Things To Do

Wacharas Ranch

Interested in learning about Mark and Sue’s ranch? Learn more about what they do and their mission for regenerative ranching at https://www.wacharasranch.com

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

West Spanish Peak Hike

The two Spanish Peaks dominate the landscape in La Veta. If you feel that they are calling to you, you can go there! West Spanish Peak is the more accessible one, the trailhead is a 1 hour and 15 minute drive from La Veta. Depending on weather and snow pack conditions, the summit may or may not be accessible this time of year (it's 13,625 ft. above sea level!) but the lower portion of the trail winds through a beautiful forest and meadow. Be sure to bring warm layers and sturdy shoes, don't go alone, and beware of altitude sickness! The road to the trailhead passes right through Cuchara so we suggest stopping in at the Dog Bar after your hike for some grub! Searching West Spanish Peak on Google Maps will give you reliable directions.

Bishop Castle

Ever wondered what it would it look like if a man spent his whole life building a castle by hand by himself? Well you can find out at Bishop Castle! This is a seriously bizarre place that is worth checking out if you have the time. This is north of La Veta so it could be a fun stop on the drive to or from Denver although it is a detour off of the freeway. The drive is just over an hour from La Veta. Searching Bishop Castle in Google maps will give you reliable directions.

La Veta Galleries

La Veta has an impressive artist community with some great galleries and gift shops on and just off Main Street. We specifically recommend La Veta Mercantile, Shalawalla Gallery, Gallery on Main, Space Gallery, and the Book Nook!

Paradise Coffee LLC

Deerprint Wine & Bistro

Ryus Avenue Bakery

Francisco Fort Museum

Highway of Legends

This is a famous drive that winds through scenic Southern Colorado and highlights much of the fascinating history in the area. The whole drive takes about two hours. You can read about it here or by Googling "Colorado Highway of Legends."

Uptop Ghost Town

This historical site on top of La Veta pass is a well preserved relic of the mining and railroad heydays gone by. It's a 25 minute drive from town and you can read about it here.

Dog Bar & Grill

This is a great spot for burgers, pizza, beer, and other tasty things in the even tinier town of Cuchara. It is a very scenic 20 minute drive into the mountains from La Veta (though still a La Veta address.) Be sure to check out the antiques shop across the street too!

Original Silver Cliff Town Hall and Fire House

Come see where the original Dietzes lived in Colorado. Silver Cliff still has the original firehouse where George Dietz was a fireman.