If you’re looking for a quiet getaway filled with history, nature, and a hint of Wild West charm, I really recommend La Junta. I made my way out to southeastern Colorado not knowing quite what to expect—and I ended up discovering a place that felt peaceful, rich in stories, and totally off the beaten path. Whether you’re retracing the steps of explorers, watching bison roam the prairie, or stargazing under those big, open skies, I think you’ll find La Junta as unexpectedly special as I did.
La Junta, CO Highlights:
- Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site – I felt like I stepped into the 1840s here. This reconstructed adobe fort along the Santa Fe Trail tells incredible stories about trade, cultures, and survival—you'll want to take your time exploring every room.
- Picketwire Canyonlands – If you’re up for a hike or bike ride, this is one of the coolest spots I’ve ever visited. You’ll see real dinosaur tracks, ancient petroglyphs, and some incredible canyon views. I recommend starting early to beat the heat.
- Koshare Indian Museum – I was blown away by the collection here. Housed in a massive kiva-style building, it’s packed with Native American art, history, and craftsmanship that you won’t forget.
- Otero Museum – This place gave me such a great sense of the area’s pioneer and railroad past. If you’re into local stories, ranching artifacts, or vintage vehicles, it’s definitely worth a stop.
- La Junta City Park – Sometimes I just want a slow afternoon, and this park was perfect. Bring a picnic, find a shady spot, and let yourself unwind—especially if you’re traveling with kids or just need a break between adventures.
Best Time to Visit La Junta, CO
From my experience, the best time to go is in the spring or fall—April to June or September to October. The weather is perfect for hikes and exploring historic sites without the summer heat. If you’re visiting in summer, I’d suggest heading out early in the day before it gets too warm. Winter is quieter and mild, which can be nice if you’re looking for a peaceful, crowd-free escape.
How to Get to La Junta, CO
- Driving? I drove in along U.S. Highway 50—it’s an easy ride, about 1.5 hours east of Pueblo and 3 hours southeast of Denver. The scenery along the way sets the mood perfectly for a frontier-style adventure.
- Taking the train? Amtrak’s Southwest Chief stops right in La Junta. I’ve taken it before and loved how relaxing it was. It connects you to cities like Chicago, Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Los Angeles.
- Flying in? I’d recommend landing at Colorado Springs Airport (COS) or Pueblo Memorial Airport (PUB), then renting a car for the scenic drive to town. It’s a smooth trip and gives you freedom to explore nearby spots too.
Where to Stay in La Junta, CO
- Hampton Inn La Junta – I stayed here once and found it super comfortable. Free breakfast, a pool, and close to everything—it’s a solid pick if you like reliable amenities.
- Midtown Motel – If you’re looking to save money and keep things simple, this family-run spot has clean rooms and a great downtown location. I appreciated the friendly service too.
- La Junta KOA Journey – When I wanted to be closer to nature, I booked a cabin here. Whether you’re in an RV, a tent, or renting a cozy cabin, it’s a fun and affordable way to experience the area just outside of town.
Best Things to Do in La Junta, CO
Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site - Step into frontier life and explore exciting sights from the 1800s.
Koshare Indian Museum - Admire Native American art and enjoy an unusual cultural trip with the kids.
Picketwire Canyonlands - Hike rugged trails and discover dinosaur tracks on an adventurous weekend outing.
Otero Museum - See vintage artifacts and explore an easy, affordable slice of local history.
Vogel Canyon - Walk scenic trails and enjoy quiet spring views with minimal crowds.
CrossRoads MarketPlace - Browse handmade goods and savor a cheap stop filled with local charm.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)