Attractions and Places To See in Custer County - Top 10
Best attractions and places to see in Custer County include a diverse range of natural features and historical sites. The region features extensive natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterways. It is known for its significant geological formations and opportunities for outdoor exploration. Custer County offers a variety of experiences, from scenic drives to historical landmarks.
Best attractions and places to see in Custer County
- The most popular attractions is Humboldt Peak, a summit that offers panoramic views of the North and South Colony Valleys, Crestone Needle, and Obstruction Peak. This summit provides extensive vistas from its 14056 ft elevation.
- Another must-see spot is View of Westcliffe and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from North Taylor Trail, a viewpoint. Visitors can follow a trail parallel to North Taylor Road to enjoy elevated views of Westcliffe and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
- Visitors also love Venable Falls, a 30 ft waterfall tumbling down at least three tiers. The river flows between ferns and pines, offering a natural setting.
- Custer County is known for its waterfalls, summits, and lakes. The region provides a variety of natural attractions to see and explore, including trails and viewpoints.
- The attractions in Custer County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 2 upvotes and 2 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Comanche Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Venable Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Humboldt Peak
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
South Colony Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Horn Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Gibson Creek Trailhead
Highlight • Parking
Tip by
Rainbow Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Venable Lakes
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
View of Westcliffe and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from North Taylor Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Custer County
Tips from the Community
The Rainbow Trail is a nontechnical double track trail which passes by a couple creek waterfalls, with views out from the Sangre de Cristos. The trail is half exposed, half in the trees on the slope of Beck Mountain.
0
0
There is a great trail that runs parallel to North Taylor Road. You can follow the foothills of the Sangre de Cristos and enjoy the spectacular elevated views of Westcliffe and the mountains over yonder.
0
0
There is a gravel lot at the top of North Taylor Road. From here you can run south along the Rainbow Trail (doubletrack forest road) all the way down the foothills of the Sangre de Cristos or head up into the Mountains. You can run up to Lakes of the Clouds by going north, or head south along forest roads to reach the Hermit Pass ascent.
0
0
The fantastic views from Humboldt Peak (14056 ft) make this run totally worth it. From Humboldt Peak, there's a panoramic view of the North and South Colony Valleys, Crestone Needle, and Obstruction Peak. This summit is not as challenging as the neighbor Crestone Needle.
0
0
South Colony Lakes are at the base of Crestone Needle, giving you a privileged view of the peak, with green clear water surrounded by grass and a creek that flows from the lakes. This can be a good spot to camp before reaching the needle.
0
0
Horn Lake is a small lake formed by the melting of glaciers on Little Baldy Mountain and Mount Adams. The trail goes up following Horn Creek. It is not so well-maintained, but still worth it.
0
0
Horn Lake is a small lake formed by the melting of glaciers on Little Baldy Mountain and Mount Adams. The trail goes up following Horn Creek, it is not so well-maintained, but still worth it.
0
0
Comanche Lake is a beautiful alpine lake in San Isabel National Forest. The trail to the lake is short, but can be rocky and steep; hiking poles are recommended to get down from the lake. Coming from Venable trail, you need to cross Phantom Terrace, a small ledge that connects the Comanche trail to Venable trail, this part seems to be more sketchy than it really is, you just need to have caution. The trail is better experienced between May and October due to snow and muddy conditions.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Custer County?
Custer County offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit Venable Falls, a 30 ft waterfall, or explore the serene Horn Lake and Venable Lakes. For panoramic vistas, consider hiking to Humboldt Peak or enjoying the View of Westcliffe and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from North Taylor Trail.
Are there good hiking trails in Custer County?
Yes, Custer County is home to several notable hiking trails. The Rainbow Trail offers scenic routes through forests and past viewpoints. For more challenging hikes, consider routes like Humboldt Peak via South Colony Trail or the Venable-Comanche Trail loop. You can find more details on these and other trails in the Hiking in Custer County guide.
What are some unique viewpoints in Custer County?
For breathtaking views, head to Humboldt Peak, which provides panoramic vistas of the North and South Colony Valleys, Crestone Needle, and Obstruction Peak. Another excellent spot is the View of Westcliffe and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from North Taylor Trail, offering elevated views of the landscape.
What are the options for mountain biking in Custer County?
Custer County offers several mountain biking opportunities. Trails like Hermit Pass Road and Medano Pass Primitive Road provide challenging rides. You can also explore the Rainbow Trail to South Colony Peak. Discover more routes in the MTB Trails in Custer County guide.
Where can I find parking for trail access in Custer County?
A convenient parking option is the Gibson Creek Trailhead. It features a gravel lot at the top of North Taylor Road, providing access to the Rainbow Trail and routes into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Are there any running trails in Custer County?
Yes, Custer County has trails suitable for running. Popular options include the Venable-Comanche Trail loop and the Rito Alto four pass loop for more challenging runs. For detailed information on running routes, refer to the Running Trails in Custer County guide.
What is the difficulty level of trails in Custer County?
Trails in Custer County range from intermediate to challenging. For example, the hike to Humboldt Peak is considered intermediate to challenging, while the Venable-Comanche Trail loop is difficult. Always check specific trail descriptions for current conditions and difficulty ratings.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Custer County?
While the provided data doesn't specify wildlife for Custer County, Colorado, the region's natural landscapes, including forests and mountains, typically support various species. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and diverse birdlife, especially in less crowded areas and along trails.
What is the best time of year to visit Custer County for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Custer County for outdoor activities generally depends on the specific activity. Summer and early fall offer ideal conditions for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring natural attractions like waterfalls and lakes. Winter activities are also possible, but many trails may be snow-covered.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions in Custer County?
While the primary focus of the provided guide data is on natural attractions and outdoor activities, Custer County, Colorado, does have a rich history. The town of Westcliffe, for instance, is known for its historic charm and dark sky community designation. For more historical context, local museums and heritage sites can be explored.
What should I wear for hiking in Custer County?
For hiking in Custer County, especially during summer, it's advisable to wear layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and rain gear are recommended. Always carry enough water and snacks.
Are there any less crowded hikes or hidden gems in Custer County?
While popular trails can see more visitors, exploring routes to Horn Lake or the less-maintained sections of Horn Creek Trail can offer a quieter experience. The Rainbow Trail also has extensive sections where you might find more solitude.
Most popular routes in Custer County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
