Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bryan, Texas to Colorado Springs, Colorado

Driving from Bryan, Texas to Colorado Springs, Colorado is an adventure filled with scenic routes, historical sites, and hidden gems. The 1,100-mile journey takes an estimated 16 hours traveling through diverse landscapes, from the Texas plains to the Rocky Mountains. Along the route, there are unexpected places to stop and explore. Here are five places to consider adding to your road trip itinerary.

Halfway Point: Clarendon, TX

Clarendon is a small town in the Texas panhandle with a booming history. It is the halfway point between Bryan and Colorado Springs, making it the perfect place to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. Visitors can walk through the historic downtown district to see the Old World War Memorial Museum, the Sandell Drive-In Theatre, or catch a glimpse of the Sandell Big T. Clarendon is also home to the oldest college in Texas, the Clarendon College, founded in 1898. For a bite to eat, visitors can stop at the Alley Cafe, known for their juicy burgers and friendly service.

1. Caprock Canyons State Park - Quitaque, TX

Caprock Canyons State Park is known for its beautiful scenery and wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, or ride horses through the canyons and see bison, pronghorns, and coyotes. The park has over 90 miles of trails, ranging from easy to difficult, and offers camping and fishing. The highlight of the park is the 64-mile trail that extends through the canyons and leads to the famous red "Lighthouse" rock formation. For a tasty treat, visitors can stop by the recently opened J & J BBQ in nearby Quitaque, TX, and try the brisket or homemade sausage.

2. Capulin Volcano National Monument - Capulin, NM

Capulin Volcano National Monument is a geological marvel in Northeastern New Mexico. Visitors can hike up the cinder cone volcano through a paved trail and enjoy the 360-degree views from the top. The volcano last erupted over 60,000 years ago, and today it serves as a reminder of the area's volcanic past. After exploring the volcano, visitors can enjoy a meal at Leal's Mexican Restaurant in nearby Clayton, NM, and try the green chili enchiladas.

3. Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site - La Junta, CO

Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site is an authentic reconstruction of a 19th-century trading post on the Santa Fe Trail. Visitors can step back in time and experience life on the frontier by watching demonstrations, touring the fort, and learning about the fur trade. The site is open year-round and has activities for all ages, such as candle-making, blacksmithing, and cooking demonstrations. For an authentic taste of the old west, visitors can stop by the Copper Kitchen Cafe in La Junta, CO, and try the chicken fried steak or homemade chili.

4. Garden of the Gods - Colorado Springs, CO

Garden of the Gods is a natural wonder that has been captivating visitors for over a century. The park has towering red rock formations, hiking trails, and picnic spots, all with stunning views of Pikes Peak. Visitors can also take a guided tour or visit the visitor center to learn about the geological history of the area. The park is free to enter and is open year-round. For a delightful lunch, visitors can head to Over Easy in Colorado Springs, CO, and try the crab cake eggs benedict or the green chili stew.

5. Manitou Cliff Dwellings - Manitou Springs, CO

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a fascinating glimpse into the ancient architecture and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans. The dwellings were built over 700 years ago, and visitors can explore the preserved ruins and learn about the daily life of the original inhabitants. The site also has a museum, gift shop, and picnic area. For a sweet treat, visitors can visit Patsy's Candies in Colorado Springs, CO, and try the signature truffles or the caramel apples.

Conclusion

From canyons to volcanoes, historical sites to natural wonders, there's something for everyone along the road trip from Bryan, Texas to Colorado Springs, Colorado. While it is a long journey, taking the time to explore these unexpected places can turn a regular road trip into an unforgettable adventure. Don't forget to stop at the Alley Cafe in Clarendon, TX, and try their famous burgers before embarking on your journey north.