Carbonate ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Carbonate, Colorado.
1. Carbonate Ghost Town
HISTORIC MINING SETTLEMENT
Carbonate Ghost Town offers visitors a glimpse into Colorado's rich mining history at an elevation of 11,000 feet in the Rocky Mountains. The abandoned settlement features remnants of pioneer life and structures from the area's silver mining heyday. Visitors can explore this historic site while enjoying the stunning wilderness and panoramic mountain views that surround this remote location.
2. Marble Distilling Co. & The Distillery Inn
CRAFT SPIRITS & LODGING
Marble Distilling Co. & The Distillery Inn is a top-rated attraction in nearby Carbondale that combines artisanal spirit production with luxury accommodations. Visitors can tour the distillery to learn about their sustainable production methods and sample their award-winning vodkas and whiskeys. The attached Distillery Inn offers an opportunity to stay right where the spirits are made, creating a unique lodging experience.
3. West Elk Loop Scenic Byway
SPECTACULAR MOUNTAIN DRIVE
The West Elk Loop Scenic Byway is a breathtaking 205-mile route that passes through some of Colorado's most stunning landscapes near Carbondale. This highly-rated driving experience takes travelers through charming mountain towns, alongside crystal-clear rivers, and past dramatic mountain vistas. The route is particularly spectacular during fall when the aspen trees display their golden colors.
4. Penny Hot Springs
NATURAL RIVERSIDE SOAKING
Penny Hot Springs offers a rustic natural hot spring experience along the Crystal River near Carbondale. These primitive pools are formed where hot mineral water bubbles up to mix with the cool river water, creating natural soaking areas of varying temperatures. Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic waters while taking in views of the surrounding mountains and river valley.
5. Crystal Mill
ICONIC HISTORIC LANDMARK
Crystal Mill is a precariously balanced wooden structure perched atop a rocky outcropping along the Crystal River that rivals the Maroon Bells for Instagram worthiness. Built in 1892 by prospectors from the once-booming mining town of Crystal, the mill originally harnessed the force of the river to power an air compressor for nearby silver mines. The scene is especially spectacular in the fall when surrounding aspen trees display their golden colors against the backdrop of this historic structure.
6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
DRAMATIC ROCKY GORGE
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park showcases some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. The canyon's black rock walls plunge an impressive 2,700 feet to the Gunnison River below, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Visitors can enjoy activities including hiking, rock climbing, fishing, and stargazing in this remarkable national park.
7. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
NATURAL ACOUSTIC WONDER
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a world-famous open-air venue known for its outstanding natural acoustics and breathtaking setting. Flanked by towering 300-foot sandstone monoliths like Ship Rock and Creation Rock, this unique performance space has hosted legendary concerts while offering panoramic views of Denver. Beyond musical events, visitors can explore hiking trails, geological formations, and the visitor center throughout the year.
8. Cliff Palace
ANCIENT PUEBLO DWELLING
Cliff Palace is the largest cliff dwelling in North America, built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago in Mesa Verde National Park. The intricate stone structures and carefully designed layout showcase the remarkable engineering and architectural skills of its ancient creators. Visitors can tour this archaeological wonder with park rangers who provide insights into the lives and culture of the people who once called this remarkable place home.
9. International Church of Cannabis
PSYCHEDELIC SACRED SPACE
The International Church of Cannabis is a unique Denver destination where art, spirituality, and cannabis culture converge in a converted church building. The interior is adorned with vibrant, contemporary murals painted by renowned artists, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience unlike any other religious space. Since opening in 2017, it has attracted visitors interested in its distinctive blend of art, culture, and spiritual philosophy, though public visitors cannot consume cannabis on-site.
10. McClure Pass
SCENIC MOUNTAIN CROSSING
McClure Pass is a stunning mountain route connecting the Crystal River Valley to Paonia and offering remarkable views of the surrounding wilderness. The 8,755-foot pass is particularly beautiful during wildflower season in summer and when the aspens change color in fall. Travelers can find several hiking trails and photography opportunities along this scenic route that passes near both Marble and Carbondale.
11. Marble Quarry
HISTORIC STONE SOURCE
The Marble Quarry is a historic site that produced the gleaming white stone used in numerous famous American monuments including the Lincoln Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Located near the small town of Marble, the quarry offers visitors a glimpse into the industrial history that shaped this region. Tours and viewing areas allow guests to appreciate both the natural beauty of the stone and the impressive scale of this historic operation.
12. Redstone Castle
HISTORIC MINING MANSION
Redstone Castle is a magnificent turn-of-the-century Tudor-style mansion built by coal magnate John Cleveland Osgood in 1902 for his second wife. The 42-room castle features opulent interiors with Tiffany chandeliers, Persian rugs, and European antiques that have been carefully preserved. Tours of this historic property offer visitors insights into the lavish lifestyle of America's industrial barons during Colorado's mining boom era.
13. Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs
TIERED THERMAL POOLS
Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs features three cascading natural hot spring pools nestled in a picturesque mountain setting near Redstone. The pools offer varying temperatures from 103 to 105 degrees and spectacular views of Mount Sopris and the surrounding Crystal River Valley. Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic mineral waters year-round while experiencing the changing beauty of the seasons in this tranquil natural setting.
14. Carbondale Arts
CREATIVE COMMUNITY HUB
Carbondale Arts serves as the cultural heart of this creative district, showcasing works by local and regional artists in rotating exhibitions. The organization hosts popular events like Mountain Fair and First Friday art walks that bring the community together in celebration of artistic expression. Visitors can explore the R2 Gallery, participate in workshops, or purchase unique handcrafted items that reflect the area's vibrant creative culture.
15. True Nature Healing Arts
WELLNESS SANCTUARY & GARDENS
True Nature Healing Arts is a holistic center featuring a peace garden, reflexology path, and labyrinth designed for contemplation and spiritual renewal. The facility includes a yoga studio, spa, and organic café serving nourishing plant-based cuisine in a serene environment. Visitors can participate in classes, enjoy treatments, or simply wander the beautiful grounds that blend nature-inspired design with wellness principles.