Red Cliff ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Red Cliff, Colorado.
1. Red Cliff Bridge
ICONIC STEEL ARCH
The Red Cliff Bridge is a gorgeous, massive steel arch bridge surrounded by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, located just as visitors enter Red Cliff from the north. There are two pull-off overlooks where travelers can marvel at the impressive structure. The bridge stands as both an engineering achievement and a scenic photo opportunity against the backdrop of Colorado's mountains.
2. Mango's Mountain Grill
FAMOUS FISH TACOS
Mango's Mountain Grill is a local favorite restaurant in Red Cliff that draws visitors from near and far for its famous fish tacos. This dining establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere and serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant stands out as a culinary highlight in this small historic mountain town.
3. Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals
OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT SPECIALISTS
Rocky Mountain Adventure Rentals is a great spot for visitors looking for outdoor adventures in the Red Cliff area. They offer guided tours and daily equipment rentals including snow bikes, RZRs, snowmobiles, and more for year-round exploration. The rental shop serves as a gateway to experiencing the surrounding wilderness with proper equipment and local expertise.
4. Shrine Pass
SCENIC MOUNTAIN ROUTE
Shrine Pass is an 11-mile scenic route accessible from Red Cliff that offers phenomenal views of 14,005-foot Mount of the Holy Cross. In winter, it becomes a popular cross-country skiing destination with mostly downhill terrain, while summer brings mountain bikers and four-wheel drive enthusiasts to the lofty road. The pass serves as a direct access point to the White River National Forest and some of Colorado's most beautiful terrain.
5. Red Cliff Historic Walking Tour
MINING TOWN HERITAGE
The Red Cliff Historic Walking Tour takes visitors through the town's rich mining heritage dating back to the silver boom of the late 19th century. Highlights include the Congressional Church of Red Cliff (built around 1889, the oldest church in Eagle County), the Old Town Hall and Jail from the 1880s, and Fort Arnette from 1879. The tour provides insight into Red Cliff's colorful past as a thriving mining depot complete with saloons, brothels, and hotels.
6. Eagle River
PREMIER TROUT FISHING
The Eagle River runs through Red Cliff and offers crystal-clear waters for exceptional trout fishing, with late summer and early fall being the prime seasons. Beyond fishing, the river provides opportunities for kayaking and other water-based recreation in the warmer months. The river adds to the natural beauty of the canyon setting while providing a recreational resource for visitors and locals.
7. Mount of the Holy Cross
MAJESTIC 14ER PEAK
Mount of the Holy Cross is an impressive 14,005-foot peak visible from Red Cliff and accessible via an 11-mile challenging hiking trail rated as difficult. This iconic mountain, part of the Sawatch Range, is named for the distinctive cross-shaped snowfield on its northeast face. The mountain has long been a symbol of the region and attracts mountaineers seeking to summit one of Colorado's famous 14ers.
8. Half Moon Trailhead
ALPINE HIKING EXPERIENCE
Half Moon Trailhead is located a few miles west of Red Cliff and offers a popular 4.3-mile hiking route with beautiful alpine views. The trail is especially popular during the warmer months, though parking is limited so early arrival is recommended. From this trailhead, adventurous hikers can also access the route to Mount of the Holy Cross summit.
9. Hornsilver Campground
RUSTIC MOUNTAIN CAMPING
Hornsilver Campground is a small, rustic camping area just a short drive south of Red Cliff featuring seven campsites each with a fire ring. The campground provides a simple yet immersive outdoor experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the White River National Forest. Its proximity to Red Cliff makes it a convenient base for exploring the area's hiking trails, fishing spots, and other outdoor attractions.
10. Missouri Lake
REMOTE TROUT FISHING
Missouri Lake is a remote fishing destination located a 3-mile drive and 3-mile hike from Red Cliff, perfect for dedicated anglers seeking trout in a pristine mountain setting. The lake is ideal for overnight camping trips, offering solitude and natural beauty away from crowds. Local guides in downtown Red Cliff can provide directions and advice for reaching this secluded fishing spot.
11. Trail Wise Guides
LOCAL ADVENTURE EXPERTS
Trail Wise Guides in downtown Red Cliff offers expert local knowledge for visitors seeking outdoor adventures in the surrounding wilderness. The guides can point travelers in the right direction for fishing, hiking, camping, and other recreational activities in the area. Their expertise helps visitors make the most of Red Cliff's natural surroundings and hidden gems that might otherwise be overlooked.
12. Minturn
CHARMING NEARBY TOWN
Minturn is a charming historic town located near Red Cliff that offers additional dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. The town maintains its authentic mountain character while providing visitors with amenities and services. Minturn makes for an excellent side trip when exploring the Red Cliff area, offering a complementary experience to the more remote setting of Red Cliff itself.
13. Turquoise Lake
VAST FISHING DESTINATION
Turquoise Lake is an 1800-acre fishing site located about 35 minutes south of Red Cliff, stocked with rainbow, lake, and brown trout as well as Mackinaw. The lake offers expansive mountain views and multiple recreation opportunities beyond fishing, including camping and boating. Its proximity to Red Cliff makes it an excellent day trip for visitors looking to experience a larger body of water in a spectacular setting.
14. Vail
WORLD-CLASS MOUNTAIN RESORT
Vail is a world-famous resort town located near Red Cliff, offering luxury shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities year-round. In winter, Vail is renowned for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding terrain, while summer brings hiking, mountain biking, and cultural festivals. The contrast between Red Cliff's quiet historic charm and Vail's upscale resort atmosphere provides visitors with diverse experiences within a short drive.
15. Beaver Creek Resort
UPSCALE MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE
Beaver Creek Resort is an upscale mountain destination near Red Cliff that offers premium skiing in winter and various outdoor activities in summer. The resort features fine dining establishments, luxury shopping, and cultural events throughout the year. Visitors to Red Cliff can enjoy a day trip to Beaver Creek for a more refined mountain experience before returning to Red Cliff's authentic small-town atmosphere.