school saloons."

Drive from Northern Colorado: about seven hours

See a list of Colorado's most famous attractions in the gallery below.