Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Cañon City, Colorado and Keene, Texas
Are you ready for an exciting road trip full of unexpected stops and hidden gems? Look no further than the drive from Cañon City, Colorado to Keene, Texas! This 810-mile route will take you through breathtaking landscapes and charming towns, with plenty of opportunities to stop and stretch your legs. The entire trip can be completed in around 13 hours, but we suggest taking your time and making the most of each destination.
The halfway point: Amarillo, TX
Before we dive into our top unexpected stops along the way, we have to mention the halfway point of this drive: Amarillo, TX. Known as the "Yellow Rose of Texas", Amarillo is a vibrant city with a population of over 190,000. Here you'll find a bustling downtown, delicious dining options, and a lively arts and culture scene. Don't miss out on the iconic Cadillac Ranch, a public art installation featuring ten graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground.
Now, let's explore the top five unexpected places to stop on this amazing road trip:
1. Cuchara, Colorado: A cozy mountain town
Located just off the scenic Highway of Legends, Cuchara is a charming mountain town that's perfect for a relaxing break on your road trip. The town sits at an elevation of 8,468 feet, surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest. Take a stroll through the quaint downtown area, where you'll find unique shops and cozy restaurants. Don't miss out on the delicious Italian cuisine at Bella's Restaurant!
2. Clayton Lake State Park, New Mexico: A prehistoric adventure
Just ten miles north of Clayton, New Mexico, you'll find Clayton Lake State Park, a hidden gem that's perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The park is home to a large lake that's popular for fishing, as well as hiking trails and campsites. But the real highlight of Clayton Lake State Park is the dinosaur tracks! Take a guided tour to see the imprints of prehistoric creatures that roamed the area over 100 million years ago.
3. Lubbock, Texas: A hub of art and music
Lubbock, Texas may not be the first place that comes to mind for a road trip stop, but this city has a lot to offer. Known as the birthplace of Buddy Holly, Lubbock is a hub of art and music. Check out the Buddy Holly Center to learn more about the legendary musician, or visit the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts to see local exhibits. For a taste of Lubbock's food scene, head to Evie Mae's Pit Barbecue for some mouth-watering brisket.
4. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas: A natural wonder
If you're a fan of hiking, camping, or just stunning natural scenery, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a must-see destination. Located just outside Amarillo, this canyon is the second-largest in the United States and boasts a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Don't miss out on the famous outdoor musical, "Texas", which tells the story of the state's history through song and dance.
5. Marfa, Texas: A quirky art town
Last but not least, we have Marfa, Texas, a quirky and eclectic small town that's become a haven for artists and creatives. Here you'll find unique galleries, shops, and restaurants that blend traditional Texas charm with contemporary art and design. Visit the Chinati Foundation to see inspiring contemporary art installations, or grab a bite at Hotel Saint George, a stylish boutique hotel that's become a hub for Marfa's creative community.
Whether you're a seasoned road tripper or just looking for a fun and unexpected adventure, the drive from Cañon City to Keene is sure to satisfy. So pack your bags, grab some snacks, and hit the open road – you won't regret it!