Camp Outside of Gatewsy

TravelerIf you’ve never had the chance to watch the sun rise in a red rock canyon, now is the time. In Western Colorado, each day of your visit begins in golden light as the sun illuminates towering peaks of granite and sandstone in shades of amber and ochre. Across the canyon floor, sunrise moves silently into the valley, warming each cavern, mantle and peak. There is no better place in the world to awaken with nature. Located in the secluded Unaweep Canyon of Western Colorado, you can explore places virtually untouched by humans, in the stunning landscape of sculptured rock that surrounds Gateway, Colorado. Here, your ears will learn to recognize the call of the red-tailed hawk, and your mind will open to the paths of an ancient land. Here, it’s possible to live with childlike wonder, as you discover a world of new adventures.

TravelerThe town's name denotes its location at the entrance to Colorado from bordering Utah, and the surrounding landscape reveals something of both states. This rugged and remote town near John Brown and Unaweep canyons offers access to untouched backcountry adventures in the La Sal Mountains and Uncompahgre National Forest. However, visitors looking for adventure should be aware that sudden rainstorms can quickly flood desert arroyos. The Dolores River also runs from high in the San Juan Mountains through Gateway to the border of Colorado. Class III and IV whitewater rapids rush along the five-mile stretch through challenging Paradox Canyon. 

Gateway sits along the 133-mile Unaweep/Tabeguache scenic and historic byway, which winds through red sandstone in the spectacular Unaweep Canyon. Here erosion exposes fossil-laden layers of the Uncompahgre Plateau. Sheer cliffs, raging rivers and endless skies mark this wild and scenic area. Stop into the Gateway Auto Museum, which celebrates the history and design of the American automobile in a gallery with more than 50 vehicles, including one-of-a-kinds like the 1954 Oldsmobile F-88 concept car, as well as a 1906 Cadillac Model H Coupe and other rare finds from Packard, Pierce Arrow and more.

TravelerGreat looking spot to camp