Colorado’s Most Underrated State Park Is Near Mesa Verde and Worth Every Minute

Looking to visit and hike in a lesser-known state park? You'll love Mancos State Park in Mancos, Colorado. Colorado has 42 amazing state parks, but some are heavily visited while others are virtually ignored. Only about 35,000 people visit Mancos State Park annually, and that's a real shame—it's great for people like us who love to avoid big crowds.

Read on to learn about this fantastic state park in Colorado's southwest corner, and to learn about a few fun day hikes you can take within its boundaries.

Mancos State Park is a lovely little state park in the southwestern corner of Colorado. It was once home to the Ancestral Puebloans; it's not far from Mesa Verde National Park. This park may be small, but it's mighty and has so much to offer. You'll be amazed by its beauty as you explore its wooded areas.

Jackson Gulch Reservoir is part of the park. It's a 217-acre lake that's open to recreational water activities of most kinds, including fishing, motor boating, sailing, kayaking, and canoeing. But swimming in the reservoir is not permitted.

There are lots of great views to be enjoyed throughout the park as well. There are 5.5 miles of trails in Mancos State Park, and it's a great place for a day hike. For an easy hike, you might like Deer Trail, a 2.9-mile loop that goes all the way around the reservoir. Elevation gain is just 104 feet, and you should be able to complete the loop in about an hour.

Black Bear Trail is a hike that is rated moderate. It comes with 318 feet of elevation gain; it's also a loop trail that will take about an hour and offers great views of the reservoir. Chicken Creek Trail is a more challenging day hike that will take you quite a bit longer than the two described above. It includes 1,909 feet of elevation gain and is 15.2 miles in length out and back. It's downhill most of the way back, though!

After your hike, you might consider staying overnight in the park. The two yurts at Mancos State Park are comfortable and have everything you need for a delightful camping experience. Just make a reservation well in advance to claim one. The park also has 32 other campsites in two different campgrounds, so take some time to peruse each one and see which you'd prefer!

Overall, this park is fairly accessible; certain trails are even and well-maintained so wheelchairs and strollers can easily pass through. There's also plenty of parking, restroom facilities, and opportunities to stop and catch some shade on warmer days. Arrive early to avoid crowds, or come during sunset to watch the vibrant colors over the reservoir.

Have you been to Mancos State Park in Colorado before? If not, start planning a fun day trip, complete with hiking, biking, or simply immersing yourself in nature. This park is truly a hidden gem, and one we think you'll return to time and time again. Have a great trip—and a great hike, too!