Explore Local Attractions
Discover the breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant local culture surrounding Dark Skies Vacations. From pristine mountain trails to hidden gems in Westcliffe and Silver Cliff, your unforgettable Colorado adventure begins right at our doorstep. And when you book you'll have access to real locals as your personal concierge whenever needed.
Local Favorites
Discover the best of Silver Cliff and Westcliffe. We've curated our top recommendations for local shops, dining, and coffee to ensure your stay is truly unforgettable.
Coffee & Local Cafes
Start your Sangre de Cristo mornings with Westcliffe's only local coffee roaster and some of the best coffee anywhere! Known for their on-site roasted organic beans, organic dairy, and house-made organic syrups, Peregrine doesn't dissapoint. We even feature their 'Dark Skies' roast at our Red A Chalet rental. For breakfast treats and light bites, check out cozy local spots like Wild Flour Donuts & Co., Silver Cliffe Mountain Inn, and Sugarlump. Busy Bee Bakery makes amazing local made to order organic and handmilled sourdough, text Christina Bessler at 303-968-5317 a min of 3 days in advance for orders.
Fresh Brewed Morning Energy
Dining & Drinks
Unwind with hearty mountain meals or celebrate a special night out. Our guests rave about Tony's Mountain Pizza, Chappy's Woodfired Grill, and Bootleggers Bistro for casual bites and Constellation for craft cocktails and farm-to-table dining. Don't miss the Hidden Peak Tiki Bar—a favorite local gem for Hawaiian vibes in the Rockies. P.S. finding it is part of the adventure!
Culinary Delights & Craft Spirits
Shops & Entertainment
Explore unique boutique shops and iconic local venues. Find trail gear and outdoor supplies at All The Range, the owner Tom is a wealth of knowledge for hikes in the area, handmade chocolates at Lux, gifts at The Village Shop, or organic groceries at family run Sunflower Natural Foods. End your day with a movie at the historic Jones Theatre, bowling at Cliff Lanes, or discover the stars at the Smoky Jack Observatory.
Boutique Finds & Mountain Culture
Trail Guide
Discover the rugged beauty of the Custer County wilderness with these signature trails, all within reach of our rentals and only a small sampling of the immense amount of hiking opportunities in the area.
Rainbow Trail in the Sangres
This scenic route contours along the mountain base with rolling ups and downs, offering sweeping peak and valley views. It is perfect for flexible out-and-back hikes from several local trailheads near your rental.
Alvarado Creek Trail
The trail accessed from this trailhead is an out and back hike of about 8.6 miles with an elevation gain of roughly 1,150 feet and it is rated as moderate in difficulty. The route is also dog friendly, making it a good choice for local hikers and visitors who want a substantial hike without extreme technical challenges.
Greenhorn Mountain Trail in the Wet Mountains
This 14.5 mile challenging ascent through dense forest opens into high alpine terrain with panoramic summit views. It is a fantastic full-day adventure for expert hikers staying at Dark Skies Vacations.
Venable Lakes Trail
Ascend into the breathtaking high country, passing beautiful Venable Falls on your journey to the lakes and grand mountain vistas. It is the perfect memorable escape for our guests.
Regional Wonders & Excursions
Embark on incredible Colorado journeys from your peaceful home base at Dark Skies Vacations. Whether you crave the thrill of white-water rapids and mountain railways or the serenity of geothermal pools and iconic national parks, adventure is calling.
Smokey Jack Observatory
Experience the cosmos in one of the highest altitude certified Dark Skies Community. Smokey Jack offers free public star parties and telescope viewing throughout the summer, sponsored by Dark Skies of the Wet Mountain Valley, providing Dark Skies Vacations guests with an unparalleled gateway to the universe. Visit their Events Calendar for more information.
Located in Westcliffe at Bluff PArk
Bishop's Castle
Explore a staggering stone castle hand-built over decades, featuring intricate iron bridges and a fire-breathing dragon. It is a whimsical architectural marvel tucked away in the forest that sparks the imagination of every visitor.
Drive Time From Westcliffe: 45 min
Bitcoin Mountain
Experience the local Bitcoin circular economy where you can spend Bitcoin at many local businesses. This unique community initiative allows guests to experience the future of money right now in the heart of our mountain valley.
Westcliffe & Silver Cliff
Mission: Wolf
Experience an off-grid wolf sanctuary dedicated to education and sustainability. This remote haven offers Dark Skies Vacations guests a rare, profound connection with nature and these majestic animals, worth every mile of the scenic mountain trek.
Drive Time From Westcliffe: 45 min
Royal Gorge & River Excitement
Walk across one of the highest suspension bridges on earth or enjoy a scenic gondola ride over the canyon. For a real splash, join Echo Canyon River Expeditions (our favorite) for a float down the Arkansas River. Drive Time: About 1 hour.
Drive Time From Westcliffe: 60 min
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Experience a bucket-list day trip to the surreal landscape of North America's tallest dunes. Perfect for hiking, sand sledding, and celestial stargazing, this natural wonder offers a profound connection with Colorado's diverse wilderness just a short drive from Westcliffe.
Drive Time From Westcliffe: 2 hrs
Desert Reef Hot Springs
Unwind at Desert Reef, a tranquil oasis offering pure mineral-rich geothermal soaking with stunning views of the Front Range. It is the perfect scenic escape for Dark Skies Vacations guests to relax their bodies and soak in the silence after a day of mountain exploration.
Drive Time From Westcliffe: 1 hr 15 min
Summits & So Much More!
Reach the clouds on the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway (Drive Time: About 1 hr 45 min). Or cast a line for world-class fly fishing on the Arkansas River (Drive Time: About 1 hour), and if you seek tranquility visit Lake Isabel in the San Isabel National Forrest for the ultimate nature retreat.
Explore the Wet Mountains and the Sangree de cristo mountains, both part of the San Isabel National Forest, for further high-altitude adventures.