This part of Colorado is probably the least known, least visited of the entire state. The centerpiece of this area is the small village of Crestone, with a population of around 150 souls. I hasten to point out, however, that the nearby community of Baca Grande and town of Moffatt aren't included in that count and may double or triple the number. Even that is hard to say, since there are many seasonal residents and even more temporary "guests" at more than two dozen "spiritual centers" in Crestone.
With no known documentation, I'll tell you my understanding is that the one-time mining town had a dwindling population until the 1960s, when it somehow became a haven for hippies attempting to establish a new and better society. That goal was never realized, but you can still see lots of colorful tie-dye in town. With a tendency toward embracing differences, it was an easy transition to welcome the many varieties of religions and spiritual beliefs present today. At an elevation of 8000 feet, surrounded by four "fourteeners" and many lesser peaks, with access only via poorly maintained gravel roads, it is an excellent location for those seeking solitude and meditation. (Imagine my surprise when a lady working at one of the centers remembered me from high school!)
One carryover from the 1960s is the ideal of sustainable housing. I found "earthships" of the Taos style, as well as homes with exterior walls made of straw bales, and many homes powered by solar electricity.
The small town of San Luis, thought to be the oldest permanent settlement in Colorado, is home to the Stations of The Cross Shrine. A half-mile long trail climbs to the top of a mesa where the shrine is located. Fifteen bronze Stations of The Cross line the trail.
In Manassa, there is a museum and statue honoring legendary boxer Jack Dempsey, who was born here in 1895 and who reigned as world heavyweight champion from 1919 to 1926. Dempsey was known as "The Manassa Mauler".
Antonito is the northern terminus of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad that ends in Chama, New Mexico. We did not ride this railroad because we had reservations for the more popular Durango-Silverton train ride. I've often regretted that decision, since our Durango-Silverton trip was marred by all day rain. Anyway, we drove the highway that parallels the railroad much of the way and enjoyed most of the same scenery. Notice how the train tracks spiral around the mountain to gain elevation required to cross the pass.
Due to the heavy rain, we chose not to ride in the open car that affords the best opportunities for photos. Still, we enjoyed the Durango-Silverton train ride, just didn't come away with the pictures I had hoped for.
