Road Trip of Treats: Coffee, Bakeries, and Local Eats Across Southern Colorado

There’s no better way to explore the rivers and peaks of southern Colorado than by car. A road trip through the region will ensure you hit the best natural attractions, and sometimes a cappuccino or donut are worth the drive themselves.

From Colorado Springs down to Trinidad, here are some coffee and treat stops that will make your time on the road worthwhile.

COLORADO SPRINGS

Provision Bread & Bakery · 4 S. Wahsatch Ave. · Wed–Fri 7:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.; Sat–Sun 7:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m.; closed Mon–Tue

Fuel up with a seasonal pastry from Provision Bread & Bakery, one of Colorado Springs’ newest bakeries specializing in a rotation of pastries made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. A bag of apple tarts or a loaf of sourdough will put you in the right mood to start your trip. Don’t skip Cinchona Coffee, where artisanal blends and roasts will give you a quick boost before you set out.

PUEBLO

Solar Roast Coffee · 226 N. Main St., Pueblo · Open daily 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

In Pueblo, stop by Solar Roast Coffee for something special. Their limited-edition green chile lemonade is a novelty item but refreshing nonetheless. The spicy, smoky flavor pairs well with the sweet, sour iced lemonade, similar to a spicy margarita or michelada.

CRESTONE

Bliss Cafe · 187 W. Silver Ave., Crestone · Mon–Thu 3 p.m.–8:30 p.m.; Fri–Sun 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

In Crestone, if you’re headed toward Great Sand Dunes National Park, stop in at Bliss Cafe, an inn and restaurant serving fusion dishes. For something warm and comforting, try the Gratitude Grilled Cheese, served on sourdough with plenty of melted cheddar.

ALAMOSA

Nino’s del Sol · 326 Main St., Alamosa · Mon–Thu 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri–Sat 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Alamosa’s Mexican food scene is generally legit, but Nino’s del Sol stands out with homemade tamales that make a great snack in the car. Though not always available on site, the soft, stuffed pockets are worth a trip. They’re also served smothered in red or green chile.

TRINIDAD

Trinidad Smokehouse · 225 W. Main St., Trinidad · 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

In Trinidad, end your road trip with a hearty dinner at Trinidad Smokehouse, a barbecue restaurant offering meat slow-cooked over hickory wood for more than 14 hours. Brisket and pulled pork are standouts on the menu, and don’t forget sides like fried okra or candied carrots.