One of our absolute favorite things to do when we are out riding around is to find roadside oddities and attractions. We have been known to make many a U-turn while driving down the road. This page will be dedicated to any roadside oddities and/or attractions we have found in the state of Colorado.
It will be a constant work in progress as we will add new oddities and attractions every time we find one. Make sure you check back often for new updates. Better yet, subscribe to my site so you will be informed each time content is added. Don’t worry, no spam here. I only send out emails once a week, usually on Fridays. Subscribe Here
The Hangin’ Tree
Location: 17250 US-550
City: Montrose
Region of State Located: West/Central
Google Maps Pin
The Hangin’ Tree in Montrose, Colorado is one of those roadside stops that instantly grabs your attention, mostly because the name alone sounds like it belongs in an old Western movie. Located along Highway 550, this historic cottonwood tree is believed to have been used in the late 1800s as a site for public hangings and frontier justice during Colorado’s rough-and-tumble early days. While the exact details have faded over time, local stories and records suggest that this tree once played a grim role in maintaining “law and order” when the Wild West was still very much alive and unpredictable.
Today, the Hangin’ Tree stands quietly by the roadside, looking more peaceful than its past would suggest. There are markers explaining its history, and the surrounding area feels calm and unassuming, making it a little strange to think about what once happened here. It’s not a cheerful stop, but it is an important reminder of how different life was in frontier towns. Part history lesson, part roadside curiosity, and part “wow, that really happened here” moment, the Hangin’ Tree offers travelers a quick but thought-provoking stop that stays with you long after you’ve driven away.
Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit
Location: Morrow Point Dam Road
City: Cimarron
Region of State Located: West/Central
Google Maps Pin
The Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit, located near Morrow Point Dam Road in Cimarron, Colorado, is a small but fascinating tribute to the narrow-gauge railroads that once played a huge role in opening up this rugged part of the state. In the late 1800s, these trains hauled ore, supplies, and passengers through steep canyons and remote mountain terrain that would have terrified most modern drivers. What remains today is a short section of restored track, interpretive signs, and railroad artifacts that bring this hardworking era back to life in a setting that still feels wonderfully wild.
The highlight of the exhibit is the impressive display of Steam Engine No. 278, mounted on an elevated section of track overlooking the canyon. Seeing this massive locomotive perched above the landscape makes it easy to imagine it thundering through the mountains more than a century ago. Visitors can view the train from the roadway, read about its history, and take in the dramatic views at the same time. It’s an easy stop that doesn’t require much time, but it delivers big atmosphere. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a history buff, or just stretching your legs on a road trip, the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit offers a quiet reminder of how much effort it once took to connect Colorado’s remote corners.
Learn More About the Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit using the Link Below
Cimarron Canyon Rail Exhibit Article
Squirrel & A Nut Wood Carving
Location: Suzanne Ln
City: Ouray
Region Located: West/Central
Google Maps Pin (Approx)
This cool little wood carving was found in a local neighborhood near the KOA. While we were staying at KOA Ouray we decide to take a drive through the local neighborhood just to check things out. This is what we found. NOTE: The Google Maps pin is approximate. There are several sculptures within this neighborhood.