When you think of volcanoes, which places come to mind? Hawaii? Pompeii? Literally any place but Colorado, right? Surprisingly enough, Colorado has housed several volcanoes over the years (including one that is still active!), one of which left behind these unique tracks:

Located near the small Rio Grande County of Del Norte, Penitente Canyon is a large ravine that is known by rock climbers from both near and far, thanks to its 300 technical rock climbing routes.
AllTrails/Allegra Barragán
Part of the La Garita Caldera (a supervolcanic caldera in the San Juan Mountains), Penitente Canyon is estimated to be 30 million years old, though it was only officially discovered by rock climbers in the 1980s.
AllTrails/Emily Simon
Thanks to its location along the San Juans, Penitente Canyon was situated right along the Old Spanish Trail, which served as a trade route from Santa Fe to California beginning in 1829.
AllTrails/Jessica Heinicke

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As it was the remnants of softer volcanic rock, Penitente Canyon would eventually change its shape thanks to the heavy carts driving across the soft rock, which cut deep ruts that can still be seen today. 
AllTrails/Jessica Heinicke
Keep your eyes peeled when you visit Penitente Canyon, as you can see the fossilized tracks all around the area! 
AllTrails/Jessica Heinicke
The best way to see the Penitente Canyon tracks is by taking the Penitente Canyon Loop, which spans 1.6 miles and follows part of the Old Spanish Trail. 
AllTrails/Allegra Barragán
Access to the Penitente Canyon can be found via the town of La Garita (just west of U.S. Hwy. 285) and then traveling west from town on County Road G to the fork in a road, where you turn south onto the unpaved County Road 38A. About half a mile down County Road 38A is where you'll see the turn-off for Penitente Canyon. 
AllTrails/Emily Hackett

Have you had a chance to explore this unique area? Share your experience with us in the comments! For even more information on Colorado volcanoes, check out Here Are 9 Unexpectedly Awesome Facts About Colorado’s Active Volcano.

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Penitente Canyon, Colorado 81082, USA