The High Desert Ranch

Head for some hot springs and a highly relaxing dip at the Joyful Journey Hot Springs (25 minutes’ drive) or the Sand Dunes Recreation hot springs pool (25 minutes). A peaceful time is very much within reach around this area, as the spiritual centre of Crestone (10 minutes) is also close by If it’s creatures that you’re here to spot, then there are a few places that may be calling your name. The birdlife at the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge (an hour) perhaps? Animals with big gnashers, such as the gators at Colorado Gators Reptile Park (half an hour)? An extra-terrestrial vantage point like the UFO Watchtower (25 minutes)? No worries about missing your hikes and natural beauty spots, because Gunnison National Forest (40 minutes) has gorgeous waterfalls, mountain landscapes and woodlands for miles, while Sangre De Cristo Wilderness (25 minutes) has hikes and horse rides that end at splendid alpine lakes. Getting active is straightforward from the Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center (an hour) too. Test your balance by sandboarding or sand sledding down dunes, have a paddle in Medano Creek or bike the Medano Pass Road.