From Trinidad to Walsenburg
Highway of Legends Scenic Byway
Overview
Highway 12, also known as the “Highway of Legends”, is the perfect afternoon ride for those looking to experience a more rural mountainous part of Colorado. It’s also perfect for those who want a more scenic alternative than driving I-25 from Trinidad to Walsenburg.
The journey starts in Trinidad, Colorado. Heading west, you’ll quickly gain elevation into the mountains, crossing Stonewall and traveling into the San Isabel National Forest.
From there, you’ll travel through Cuchara, La Veta, and finally the route ends in the town of Walsenburg (where you can intersect I-25). You can also take the route in reverse and start in Walsenburg instead of Trinidad, the world is your oyster!
Audio Tour Available
An audio tour is available as you take the drive through the Highway of Legends. Click the button below to learn more.
Overview
- Distance: 70 miles
- Best time of Year to drive: Fall or Spring
- Driving Time: 2 Hours
Landmarks along the journey
Cokedale Ovens
- At Mile 8
Ruins of the past
Cokedale Ovens
After passing Trinidad Lake State Park, the journey will take you along some old forgotten ruins. At first glance, you may think you’re in the middle of Rome gazing remnants of an old colosseum. This remarkable structure is what remains of the Cokedale Ovens. Back in the early 1900s, this facility was used to heat up coal and turn it into “coke”, which is a harder, purer version of coal.
Stonewall
- At mile 30
Through the stone walls
Stonewall, Co
This is what it’s like driving through the town of Stonewall, Colorado.
The centerpiece of this small mountain town is a large granite wall that cuts through the village. If you find yourself wanting to stay longer in Stonewall, there’s some great cabins rentals in the area.
Monument Lake & North Lake
- At mile 38
Mountain Lakes
Relax at Monument Lake
Monument Lake is the perfect spot for an outing with friends or family. From fishing , hiking, to camping, you’ll find plenty of things to do. You can rent kayaks and paddle boards for going out on the water. If camping is not your thing, then you can rent an adobe cabin instead.
For those of you who are traveling in an RV, the lake hosts full service RV sites as well.
If you drive a little further along Highway 12, you will pass North Lake, which also has some fishing.
Important info
- A day pass for Monument lake is $6
- If you're planning on fishing, the Stonewall Shopping Bag is a good place to stock up on supplies before going to the lake
- For info on boat rentals or cabin rentals at Monument Lake, check out themonumentlakeresort.com
Pit stop for lunch:
Grab a bite to eat
There are many restaurants along the highway of legends, but here are some of the local favorites for places to stop in for some lunch:
Cuchara
- At mile 50
Explore Cuchara
This mountain town is a small oasis where folks come to escape the hustle of daily life, enjoy the natural beauty of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and immerse themselves in Spanish traditions steeped in cultural art, music and food.
La Veta
- At mile 64
Explore La Veta
A one-of-a-kind treasure in Colorado, La Veta is a mountain town with a Western flair where the views are spectacular and the community spirit is second to none.
Things to do in La Veta
Francisco Museum:
If you’re interested in Colorado History, you should check out the Francisco Fort Museum where you can tour some of the old historic buildings that have remained since 1862. Some of the buildings include: a trading post, a general store, and a school.
Historic Downtown:
La Veta hosts a small collection of restaurants, shops, and galleries where you can enjoy an afternoon stroll.
Uptop Ghost Town:
Want to visit a ghost town? Take a drive up Old La Veta Pass to discover the city of Uptop, an old abandoned town that used to host miners and a small ski resort. You can still visit the town and walk around some abandoned structures.
Walsenburg
- The Final Stop:
Walsenburg
As you leave the Mountains of La Veta, the last destination on the Highway of Legends is the town of Walsenburg. Smack dab right in the middle of I-25 between Trinidad and Pueblo, Walsenburg hosts a plenty of things to do such as fishing, shopping, and local restaurants.
Things to do in Walsenburg, CO
Lathrop State Park:
Lathrop State park is a great location for getting out into the wilderness. There are two lakes located within the park that provide excellent fishing spots. You can also find camping, an Archery range, and a 9-hole Golf Course.
Walsenburg Mining Museum:
Dive back in time by visiting the Walsenburg Mining Museum located in downtown Walsenburg.
Walsenburg Wild Waters
In the summer time, you can enjoy a nice cool down at the Walsenburg Wild Waters. This small water park is perfect for children of all ages.
